H&B win draws praise from coach

Hastings & Bexhill head coach Kevin Smith praised his side after the rugby club celebrated its first win of the season.
Action from Hastings & Bexhill Rugby Club's 20-12 victory away to Lewes in London Three South East last weekend. Picture courtesy Danny SimpsonAction from Hastings & Bexhill Rugby Club's 20-12 victory away to Lewes in London Three South East last weekend. Picture courtesy Danny Simpson
Action from Hastings & Bexhill Rugby Club's 20-12 victory away to Lewes in London Three South East last weekend. Picture courtesy Danny Simpson

H&B responded to their heavy 50-17 defeat at home to Horsham in their London Three South East opener a fortnight ago by winning 20-12 away to Lewes - who were playing two divisions above them last season - on Saturday.

Smith said: “We played some good, hard rugby. To be fair to Lewes, they exposed us on some occasions. If we missed a tackle, they were going straight through. Our defence was excellent, but we still have a little bit to do.

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“It was a good win away from home against what was a London Two team last year. I’ll take that, the boys are happy. We know we’ve got to work a little harder on our fitness, but otherwise it was a good afternoon’s work.”

Smith is hoping that H&B - who lie ninth in the fledgling league table - can continue the momentum at home to seventh-placed Heathfield & Waldron tomorrow (Saturday). Both teams have won one and lost one so far.

“Every player in that side has to up their game every week without fail,” he added. “The group of guys know exactly what’s expected of them and they’ll do a good job on Saturday.”

Rye RFC, meanwhile, will travel to Brighton II in Sussex One tomorrow eager for an improved performance following last weekend’s 81-7 drubbing at home to early leaders Eastbourne.