TROPHY OPENING UP

Heath were the highest-ranked team in the competition, although bottom of National 3 South and unfancied to have won any clash with Worthing, who lead London 1 and are bidding to reach the National League for the first time in their history.

Mick Orton, who in the summer succeeded Heath coach Ian Davies at Worthing, commented: "This result is fantastic for Lewes, who have had another season together since we last met them. But it's an awful shame for Haywards Heath."

The semi-final draw for March 19 & 20 increased the likelihood of a repeat of last season's final when Lewes were paired at home with Hove while Worthing got a home draw against Chichester, which they will play on the Saturday.

Hove won 21-3 at Eastbourne while 2002 finalists Chichester beat their London 3SE rivals Bognor 13-7 away in their derby clash.

On Sunday, Worthing won 74-0 with a half full-strength team away to Brighton, who are also in London 3SE. Among the 11 tries was Steve Dove's third this season. The veteran lock was acting captain and nurtured 18-year-old 1st XV debutant Perry Parker in the second row while young centre Gareth Morgan also appeared for the first time.

Skipper Mike Imrie was rested and utility back Ally Coombe deputised at scrum-half and picked up a brace of tries, along with loose forwards Aaron de Boer and the inevitable Rowan O'Gorman, the No 8, who now has 24 competitive tries.

Brighton were run ragged for all 80 minutes and Worthing seemed to score at will. Kiwi full-back Duncan Taylor, deputising as goal-kicker and playing at centre, kicked a penalty then reached 29 points with two tries and eight conversions.

Worthing resume their London 1 title bid away to Thanet Wanderers on Saturday with a for supporters leaving Roundstone Lane at 10am. New Zealander Jamie Stewart-McDonald has temporarily returned home but is expected back in time to play.