From the start, Crawley quickly settled into their game with Winger, Danny Fear scoring in the corner following a strong run from Outside Centre, Richard Cork.

The Forwards contest was fairly even, though Uckfield found Crawley’s speedy and strong running backs hard to contain. Fly-Half, David Keyte forced his way over from close range, then Richard Cork ran-in two further converted tries to give Crawley a half-time lead of 26-0.

Uckfield restarted strongly and soon drove over the line following a period of persistent Forwards pressure. Following this respite, Crawley struck back with further tries from Cork and a well-deserved try from Wing-Forward, Harshil Patel whose off-the-ball support throughout the game was outstanding. Long periods of sustained and unrelenting attacks by Crawley resulted in Uckfield kicking the ball from hand, rather than electing to run. Crawley’s Full Back, Christian Lodge covered and fielded the kicks superbly, from which further attacks were mounted.

Crawley introduced new players Ed. Harris, Drew Henley-Lock and Russell Boczek for their first competitive match in Crawley colours. Uckfield showed great tenacity and to their credit, did not drop their heads and continued to battle against the tide right up to the final whistle.