Match Report: Sidcup RFC vs Dartfordians RFC 1st XV

Dartfordians travelled to league leaders Sidcup RFC for their final regular fixture of the season, with the added milestone of first-team debuts for Josh Doherty and Charlie Seguin, making it a particularly memorable afternoon for both players.

In tough conditions, including a late hailstorm, the visitors produced moments of real quality and resilience, securing a well-earned try bonus point against the top side.

Sidcup started strongly, applying immediate pressure that resulted in an early penalty after just three minutes, followed swiftly by a converted try to make it 10–0.

Dartfordians responded with intent. After building phases from a scrum on halfway, a break from the base by the scrum-half created space, and a well-timed offload found Jarlath Hetherington, who powered through three defenders from 25 metres out to score under the posts. He added the conversion to bring the score back to 10–7.

Despite Dartfordians enjoying a spell of pressure deep in Sidcup territory, the home side struck next. A catch-and-drive from a five-metre lineout saw Sidcup extend their lead to 17–7 on 27 minutes.

The visitors continued to play with confidence, controlling possession for much of the closing stages of the half. Their persistence paid off just before the break when Hetherington once again broke through the line to score and convert, narrowing the gap to 17–14 at half-time.

Sidcup came out quickly after the restart, regaining territory and capitalising on possession to score in the corner, stretching their lead to 22–14.

From there, the hosts showed why they sit top of the table. A well-worked inside line led to another converted try, followed shortly by an impressive wide move finished by the winger. When Sidcup powered over again from a lineout to make it 43–14, just as hail began to fall, they had taken firm control of the game.

Dartfordians, however, continued to battle. A clever chip through from Hetherington was collected at full pace by Joe Scott, who drew the defender and passed to Tom Gubby to score. Hetherington added the extras to bring it back to 43–21.

Sidcup added another score out wide, but Dartfordians finished strongly. A sharp intercept in the Sidcup half was moved quickly to Hetherington, who offloaded in the tackle to Josh Doherty, who crossed for his debut try for the 1st XV, securing a valuable bonus point. Hetherington again converted.

Sidcup had the final say with a late try, marking the end of the match and a notable moment as their long-serving scrum-half received a warm ovation.

Full Time: Sidcup RFC 55 – 28 Dartfordians RFC

While the result went the way of the hosts, Dartfordians can take real positives from their performance, showing attacking quality, determination, and the ability to compete with the league leaders. A deserved bonus point and standout contributions, particularly from Jarlath Hetherington, ensured they finished their league campaign on a strong note.