It was an interesting contrast as the Fullerians front five full of experience came up against a younger Gravesend side and gave the visitors a sense that this want going to be an easy afternoon.

Out in the backs it was a different story as the Gravesend back line not only attacked well with the ball but defended exceptionally well so that they limited scoring opportunities for the home side.

Having said that it was the home side who got on the score sheet first as Gravesend were struggling to shake the journey to Watford out of their legs. This was the wake up call that they needed and the soon it was Ben Kite who touched down followed by a penalty try which saw Gravesend take a 14-5 lead.

Fullerians knew if they were to stay in this game it was through forward power with the front row standing particularly strong. They managed to score either side of half time to leave the match on a knife edge at 17-14.

A further try by Brendan Kelly was soon answered after both sides had been reduced to 14 men. To see the game finely posed at 24-22 either game entering the final 10 minutes.

Thankfully for Gravesend the re-introduction of Andrew Hampshire after a lengthy absence and Jamie Fautley shored things up a bit and it was from a typically aggressive run from the latter not only did Fullerians lose a player to injury but a yellow card for what was deemed to be a high tackle.

Gravesend used the numerical advantage as first Jamie Fautley and then Chris Brady after some good pressure on the Fullerians line saw the easiest of touch downs.

The half which was already an hour long continued and Fullerians had the final say as with the last play of the game they scored another try. The game ended 36-27 which sees Gravesend progress to an away semi final against close rivals Sidcup in 4th May.

Gravesend RFC

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