Beech try in vain as leaders dominate

Sam Beech scored Ashford 2nds’ only try as they lost 36-7 at home to Shepherd Neame Premier East leaders Tonbridge Juddians 3rds. They trailed 22-0, before No.8 Beech – younger brother of former Ashford player Rory, now at Maidstone – finished off some smart work in the build-up, with the conversion successful. Ashford couldn’t add to their tally, before two late tries by Judds completed the win. Harry Norman and skipper Kevin Gayson scored second-half tries as Ashford 3rds lost 26-12 at Whitstable in Dragon Fire 4 East. They trailed 19-0 at half-time, the visitors adding another try late on.