‘Let this help to bring a smile in times of stress’

Rugby

The RFU have confirmed the final league positions after cutting short the season due to the coronavirus crisis.

Among those promoted are Tonbridge Juddians, who will be playing in National 1 next season, level three of the rugby pyramid.

TJs finished second in National 2 South behind Taunton Titans.

Head coach Pete Danks said: “I would like to thank everyone involved in the club’s success. From our fantastic mini and junior teams which will provide the players of the future, to our National Cup winning academy and the ever improving and all conquering TJs Pink Ladies squad.

“A great deal of gratitude is owed to all the sponsors over the years both large and small who, without their support, none of this would have been possible.

“Today is a great day for the entire club. Let this help to bring a smile in times of stress and strains.”

TJs replace Canterbury, who drop out of National 1. The club is currently struggling financially and have gone public about their struggles.

In the London & South East Premier there were mid-table finishes for Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks. Medway ended the season fourth in London 1 South where Dartfordians and Beckenham were both relegated.

In London 2 South East, Dover and Maidstone both drop down a division.

Ashford have had their promotion from London 3 South East confirmed, topping the table to claim their second promotion in as many years.

Folkesone are another of the teams to be celebrating after finishing behind Ashford and winning promotion to London 2 South East as runners-up.

Coach Darren Molloy said: “We have been promoted and this is so well deserved.

“Eventually we will be able to celebrate together but remember we have made the correct statement and made history.

“Now we need to prove that we are ready for this next step.

“We are incredibly lucky to have the club and the infrastructure that has allowed us to develop both on and off the field.

“Thank you to all the players that took to the field for the 1st team and for putting your body on the line for the cause.”

Positions were determined on a “best playing record formula” and were confirmed last Friday.

Bromley just missed out in third place. Winning promotion from Kent 1 were Southwark Lancers and Cranbrook while Old Gravesendians and Whitstable were relegated.

They swap places with Kent 2 promotion sides Brockleians and Foots Cray.

Tonbridge Juddians - will be playing National 1 rugby next season