With a big clash against Lewes on the horizon, this week’s performance was exactly the sort of composed, disciplined run-out Ditchling needed. The lads stayed calm under pressure throughout, even as Shoreham did everything they could to disrupt the flow of the game. In the end, it was control, determination and a bit of rugby intelligence that made the difference.

Ditchling opened brightly, with Nick Whitley-Jones slicing through for one of his trademark running tries in the 10th minute, converting it himself. Shoreham hit back on 20 minutes, but almost immediately Barney Reed intercepted a pass and ran the length (of a 22) for a superb score in the 22nd minute — made all the sweeter as it came against his former side. Sonny Smyth added the extras.

Before the half was done, Nick Whitley-Jones crossed again in the 32nd minute after a brilliant assist from vice-captain Adam Crook, starting from our own 22. Smyth then nudged over a penalty just before the break, giving Ditchling a well-earned lead built on calm heads rather than getting dragged into the noise around the breakdown.

The second half brought one of the highlights of the afternoon: Rory Adams collecting and chasing his own kick from our own 22 to score a solo effort. Whilst some (Rory) have compared this to a LRZ masterclass, it was maybe more industrial than that. Replacement kicker Ben Poulton slotted the conversion in the 55th minute and later added a penalty on 70 minutes. Shoreham managed an unconverted try shortly after, but by then the result was well in hand.

A special mention has to go to Teddy Birkbeck, who delivered a truly composed MOTM performance at scrum half. His game management, pace control and box kicking were excellent throughout — and despite constant sniping and attempts to rattle him, he stayed mature, focused and unflustered. That steadiness was a big part of why Ditchling kept playing rugby while others got distracted.

Shoreham threw everything at us — as you’d expect when facing a strong side — but Ditchling kept their nerve and their structure. It was a professional, self-controlled display, and a strong step toward next weekend’s huge test against Lewes.

We’re already looking forward to welcoming Shoreham later in the season and aiming to make it three wins from three.