Kent Ravens 10 v 24 Broadstairs

Rugby League National Conference

DESPITE a valiant effort Kent Ravens' debut in rugby league's National Conference South ended in defeat to county rivals Broadstairs Bulldogs.

In another first, the Ravens, who could soon be playing at Princes Park, Dartford, and Bulldogs played in the first ever Kent derby in the conference.

There are six teams in the conference south and Ravens are fourth with no points but ahead of fellow open day losers Haringey Hornets and Greenwich Admirals on points difference.

The match started evenly although Bulldogs controlled the early exchanges and, through their powerful pack and wingers, scored the opening try.

Ravens' John Richardson reduced the deficit to two points quickly but it was to be their only score of the half as the visitors took advantage of handling mistakes and missed tackles to score three more tries and go in at half time with a 24-4 lead.

The Ravens came out for the second half looking stronger after harsh words from stand-in captain Ewen Drummond and injured vice captain Ed Easter.

However, great pressure from the Bulldogs led to another try but the Ravens continued to fight.

They got their reward when Richard Paddick added a try and Tom Claridge added the extra points from the conversion.

It was not to be the score which started a dramatic comeback as Bulldogs held out to take the two league points on offer.

Next weekend the Kent Ravens youth team take enter the Harlequins Tournament at the Twickenham Stoop while the men's team travel to Hemel Hempstead Stags, kick off 2.30pm.

If you are interested in joining the Kent Ravens, call 07707 852 952