Sidcup: 24

Sevenoaks: 27

A SUPERB first-half showing from Sevenoaks, which will live long in the memory of the team, gave Tim Golds' side a thrilling 27-24 win over London 1 South outfit Sidcup in the Kent Cup.

The hosts simply had no answer to Oaks' dazzling counter attacking rugby, which saw them lead 27-3 at the break.

Although Sidcup came back to within three points, Oaks held out for the win, which sets them up nicely for Saturday's league clash with Bromley.

"I am proud of the boys for the determination and self belief shown during the second half," Golds said. "This is a result that should give us that all important self-belief as we return to league duty next week against Bromley.

"We've got to keep the momentum going."

Sevenoaks last played Sidcup in their relegation season two years ago and suffered a hammering, so this Kent Cup game represented an ideal opportunity to measure recent improvements against these tough opponents.

Oaks were immediately delighted to find a playing surface which would be a credit to any premiership club and, despite recent poor weather, 15 man rugby was clearly on the cards.

Oaks soaked up some early pressure from Sidcup, which was particularly pleasing as defence has become one area the coaching staff have identified as an area that needs to be improved.

Soon it was Oaks' turn with the ball and they didn't disappoint.

Dazzling counter attacking from full-back Unwin was the catalyst which sparked a first half performance that will live long in the memory.

Twice, Oaks launched attacks from deep and breathtaking running and support play led to tries for both wingers, Walker and Dodds.

The piece de resistance was a wonderful team try finished off by Roffey, as forwards and backs interlinked with incredible pace and power.

Sidcup were understandably reeling as Oaks opened up a 20 point lead, but sensibly opted for three points when the opportunity arose.

This was not a barbarian style performance though, as Oaks may have produced in the past, but instead was built on a great forward effort, solid scrummaging and top quality lineout play from Alteirac, Coleman and Hunt, backed up by great ball carrying from No 8 Walton and the recently returned Stewart.

The supply of good ball was put to good use by fly-half Roffey and centres Golds and Tree ran some telling lines.

The simplicity and accuracy of Oaks' play was a joy to watch. Just before half-time, Oaks opted to kick a penalty to the corner and it was no surprise when the pack drove over to make it 27-3 at the break – Ridout the deserving try-scorer.

Sidcup were like a boxer on the ropes and the half-time whistle must have sounded like a bell to them.

The smelling salts were duly administered and a couple of changes seemed to galvanise them as they came out for the second half with their wits restored. Sidcup immediately got what they were looking for when a turnover ball was well used and their left winger finished a well worked move. A second try five minutes later, following further good play, and suddenly there was only 10 points in it.

To their credit though, Oaks kept their collective nerve and steadied the ship.

They were unlucky not to restore a more healthy lead as Shenton and Stephens both went close as desperate Sidcup defence kept the game alive.

However, with 10 minutes left and only 10 points in it, anything was still possible.

Oaks' supporters worst fears were realised when a rare failure to clear their line gave Sidcup the field position they needed. This time Sidcup drove hard for the line and though the heart of the defence stood firm, too many players had been sucked in, which allowed the Sidcup winger to squeeze into the corner. Mild concern turned to anxiety attacks as the Sidcup kicker nailed the conversion from the touchline and with five minute left it was a three point game.

This time Oaks were able to draw on recent performances where they have come out on top in close games and although they were pinned back for the last few minutes, they controlled the ball sufficiently to get the job done.

A final score of 27-24 reflected a dramatic match, but also the dramatic improvements Oaks have made in recent games .

Can Oaks continue their good form and get a win against Bromley on Saturday?