Deal and Betteshanger lost their third consecutive London 3 South East game as opponents Lewes moved to within two points of the Lions with a 23-5 success.

Without influential performers Steve Donnelly, Martin Robinson, John De Roebeck and Andy Widdett, the visitors soon found themselves under pressure but despite conceding an early penalty, hit back to take a 5-3 lead with a well-taken try by Luke Armstrong.

Lewes continued to pressure but were unable to find a way past the Deal defence for the rest of the first half. Things changed in the second half, however, as Lewes upped the ante to great effect.

With minutes gone, they regained the lead with a converted try. The home side were now monopolising possession and territory and finished off their victory with two more tries and a penalty.