DOVER Rugby Club's superb run in the EDF Energy Senior Vase came to an end when they were beaten 23-19 by Devon side Collumpton in a thrilling quarter-final.

In front of a crowd of 450, the Sharks stretched Collumpton, who are unbeaten at home for two years, all the way.

Trailing 13-7 at half-time, Dover hit back in the second half to lead 19-13 only for Collumpton to snatch victory with a late try. Dover's two tries came from skipper Martyn Beaumont and Ricky Mackintosh.

Dover’s senior coach Graham Tonks, who seisde were two games from Twickenham, said: "We had a chance but let it go.

"Cully are a good side and we must not overlook this. Good luck to them.

"We have done so well this season and although the boys are distraught they should be proud of their achievements.

"It’s back to normality and we must now focus on the last five league games starting with Eastbourne at Crabble this week."