Medway were second best to fellow strugglers Sidcup after a home 27-12 Regional 1 South East defeat on Saturday.

The hosts, bottom of the table, were optimistic of a good result against the side nearest to them in the standings, but suffered the worst possible start after conceding a try in the opening minute.

Four minutes later Sidcup crossed for their second score, although both tries were unconverted.

Excellent defending thwarted Medway's last attack of the half with the whitewash in sight, but Sidcup were first off the mark in the second half, aided by a perfect bounce. The conversion put Medway 17-0 behind.

Momentum shifted somewhat with the introduction of debutant Josh Knight at hooker and Harry Campbell at prop.

They changed the tempo in Medway's favour and Adam Richards-Shaw enjoyed the first completed catch and drive lineout to score a terrific try.

A yellow card gave Medway an extra man and great combinations with forwards and backs then saw Billy Sandison crash over. The conversion left them just five points adrift.

Sidcup however closed the game out with their tactical kicking, pinning their opponents in their own half. Two more tries followed to leave Medway ruing several missed set-piece opportunities.

Medway welcome second-in-the-table Shelford on Saturday.