Sheppey proved too strong for Sittingbourne at the weekend, winning 22-10. Picture: Andy Payton

Sheppey took a massive step towards securing their Kent 1 status for next season with a 22-10 derby victory over Sittingbourne at The Ditch.

The win was resurgent Sheppey’s sixth in their last seven matches and provided revenge for the 43-6 defeat they suffered at Sittingbourne in September. They are now just one victory away from safety.

Coach Frank Davis said: "We should be safe now, but the boys are playing with so much confidence at the moment that they have set themselves the target of winning our last three matches."

Sheppey got off to a flying start when good possession from a line-out enabled prop Steve Croall to crash over, with Bradley Box converting for a 7-0 lead.

After a Sittingbourne try Box made it 10-5 with a penalty, but soon after the visitors scored their second try.

Luke Barker punched through the Sittingbourne defence following a scrum and Dave Marsden continued the momentum with a run to the Sittingbourne 22. Then, good hands through the backs ended with Croall using his strength and determination to go over in the corner.

Sheppey were now enjoying more periods of possession in better areas, and Barker set his backs in motion again for a flowing move which ended with Dean Ealy supplying the finishing touch and Box adding the extras for 22-10.

Sheppey will hope to complete another revenge mission on Saturday at Guy's Hospital, who defeated them 23-12 at The Ditch in early December.