By Adam Hookway

Tonbridge Juddians’ Tom Nicoll marked his 150th game for the 1sts with two tries - but leaders Dorking spoiled the party with a 45-36 win in National League 2 East.

Just two games survived the weather, with Kent rivals Canterbury among the sides whose games were postponed, and the visitors showed why they are top of the table early on, running in two converted tries after an opening-minute yellow card for Judds’ Sam Evans.

TJs rallied, though, as Dorking’s No 8 also saw yellow and the pack rumbled Charlie Self over after 15 minutes, with Evans converting to half the deficit. Dorking extended the lead with another try, but again TJs hit back with Tom Kendrick on hand to score.

Dorking winger Tobermory McRae ran in his third try after the half-hour mark to earn the bonus point, but Judds ended the half with a try of their own. The forwards made metres in the maul and although Luca Petrozzi appeared be held up, somehow he squirmed free to drop over the line. Evans converted.

Nicoll got his first try when he smashed through the Dorking defence after excellent approach work by the pack. The visitors were again down a man with their second yellow and Evans converted to put TJs in front for the first time.

It was shortlived, though, as Dorking went downfield from the restart, TJs offended near the try line and a penalty try was awarded.

Nicoll saw yellow for the hosts but Dorking didn’t make the most of the extra man and it was Judds who crossed next, Tom Kendrick finding room on the wing, although the conversion was missed to leave the sides locked at 31-31.

Back in the game, Nicoll again powered over for TJs but Evans couldn’t convert to increase the buffer and Dorking crossed for their sixth try on 70 minutes, the conversion edging them in front 38-36. The game ended with a red card for Dom McGeekie and a final, converted try for the table toppers.

Tonbridge, in sixth, travel to third-placed Barnes on Saturday (2pm).