Hastings stretched their lead at the top of Sussex One to four points after coming from behind to beat third-placed Horsham 17-6.

The visitors led 6-0 after two early penalties from Jon Macfarlane, but Paul Sandeman converted his own try in reply. Further tries came from Seb Halligan and Andy Hitch.

Coach Rob Hamilton said: "It was a big win for us. Horsham felt aggrieved to be losing at half-time, but can not have any complaints about the second half."

Uckfield's 34-8 home win over Pulborough was worth more than just the two league points which kept them tucked in nicely behind Hastings in second place.

Victory also secured their place in the final of the Intermediate Shield and a first round tie in the Senior Trophy against Horsham next Sunday.

Nick Ridley scored his third hat-trick in as many games either side of tries from skipper Phil Rowland and Jim Billings, but the biggest cheer came when Jonathon Fordham, son of club founder Jim, crashed over for a debut score. Ridley and Leigh Bialik added the conversions.

Hellingly switched their game to Chichester IHEand came away with a 17-13 victory.

Centres Ian Richardson and Matt Craig got their tries with Ron Francis converting both and adding a penalty. The hosts replied through a try from Dan Surtees converted by Simon Swadling and two Ben Dudley penalties.

Royal and Sun Alliance gave themselves some breathing space at the bottom of the table after beating Seaford 17-13.

Peter Long kicked his third successful penalty to secure victory five minutes from time after Peter Downes' first half try. Danny Newby and Andy Booth both crossed for the visitors and Booth also kicked a penalty.

In Division Two East Ditchling are only seperated by points difference from leaders Old Brightonians after a 37-19 win over Robertsbridge.

Player shortages meant Ditchling's 54-year-old chairman Bob Shed played as their tries came from Alistair McDermid (2), Carl Divall, Dave Pannell and Justin Wallden who added two conversions and two penalties. Adrian Gander also slotted a conversion.