Scoreline didn't do justice to a much improved stones' performance

The clear morning had a positive impact on the Folkestone squad; Barney kicked off well, the forwards chased the ball with enthusiasm and the backs were ready to receive. Folkestone were narrowly outdone by Deal & Bets in the early contact, moving the ball along the line for an early try at Folkestone’s expense.

The Folkestone boys weren't put off by the early setback and attacked Deal and Betts with long periods of play camped in the opposition’s half, Folkestone’s finest were forcing Deal and Betts into giving away simple penalties.

Folkestone again showed strong defensive play preventing Deal & Betts from scoring when in close proximity to the Stone’s try line, only for some poor play moments later to hand Deal & Betts a simple run to the try line from the hallway mark.

By the start of the second half, Folkestone were still scoreless and seven trys down, but were playing with more confidence than had been seen so far this season since Sittingbourne.

Despite changes to the Folkestone team late in the second half bringing on fresh forwards, they were unable to get the try that was so clearly deserved.

This week was some of the best rugby we've seen all season, the boys held their nerve and confidence throughout most of the game. Strong rucking and tacking by many lads especially during the first half: Finley, Patrick, David and Aidan in particular, The new flanker positions are starting to work better as the role is understood more.

The team’s efforts shouldn't have gone unrewarded in this match as such this should be a platform for the team to build upon for their next game. Each boy on the field made a positive contribution to a good game and should feel proud of themselves.

Folkestone U13s Squad : George Pettifer, Mason Colchester-Long, Tom Davey, Josh Mantle, Aidan Fagg, Sam Adams, Nick Mitchell, Alex Cooke, Luke Archer, David Gunn, Barney Mackenzie, Jason Baker, Noah Reynolds, Patrick Matthews, Ben Jeffery, Ben Fairclough, Jake Baker, Josh Walters, Rory Hards, Finley Pleace, Ryan Weston