The two packs were well contested with some outstanding performances from several individuals on both sides. Surrey full back Ed Hicks then missed a simple penalty chance, while his Sussex compatriot Ryan then fluffed a similar opportunity.

A good break by the Sussex backs and a missed tackle let winger Acres in for a try, which full back Ryan converted to put the visitors 7 -0 in the lead. Back came Surrey and a good break by James Fentiman and Fred South nearly brought a try for the home side, but the final pass went astray. Veteran Surrey prop Jon Bunn then found himself isolated on the wing, as yet another chance went begging, through lack of support.

The second half began with both sides making full use of the rolling substitutions rule and strong commitment and effort displayed by both sides. Surrey scrum half Charlie Crewe used the ball wisely and kept his backs supplied with plenty of ball. While replacement centre Tom Rose, looked lively when he came on. Almost against the run of play, another strong drive by the Sussex forwards and particularly flanker Whitehead, saw quick ball moved out wide to wing Byrne, who grabbed the second try of the match for Sussex.

Surrey then moved the ball swiftly along the line to No 8 Dave Thornton, who popped up on the wing and raced in for a try and the first points of the day for the home side.

Both sides continued to threaten, but Sussex hung on for a well deserved victory, in this entertaining match.

SURREY: Ed Hicks (Chipstead),  James Fentiman (Old Tiffinians), Fred South (Old Walcountians),Garvin Toussaint (Streatham/Croydon), Harry Elbow (Chipstead), Callum Stone (Old Walcountians), Charlie Crewe (Streatham/Croydon), Alex Turner (Old Tiffinians), Ben Alsop (Streatham/Croydon), Jon Bunn (Old Whitgiftians), Richard Trepant (Chipstead), Tom Hipsey (Old Whitgiftians), Chris Palmer (Croydon), Dave Thornton (Croydon), Chris Tipton (Streatham/Croydon).

Substitutes: James Caddy (Old Tiffinians), Charlie Gossington (Chipstead), Mark Alixx (Old Cranleighans), Tim Bargman (Cranleigh ), Mike Vebrugge (cranleigh ), Tom Rose (Old Cranleighans), Dom Hammond (Old Cranleighans)