Despite missing a number of first-teamers who were in Paris to watch England’s final Six Nations game, Warlingham put up a spirited performance against a Sevenoaks side who had overwhelmed Eastbourne by 83 points the previous weekend.

In driving rain, Warlingham drew first blood with Oli Doe’s penalty after a break from number eight Mark Macaskill, supported by flanker Richard Melford, had taken play to within 5m of the visitors’ try line.

Warlingham had the edge at the rucks and strug some good phases of play together.

And, when scrum-half John Perkins spotted a gap, he squirmed over for an unconverted try.

Sevenoaks’ attacks were being snuffed out by safe defence from centre Dave Stamp and the Street brothers.

But when Macaskill was yellow-carded for a stray boot in the ruck just before half-time, Sevenoaks made their extra man count with their pacy backs running in the first try. A touchline conversion was successful.

However, Doe added a penalty for Warlingham to give them an 11-7 lead.

With the conditions causing a number of knock-ons, Sevenoaks had the best of the possession and territory.

And, from one swift attack, the Sevenoaks left wing brushed off a tackle to score their second try, with the conversion again successful.

Sevenoaks added another penalty late on, but Warlingham responded with a 40m break from Melford but the attack fizzled out.

Warlingham head coach Bill Maynard said: “It is always disappointing to lose but the lads fought hard right to the final whistle and gave their all so I was proud of their efforts today."

Warlingham visit Bromley in London South East Two on Saturday.

Warlingham; MacManama,D Street,Moreland, Robson, Smith, Melford, T Street (Capt), Macaskill, Perkins, Doe, Osborne, Edwards, Stamp.

Wimble, Beake Subs: Beesley, Dowling, Walsh.