JERSEY Rugby Club lost 21-13 to Barnes on Saturday, which means their best hope in London Division 1 this season is third place. 

However, according to Barnes’ coach Carson Russell they should take heart from what they’ve achieved in their first season at this level.

‘If Jersey do finish third that’s nothing to be ashamed of in what has proved to be a very tough league,’ he said. ‘Both teams play the right kind of rugby, as you progress further and further up the table. I think we matched you in the pack but I was impressed by your centres, who stood up to the plate today.’

JRFC head coach Ben Harvey said of Barnes. ‘They are the best side in this league. We matched them and kept putting pressure on their side but at the end of the game I was proud of my lads for 80 minutes of total defence. Of course I’m disappointed to lose, but defensively I couldn’t have asked for more out of them.’

• Words: Chris Lake                                     • Pictures: Rob Currie

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