The Exiles tentatively claimed the final playoff spot of the season with a victory over a stubborn, well drilled Blitz side that should be challenging for honours themselves next year should they go to improve on this form.

The home side settled any nerves they might have had in the first quarter thanks to their defense and Rory O’Neil in particular. O’Neil was the first to drop onto a Blitz fumble in the end zone as the visitors gifted the Exiles an easy six point lead. Gary Owens booted the conversion for a further two points as the Exiles stretched the lead to 8 – 0. To their credit not a single Blitz head dropped as they traded possession and field position with the more experienced Exile side. The first quarter ended with the Kent side the one score ahead.

The second period followed the pattern of the first. Both sides cancelling each other out and as the half expired it was glaringly obvious that the game could well depend on the next score.

Determined to secure post-season play the Exiles doubled their lead in the third period. Nick Cullen s printing in from seventeen yards away rattled up a further score and with Owens proving as deadly as ever the Exiles looked home and dry by the end of the third.

The London side caused the Exiles’ hearts to flutter when Michael Sinyangne broke free from eleven yards to bring them back into the game. With the score line standing at 16 – 6 the Exiles still had a two score cushion but when the Blitz failed to convert the extra two points Kent could breath easier. As the final quarter wore on, Gary Owens once again stepped up and split the uprights with a twenty-five yard field goal to put the game beyond the visitors and secure the Exiles first play off game in their history.

The Blitz should feel pleased with themselves this season. They have competed in probably the most competitive conference and have learned each step of the way. Given the experience they have gained this year they should be a force next season. As for the Exiles, they have proved that persistence pays off. Their reward is a tough road trip to the Farnham MH Knights who are the only undefeated side of 2007. With a little self belief that Exiles should prove themselves good enough to push the Knights all the way.