Sheppey Rugby Club coach Rob Dengate has questioned Lordswood’s approach after the referee abandoned their Kent 1 game on Saturday.

Dengate’s side were leading 23-3 when the referee blew for time six minutes early. The result stands but Dengate was far from impressed.

The Medway side had a player sent off, while the referee called a halt when punches were thrown in a ruck.

Dengate said: “Lordswood came for a physical battle – I think they took inspiration from Amir Khan fighting at the weekend.

“We tried to concentrate on playing our way but there comes a point when players have to step in to protect their own."

Lords chairman Martin Hart said: “It was a competitive game, as it always is. Our player was sent off for retaliation, not for starting anything.

“The game ended earlier than expected, which was as much of a shock to us as it was to Sheppey.”

Sheppey visit Cranbrook this weekend.