Harwich and Dovercourt Rugby Club's first-team captain Adrian Dalby has cost his side the Eastern Counties division three north title - and possibly a shot at promotion.

An error to their teamsheet in the 93-3 victory away at Sawston, on March 13, incurred a two-point penalty.

This allowed Broadlands to snatch the title from Harwich's grasp on the last weekend of the season on points difference.

Dalby said: "I wrote down Glen Welsh's name but it was actually Gareth Price that played.

"I was confused because I don't know both players that well but they both have the same nickname, 'Taff'.

"It wasn't until we got docked the points that I realised what had happened.

"Welsh is not registered to play for our first team but Price is."

With two points deducted, the club headed into their final game of the season against March knowing that if Broadlands beat Swaffham their title hopes would be crushed.

"The players were gutted on Saturday. But we still put in a great performance to beat March 60-0. However, afterwards we heard that Broadlands had won and taken the title."

The club have pleaded their case to the league but to no avail.

Published Tuesday, April 15, 2003

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