We look back on some of the key points from the weekend, including the latest twist at the top of National One. (Photo Credit: Phillipa Hilton)

A last-minute Chidera Obonna try clinched a dramatic 31-29 victory for National One leaders Richmond over third-placed Rotherham Titans at The Atheltic Ground.

As we head into the second half of the season, Rob Powell’s side remain unbeaten and they now hold a six-point advantage at the summit after nearest rivals Rams (2nd) fell to a 27-26 defeat away at fourth-placed Rosslyn Park. Despite a spirited fightback from Seb Reynolds’ troops, the Berkshire outfit fell to their third successive defeat.

Over in National Two North, Sheffield Tigers (11th) secured back-to-back home wins thanks to a resurgent second-half showing against bottom-of-the-table Billingham. Four unanswered tries helped the Yorkshire club to a 32-12 victory and they are now four points clear of the relegation places.

Elsewhere, fourth-placed Fylde recovered from 22-0 down at half-time to defeat Wharfedale 31-30 in an early Christmas cracker. Harry Bullough’s try on 68 minutes handed the lead back to the visitors but Fylde fly-half Patrick Bishop held his nerve to slot a last-gasp penalty.

In National Two East, title candidates Dorking saw their 10-match winning run to come an end as they were beaten 35-34 at home by Canterbury (4th). Despite three tries in the final 12 minutes from Tom Bristow (2) and Max Coyle to set up a stunning fightback, Dorking were unable to convert Coyle’s last-minute effort meaning Canterbury departed Surrey with a fifth win from their last six games.

And that result allowed Barnes (2nd) to nudge themselves into the silver medal position as Jack Heald’s charges made it four wins on the spin after beating Henley Hawks 32-22.

And into National Two West, where Macclesfield (13th) might be in the bottom two but their home form could be key to their survival chances as they secured their third success at Priory Park. The Cheshire outfit beat Hornets 28-24 and are now three points from safety.

Elsewhere, all of the top six sides in National Two West clinched bonus-point victories including Luctonians (5th) who survived two first-half yellow cards before surging clear to defeat Old Redcliffians 40-10 at Mortimer Park.

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And a more extensive review of the weekend will come on Thursday’s National League Rugby Preview Show 📺

We will also look ahead to a selection of festive derby day fixtures…🎅🏉

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