Sabres claimed their first win of the season - but it came at a high price.

Star man James Thomas was taken to hospital with a broken leg shortly after scoring the decisive touchdown in Kent, and the club will be without one of their most skilful players for the rest of the season.

He was injured in a vicious tackle when an opponent grabbed his face cage and pulled him to the floor by his neck.

With the squad still down to 15 players it was another struggle for Sabres, for whom head coach Gary Abbott kitted up and added a three-point safety to secure the win.

And the loss of Thomas forced a change of strategy which saw former Puma Lee Walsh moved out of position.

But he thrived on his new role and produced an outstanding kicking display, including seven punts for 180 yards, plus 168 yards from three kick-offs.

All this came despite being the victim of persistent banter from his former team-mates, who were determined to put him off his game.

Sabres have a free week to nurse their injury-hit squad closer to fitness before entertaining Cambridge Cats at Southend Rugby Club on May 11.

Published Wednesday, April 30, 2003

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