Champions! Chichester benefit from early end to season and decision on how to settle table

Chichester Rugby Club's second XV have been named champions after the RFU decided to settle this season's leagues on the basis of results recorded.
Chichester's second XVChichester's second XV
Chichester's second XV

The Blues' seconds led Hampshire division one by one point from Overton when the sport was suspended because of the coronavirus pandemic.

It may not quite be the way Chi wanted to win the league - but champions they are and they can now look forward to starting next season in the Hampshire premier, where they will play two derbies against Bognor.

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A Chi RFC statement said: "Following the early end of the rugby season in England, as a result of Covid-19, the RFU has announced the final league positions. Chichester 2nd XV have been confirmed as champions of Hampshire 1 and are promoted to Hampshire Premier.

Chichester twos - championsChichester twos - champions
Chichester twos - champions

"It was a very competitive season that saw Chichester finish one point ahead of Overton, with Southampton University Hospitals and Locks Heath Pumas both four points further back.

Top of the league changed six times after Christmas and Chichester regained top spot with their win away at Fawley on March 14. Next season we look forward to a local derby with Bognor!"

The early end to the season and the decision to award final placings on results in the bank does not affect Chichester's first XV nor Bognor, who play in London one south and the Hampshire premier respectively. Neither was set for promotion or relegation.

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