Marlow RFC miss out on promotion after final placings are calculated by RFU

Marlow have missed out on promotion from Southern Counties North this season after the final placings were calculated by the RFU’s playing record formula.

Despite being one of the form sides in the division heading into the final weeks of the season, Marlow have been placed in fourth position, behind Shiptson – a side they thumped 38-0 at Riverwoods back in December.

The calculations, based on the home and away form they showed throughout the season, may well have prevented them from having a shot at promotion. But the club has responded with a statement saying their eyes are already set on lifting the title next year.

The club fielded three senior men’s teams this season, with the second string finishing second in Berks, Bucks & Oxon 2N and the thirds matching that feat after just failing to keep pace with unbeaten leaders Maidenhead.

“Congratulations to all three of the men’s senior teams,” said chairman Jez Povey. “All three showed strongly in their respective leagues and upheld the reputation that Marlow represents a tough place to come and play rugby.

“Our ladies rugby is also going from strength to strength and our colts team is always one of the strongest in the area.”