The Blues dominated the opening 40 minutes to build-up a health lead which was never really threatened even though they were unable to maintain the same intensity of performance in the second half.

The win was their first in three attempts at the higher level and player-coach Mal Graves hopes they can use the result as a platform to establish themselves in the division.

He said: "It was a good win and in the first half we were excellent. The conditions were challenging but we played good we weather rugby.

We kept it tight, were structured and they could not live with us.

We scored some good tries and really the game was won by half-time."

All but three of Whitstable's points came in the first half, with No.7 Sam Holness opening the scoring with the game's first try inside five minutes.

Andrew Huey added the second with skipper Ben Cliff making it 15-0 before Huey added a penalty to extend the lead.

The bonus point was secured before the break with March Olive going over for a try which Huey converted ti all but wrap up victory.

New Ash Green mounted a fightback in the second half but despite two tries from Tommie Archer, Whitstable always looked in command with Huey's second penalty completing their tally.

Graves hails the contribution of half-back due Olive and Huey and also paid tribute to flanker Holness.

He said: The pair of them (Huey and Olive) played intelligently and Huey's box kicking was fantastic.

Sam Holness is an outstanding player at this level. His commitment and dedication, and his willingness to put his body on the line makes him a great role model."

Whitstable are home to Southwark Lancers on Saturday.