IN A dramatic switch of fortunes Canterbury will go forward to the semi-finals of rugby's Kent Cup despite losing their third round tie at Blackheath on Sunday.

What is more they owe their re-instatement to former Canterbury front row player Baden Meeuws.

The Kiwi prop played for Blackheath but did not realise he was ineligible after appearing for Westcombe Park in an earlier round of the competition.

Blackheath have been automatically disqualified under cup rules and Canterbury can now look forward to a home date with Maidstone on March 6.

David Haigh, Canterbury spokesman, said: "It was obviously an oversight on Blackheath's part and we have some sympathy with both Baden and the club. They beat us fairly and squarely on the field but rules have to be observed.

"Baden played some terrific games for Canterbury but this must be one of his best contributions to the club. We are thinking of making him our Man of the Match next Saturday."