The defeat was a disappointing start to the New Year though no one could fault players for effort and resolution especially in the first half when Kettering might have pulled clear.

A concerted forward effort was a feature of Newark’s play after the interval when Kettering led 8-0. It should have produced some reward but the visiting pack could not finish off to gain at least a losing bonus point.

Kettering led through a fourth-minute try and scored two more penalty goals, in the 24th minute and then, finally, late on in the second half.

Newark had to defend for most of the first half and were fortunate not to turn round more than 8-0 down, Kettering having wasted some excellent opportunities.

Newark had also defended well including try-saving tackles from Mark Byrom and wing Will Britten.

The game changed after the interval when Newark started to enjoy good chunks of possession. Successive charge downs by Ben Dixon and Ian Tomlinson put Newark into the visiting 22.

But Newark failed to take the opportunities and wasted one or two chances by either kicking away possession or failing to keep hold of the ball.

Newark’s next game is on Saturday at home to Mansfield in the league, kick off 2.15pm.

Team: Mark Byrom; Dixon, O’Leary, Tate, Britten; Mackie, Clark (capt); Dunning, Tomlinson, Barnsdale, Primett,. Williams, Tatham, Lewis Cove, Price.

Subs: Webster, Tinsley, Stark.

Rob Wildman