Newark have been drawn away to Stamford in the first round of the RFU’s Intermediate Cup. This clash of old rivals will take place on Saturday September 24.

Newark start pre-season games on Saturday Aug 20 when Bradford & Bingley are scheduled to visit Kelham Road, kick off 3pm.

Two further friendly games have been arranged – away to Hinckley 2nds (Aug 27) and at home to Scunthorpe 2nds (Sept 3rd). League action starts on Saturday Sept 10 at home to Market Bosworth.

Training is underway for the new season every Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7.30pm. All senior players over 17 are welcome to attend.

RFU Intermediate Cup

Midlands 1st rd (ties Sept 24): Earlsdon v Walsall, Kidderminster Carolians v Berkswell & Balsall, Market Harborough v Pinley, Matlock v Leek, Newcastle (Staffs) v Ashbourne, Oakham v West Bridgford, Old Yardleians v Malvern, Olney v Southam, Shrewsbury v Spartans, Spalding v Oundle, Stamford v Newark.

Byes: Barkers Butts, Camp Hill, Coalville, Dunlop, Leamington, Loughborough, Market Bosworth, Nottingham Casuals, Oadby Wyggestonians, Old Laurentian, Old Saltleians, Peterborough, Rugby Lions, Rushden & Higham, Silhillians, Southwell, Stafford, Stourbridge Lions, Tamworth, Veseyans and Vipers.

Second round ties are set for Saturday, Oct 15. Newark are scheduled to play Ilkeston in the first round of the Notts, Lincs & Derbys Cup that day but the match will be re-arranged if Newark progress in the Intermediate Cup which takes preference.