Newark 2nds 78 - Matlock 2nds 10

Great to be back was the general consensus as we entered the snug surroundings of changing room number 6.
The first task of the day was to get everyone introduced with a number of debutants in the room and others that are just generally forgettable. Debuts were made at senior level by Mark Chandler (Hooker), Robbie (Rory) Johnson (Fly Half), Reece Hodnet (Impact sub, back row), Ivor Hughes (Wing). The team also saw the promotion of last seasons 3rd team skipper Craig Johnson to second row and Josh Clack to Wing following a late withdrawal, this also saw Tom Bridges moved from wing to outside centre.
It was perfect running rugby weather and the forwards were only too pleased to provide regular quick ball to a set of backs blessed with pace.
From kick off Newark set the tone of the game, receiving the ball Newarks pack moved the ball on and once on the front foot Robbie Johnson made a decisive break into the oppositions 22, the ball was then recycled quickly for Robbie to be back in position and find a second burst of pace to score in the corner on his senior debut, 5 nil up and Matlock hadn't touched the ball.
The first half was to continue with Newarks backs running riot, the forwards worked hard to recycle ball and especially had to dig deep in the scrums where Matlock did insert pressure. The first half amazingly saw all 4 debutants scoring, following Robbie, Ivor Hughes raced down the wing to score, Mark Chandler popped up between the centres to crash over and blood bin replacement Reece Hodnet coming on, steeling the ball from a line out with his first touch then looping to take the ball in the centres with his second and going in under the posts. 2 other scores of note from the old guard in the 1st half saw Ben Ennals trip his self up through the Matlock backline to score and Richard Byrom taking a sublime line untouched to score (1st try in 18 months I hear).

Matlock did pull points back deep into the 1st half with a penalty kick after Newark got isolated in their 22 and with the last play of the half from a line out they moved the ball into the centres and across the white wash.
The second half saw 2 changes as Reece Overland came on for Ben Ennals and Reece Hodnet replace Tom Holmes at 7.
Newark continued strongly and the young Matlock side showed determination to battle for everything. The trys continued at regular intervals with Tom Bridges picking up 2, Bryan Loftus, James Pink Boots Price, Reece Overland and finally a second for Robbie completing the scoring, Robbie also netted 9 conversions.
As far as starts go the team took their chance well against a Matlock side that might prove a different challenge when we visit them the last game of the season, they were a young side who no doubt will improve.
Special mentions go to Tom Bridges who was excellent playing out of position, James Price for his ball carrying and Robbie Johnson who will no doubt go on to better things.

Finally a mention and welcome to the second team for coach Derrick Smith, a great response from the lads to make a memorable start to your time with the Newark 2nd XV.

Team and scorers

1. Dawson
2. Chandler - 1 try
3. Barnsdale
4. Price - 1 try
5. Johnson (C)
6. Jackson (Capt)
7. Holmes
8. Fotheringham
9. Ennals - 1 try
10. Johnson (R) - 2 trys - 9 Conversions
11. Clack
12. Loftus - 1 try
13. Bridges - 2 try
14. Hughes - 1 try
15. Byrom - 1 try
16. Overland - 1 try
17. Hodnet - 1 try