A slow start cost the Newark squad dear in this competitive pre-season friendly against the RAF visitors at Kelham Road.

A jet-propelled start gave the RAF a crucial edge they never relinquished in this annual event for the George Crawford Cup.

By the time Newark shook off their pre-season lag, the RAF were up and away in a 14-0 lead via an opening penalty try followed by a further score.

Newark managed to inch their way back thanks to wing Will Staniforth bursting clear off a George Leeson pass. The fly half converted to cut the score to 7-14.

The RAF improved the lead by scoring a third try in the lead up to half-time.
After the interval Newark held the balance of play to collect one more try when prop Harry Wright forced his way over for a score James Tarbatt improved.

The RAF defended well and finished off by grabbing a third score in the closing moments for victory by four tries to two.

Overall, Newark did well to regroup after the early deficiencies and gained plenty of plus points through a collective effort led by Sean Denning from No 8 and lock Will Ellison.

Plenty of effort all round.

In the second half, there was a return to Newark colours for former captain Jonathan Webster who helped bolster the forward display.

Next up for pre-season is a club trial on Thursday evening (August 29) at Kelham Road, kick 7.30pm, when the Blues take on the Yellows. All welcome.

The first league match is on Saturday 7 September, against Matlock, at Kelham Road, kick off 3pm.

Squad v RAF: Catley; Staniforth, Williams, Joshie Waqalevu, Overland; George Leeson, Tarbatt; King, Vinters, Fern, Ellison, Bagga, O’Leary, Dodders, Denning. Subs: Nathan Leeson, Godfrey, Cobb, Wright, Jackson, Webster, Marshall.

Tries: Staniforth, Wright. Cons: George Leeson, Wright.

Photo Caption

Group Captain Sam Bunn, head of RAF Security Forces, presents the George Crawford Cup to captain Tom Quinton.

Remembering George…
Corporal George Crawford represented the RAF and was a regular prop forward for Newark. He was the 15 people killed in a road traffic accident in February 1985. A bus carrying RAF personnel was involved in a collision with a petrol tanker which resulted in a huge explosion.