The senior squad launched the season by beating Stamford in the first of the pre-season friendlies, 24-19 at Kelham Road.

It proved to be a good work out and also avenged defeat in a pre-season contest last year when the visitors were far too sharp.

This time it was a much more even contest in front of an enthusiastic crowd to launch the campaign.

Newark proved stronger in the second half thanks to tries from centre Joe Doubell, breaking clear near halfway, and Conor Cnockaert scoring after backing up.

In the first half, captain Matt Walton had grabbed the first try of the campaign by finishing off on the right. That was followed by lock Jamie Robson wrestling over from close in.

The Thursday night match was followed by a Saturday trip to Moderns where the home team had bigger numbers.

However, first-half tries by Isaac Codd and Jed Chapple helped give Newark a 12-5 advantage, Rhys Overland collecting a conversion as well.

Moderns fought back and two tries in the later stages edged a competitive friendly, 15-12.

Next Saturday (12 September), 1sts and 2nds are scheduled to be at home to Matlock opposition, 3pm kick off for both games. All welcome at Kelham Road…

Photos from 03-09-2026 provided by Ian Waller can be found "HERE"