First team gain deserved league win

Three first-half tries gave Newark sufficient impetus to withhold a strong comeback from Silhillians in a nervy Kelham Road contest.

Newark held on to post a first win of the league campaign and to give further encouragement that the squad are able to compete at a new level this season.

A powerful burst from centre Kent Birch gave Newark the opening lead which was improved by fly half George Leeson who had a successful afternoon contributing 17 points.

Silhillians quickly replied to that opening try by gaining a score in the corner which they failed to convert.

However, the visitors continued a good spell by adding a penalty for an 8-7 lead midway into the half.

The match entered a crucial period in the lead up to the interval when Newark scored two tries inspired by the forceful running of back-rowers Sean Denning and Sam Dobson.

Leeson scored first to be followed just before the interval when prop Will Murray forced his way over. Both tries were converted for a Newark lead of 21-8 at the interval.

The second half was less entertaining and became a tight struggle in soggy conditions.

Silhillians held the bulk of possession and scored a second try around the hour mark which cut the deficit to 21-13.

Newark defended well and earned a reprieve when good tackling ended in Silhillians been held up over the line.

That sturdy defence eventually ended in Newark applying pressure of their own which brought two penalties in close succession from Leeson.

Though Silhillians scored a try in the final minute to gain a losing bonus point, Newark’s defence had been thoroughly stubborn after the interval to gain that first win of the season.

After close defeats to Nuneaton Old Edwardians and Oadby Wyggs, it was thoroughly deserved.

Newark’s display was a hard-working team effort with top marks going to a small front row going toe-to-toe with bigger opponents. Outwide there is plenty of pace and enterprise in wings Josh Ashe and Scott Edmed.

Team: Hepi; Ashe, Britten, Birch, Edmed; Leeson, Tarbatt; H Godfrey, Vinters, Duggan, Duncan, Dodders, Denning, Dobson. Murray.
Subs: Cobb, Brogden, Stamp.
Tries: Birch, Leeson, Murray.
Conversions: Leeson (3).
Penalty goals: Leeson (2).

Next Saturday – Belgrave (away) – kick off 3pm.