A GOOD START HAD GIVEN NEWARK THE IMPETUS
NEWARK MUST NOW CONCENTRATE ON CUP ACTION
REPORT WRITTEN BY ROB WILDMAN
Midlands One east
Newark finished their league campaign by enduring the agony of a defeat after Kettering struck in injury time to grab victory.
A second-half try from Ben Usher and conversion by Alex Scott had edged Newark 22-17 ahead going into the final stages.
However, Kettering steadily built pressure and launched a counter-attack which brought the crucial try followed by the conversion.
For Newark, the defeat was their first at home in four league games since February while Kettering finish fourth behind Newbold, Derby and Bedford Athletic.
Newark had shown in good chunks that they are finishing the season in their best form after a difficult campaign which leaves them third bottom awaiting confirmation of relegation.
A good start had given Newark the impetus but they only had a penalty goal from Dan Mackie to show for their efforts.
Kettering grabbed the first try before Aloesi Waqalevu burst clear for Newark off an excellent pass from fellow centre Kent Birch.
The first half finished in a flurry of points. Kettering struck twice in quick succession to lead 10-17 before Josh Hubbard scored Newark’s second following a quick tap-and-go from No 8 Dave Garland.
That try left Newark 15-17 down at half-time but Usher’s pace brought a third try 20 minutes into the second half. Scott added the extras for a 22-17 lead which looked good until Kettering had the final word.
Newark must now concentrate on Cup action by hosting Southwell in the county competition semi-final next Saturday (April 23), kick off 3pm.
Newark: Scott; Callum Slack, Birch, Waqalevu, Usher; Mackie, Clark (capt); Dunning, Chapple, Hempstead, Webster, Duncan, Spurr, Hubbard, Garland.
Subs: Tomlinson, Fotheringham, Jordan Slack.
Tries: Waqalevu, Hubbard, Usher.
Conversions: Scott (2).
Penalty goal: Mackie.
Newarks new Coach was in attendance at this game - To see more about him click the following link
http://www.newarkrugby.com/news/new-head-coach-appointed-for-2016-17-season-1596147.html
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