Newark Colts 26 Vs Spalding Colts 24

Fri 15th March 24.

Given ten Colts were playing seniors this weekend, a Young Colts (mainly U17’s) team welcomed Spalding Colts for a rematch under the Friday night lights at Kelham Road. Our previous game (at the start of the season) was a close encounter which only a single try separated the two sides.

Newark initiated the game with the kick off and the first notable opportunity arose from a dynamic breakaway by Smodgie Woodward. Despite his impressive effort, he was thwarted just short of the Spalding line, setting the tone for a match characterised by fluid exchanges of dominance.

Seventeen minutes of intense competition elapsed before the first points were scored, with Spalding breaking through for a try amidst some missed tackles, taking the lead 0 – 5.
Determined to equalise, Newark rallied, with Harry Waterhouse electrifying the home crowd by intercepting a stray pass on halfway and sprinting to score under the posts, converting to take the lead 7 – 5.

However, Spalding swiftly turned the tables with an interception on Newark's 5m line, adding another try and conversion to lead 7 – 12. Undeterred, Newark intensified their efforts, with Oscar McCulloch's pinpoint kick setting up a crucial lineout on the Spalding 22. A well-executed maul and subsequent chip kick from McCulloch allowed Waterhouse to capitalise forcing an error, securing a Newark scrum, which was picked up by Mateusz Dogiel for the try and Waterhouse converted to regain the lead 14 – 12.

Newark further extended their advantage with a strategic kick from McCulloch leading to a lineout on Spalding's 5m line. Following an excellent catch and drive, the ensuing maul propelled Reuban Staines over the line, concluding an exhilarating first half with Newark ahead 19 – 12.
Spalding launched a strong comeback in the second half, narrowing the gap with a well-deserved try, bringing the score to 19 – 17. Their momentum continued as they secured another try and conversion, seizing the lead 19 – 24.
Undeterred by Spalding's resurgence, Newark responded with determination, earning a penalty on Spalding's 5m line. A quick tap by Mateusz Dogiel exploited gaps in the Spalding defence, resulting in a try, with Waterhouse adding the conversion for a thrilling conclusion, 26 – 24.
Newark's steadfast defence held firm in the final minutes, repelling Spalding's attacks and denying a potential try, while also mounting their own close attempts.

Many thanks to Spalding Colts for a captivating and evenly matched contest, along with appreciation to the match official who managed this competitive game very well.

Our annual Vets v Virgins game to look forward to on Thurs 28th March kick off 7.30pm before our attentions refocus on the pending NLD Colts Semi-final v Derby (away again!) on Sat 6th April.