Newark 14 Lichfield 43: Regional 2 Midlands North match report

Newark 1sts had a frustrating afternoon against a strong Lichfield team who ran out 43-14 winners by six tries to two in Regional 2 Midlands North.

Two first-half tries from wing Ovi Gilder showed the best of Newark’s attacking play but a strong period of second-half pressure failed to bring any rewards.

Lichfield finished on the attack and added two late tries to give the scoreline an unjust look for home supporters.

Newark fielded the same backline that started at Paviors and a rejigged pack saw a recall for Sean Denning in the back row and the return of prop Nathan King.

When Lichfield scored off an interception in the eighth minute it set the tone for a contest where the visitors capitalised on home errors.

Newark’s most rewarding period came in the first half when the speedy Gilder finished off twice for tries.

First, the left wing seized on a chip through followed by him accepting a crisp pass from centre Matt Walton, who had slipped through the Lichfield defence. Fly half George Leeson added both conversions to put the match level at 14-14.

However, Lichfield continued to accept the Newark gifts to gain two more tries before half-time to turn round 26-14 up.

The second half was thoroughly frustrating for Newark. Plenty of possession was gained and at one stage some four players in close succession were stopped short of the Lichfield line.

Centre Walton was nearest and looked to have crossed the white line but the centre did not get the decision after substitute wing Nick Allen had burst clear, showing some pacey footwork.

Lichfield soaked up the pressure and had one player yellow-carded. The visitors then returned to their clinical ways to finish off for a penalty and two more tries.

Newark face new opponents this Saturday in Old Saltleians who are based in Water Orton near Birmingham.

Newark 2nds also had a losing Saturday, going down 48-30 at Ashfield. The 2nds host Ashbourne this Saturday at Kelham Road, kick-off 3pm.

The club’s colts team recorded a good win on Sunday when they defeated Matlock 50-0 in the first round of the National Colts Cup.

Dan Woodward and Nathan Churchill both scored two tries. One each came from Lenny Coen, Matz Dogiel, Robbie Scoular and Haydn McLaughlin.

Newark’s women’s team are at home this Sunday against Amber Valley in a National Cup match, kick-off 2pm.