Newark 24 Walsall 16: Regional Two North Midlands match report as Newark produce best display of the season

Newark produced their best performance of the campaign so far to beat Walsall 24-16 and avenge two league defeats to the West Midlanders last season.

Refreshed and strengthened by a week’s break, Newark dominated in Regional Two North Midlands, despite giving away an early try to Walsall.

However, Newark’s distinctive attacking style carved out tries for wings Tommy Williams and Henry Allen in an entertaining first half which saw the Blue and Whites lead 17-16 at the break.

Alex Scott added both conversions and an early penalty helped give Newark that narrow lead over an always-dangerous Walsall.

Newark increased their dominance in the second half and Walsall did not manage a point and never made the home 22.

And the excellent all-round effort was rewarded late on when a slick move ended in a try for substitute forward Jaymie Duncan finishing off to follow his score in the defeat at Dronfield two weeks ago.

Duncan’s return after injury has helped strengthen the hard-working pack who had stand-out contributions on Saturday from front-rower Euan Fern and lock Ed Clayton.

The victory – a fourth in the league this autumn - keeps Newark in sixth place and well set for Nottinghamshire derbies at Mellish this Saturday and at home to Paviors a week later. The last fixture before Christmas is a trip to Lichfield on December 21.

Newark 2nds had an encouraging display at Keyworth, losing narrowly 36-30. Fly half Matt contributed 15 points including a try, which helped gain the team two bonus points. Other tries came from captain Ben Wells and Calum Holmes and there was also a penalty score.

The 2nds host Melton this Saturday at Kelham Road, kick-off 2.15pm.

The club’s women’s section are also in action on Sunday, at home to Market Harborough, kick-off 2pm.