Newark tie with Melbourne 14-14 in the Midlands Division Regional Two North Midlands competition

THE Midlands Division Regional Two North Midlands competition ended in a 14-14 tie as Newark Rugby Club travelled to Melbourne.

Newark’s recent strong form continued away where only a last-ditch try and conversion rescued the home team from defeat.

Newark dominated most of the match after Melbourne came out strongly in the first 20 minutes.

Their opening efforts saw them up 7-0 over Newark, which meant the travelling side had to go on the attack to respond.

Fly-half Potene Rolls-Paewai started with some inspiring runs before Newark struck back with some neat linked play to allow front-rower Josh White to get over the line.

He was aided by a lovely pass from Tom O’Leary.

Alex Scott converted to level the scores.

Another break by Rolls-Paewai just before half-time ended in the Melbourne defence desperately holding up the fly-half on the line.

Straight after the interval, Newark came out firing and almost scored in the opening minute.

Wing Scott Edmed was a constant menace on the left and his burst almost brought a try for Rolls-Paewai, but the pass was ruled forward.

Newark’s strong play finally earned points six minutes into the half when, again, crisp handling finished in No 8 James Brogden going over for a try, then converted by Scott.

Good defence was another feature of Newark’s performance and that was needed in the final 20 minutes as Melbourne desperately went all out to try and win the match.

Newark didn’t capitalise on all of their opportunities, including a narrow penalty miss from Scott.

A series of scrums and penalties ended in the home team forcing their way over for a second try which was converted for the draw.

It was a tough finish for Newark, whose recent improving form – three wins and a draw in the last five games – has featured some excellent attacking rugby.

The Newark 2nds team won easily against Worksop, the final score was 63-28.

Newark’s next league match for the 1sts is Saturday, November 26 at home to Moseley Oak, (kick-off: 2.15pm) at Kelham Road.