Newark Rugby club come from behind to beat Matlock
Two late tries saw a team secure victory — much to the relief of the home crowd.
Newark Rugby Club walked away with a well-deserved 31-22 over a tough Matlock side that did not make it easy for the Kelham Road natives.
Matlock were leading 22-19 going into the final stages of the match before Newark fired on all cylinders and brought it home for the victory.
Substitute Sam Dobson and wing Josh Ashe were responsible for the final scores in the five tries to three contest that provided entertaining rugby for all in attendance.
It also put Newark’s season back on track after the disappointment of a thrashing in the previous match at West Bridgford.
With the captain Will Britten and full-back James Archdale who had been out since the opening match against Sutton Coldfield back in the line-up, Newark were quietly confident of a good result.
The home side started quickly and took control through Number eight James Brogden, backing up a break by James Tarbatt, and wing Ovi Gilder who shot clear for the first of two tries.
With Tarbatt converting both tries, Newark went out to a 14-0 lead, only for the home team to allow Matlock back into the contest as they replied twice to close the contest to 14-12.
Newark regrouped and scored their best try of the match which started with Gilder racing clear from his half, having fielded a kick ahead.
Gilder’s jinking run caused mass panic in the Matlock defence and finished in front-rower Jed Chapple forcing his way over after Britten had been stopped just short.
Newark started the second half 19-12 up and Matlock took advantage to score a third try before a penalty edged them ahead at 22-19.
Newark again regrouped with efforts orchestrated by the strong running up front of Dobson and pack mate Will Ellison.
Some strong forward play ended in Dobson finishing off to be followed by Ashe who crossed over after he had been tackled in the right corner.
Newark almost gained a sixth try in the final moments but newcomer Will Hickton, who came on as a substitute wing, was stopped inches short.
It was a good win for Newark who paid tribute to John Beddoe, the club’s life member, who died two weeks ago.
As an appreciation of his contribution to the club a minute’s silence was observed before kick-off.
Newark will head to Lichfield on Saturday, (kick-off 3pm).
