Rugby Union
Newbold miss out on play-off place

Newbold 31 Leamington 15

Midlands Two West (South)

NEWBOLD’S victory on Saturday was not quite enough to see them secure a place in the end of season promotion play-off, having to settle for a third place finish instead.

That still represents an excellent effort from the Parkfield Road side in their first season since gaining promotion and with a number of youngsters impressing throughout the current campaign, the future looks bright.

Looking to immediately get themselves on the front foot, Newbold attacked from the outset with debutant Colt Ethan Wookey taking a pass from Jamie Ferriss who released Phil Reed to feed Ed Scott to score. Wookey converted for his two points in the Newbold first team.

Leamington replied straight away and cut the gap to 7-3 from a penalty before opening up a three-point lead with a converted try.

Good work from Will Allen from the restart won Newbold a penalty from which they made good ground with the kick to touch.

After winning their own ball, Mark Hyde fed Wookey and the youngster cut inside the defence to score a try he converted himself.

Hyde was also instrumental in Newbold’s next score as he released Danny Facer to cross and there was still time before the break for the hosts to go further clear as Facer forced his way over again and Wookey converted to make it 26-10.

Leamington made the brighter start to the second half and put Newbold under early pressure when driving towards their line from a scrum but Sean Fereday stole possession well and was able to clear.

The visitors continued to attack but Newbold held firm despite being down to 13 men because of two yellow cards.

Back on the front foot, Newbold stretched their lead when Facer drew the defence and release Reed to cross, Wookey converted.

Leamington kept battling to the end though and scored the final points of the game, and the season, with an unconverted try.

NEWBOLD play host to the County Colts 7s at Parkfield Road on Sunday.

Teams from all over the county will be providing a feast of top quality rugby on what is sure to be an exciting day.

Registration commences from 11.30am with the first game starting at 12.30pm.

Newbold have two teams entered and are optimistic they will fare well under the leadership of Colts captain Connor Gallagher.

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