It’s been a long and tough season – only two weeks’ off since the middle of August. We reached the halfway stage in fourth and many questioned with the number of injuries we had sustained at that time whether we would be able to keep up the pace.

Losing the first two games in January increased this concern, however, the character the team has shown since then has been unquestionable, with some superb results earning fifth spot overall. None came better than the wins at home against Paviors and Bugbrooke when we came from behind on both occasions in dramatic fashion.

Whilst we have welcomed back some players from injury over the last few weeks, the injury list has continued to grow with an unprecedented number of players picking up injuries. A triple leg break, broken hand, ruptured bicep and a torn hamstring to name just a few, with a tough call on whether it was the leg break or hamstring tear that received the loudest scream!

Our squad depth has been well tested over the last few months with 44 players pulling on a 1st team shirt this season. With so many players capable of 1st team rugby, it is no surprise that our 2nd team has recently been crowned champions of their pennant league, so massive congratulations must go to Mark Staines and his team on a great season.

Another triumph for the club recently was the announcement that Ben Dixon has been selected to represent England under-18s in France over the Easter holidays. Ben has come up through the ranks in our mini and youth system and has rightfully claimed a starting position in the first team this season. Congratulations from everyone at the club, BD.

On behalf of all the players I would like to extend our huge gratitude for your continued support, home and away, on and off the pitch. You make playing on a Saturday for Newark not just enjoyable but an absolute privilege. You make sure we continue to have the best atmosphere at any club in the NLD.
Hope everyone can make it across to Matlock on Saturday, April 26, for the NLD Shield Final, against Kesteven, kick off 1.30pm.

Thank you, Matt.