Walsall RFC Ltd

Taken by surprise that the match was to be played at Newark, since three weeks ago the clubhouse sat in the middle of a lake of flood water, I decided to take the tortuous road route to see the lads play at Kelham Road.

Despite the fact that the ground had indeed been flooded the pitch looked in good condition and the weather, although cold, provided reasonable conditions for a game of rugby.  Casting an eye over the team sheet also promised a good game and a good result, hopefully.

The game commenced and in a period of twenty minutes I questioned my decision in making the pilgramage to see the scoreboard read 7-0, 10-0, 17-0 and 20-0.  OMG! Are we still on the road?  In twenty minutes Newark fullback Josh and his support squad were saying "This is the way to do it".  Just before the break we were able to gain possession of the ball and Perkins, Nunney and Angell combined to put a score on the board, followed by the conversion and then a penalty kick by Carless to give hope 20 - 10.

Injury to Quade Boal saw the introduction of subs and a rearrangement of the team, who, on the second half whistle came to life and produced some of the best rugby they have played to date, everybody was at the party.  To a man eeryone is to be congratulated on their second half performance.  Josh and his men were under the cosh, 20-13, 20-20, 20-27, 20-34, 20-41.  With five minutes left I felt confident we could claim a victory.  At the end Newark managed an unconverted try. 25-41

Overall the game had both sets of supporters disconsolate and euphoric at different times but as I always like to say - "Never in Doubt!"

Sending Quade our best wishes and that his injury will not prevent him being out of the game for too long.