OSWESTRY’S bright start to 2023 continued with a 39-19 derby win at Newport IIs in the second division of the Midlands League on Saturday.
A large crowd ensured a fine atmosphere as both sides went into the game eying up points to boost their top four aspirations.
The Eagles started on top with all the early pressure on the home defence and it was no surprise when Tom Williams slotted the ball over from a penalty to break the deadlock.
Oswestry continued to dominate with Joe Capener and Tommy Bromage gaining good ground following a forceful run by Max Rudd before the hosts conceded a second penalty with Williams converting.
Action from Oswestry's clash with Newport IIs. Picture by Nick Evans-Jones.
The visitors pulled away when Scott Smith released Tommy Burbage who fed Rory Kershaw as Sam Woolham ran over on the wing to make the score 11-0.
Oswestry kept the pressure and front row Andrew Smith crossed for a try which Williams converted as the visitors celebrated their second try.
However Newport capitalised on a rare lapse and reduced the arrears with a converted try of their own.
Oswestry reasserted themselves before the break with a try from Kershaw and conversion from Williams but the hosts once again stirred and reduced the arrears with a try.
Action from Oswestry's clash with Newport IIs. Picture by Nick Evans-Jones.
Newport were well and truly back in the game with a converted try at the start of the second-half.
Oswestry were galvanised and regained their momentum when Bromage charged down a clearance and debutant Francisco Argiroffo gathered to score with Williams adding the extras.
Action from Oswestry's clash with Newport IIs. Picture by Nick Evans-Jones.
Sam Woolham and James Roberts shut up shop as Newport’s efforts to get back into the game were rebuffed Oswestry settled the outcome when Argiroffo broke to release Rory Kershaw and Woolham who in turn gave it to Scott Smith who charged over to score.
Williams added the extras to complete Oswestry’s 39-19 victory as the Eagles closed on their fourth placed hosts ahead of this weekend’s derby clash at Cleobury Mortimer.
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