Club takes step towards safety

It was job done in spectacular fashion for Newport as they took an important leap towards safety in National Three Midlands.

A home victory over bottom club Bedford Athletic, without a win all season, was essential for Newport.

But the Forton Road players and officials were left with a satisfying glow as they ran out 72-3 winners, scoring in excess of four tries to guarantee themselves maximum points.

In the end Newport crossed the line 12 times and they have now opened up a five-point gap over Malvern who occupy the final relegation spot, although the Worcestershire club do have a game in hand.

"It had been drummed into the players all week that we had to win and win in style," said director of rugby Ray Price.

"The lads were fantastic and we cut them to pieces.

"It has certainly given us a chance of stopping up but we need more points from the last two games."

Rob Clymer and Toby Mann both led the way with three tries each, while Sam Edgerton scored twice.

Morgan Sikanen, Duncan Chance, James Curgenven and John Styles also crossed the line, with Curgenven adding six conversions.

A battling performance by Luctonians earned them a share of the spoils in a closely fought local derby against Hereford.

In front of the biggest crowd of the season at Mortimer Park, Lucs were reduced to 14 men after replacement Alexandra Mitu was sent off for an alleged head butting, but they held firm for a 5-5 draw.

"We played for an hour with 14 men after Mitu was sent off but Hereford failed to take advantage," said Lucs spokesman Robin East.

"Hereford were the more positive side in the first half and will be disappointed not to have won the game."

Gareth Marks grabbed Heredford's try, but Anthony Marthell scored out wide to ensure the honours finished even.

By JAMES GARRISON