Panthers power to big Trophy triumph

Nov 28 2007 by Chris Roberts, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

IN-FORM Newsome Panthers progressed to the second round of the Andrew Bennett Memorial Trophy after a 72-16 victory at Sharlston Rovers A in a completely one-sided tie.

Pennine League Second Division Newsome were always expected to be far too strong for their struggling Third Division hosts, and that was reflected as they scored 13 tries and nine goals.

The Panthers had simply too much power in the forwards, with Lee McCafferty unstoppable as he scored four tries.

The home team were drawn in too easily for the Newsome backs to score at will through Dan Nelmes, who scored four and had another ruled out when he was adjudged to have knocked-on, and Ben Feehan with a hat trick.

Dave Farrell was rewarded for a fine game with a try, while youngsters Mark Bebey and Ben Copplin continued to show they are progressing well under coach Phil Joseph with quality displays.

On top of that, Alex Burrows – playing at stand-off for the injured Simon Burkinshaw – and Damien Kenchington made life tough for Rovers time after time.

On defence, Daz McKinnie again topped the tackle count with 25 to go with a well-taken try, with Ross Studholme converting seven goals and Feehan chipping in with a couple.