NEWSOME Panthers are aiming to bounce straight back to winning ways and maintain their leadership of the Pennine League Second Division tomorrow when they travel to Ovenden A.
Coach Phil Joseph was forced to send an under-strength side to Stanningley A last weekend and the Panthers suffered their first defeat of the season 24-20, despite deserving a draw.
Only a controversial late try, which followed what seemed a clear offside following an up-and-under, denied the brave Newsome effort after Martin Robinson had led the way with a hat trick of tries.
Ben Feehan also crossed with Ross Studholme adding a couple of conversions, while Damien Kenchington led the tackle count for the game in a Newsome side depleted by injuries and holidays.
Newsome still top the table, however, by a point from Emley Moor, who tomorrow visit bottom club Rotherham Roosters.
In the Premier Division, St Joseph’s have a chance to move up the table.
Second-bottom Joes entertain Queensbury, the team immediately above them, at Fartown and will be looking for the two points which could shift them to mid-table.
Moldgreen, meanwhile, have the chance to increase pressure on the top four in the First Division as they have a home clash with lowly Victoria Rangers.
While Third Division leaders Lindley Swifts have no fixture, Slaithwaite Saracens are at home to Littleborough and will be aiming to take advantage against a side who have lost all bar one of their six fixtures to date.
In Division IV, Underbank visit Silsden Park Rangers while Brighouse entertain third-placed Dudley Hill A.
Moldgreen A will be looking to open their account for the campaign when they visit Halifax Irish in the Fifth Division while, in the Sixth, St Joseph’s A bid to add to their single point when they travel to bottom club Greetland All Rounders A.
In Division VII, Slaithwaite A visit Dearne Valley Bulldogs A.
