Spartans started well, playing with ball in hand and taking their physically imposing hosts on from the start. They took the lead when Ed Charles muscled over, only to lose him to a nasty head wound minutes later. Newbold were not to be outdone and they forced a penalty to close the gap, then missed another before a fine break from Michael Blair led to James Gibbons very nearly scoring on the stroke of half time. The second half saw a dream start for the men in black when a pinpoint kick off from Tom Harbidge earned valuable territory, and a big drive ended in a try for Willy Wright. As Newbold tired, good linking between the backs released James Gibbons for a try beneath the posts, but he failed to convert his own score and the home side were not finished. Spartans resisted a series of Newbold attacks, and once more play moved upfield. Tom Harbidge at last found his kicking boots to add a penalty, and although Newbold never gave up Spartans held firm with the scoreline fairly reflecting the game. Elsewhere, a clean sweep was achieved for the club with all sides triumphing. The 2nd XV won their friendly with Wednesbury 24–0, the 3rd XV beat Leamington, 21-15, and the 4th XV beat Ashbourne 4ths. This week sees Spartans at home in the National Cup quarter-final against an impressive Towcestrians side. (2.15pm). | 
