Newton-le-Willows nil Ruskin Park 14 RUSKIN Park eased their relegation worries a little with this hard-fought victory over bottom-of-the-table Newton.

The two points gained became even more valuable when it became known that all their closest rivals had lost on Saturday.

Another win in the vitally important clash at Eagle next week would just about ensure division one rugby (Lancs/Cheshire Division) at Ruskin Drive next season.

On a heavy pitch, both sides tried to play open rugby. Mistakes were plentiful by both sides which added to the general excitement of the match, neither side being able to dominate for any length of time.

On reflection, Ruskin just about deserved to win. They took their two chances well and defended stoutly when the need arose. Newton were often troubled by the jinking runs of both Orfords at half-back, and some thundering breaks up the middle by Kevin Davies. It was following one of the latter, that a neat pass from Crehan released Neil Hull down the right and he swept majestically around the defence to score near the posts, Mike Orford converting. In the second period, with the pitch becoming increasingly cut up, both sides found it difficult controlling possession, and the match became somewhat scrappy. Things were not helped by an over-officious referee, who tended to blow his whistle too much.

Just when it seemed there would be no further score, a Newton move broke down in midfield, Ruskin seized upon the loose ball and Gary Pennington put Ian Orford clear with a pass which looked well forward. To the horror of the Newton supporters the referee missed it, and Orford roared away to score under the posts. Loz Pilkington converted with the last kick of the match.

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