NEWTON RUFC won the League Cup after defeating Clitheroe 22-20 at Wigan RUFC.

It was a perfect day for running rugby, but it was not to be with both teams feeling the tension the first have was stop start due to penalties.

Clitheroe kicked four to Newton’s one. Clitheroe had several close range attempts at Newton’s line, but the defence held on.

Just before the break Clitheroe scored an unconverted try in the corner. Newton had not got into this game at all and things looked grim being 17-3 down at the break.

The second half was a totally different story. The penalties dried up and Newton started playing rugby.

Strong running and fast hands saw Captain Dave Turner score an unconverted try. Once again Newton were penalised for a technical offence and Clitheroe picked up another three points.

This fired Newton up and they really turned it on, their style of rugby was just too fast for Clitheroe, good backing up saw Al Callister slice through to score, Andy McKenna added the extras.

Newton where only five points behind. Once again the sheer speed of their attack sent Mike Hallet in at the corner 20-20 Newton had the game won on try difference, then Andy McKenna kicked his best conversion of the season right off the touchline to make it 22-20 for Newton.

With 90 seconds left, Clitheroe kicked deep and Newton just had to run the clock down.

However, Clitheroe were awarded a penalty less than 30 seconds on the clock.

The kicker stepped up to take a simple kick, but he looked tired, hit it all wrong and it sailed wide by yards. Game over.

This was another fine display of never-say-die from Newton, their three tries to one illustrates their open style of play.

Credit goes every player on both sides who made this a great final to watch.

It was hard to find a MOM but Captain Dave Turner was awarded it by Newton’s match day sponsors Bolton Steel Structures.

It’s over 30 years since Newton last won a trophy.

This season they have won the League and Cup.

Local support was great with three coaches leaving for the game.

All the players and management would like to thank them because it made big difference.

Hopefully this success will generate more interest in the club.