IT is now clear why Ellesmere Port are on top and sweeping allcomers aside. They look to have recruited well from the vast pool of young players on the Wirral and are playing really good rugby.

Newton started well but one or two mistakes let Port into the game, scoring almost at will for some of their tries.

Newton did had their moments and put Port under pressure several times but could not convert it into points.

All credit to the better side but we must mention Newton's Leon Pearce and Darren Jones both making their debut in such a hard game.

Newton are hoping to turn things around on Saturday when they take on Douglas IOM at home, 3pm KO.