Novos started well, taking the lead through new signing Luke Daniel from a stolen line out, indeed Novos dominated early proceedings with Ed Pilkington, Steve Neill and Lex Leonard all going close to furthering Novos lead before Durham broke away and scored against the run of play.

Durham then took over and started to run Novos around, during this time Novos skipper Chris Fife was yellow carded for a high tackle (Very harshly). This handed the initiative to Durham and their support play was very impressive and they scored a further 2 tries in quick succession while Novos were down to 14 men.

Restored to a full compliment, Novos came back into the game and a Durham City high tackle on Lex Leonard who was clean through resulted in a penalty (But no card?). From the penalty Novos scored, instead of taking a kick at goal, a tap was taken and drives from Michael Reidy and Gus Graham were held up before Christian Selkirk released the back line and Steve Neill scored on his return from injury.

Half time Novos 10 – Durham City 17.

The second half was one to forget for Novos as City scored 4 good tries through strong running and great offloading play and at times Novos just couldn’t cope with the pace and organisation of the young Durham side. Novos did have the last say when a dominant scrum on 5 metres gave Andy Gardiner a chance to cross but it was a consolation and on the day the better side won.

Man of the match Luke Daniel, a handy and solid looking back row signing from Gosforth, great work rate in defence and some big tackles as well as a well taken try.

On to brighter things, Next week the 2nds host Whitley Bay Rockliffe in the cup semi final and will be hoping to book a place in the final, with several regular players returning to the squad and some impressive showings, skipper Chris Fife has some interesting selection posers ahead.