Match Report: Newark Town vs Southwell City Reds

Match Report: Newark Town vs Southwell City Reds

Newark Town went into their first Division 2 league fixture as underdogs, facing a Southwell City Reds side that had convincingly beaten them the last time the two teams met. The conditions were far from easy, with strong winds making it difficult for both sides to settle into a rhythm.

The first half was a tight, hard-fought battle with few clear chances. Newark showed great determination and discipline, working tirelessly against the conditions. Harry made some excellent saves to keep Southwell at bay, while Steven produced crucial last-ditch defending to deny the opposition. With five minutes left in the half, Newark made changes that brought fresh energy and a positive impact on the game.

In the second half, Aston C immediately looked a threat whenever he was near the ball. His pressing, link-up play, and willingness to take on defenders caused Southwell constant problems. His hard work paid off when he latched onto a clever pass from Billy and produced a composed lob over the goalkeeper for a well-deserved goal.

Billy continued to play a key role, putting in a real shift with strong tackles, excellent tracking back, and vital link-up play going forward. Soon after, Farley picked up the ball deep in his own half and went on a mazy run down the right, unleashing a strike that was parried by the goalkeeper. Ashton M reacted quickest to the rebound, finishing superbly with his left foot to double Newark’s advantage.

With a two-goal lead and the wind against them, Newark looked set for a famous win. However, a late mistake allowed Southwell to pull one back with just minutes remaining. Despite battling bravely to the final whistle, Newark were cruelly denied all three points when Southwell found an equaliser through a deflected effort in the final moments.

Starting 7:

Harry, Steven, Will, Billy, James, Raff, Alfie

Substitutes:

Aston, Ashton, Farley, Harley

Manager’s Comments – Lewis:

“Today’s match had every emotion that football has to offer — great moments and bad moments. The lads were buzzing, then disappointed, but that’s football. When you get the good moments, cherish them and do everything you can to protect them, because the tough moments will always come. It’s how you deal with them that matters. I’m proud of the lads and the effort they put in. We stripped it back to basics today, and on another day we get the three points. I’m glad it hurts, because that hunger will drive us to improve next time.”

Manager’s Man of the Match: Aston C

Parents’ Man of the Match: Billy W