Midland Division 2 East: Banbury took a step nearer the relegation trapdoor when they went down 26-10 away to Newark.

A five-minute period in the first half effectively decided the match.

Banbury were leading 7-5 and using the strong wind at their backs when a 75 metre interception try by the home side was followed two minutes later by a horrendous defensive mix-up which led to a penalty try.

After that, Newark's tight mauling game allowed them to strangle the visitors' attacking hopes.

Banbury went ahead with a try from the outstanding Will Brooks, Matt Goode's touchline conversion making it 7-0.

Newark replied with a try and then shot ahead 19-7 after the interception and the penalty try.

Banbury then lost No 8 Ed Cummings to a shoulder injury and although Goode managed to reduce the arrears with a penalty on the stroke of half-time the signs looked ominous for the visitors.

After the break, the visitors continued to try and run the ball while Newark stuck to their close driving play, resulting in one further try.