The Seconds moved into third position in the league after they bounced back from the previous week with a brave and gritty performance, to end Oldfield’s six-game unbeaten run in a tense encounter.

The home side took the lead early on, after a spell of pressure by Norton’s makeshift pack released Sam Knight. Sam’s superb pass out the back of his hand set Goudie free to score in the corner. However, second-placed Oldfield were going to be no pushovers, and were level within five minutes, when Newport scored following a strong line-out drive.

The share of play was even for much of the half, as both sides attempted to take control of a scrappy, physical affair. However, Norton clinically managed to earn a half-time lead when Andrew Best exploited the space created by Bicknell’s fine blindside run to finish in the corner. Murphy added the extras to make it 12–5.

Playing up the hill in the second half, Norton extended their lead almost immediately. A committed kick chase led to a penalty in front of the posts, which Murphy coolly slotted. However, once again, Oldfield bounced back, and Moxham went over from close range to set up a tense final half hour with just five points in it.

With many players carrying injuries and only five recognised forwards left on the pitch, Norton put in a superb defensive effort to withhold lengthy spells of Oldfield pressure near their own line. Norton bravely held back their attacks and tackled superbly – with Drew Davis’ performance again notable, as he won numerous turnovers on one leg.

In truth, both sides would feel their gargantuan efforts deserved something from the game, but it was Norton who succeeded in a nail-biting final ten, eventually taking control of the game from the away side and forcing enough of the game to take place in the opposition’s half. When Knight kicked the ball in to touch, they could finally celebrate a fine victory that epitomised the spirit of the side.

Norton now face two away games against Old Reds and Bristol Telephones before the Christmas break.