Spartans 17, Newbold On Avon 67.

Spartans worked really hard throughout the first half, but some deft touches and an all round higher skill level within the Newbold ranks subdued the Men In Black for long periods. Although the scoreline was somehow only 24 - 12 at half time, the writing was on the wall as the sides turned around and the grey skies and damp weather seemed to sum up the chances of an upset: unlikely.

From the kick off some excellent support play from the visitors quickly snuffed out the chances of a revival with an early try, but to their credit Spartans kept trying to play attacking rugby. Unfortunately, Newbold were quick to punish the smallest mistake and in a league encounter the 'Blacks ambition was an expensive approach to adversity. Spartans managed a third try of their own and searched for a crucial fourth for the bonus point, but Newbold were having none of it and some powerful running from their big men, coupled with good patterns and sensible kicks meant there was only ever going to be one winner.

Spartans return to National Cup action this week against opponents presently unknown due to an imbalance in the cup structure.