THIS was Wirral’s first ever game against Newport and the hosts started the game strongly, scoring three converted tries by the 20th minute, through Connor Moore and two from Rhys James, the latter also converting each try.

At this stage Wirral had full control of the game and were able to put pressure on Newport.

In the middle of the first half, Wirral lost a player, Matt Dalton, through injury and although replaced, Wirral never had that level of control again.

Thankfully a penalty just before half time from 50m by Rhys James increased the lead to 24-0 at the break.

The second half started with more pressure from Newport, but Wirral were unable to cross the line for that vital bonus point try.

In the final minutes of the game, Newport applied pressure on the Wirral line and were rewarded with a try which they converted.

The final five minutes saw Wirral apply pressure on Newport but they were unable to cross for that vital fourth try.

Next week, Wirral are away at Manchester, in what will be a difficult game given they have the same number of points as Wirral