Newport RFC face a must win clash against bottom club Bedford Athletic tomorrow, with director of rugby Ray Price insisting: “There can be no excuses.”
The Forton Road men continue their fight against the drop with a home match against already relegated, winless and demoralised opponents.
With Bedford’s points against tally of 1002 – an average of 45 per game – all signs point to a stroll in the park for Newport.
But Price has warned against complacency and urged his side to ensure a maximum five point haul.
He said: “It’s an absolute must win game for us – and it’s got to be the full five points.
“We need to score as many points as we possibly can and build up a gap between ourselves and Malvern.
“Bedford have had a torrid season and haven’t won a single game.
“They have been the whipping boys of the division. We have to be clinical and do a job.
“There can be no excuses.”
Newport’s National League Three Midlands survival hopes were dealt a blow with a 38-13 defeat at league leaders Ampthill last weekend.
They were far from disgraced, but with third-from-bottom Malvern winning at Bedford, the gap between Newport and the drop zone was cut to a solitary point.
Price added: “Ampthill are the best side in the league and they pulverised us for the first 20 minutes.
“But we got into the game much more in the second half and played some good rugby.
“One of the things you can say about Newport this year is that we are entertaining.
“Alongside Luton we are probably one of the best teams to watch in the division.”
Newport had to cope with skipper Craig Ingram pulling out on the morning of the match due to illness.
Neil Weston took over the captain’s armband and Michael Woodhouse filled in at prop.
Two early tries and two penalties put shell-shocked Newport immediately on the back foot.
But hope was restored soon after when Rob Clymer ran into the corner following good work by Omar Suleiman.
Two more Ampthill tries, either side of a James Curgenven penalty, gave the home side a commanding 26-8 lead at the turnaround, though.
A plucky second half performance was rewarded with some cheer when youngster Tom Hockin charged down a kick and ran over for five points.
But Newport will admit they were well beaten on the day by an all-round stronger outfit.
Newport should have a full squad to choose from tomorrow, including fit-again Ingram.
Kick off is at 3pm.
By Sean Wozencroft