Newman sets club record with 15th straight win, nears Top 14 playoffs

Newman has taken a significant step towards securing a playoff spot in the Top 14 by defeating direct rival Alumni 29-19. This victory marks their 15th consecutive win, setting a new club record and extending their dominant streak this season.

Despite facing strong pressure from Alumni, particularly in the scrum where Newman struggled, conceding seven penalties and two free-kicks, the team demonstrated resilience. Two of Alumni's tries were a direct result of scrum dominance. Paul Cardinal, a forward for Newman, acknowledged the scrum as a critical area needing improvement, stating, "We were very uncomfortable there and couldn't find a way to fix it throughout the game."

Newman opened the scoring with a dynamic play, but Alumni responded with a maul try. The teams exchanged tries, ending the first half tied at 19-19. In the second half, Newman adapted to the conditions, including a slight headwind and drizzle, and controlled territorial play. They applied sustained pressure, forcing Alumni into defensive positions.

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We were very uncomfortable there and couldn't find a way to fix it throughout the game. It's an area we have to improve, without a doubt.

Alumni's Santiago Montagner noted the shift in game dynamics, observing, "In the first half, we dominated with set pieces; in the second half, they played better with the foot: they knew how to use it better. That was the difference; we struggled to cross the halfway line, and that's how they built their lead."

Despite the scrum difficulties, Newman's ability to overcome challenges and secure wins highlights their solid performance. This consistency, attributed to a stable core of players over several years, has positioned them as a formidable force in the league.

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In the first half, we dominated with set pieces; in the second half, they played better with the foot: they knew how to use it better. That was the difference; we struggled to cross the halfway line, and that's how they built their lead.