photo by Mark Harris

Newport Titans maintained their perfect start to the season with a tough 18-16 win against Cardiff Demons.

A second half try from winger Molik Alou proved to be decisive, as both teams fought out a physical battle.

The game was marred by an injury to Demons full back, Jamie Iles, who suffered a serious leg injury when bravely attempting to kick on and beat the fullback.

Newport began the game well scoring first after a Ben Morris pass sent Scott

Morasco through a big gap to score near the posts.

Morascos try seemed to have a positive effect on Cardiff.  A continued period of pressure in the Newport half, forcing numerous repeat sets, eventually paid off when Mark Devine powered his way over.

The teams exchanged tries in the closing moments of the first half, with Newports Richard Davies scoring before a wonderful close range chip from Shane Goddard allowed Curtis Cunningham to give Cardiff a 10-12 lead at the break.

An immediate second half response from Newports Martin Cowley provided the home team with the impetus to force a victory in a largely even game.

Cardiffs Mark Dando weaved his way through for a great individual effort, before Alou finished off a smooth passing sequence to score the winning try in the corner.

article by Richard Williams
7 June 2008