Newport are in the thick of the chasing pack at the top of National League Three Midlands after a 26-6 victory over Burton.

The Forton Road men made a triumphant return to action after an enforced three-week break, digging deep to run in four tries and earn a bonus point as well.

It leaves them just six points off the top and in a strong position heading towards the festive period.

“We set ourselves a target of being in the top half of the league at Christmas and we are,” said team manager Gareth Davies.

“It’s all very tight up there and we’re in the chasing pack, which is where we want to be.”

Jack Wells and Michael Woodhouse scored the first two tries, Toby Mann converting both in the absence of regular kicker Jamie Simpson.

Chris Taylor added a third try with half-time replacement James Curgenven this time converting.

And Marc Millward roun-ded off the scoring with a late try for the Shropshire side, who also gave a debut as a replacement to former Newport Gwent Dragons man Alex Murphy.

“It wasn’t a fantastic performance but we got the result,” said Davies.

“We were a little bit rusty and you could tell the lads hadn’t played for three weeks.

“But we were the better side overall and the scoreline reflected that.

“Alex enjoyed himself and was happy to be part of a winning team,” added Dav-ies. “There’s plenty more to come from him.”

Bottom-of-the-table Hereford secured an impressive 22-0 victory over Peterborough under the guidance of new coach Mark Harris at Fengate.

Charlie Loughman scored two of Hereford’s three tries, with Simon Sable claiming the other.

Dean Powell converted all three and also added an extra three points with a penalty.

It was the Wyesiders’ second win of the season and they have now closed the gap on Burton to three points at the foot of the standings.

By CHRIS HUDSON