A slow start cost the Newark squad dear in their regular pre-season friendly against the RAF visitors at Kelham Road. The RAF Hawks Dev XV claimed a crucial edge after their quick start which they never relinquished to claim the George Crawford Cup, winning 28-14. Corporal George Crawford represented the RAF and was a regular prop forward for Newark. He was killed in a road traffic accident in February 1985 when a bus carrying RAF personnel was involved in a collision with a petrol tanker. By the time Newark shook off their pre-season lag, the RAF were already leading 14-0. Newark managed to i…