NEWTOWN-CONDINGUP have issued a warning to the other EDFA clubs that they are capable of becoming a major force over the coming home and away series after downing Ports by 26 points under lights at Newtown oval on Saturday.

Just six days after an impressive 96-point victory over reigning premier Esperance, the Lions were celebrating another scalp, confirming the club’s best start to a season since Newtown took out back- to-back premierships in 1994-95.

The Lions are currently sitting in second position on the EDFA ladder with just the one loss marring an otherwise impeccable start to 2008.

Saturday night’s victory was all the more impressive with the Lions having to hold off a determined Ports challenge for the first three quarters before a four goal to two final term put the issue beyond doubt.

In contrast the Blues have suffered their worst start in almost 13 years having gone through the opening three rounds without tasting success.

After losses to Esperance and Gibson in the opening two rounds the Blues were desperate to finally break the drought and started strongly, keeping the Lions forwards under pressure while working hard to keep play in their scoring section.

This kept Ports right in the game and although the Lions ended the term with nine scoring shots they were just seven points clear at the first change.

Chris Ratcliffe was responsible for an impressive performance for the Lions, picking up some crucial possessions and setting up a lot of the teams attacking moves into the Newtown-Condingup forward lines.

Up front Cameron Marshall (three goals), the enigmatic Paul O’Rourke (three goals) and Jamie Jones (two goals) were also instrumental in giving the Lions more than just one forward presenting in front of goals.

Despite having effectively set up a three goal break at half time the Lions really felt the pressure as Ports mounted a solid challenge during the third term, reducing the margin to just 11 points at the final change.

Unfortunately the Blues were unable to maintain the pressure and the Lions steadied yet again kicking away, four goals to two.

Ratcliffe capped off a great night for the Lions figuring among their best player list while Kane Land presented himself at vital stages of the match.

Scott Wallace and Ash McDonald also did well while Jones rounded off the best player list.

For the Blues, Brian Sylva handed in another solid effort through the midfield, Corey Bennier carried another big work load while Luke Rennie did well.

Peter Evans returned to the side and made his presence felt while youngster Clinton Symes did well to make his third game of the day, having lined-up in colts and kicked six goals in reserves.

Final score Newtown/Condingup 13.19 (97) b Ports 11.5 (71)

There was better news for the Blues in their reserves clash with Ports claiming a two goal win over the Lions.

Both sides went into the game with a win each but it was the Blues who secured second spot on the EDFA ladder.

Buoyed by a six-goal haul from Symes the Blues were able to bounce back into top form against a Lions combination which fought hard throughout the clash.

Michael Stephen also played well for the Blues while Nathan Paparone gave the side something extra up front.

For the Lions veteran Mick Young managed an impressive five goal haul, Scott McArthur (three goals) did well throughout the game, along with Aaron Staines and Kyle Greaves.

Final score Ports 13.9 (87) b Newtown/Condingup 11.9 (75).