DURHAM University claimed an eighth victory in the ten years of the Northumbrian Water Boat Race when its senior men overcame favourites Newcastle University.

Newcastle, with a strong run of form behind them, fell behind by two lengths on the River Tyne yesterday and, despite a late surge, were unable to stop their rivals winning by seven seconds.

Phil Evans, president of Durham University Boat Club, who rowed with the winning eight, said: "Newcastle were a bit of an unknown factor, but we were confident we had the speed.

"We wanted to get ahead at an early stage so we could push forward and absorb their pressure every time we saw them coming.

"Everything went exactly to plan."

Newcastle University Boat Club president Henry Pelly said: "We didn't start very well and just never managed to get back. We are all really disappointed."

The most convincing win of the afternoon was Durham's senior women's five-length victory over an under-strength Newcastle eight.

Newcastle freshmen restored some pride with a two-and-a-quarter length (ten second) victory, while in the Freshwomen's event, Durham completed a hat-trick of wins by one and three-quarter lengths.

Graham Rayner, chairman of the boat race executive committee, said: "The senior men's result did come as a surprise after the progress made by Newcastle University Boat Club.

"Both universities made Newcastle favourites going in to the race.

"We don't know what happened and it's too soon to speculate until we have a chance to speak to the rowers and their coach."