Topsham RFC 47pts Saltash RFC 20.

There was a bright start by the visitors but a try by B. Tharme after 12 minutes which was converted by J.Mattin gave Topsham a 7-0 lead. This was followed eight minutes later with another home score and after some close interchanges, W.Loughton crossed for a Topsham converted try to make the score 19-0 after 23 minutes. At this point it was looking ominous for the band of travelling Saltash supporters. However, some good Saltash play resulted in Ryan Simmons scoring an unconverted try after 28 minutes which was soon cancelled out by W.Loughton crossing after a good break by J Saunders which was converted (26-5). The margin was again reduced to 26-10 with a well worked Ashes try by Ryan Cruickshanks but the home advantage was increased again on the stroke of half time with a J.Saunders converted try (33-10).The home side controlled the opening half with good forward play and strong running backs.

The second period was much more evenly matched and after 49 minutes Kieran Down kicked a penalty for Saltash but both sides were soon reduced to 14 players when the referee produced a yellow card as each team strived to gain the advantage. Topsham got the next try by W.Loughton after 57 minutes with J Mattin adding the extra points (40-13). Four minutes later Saltash again hit back with an excellent Tash Walsh try converted by Kieran Down (40-20). The final score came from a W.Loughton converted try at the end of the game.

For Saltash Ryan Simmons was very prominent in the pack while Jack Pritchard at scrum half is improving with each game and giving good service to Kieran Down at number 10. Ryan Cruickshanks was again solid at fullback and kicked well in a very spirited performance.

Rod Davies Press Officer

Saltash RFC.