Lockie Cup Final - Saltash 25 pts Tavistock 31pts

The Ashes lost Jay Moriarty at the beginning of the game through injury but took the lead after 12 minutes when Lewis Wells broke through the Tavistock defence to touch down. Tavistock came back 11 minutes later with a converted try following a concentrated period of pressure on the Saltash line. Both sides missed penalties with the Saltash kick hitting a post but Tavistock went further ahead with a 37th minute try as the game went from one end to the other (5-12). Just before half time Saltash continued to move the ball around but a midfield interception by Tavistock put them in a strong position with a converted try which proved to be decisive (5-19).

A penalty by Kristian Davis (43 minutes) and another Lewis Wells try (50 minutes) brought the Ashes back into the game at the start of the second half but again the Devon side hit back with a try (57 minutes) to give them some breathing space in a very competitive contest (13-24). Saltash were reduced to 14 when a yellow card was given for a high tackle (63 minutes) and shortly afterwards Tavistock took advantage with a converted try (13-31). Saltash continued to battle hard and Phil Eatwell broke through to put Adam Coutts over to score for Danny Snook to convert. Tavistock had to resolutely defend to hold their line in a tense finish but could not prevent Ryan Cruickshanks crossing for a final Ashes try (25-31) with Tavistock just holding on to win the Lockie Cup.

This was a very competitive and entertaining game in front of a good supportive crowd with both sides contributing towards a very good final.

Rod Davies Press Officer

Saltash RFC.