Saltash RFC 30pts Gordon League RFC 25pts

The early stages were very even with the visitor's pack looking a strong unit but it was the Ashes that took the lead after 14 minutes when Will Morton got on the end of a flowing movement to touch down on the right wing. Gordon League hit back 5 minutes later through a break away try and A. Kockerhan scored with G Rea adding the extra points. A long range penalty from Rea increased the visitors lead after 28 minutes (10-5). A big effort by the Ashes forwards enabled them to get a push over try by Tom Rixson to bring them level (33 Minutes). More home pressure just before the interval resulted in skipper Jay Moriarty squeezing in on the left wing to put the Ashes in front (15-10) but the last action came from Gordon League's B.Gamston touching down to end an absorbing first half.

Ten minutes into the second period saw full back Ryan Cruickshanks kick the Ashes back into the lead with a penalty and the game continued to be evenly balanced but a yellow card for a home forward and the following penalty gave Rae the opportunity to bring the scores level. However, a yellow card for a visiting forward gave Saltash immediately the chance to take the advantage again to allow Rob Walsh to put the Ashes back in front (23-18). Gordon League kept battling and were very close to getting on the scoresheet again several times but the resolute home defence resisted. Saltash then mounted another series of attacks and were rewarded after 75 minutes when Ryan Cruickshanks finished a good move with a try which he converted. A converted try by the visitors at the very end reduced the difference to 5 points but it was too late to prevent Saltash going into the next round.

Saltash looked good when playing their normal game with the defensive and attacking lineouts working well but mistakes and lack of discipline on occasions could have cost them the game but the team can be proud of their performance and the result.

Rod Davies Press Officer

Saltash RFC