The game was switched to the training ground and it was the first home match played since early January for Wiveliscombe because of unfit pitches. They took an early lead after four minutes when their pack drove the Ashes back towards their own line and touched down. Saltash fought back and were awarded a penalty eight minutes later and scrumhalf Jack Pritchard kicked the points. The home side then missed a penalty before a good cross field handling movement led to their second try on the left wing which was converted after twenty minutes (12-3). Saltash received a yellow card and the home side took advantage of their domination and scored another try which was quickly followed by a bonus point try to extend the lead to 22-3.

Saltash battled hard to gain some headway and just after a yellow card was shown to a Wiveliscombe player a rare visit into the home "22" at the very end of the first half resulted in centre Greg Eatwell finishing off an enterprising Saltash handling movement to score a try close to the posts. The conversion kick was charged down and at the interval Wiveliscombe were 22-8 ahead.

The second period continued in the very muddy conditions with Wiveliscombe controlling the game but it took until 54 minutes before more sure hands on the wet ball enabled them to cross the Ashes line on the left wing to touch down. Both sides kicked to gain ground in the deteriorating conditions with varying degrees of success and it was with great credit that Saltash held out in defence until the final seconds when following persistent pressure the home team broke through the resilient Ashes and crossed under the posts for a converted try.

This was always going to be a tough test for Saltash but they never gave up against table topping Wiveliscombe.

Rod Davies Press Officer

Saltash RFC