This was a game that the Ashes had to win in order to stand any chance of preserving their Counties 1 Western West league status and they did with a battling display from all of the team. They were led out onto the pitch by Simon Nance on his 350th appearance, Lewis Woolaway (100) and Phil Eatwell who recently played his 250th. They were pinned into their own half for the first twenty minutes as Newton Abbot pressed hard to score but with some resolute covering and tackling Saltash eventually broke away down the left with Laurie Thomson crossing the visitor's line to gain a surprise lead after 25 minutes. Newton Abbot were looking dangerous with their pack having the advantage and within six minutes got a converted try to edge into the lead at the interval.

A strong second half start by the visitors saw them go further ahead after 42 minutes with another converted try but the Ashes came back with some good handling by the backs and a break by Ryan Cruickshanks led to a try by skipper Jay Moriarty on the left wing after 45 minutes (12-14). Saltash were now getting their game together against the tiring Devon side and the lively Fin Jones went over close to the posts to touch down following another strong run by Ryan Cruickshanks to go back in front after 59 minutes. Newton Abbot were still in the game and within four minutes had increased the level of tension for the home supporters by getting an unconverted try (63 minutes). The game continued to be in the balance until following a penalty and a flowing move Will Morton charged over on the right wing for the Ashes (63 minutes) and with their confidence growing were pressing for victory when Greg Eatwell seized on an opportunity to extend the lead with a try converted by Dylan Davies who impressed after coming on from the bench (29-19). Victory was assured in the closing stages with a Will Morton try on the right wing.

After a slow and uncertain beginning to this important fixture Saltash grew into the game and deservedly came away with a five point win which gives them a chance of survival in this league which now depends on the result from Penryn away at Torquay in two weeks. A great a team performance by the Ashes.

Rod Davies Press Officer

Saltash RFC