This was Saltash's first appearance in the Tribute Counties 1 Western West league after last season's promotion from Counties 2 Cornwall and travelled without several regular players for various reasons. After even early exchanges Saltash took the lead eight minutes into the match when their impressive prop Liall Honey forced himself over the home line (0-5).

The Whites came back 6 minutes later with a penalty in front of the posts from their fullback. The visitors were covering the attacks from the home side very well and increased their lead through Fin Jones (37 minutes) who touched down and Jack Pritchard added the extras for an interval lead of 12-3.

The second half started in a similar way with the Ashes looking comfortable and went further ahead from a Jack Pritchard penalty (52 minutes). The Whites rallied and a try on the left wing closed the Saltash advantage to 7 points. This seemed to encourage the home team and they increased the pressure and produced a tense finish to the game which resulted in them drawing level after being awarded a penalty try in the closing stages. A missed penalty kick near to the posts could have won them the game but with the clock well into the red a try in the corner gave Newton Abbot the victory.

Saltash produce a good display and can feel disappointed not to come away with the win although did get a losing bonus point. Number eight Jack Mills was outstanding in the pack and Ryan Cruickshanks put in some excellent clearing kicks. Todd Crofts linked well with scrum half Jack Pritchard to motivate the backs.

Rod Davies Press Officer

Saltash RFC