The first half proved very even with the lively Students team giving the Ashes a good defensive test but they eventually were unable to contain the home side after the interval as the Ashes stepped up and got their game together. Saltash took the lead after 15 minutes following some neat handling through Jason Carroll and Nick Blakes added the extra points. School of Mines hit back 5 minutes later with a well worked converted try. The game swung from one end to another before Fin Jones restored the home advantage just prior to half time with a converted touch down (14-7).

The Ashes were gradually getting a grip on the game and went further ahead when Jason Carroll broke through the visiting defence (51minutes) for a converted try. More tries soon followed from Alfie Libby (2), Ryan Thomas and Ryan Wilson with Nick Blake kicking a total of five conversions. Devon Bennett-Murray was making a welcome return to the Ashes and made a significant difference to the side but the whole team contributed to a well earned victory against a Students team that never stopped trying to improve upon their score.

R.Davies, Saltash RFC Press Officer