Early exchanges were even with Saltash missing a penalty but they took the lead after 14 minutes when Josh Mortmore touched down for Kieran Down to convert. The same duo combined nine minutes later to put the Ashes 14-0. Max Venables came on to make a rare appearance for Saltash and scored two tries after 26 and 35 minutes to extend the lead to 24-0. The Old Boys hit back with a try just before the interval and crossed over 24-5 in arrears.
The second half was well balanced with the Old Boys coming back into the game and they narrowed the score with a converted try after 52 minutes. A further try 16 minutes later made the score 24-17 and a victory for the visitors looked possible until Devon Bennett-Murray went over for a late home try which Kieran Down converted (31-17). Try scorers for the Old Boys were Henry Burrows, Reece Williams and Ed Meakin with Scott Meakin kicking a conversion. The game was played in good spirits which suited the festive occasion.
Rod Davies Press Officer
Saltash RFC.