Kentish Express Ashford & District
February proves profitable
ASHFORD 17 AYLESFORD 0
Ashford completed an unbeaten run of four London 3 South East games in February with a hard-fought three try win over Aylesford.
A strong wind and rainsodden pitch made for difficult conditions but Ashford started the brighter, taking the lead after five minutes when good work by their pack took them deep into the Aylesford 22. A series of drives culminated in captain Adam Knight going over.
The second try, five minutes later, bore the hallmark of Ashford’s skilled back line. An initial break by Rory Beech in his own half created half an opening for Ben Cooper who showed fine juggling skills in securing what would otherwise have been a wayward pass, and in doing so confused the Aylesford defence.
Having recovered the ball, he set off on a run that drew in the visitors’ last line of defence before offloading to Andy Ticehurst for an easy run-in. Charlie Colman’s conversion extended the lead to 12-0.
The remainder of the half saw Aylesford dominating possession, but their efforts to bludgeon their way through the Ashford midfield proved futile, with the home side proving resolute in defence.
The start of the second half was again marked by Aylesford dominating possession.
However on the hour, Ashford secured a third try when a drive into the Aylesford half created an opportunity for their backs to attack on the right wing, with slick handling by Beech and
Cooper providing space for Farai Myezwa to exploit.
Using speed, change of direction and nifty footwork, he confused some four defenders before scoring an unconverted try out wide for a 17-0 lead.
Whilst they might have liked to secure a fourth try and the bonus point, because of Aylesford’s domination of possession, Ashford’s opportunities were limited and they settled for the four point win. Results elsewhere meant that Ashford maintain their eight-point lead at the top.
They take on Gillingham Anchorians on March 21. This Saturday, Ashford 2nds (away) and 3rds (home) face Aylesford. Ashford: Blyth; Myezwa, Colman, Coopder, Ticehurst; Beech, Fussell, tuckey, Knight B, Knight A, Butler, Bushell, Norman, Sherrin, Huxted. ench: Vidler, Chandler, Waldman.