No way back after Elks rattle up points
IT’S three defeats on the trot for Ashbourne as they lost 54-12 away against Ilkeston in Counties 1 Midlands East (North).
Winger Ollie Ruddock and hooker Lewis Robinson scored tries in the second half, Ruddock converting his, as the visitors rallied but by then the Elks, who are two places higher in the table, were in control.
Tom Clayton, Ben Woods and Mark Broom did well for Ashbourne but defeat leaves them in the lower half of the table as they prepare for a home game against fourth-placed Lincoln on Saturday (3pm).
“Ilkeston is usually a tough place to go to and we conceded 28 points in 15 minutes,” said team manager Martin Farr.
“They always tend to play very well at home but at least we were more competitive in the second half and scored two tries.
“Although the second half performance was more pleasing there’s disappointment because that’s three defeats on the bounce now.
“We face Lincoln at home next on Saturday and should have John Ford back. Lincoln are another strong club and so that will be another tough game for us.”
Ashbourne 2nds suffered a 53-0 home defeat against Derby 2nds in Counties 3 Midlands East (North) West but there was better news for the club’s Colts.
“The Colts did well, winning 31-14 at home against Dronfield,” Farr added.
“It was 17-14 at half-time and then we pulled away in the second half.
“It was a high quality game and the forwards were particularly strong. Both teams were very well coached and made refereeing the game an easy job.”
Ashbourne are hoping to field a 3rd XV on Saturday, October 29 – see the club’s website for details.
And a veterans game at Stafford RFC is being planned for Friday, November 18 (7.30pm).