Burton win bruising encounter to start the New Year with a win

Ashby RFC 14 (7) Burton RFC 31 (17)

Tries: J Hart 2, O Corbett, J Dutton, C Newcombe

Con: D Grimsdell 2, O Corbett

Burton started the game on the defensive as Ashby put several phases of play together in Burtons half. In past weeks this has led to Burton conceding early-uncontested tries, before mounting a response. However, Burton tackled hard and low from the start and withstood this early pressure. Strong rucking from Jack Wardle, Charlie Newcombe, Calum Launchbury and Alex Dutoy pushed Ashby off the ball. Oliver Corbett picked up the loose ball and released Josh Hart, who faced a wall of Ashby defenders; quick in mind he lobbed the ball over the defensive line and left them in his trail to score the opening try for Burton. Ashby were seemingly stunned by the score and conceded a second try from a good Burton line out. James North fed Oliver Corbett who showed great grace as he dummied a couple of tackles to score under the posts. Another good solid lineout released Josh Hart to score a great third try as Ashby were clearly on the back foot from considerable Burton pressure. Then just before half time the first poor defensive work from Burton allowed Ashby a try in the corner. This seemed to rejuvenate Ashby in the early stages of the second half, but Burton stood firm in the ruck and tackle. The Burton Forwards took control of the ball in a maul and James North set up a ruck for Edward Baxter to feed Morgan brown. Morgan moved the ball forward and once more James North picked up loose ball and moved the ball forward. Ashby’s defence buckled and Jamie Dutton was able to finish the move with a try under the posts. Minutes later the Burton forwards were mounting another maul and Charlie Newcombe picked up and carried in for another try. The final score was Ashby’s as a couple of missed tackles left their winger free to score in the corner. The whistle blew and Burton were the victors 31-14.

This was a great game of competitive rugby and a great start to the New Year. Worth a mention was the spirit of Ashby who tackled hard to the end. Burton started brightly and the new regime of early nights and healthy breakfasts worked a treat (we wish). More of the same please for 2012.