Ashford 2nd XV (7) v (48) Dover 2nd XV
Played on 09/02/2008
After beating Ashford 75-0 earlier in the season Dover were not expecting
too many problems in the return match. Even though the final score
suggests Dover had once again run away with the game, in fact Ashford
put in a much improved performance. Solid defence keep the home try
line intact for 25 minutes, unfortunately for Ashford Marsh was kicking
majestically and had given Dover a 9 point lead through 3 penalties.
When the first try arrived it was a splendid example of Dover running
rugby. With players cutting great lines and with good hands and support
the ball went from one side of the pitch to the other 3 times before
Ashford finally run out of defenders allowing Kimble to cross unopposed.
Halftime 16-0.
The second half started with another Marsh penalty before Ashford scored
their only points of the game. Dover were turned over on the Ashford
5m line and then allowed the winger to brush off 2 tackles and run
the length of the pitch to score under the posts. Dover immediately
raised their game and responded with with 2 tries of their own though
Holdsworth and Marsh who collected 23 points on the day including 3
conversions. Ashford were now visibly tiring so Dover brought on some
even fresher legs and upped the ante leading to 3 further tries from
D Burr, Dean and a second for the strong running Holdsworth.
With 5 tries between them this game heralded the return to form for
the Dover backs which will need to be continued next week when Dover
take on Whitstable in what could be the league decider.
Reported by Wayne Matcham
