Ashby Digs in to Deliver Exciting Cup Final
08 May 2024
Ashby's U16 rugby side put on a brave display in the final of the County Cup but couldn't quite manage a comeback, ending the tournament as runners up.
This match report is from teacher Ricky Wickwar:
'The team's valiant Cup final performance against a well-drilled Loughborough Grammar School side epitomised the school's values and was a credit to the school.
The final could have gone either way after a determined fightback from Ashby in the second half almost resulted in a mammoth comeback!
Co-captains Zach Heard and Matt Armson led the team brilliantly within the warm up, showing great responsibility. Ashby demonstrated real resilience in the first half particularly as they were down to just 15 players due to injury. The team included six players from Year 10 who were 'playing up' by a year group.
The team's first half defensive efforts were excellent even with an early sending off which reduced Ashby to 14 players. With a score line of 31-0 to Loughborough just before half time, Ashby responded with some ferocious tackling from Luca F, Sam D and Toby E.
After an inspirational team talk by Jack L and Zach H., Ashby came out in the second half determined to get over the try line. They made this happen following some bulldozing runs from Fin H, James B and Niko D to get the first score of the game and make it 31-7.
Ashby soon came again with a clear strategy to put LGS under pressure with the forwards showing some grit and determination through their ball-carrying to break through tackles and get another score through Matt A to close the gap. This was after some great hands by Ollie C, Heath G and George W. to make the score 31-12.
Ashby kept battling and didn't give up and got another score from a rolling maul to make it 31-19.
With five minutes left, Ashby had to score twice quickly. Ashby bagged one more try through another well executed move from a lie out but fell short with the final score 31-24 to LGS.
The game was played in great spirit by both teams to create an entertaining final for all spectators despite the loss.
There was tremendous support from parents/carers and teachers at the final, which the boys certainly appreciated. Throughout their time at Ashby School, their conduct in all the rugby games they've played has shown them to be a credit to themselves, their families and the school - and they have been a joy to watch!'
