THIS was a match that Ashton just had to win, and they did so in fine style, scoring two of the finest tries they have produced all season, against Isle of Man side Vagabonds.

It soon became obvious that the visitors' heavy and experienced pack were going to be more than a match for Ashton in the set scrums, and retreating possession was never going to be easy.

However, great work by No. 8 Nick Avery, who tidied up much loose ball, and with the Ashton backs in full flight they looked dangerous every time in possession.

One such move by winger Chris Savage from inside his own 25 yards line, resulted in a fabulous try by Matt Stanton who used his weight very effectively to brush off would be tackles in his final burst for the line - the ball having passed through several pairs of hands on route.

Ashton only led 22-20 with less than 20 minutes left, after Vagabonds had scored a pushover try and were later awarded a penalty try.

It was an exciting end to end encounter but a late burst initiated by a deep goal from Freddie Baama, ignited a scoring spree at the end, which was highlighted by a superb solo try from winger Chris Savage who enjoyed his finest game since joining the club.

Mike McCarthy, Nick Avery and Adam Holland were the other try scorers with Freddie Baama converting.

The probability is that Ashton will now remain in the North West 1 and after this performance they certaintly deserve to maintain their status.

They finish the season, this Saturday with a trip to Penrith and this will conclude what has been a hard uncompromising season, in what is most certainly a very strong league, which was proved by the fact that Aldwininans, who head this league, won the National NPI Cup.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.