Ashfield Rugby Club secured a strong 24-7 victory over Lincoln’s 3rd XV in the NLD Junior Cup first seeding round, showing resilience and skill on their home turf in Nottinghamshire. Lincoln opened the scoring ten minutes in, capitalizing on a kick deep into Ashfield territory afrer a strong start from Ashfield which seen them be very dominant at the scrum. They gained ground through quick passes and physical runs, ultimately scoring under the posts to take a 7-0 lead with a successful conversion.

Despite the early setback, Ashfield regrouped and rallied. After 25 minutes, Ashfield’s very own Jesus (David Hayes) received a well-timed pass, dodged a tackle, and sprinted out wide from just inside his own half to score their first try, narrowing the score line to 5-7 as the conversation was missed. On the stroke of half time Ashfield was rewarded a penalty and went for the post which was narrowly missed which left the score 5-7 at half time.

Ashfield’s determination became evident in the second half as they surged forward. Around the 50-minute mark, Mason Fleet broke free from a scrum, running around the defense to touch down in the corner. This unconverted try put Ashfield ahead for the first time in the match.

The final 20 minutes saw Ashfield pull away, with intense pressure and tactical play. After earning a penalty that pushed Lincoln deep into their own half, Ashfield’s forwards controlled the ball well, leading to a scrum close to the try line. Ashfield spun the ball wide to Mason Fleet , who scored close to the posts, stretching their lead and securing his 2nd try of the day followed this up with the conversion. 17-7.

Despite Lincoln’s strong efforts, including some impressive breaks and quick counters, Ashfield’s defence held firm. With just five minutes left, Ashfield's Jack Keward capitalized on a loose ball in their own 22, sprinting almost the entire length of the pitch for a brilliant match-sealing try with his first senior try for Ashfield to top off and stunning performance from the young man. Conversion was put over from in front of the posts by Mason Fleet to secure the 24-7 win. The win sees Ashfield progress to the next round of the NLD Junior Cup.

Player of the match was awarded to Dave Hayes. DOD was was awarded to Daniel Nicholls.