The 1st XV Finish Pre-Season with 100% Record!

7th September 2025

Ash RFC’s 1st XV have rounded off their pre-season with two wins from two, following up a strong display against Whitstable with another confident performance at home versus Sittingbourne. The hard work since training began in mid-July has clearly paid dividends, with the squad showing fitness, cohesion, and promising glimpses of what’s to come.

Ash RFC vs Whitstable

In their opening run-out, Ash faced a tough Whitstable side but quickly stamped their authority on the game. Dominant forward play and sharp handling in the backs saw the team create several well-taken tries, while the defensive shape — something drilled hard during pre-season sessions — stood firm under pressure. The match provided the perfect platform to blow away cobwebs and test the patterns developed on the training pitch.

Ash RFC vs Sittingbourne

The second fixture was Ash hosting Sittingbourne, where Ash once again impressed. In hot conditions, the lads worked hard to maintain tempo and discipline, with the pack putting in a big shift around the set-piece and breakdown. The backs showed composure and creativity, capitalising on opportunities to stretch the opposition defence. Most pleasing for the coaching staff was the balance between structure and freedom, with the team putting into practice the systems refined over the last six weeks.

Looking Ahead

Two wins from two pre-season matches is a positive return, but perhaps more importantly, both games demonstrated signs of the squad taking training ground lessons into match situations.

With the competitive campaign about to kick off, Ash RFC enter in good spirits — fitter, sharper, and eager to test themselves against all comers. The club thanks everyone who supported during pre-season and looks forward to seeing big crowds on the touchline as the season begins.