Storm Goretti limits action as Stafford lose and Eccleshall triumph

Adverse weather conditions, including snow brought by the storm that battered the West Midlands, caused widespread postponements at the weekend.

However, fixtures at Stafford - helped by their all-weather 4G pitch - and Eccleshall did go ahead as planned.

Stafford opened 2026 with a 32-19 defeat to Ashbourne in the Counties Two Midlands West (West). The hosts entered the contest in confident mood after finishing 2025 with back-to-back wins, scoring 150 points across those matches, but Ashbourne set the tempo early and proved too strong in the cold conditions.

The visitors struck first with an interception try, though Stafford responded well and levelled through Rob Jones following sustained pressure. Tries from both sides followed, including a strong finish from Morgan Cassells, as Stafford edged into a 19-15 half-time lead.

Ashbourne took control after the break, crossing early for a bonus-point try before capitalising on turnovers and missed tackles to add further scores. Stafford were unable to regain momentum as the visitors pulled clear to seal the victory.

The result leaves Stafford fifth in the table, 11 points behind leaders Willenhall, while Ashbourne moved up to third. Stafford travel to Luctonians 3rds next weekend.

Meanwhile, Eccleshall enjoyed an emphatic 53-7 victory over Oswestry in Counties Three Midlands West (North). While the scoreline suggested a one-sided affair, it was a competitive contest, with Oswestry spending long spells inside the hosts' 22.

Eccleshall's defence stood firm, and their pack provided a strong platform for the backline to capitalise on opportunities in front of a large and vocal crowd.

The win completed the double for Eccleshall over Oswestry and leaves the Staffordshire side second in the table with 10 wins from 12 matches, just one point behind leaders Barton-under-Needwood. Eccleshall visit Rugeley next Saturday.