Two big forward packs went head to head as the sides went try for try all match, the visitors leading into the break up 12-10. 

The second half was much of the same as the arm wrestle continued to have the scores locked up at 14-14, before the Boars hit the lead 18-14, only for Ashford to score next to take the lead back 20-18. 

Boars president Todd Mitchell said he thought the Boars were on top late in the second half, despite trailing by two points as the clock ticked down. 

“I think we had their measure in the last 20 minutes but just couldn’t strike a blow,” Mitchell said. 

Eventually they did strike a blow, with a well-worked try handing them the lead and the match. 

“It was a really good game,” Mitchell said.

“Two big packs went at it in the middle and it was refereed well. He was giving a skinny ten metres which kept the ball in the forwards a bit but it was fair for both sides.” 

The president was not only impressed with his side but also the home crowd and the visitors, as the Boars won three from four grades, the Roosters taking the juniors. 

“I don’t know if we would have won that if we weren’t at home,” Mitchell said. 

“It was a good win and a good day.” 

The Boars now have two wins and a draw after a troubled start to the season that saw them cop a few suspensions and a bit of attention from an ugly local derby at the Boomerangs. 

“We have had a pretty disjointed start to the season with a draw and then the game against the Rangs,” Mitchell said. 

“That wasn’t good for either club and we have both struggled and been a bit flat since then, so it was good to get a good win today. 

“Ashford are a good club that play good hard footy and shake your hand afterwards. 

“If you could play a club like Ashford every weekend you would be happy.” 

Fullback Tom Ryan was strong for the Boars, as was Stan Swan as hooker, while Dylan Dahlstrom was solid in defence in the centre, along with Jason Saunders. 

The Boars will host surprise packets Guyra this weekend.