SCORPIONS put up their best performance of the season in toppling league leaders Ashton.

They took the lead after five minutes with a Chris Pearson penalty, which was the only score in the first 30 minutes as both defences held firm.

But the pressure eventually told when swift passing from the right wing enabled Dave Tanner to find a gap in the defence to dive over near the posts. Pearson converted to make it 8-0.

Just before half-time Carl Briscoe made a strong break and, as he was tackled, he offloaded the ball to Simon Pritchard who scored to make the score 12-0 at the break.

Ashton kicked off for the second half and the Scorpions forwards drove the ball downfield which ended with Dave Tanner going over for his second try.

Shortly after, more pressure from the Scorpions pack resulted in prop forward Steve Woodburn scoring from close range. Pearson converted both tries to put Scorpions 24-0 ahead.

However, lapses in defence allowed Ashton to score two unconverted tries. Scorpions soon regained control and Carl Briscoe put younger winger Ben Simpson in for a try. Dave Tanner converted to make the final score 30-8.

It was an outstanding defensive performance by the Scorpions who gave their opponents only rare attacking opportunities.

RESULT: Blackpool Scorpions 30 Ashton 8