MATT ASHCROFT
We are delighted to announce that the latest 1st XV squad member to commit himself to Fylde’s 2024-25 National League season is Matt Ashcroft.
Powerful and versatile forward Matt had a gradual introduction to National League rugby when he left Kirkham Grammar School. He followed the path of his elder brother Nick, playing rugby at Standish High School before moving to KGS for 6th Form study.
He made his senior Fylde debut at tighthead prop at Leicester Lions in September 2018, coming on as a replacement after an injury forced off Adam Lewis in the 14th minute.
In successive seasons 25 years old Matt (6’3″ and 110kg) has played an influential role amongst a group of young prop forwards. Whilst most of his appearances by far have been in the front row, he has also been used as an effective blindside flanker and very occasionally at no 8 and in the 2nd row.
Over five seasons he’s made 84 1st XV appearances and has scored seven tries in the process. Last season he missed numerous matches through injury and work commitments – he’s an Engineering Apprentice at AB World Foods Ltd in Leigh.
Matt is a big, aggressive presence in tight and loose exchanges, and is very mobile. The latter characteristic was demonstrated perfectly in March 2022 against Sheffield Tigers at the Woodlands. His startling 50m race to the line was selected as N2N’s ‘Try of the Week’ by the National League.
Matt has also gained representative honours with his leadership potential recognised by skippering Lancashire U’20s in the 2019-20 season and he also made the North U’20s squad at that time.
Good luck Matt!
