Ashford look for an opening against Cranbrook on Saturday.

A reshuffled Ashford side began well but slipped to a 10-3 defeat against Cranbook in Kent 1 on Saturday.

The home side started brightly and opened the scoring after 13 minutes with a penalty from debutant fly-half Nathan Morris.

However, Cranbrook took the lead within five minutes, kicking long and forcing Ashford to defend a scrum in their own 22.

The home side inexplicably lost the ball and Cranbrook were allowed a free run to cross under the posts for a try which was converted.

Ashford’s young side battled hard but centre Danny Bushell was sin-binned before the visitors were also reduced to 14 men.

Cranbrook slotted a penalty after the break to extend their lead and Ashford could not make their pressure tell.

They have now lost both their opening matches and on Saturday face Sheppey, who are also without a point.