ASHTON on Mersey cruised through to the second round of the Cheshire Cup after recording their first win of the season at Helsby.

The visitors started the games as favourites and were soon in front following some good movement from both forwards and backs.

Stand-off Chris Watts wrong-footed the Helsby defence throughout the afternoon and was there to set up the first of Dan Billinge's two tries.

With further tries from prop Scott Tarmey, newly promoted Colt Mike Waddington, and Lee Speakes, Ashton led 40-5 at the break.

The Ashton pack then eased off and gave away unnecessary penalties. Helsby capitalised and with the help of their very quick novice right winger pulled back 14 points.

But Ashton got their game back on track and the resulting pressure brought two well-taken tries from right winger Richard Bibby, adding to his first try for the club scored in the first half.