Image Credit: Creative Capture

England international Chris Ashton picked up a hat-trick tries on his Sale Sharks debut as they beat Connacht 34-13 in the European Rugby Challenge Cup.

The 31-year-old winger took the game away from the Irish outfit as he went over either side of half-time.

His first try for his new club was a typical Ashton try as he showed pace and ran in from distance. This was followed up by his second where he darted over from close-range. This was the Sharks’ second try in three minutes after Josh Beaumont crashed over.

The Sale pack couldn’t be contained as they pushed to extend a healthy lead.

The Connacht defence began to falter and this showed as Sale began to cause problems.

Ashton unleashed his trademark “Ash Splash” to complete his hat-trick and round off a comfortable victory as Sale Sharks remain top of Pool Three.

Earlier in the match, Shane Delahunt went over for the visitors’ only try. Connacht fly-half, Conor Fitzgerald had a 100% kicking record – knocking over two penalties and a conversion

Ashton revealed his delight on Instagram after the match, expressing his joy at being back on the pitch.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Thoroughly enjoyable wkend, loved being back out there. ? …until after the SA game now @jono__ross ?

A post shared by Chris Ashton (@chrisashton14) on

The Sharks now take a break from European action and focus their attentions to the Premiership Rugby Cup as they travel to Sixways to take on Worcester.

 

 

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