Chris Ashton on 100-try hopes, 'Ash splash' and what Tom Youngs said post-match

Chris Ashton gave a two-word answer as to whether he could become the first player to score 100 Premiership Rugby tries.

The 35-year-old entered Saturday's clash with Bristol Bears level with Tom Varndell on 92 tries but wasted little time in becoming the outright number one with a score after just three minutes. He backed it up with two more scores as Tigers ran riot a Mattioli Woods Welford Road.

Ashton's sensational treble puts the former Northampton Saints, Saracens, Sale Sharks, Harlequins and Worcester Warriors ace five tries away from becoming the competiton's first player hit triple figures.

But is becoming a centurion achievable for a player who arrived on a short-term contract in February and has scored six tries in eight games? "Without doubt," was his confident response.

Spells at his most recent three English teams all ended abruptly with his exit from Worcester Warriors in December seemingly being the former England international's final shot in the English top flight. He conceded hopes of scoring the four tries needed back them to become number one appeared out of sight.

"Yes without doubt," he conceded. "I had three months at home, thinking that was it. I am very grateful to get the opportunity again. From the minute Steve [Borthwick] rang me, I was like I'd be there tomorrow. It was an easy decision for me. I am grateful to Steve and the club for giving me that opportunity."

Before Saturday's encounter the focus was squarely on Tom Youngs as the former captain received a rapturous ovation from the home crowd, who learned of his retirement in midweek. Ashton's record-breaking effort wrestled the spotlight from the former skipper, and the pair shared a jovial embrace upon the final whistle.

"I've played