CLEVE’S last home game of the season was a well-deserved win in a well-contested game versus Clevedon.
The visitors had beaten Cleve the previous season and appeared confident. Cleve, however, were particularly good in contact, led by Matt Lynch who made some great drives into Clevedon’s 22.
Clevedon got onto the scoresheet first, winning and slotting over a penalty. Cleve went on the offensive and, after a period of pressure, Freddie Richardson was released into the corner and went over to make it 5-3. Another penalty was awarded to Clevedon after a forward drive, to take them back ahead as the game became an end-to-end competition. After a driving maul, Will Warman cut to the line. Harry Goodfield finished the move off, with a conversion making it 12-6.
The visitors responded, and after a catch and drive they scored a try to pull back within a point. Cleve then moved the ball well and scored in the corner, to pull 17-11 ahead and, on the restart created another good move, with Theo Garnett going inside to score again.
During the second half Garnett was again on the end of a good move, using skilful footwork to score again. After five minutes of sustained pressure Clevedon scored a converted try to make it 27-18. They continued to pressure near the line but were held up, and a break by Lynch put Cleve near the line. He passed to fellow forward Will Bartholomew, who went over, with the try converted.
Cleve were not finished: after good ball movement Freddie Richardson went over again to make the final score 39-18 to Cleve.
*Cleve are holding a Sevens tournament on June 28-29. As well as men’s and women’s elite and social competitions, there will be music, food, bars and entertainment at the Hayfields. For more information email office@cleverugby.co.uk
Steve Bateman