CLEVE produced a stunning attacking display as they overwhelmed Cheltenham 93–0 to open their league campaign.
From the very first whistle, the home side dominated territory and possession, running in tries almost at will and showcasing a backline brimming with pace and power.
The forwards laid the platform with relentless work at the breakdown and set piece, driving Cheltenham off the ball and creating quick ruck ball.
This allowed Cleve’s backs to cut loose, and they duly obliged, scoring from all areas of the pitch.
By half-time, Cleve were already out of sight, racking up a commanding lead with clinical finishing and excellent support play.
The second half brought no respite for the visitors as wave after wave of attacks kept the scoreboard ticking in a one-sided encounter.
Cheltenham battled gamely throughout, but were unable to find a foothold against the relentless pressure.
Their defensive line was stretched time and again, and with Cleve’s offloading game in full flow, gaps inevitably appeared.
Cleve crossed for a remarkable haul of tries, with several players registering hat-tricks.
The kicking from the tee was equally impressive, ensuring almost every score was converted.
The emphatic victory underlines Cleve’s attacking firepower and sets a clear marker for the season ahead in the Regional 2 Tribute Ale Severn division.
Cheltenham, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly, learn from the experience, and focus on restoring confidence in the coming weeks.
Cleve followed the result up with a 34-15 away win at Old Centralians in Gloucester, putting them top of the league after two games.
They warmed up for the season with a great performance against Lydney, a side from the league above, matching them throughout the game and showing massive heart to draw 12-12.
A solid set piece, and a huge defensive shift was rewarded by a great result.
That was followed by a tough encounter against Newport High School at the Hayfields, which Cleve won 24-19.
Steve Bateman