Season starts with tough training game

The season started with a tough run out against a strong and well balanced Hornets. Short of a full squad and a lack of players in some key positions , (notably scrum half) Clevedon took a little time to settle. Playing the game in quarters the plan was to try out players in a number of positions. This was slightly hampered by availability and one or two injuries during the game. The first two quarters Clevedon were not on the pace with some soft tackling and a lack of pressure on the Hornets players, let them take an early lead. The Scrum though looked good and strong and provided a good platform. Just as the 2nd quarter came to an end some fine foot work by Ethan Thomas playing his first game at Fly half and some fine passing by the backs saw the boys score an excellent try by Luke McLoughlin, converted by Ethan.

The third and fourth quarter saw a more dogged performance and the forwards start to win some better ruck ball. The tackling also improved with Dean Richardson, Liam Vickerstaff (playing his first ever game of rugby ) and Luke Palmer putting in some great challenges. The Hornets always looked better drilled and some very fine passing led to two very well taken tries that highlighted the threat their backline posed throughout the game. Not to be outdone Harrison Lyons, playing in the unusual position of wing, scored a fine try whilst there were several other chances that were not quite taken. Thanks to the Hornets for inviting us down and giving us a good run out.

Man of the Match: Ben Hann. Having played all his rugby as a hooker he stepped up and played the whole game at scrum half. Up against a fine Hornets back row and scrum half, he acquitted himself exceptionally well. Finding himself out of position at times he worked incredibly hard to cover ground and get passes away. A fine try saving tackle too, a real performance for the team.