Clevedon met their close rivals Gordano for the very first time in league history with the sharks being newly promoted and the Seasiders relegated meant for an entertaining afternoon. In front of a large crowd the game started well with both sides keen to gain the upper hand and it soon became apparent that the superior strength in the Clevedon pack was matched by Gordanos dangerous back line. seasiders opened the scoring with a well struck penalty from Adam Coles. Clevedon moved further ahead when a well rehearsed back row move resulted in Coles scoring under the posts and then converting himself for 0-10.The Seasiders increased their lead with a catch and drive from the forwards that saw Dave Rawle score an unconverted try for 0-15. Any thoughts of Clevedon running away with the game were soon cancelled out as the sharks young back line score an excellent try out wide unconverted 5-15. Gordano now started to gain momentum and with Clevedon with a man in the bin they scored again when a poor clearance kick was ran back with interest to score a converted try 12-15. On the stroke of halftime Jordan Mein kicked a penalty to give Clevedon an 12-18 lead.
The second half started off just as physically as the first and Clevedon's decision to keep the ball tight paid off when a powerful drive from the forwards saw Brian Largenton go over the white wash, converted by Coles 12-25. Moments later the Seasiders increased their lead with another well worked try converted again by Coles for 12-32. Back came the sharks with a converted try of their own for 19-32 but any hopes of a come back were cancelled out with a Clevedon penalty.The last say went to Ben chase who crossed for an unconverted try, final score 19-40.
Head coach Nick HIll commented "It was a great day for local rugby with a bumper crowd and the game lived up to it although the score line looks convincing Gordano were right in it up until the last third, their backs were very lively and looked dangerous every time they touched the ball - on this showing both sides look capable of competing well in the league"
Next Saturday Clevedon are home to Matson k.o.3.p.m. V.P's lunch 1.30.