BIDEFORD 1ST XV 44PTS. V CLEVEDON 1ST XV 17PTS.

BIDEFORD 1ST XV 44PTS. V CLEVEDON 1ST XV 17PTS.

Clevedon still have to get their act together on the road.They ventured into Devon with a makeshift set of backs and at this level it is hard to get the win.Clevedon started well but soon fell behind to a Bideford penalty, Mike Taylor with a superb kick equalised.Both sides had chances to cross the line but handling errors were in abundance.Clevedon had a player in the bin and also lost James O'Connor with a shoulder injury.The backs then became more depleted..During this period Bideford took the lead with a try.The home backs always threatened but Clevedon did well to keep in contention at the break.

The second half is best forgotten as Clevedon's lineout was poor missing their normal pitcher and limited possession.Clevedon lost possession on the hosts line ,bideford counter attacked the length of the field to score under the posts.The conversion was successful. Clevedon defence could not cope with the chip over the top the next three tries came from the chip ahead. A good handling movement saw James Davis go over in the corner with MIke taylor converting from the touch line.Clevedon running the ball out of defence had a pass intercepted and a converted try was the result.

Clevedon did have the upper hand in the scrums and pressure in this area did produce a penalty try which Taylor converted.Bideford had the final say with two late converted tries.During the game Clevedon created numerous chances but ball retention was poor and the first up tackling left much to be desired.Veteran scrum half Matt harris played a steady dogged game. A lot to be learned from this defeat.

Next Sat Bridgwater home k.o.3.p.m.V.Ps lunch 2.p.m.
Mike Thomas