For the first time in thirty years Clifton won promotion to Rugby’s National League One after a pulsating victory over a spirited Exeter University team.
It was an emotional Director of Rugby , Matt Salter, who praised the team’s achievement of suffering only one defeat since early October. He stated that the club’s success was as much about the journey rather than just this result and how well the team had developed.
Head Coach Luke Cozens contributed by saying that “We were not the best team in the league, but we became the best! “
The club was further honoured with Shay Sainsbury, Clifton Sausage man of the match against Exeter, and Will Owen being named in the world-famous Barbarians team to feature in matches at Durham and Glasgow.
Adding to the 1St XV success the club’s second team the Wanderers also gained promotion to the Counties 1 League after seeing off the first teams of many opponents who ,at one time, faced Clifton’s first team. The third team the Misfits also play in a Counties league.
With opportunities for players at all levels Clifton welcomes new and returning players to prepare for the season kicking off in September. If interested, contact alisonharvey@cliftonrugby.co.uk
In the Exeter game within two minutes key winger Zak Hamid burst through in his customary manner to open the account .
Before the interval a twenty-metre driving maul showed Clifton’s forward strength and sent hooker Tom Anderson over with Ollie Milner, who was to kick five conversions and a penalty, kicking the conversion. Jake Holcombe made his presence felt by soon touching down.
Just on half time outstanding number eight Niall Gibbons, who made yards all afternoon and throughout the season, charged across the line.
While the sheer strength of the home pack and strong running by their backs was proving too much for the visitors.
Though as resistance weakened Will Owen brushed aside defenders to add to the total before the ever-alert Mitch Spencer at scrum half was on hand to benefit from a Brad Talbot surge.
The impressive ball handling and retention by all the team was enhanced by centres Owen and Marcus Nel with wingers Hamid and Matty Smith constantly seeking openings and closely working with each other.
Inevitably the in-form Hamid completed the scoring, and the celebrations were underway before the trophy and player medals were presented by representatives from the Rugby Football Union to the newly crowned champions.
Roger Opie