Clifton’s preseason fixtures were based around inclusion within a group of clubs including themselves, Aberavon, London Welsh, and the Rams from Reading.
The only home match for supporters to check out on the squad has been with the London Welsh team from West London. Trips westwards along the M4 to Aberavon and eastwards to Reading proved to be of benefit to the coaches in looking at new recruits and testing playing formations.
Both the Welsh and Aberavon have, over many years produced countless internationals and key players for the British & Irish Lions. The opening game at Aberavon in the shadow of the Port Talbot Steelworks produced an exciting 43-40 scoreline with plenty of open rugby on a very firm surface after the dry months
Director of Rugby Paul Fincken commented on the game: “Pleased with initial hit out for the club.
“While the start was not quite as well defended as we would have hoped, we grew into the games and were much more competitive in the 2nd and 3rd sections. Lots of positives to take from the game along with some work to be done as we head into September.
” The club saw a number of new faces making debuts and with more to come as we exit the holiday season, I feel we are in a good position to be competitive in the league and play some exciting fast paced rugby.”
Over the years Clifton is proud of its record in developing young players, many of whom are products of its mini and junior sections , as they climb the ladder , into Premiership and international ranks.
The club extends its very best wishes to Shay Sainsbury and Jay Evans who move to Reading Rams[Division One] and Hartpury[Championship]. Both forwards have made outstanding contributions in recent campaigns as their play has flourished in the coaching set up at Clifton. Shay, originally from Clifton College, was honoured with an appearance for the Barbarians in 2025. Jay was voted the Player’s Player of the 2025-26 season.
The real league business commences on September 5 with a trip to the Forest of Dean to face the always tough Cinderford team. All home fixtures for the 2026-27 season kick off at 3pm at Cribbs Causeway where a warm welcome on and off the pitch awaits supporters.
HOME FIXTURES
September 12: Old Redclffians October 3: Loughborough Students
October 17: Devonport Services
November 7: Exeter University
November 21: Redruth
December 12: Hinckley . Roger Opie