A convincing high-tempo second-half performance by Clifton saw them ease to victory
against tough opponents who led the game at half-time. Some incisive and fast running by
centres Harry Johnson and Harry Tovey, supported by a forward pack which more than held
their own in the scrums and consistently secured good lineout ball, were key ingredients in
an impressive opening day win.

The sunshine and firm all weather playing surface created favourable conditions for a fast
game, to leave the Clifton coaching team well satisfied with this return to National West
rugby. Newcomers blended in well across all positions and superior fitness was a telling
factor. Depth in the scrum half position was evident, with the versatile Max McCarthy and
new boy Pete Carter there to support the injured Mitch Spencer.

Clifton had happy memories of their last visit to Dockham Road in January 2025. That victory was their 10th consecutive win in the promotion chasing championship season, and remarkably their first win at Cinderford for 20 years. This time it was two wins in two visits.

Early forward pressure saw Brad Talbot go over the line for a trademark try, but the Forest men soon countered with scrum-half Saint speeding in and hooker Perkins soon adding a second from a rumbling maul. Clifton responded immediately, Harry Tovey cruised under the posts with Tom Quinlan converting. Honours were now even at 12-12.

However, in the period before half-time Cinderford crossed twice through Saint and Perkins
again to open up a 24-12 lead.

The travelling support became a little anxious, but any doubts were soon removed at the
start of what was to be an outstanding response from the Clifton men, playing in a new
almost vibrant green away kit.

Tovey was quick to show intent by claiming his second three minutes after the restart, with
Quinlan converting. Ten minutes later a Quinlan break sent debutant Carter in. The fly half
converted to open up a narrow lead 24-26.

The game was turning on its head though when fellow debutant full back Reece Malone,
secure all afternoon under the high ball, took his opportunity with a clean break to score. A
Quinlan penalty kept the scoreboard rolling 24-34.

Replacement Sam Baker crossed to keep Cinderford in the game with the try being
converted.

Playing with confidence, Clifton finished strongly. An adjudged forward pass denied Zak
Hamid a score, but the speedster soon took full advantage of another opportunity with
Quinlan converting. Replacement Andy Thomas claimed his first try for the club, to complete a seven-try total against a team victorious over League One Dings Crusaders in preseason, and likely to be highly competitive this season.

A very satisfying return to National 2 West rugby!

Roger Opie

Photographs by Ian Clark