Neither team really adapted to the swirling wind in a game littered with mistakes. The final result was ultimately determined by Clifton effectively gifting their visitors two tries before the interval and the handling and control shown by the Hawks with Joe Butler prominent.

An early catch and drive led to Henry Harper scoring for the host and then a poor Clifton drop out and loose pass presented an opportunity for Sam Portland to cross with Joe Butler converting Clifton restored the lead when James Newey broke through for Max Woodward to score with Brad Barnes converting.

The game turned before the interval when two Clifton mistakes led firstly to a strong Henley surge and Tom Hall scoring with Butler converting. This was swiftly followed by a chance to hack the ball down field with Liam O’Neill crossing.

An early second half Barnes penalty put Clifton back in the game but a clean break resulted in O’Neill crossing again to widen the Hawks advantage. Clifton then took advantage of a catch and drive for prop Alex Giltrow to surge over. A well judged kick resulted in a further Henley score for Portland and right on full time Clifton replacement Will Pomphrey ran strongly to provide his team with a try bonus point and Newey converting but leaving them two points short of their visitors.

Clifton Rugby
Tries: Harper [5] Woodward [7] Giltrow [60] Pomphrey [79]
Penalties: Barnes [45]
Conversions: Barnes [30] Newey [79]

Henley Hawks
Tries: Portland [24 & 66] Hall [34] O’Neill [40 & 50]

Report from ROGER OPIE
Photo provided by Rod Allsopp - www.rodallsopp.co.uk