Clifton v Chew U13

Both teams arrived with all conquering reputations and the accolade of being Land Rover cup winners over the last couple of seasons. Neither side was at full strength but it didn’t take the edge off the contest. Played over 4 quarters in bright sunshine and perfect rugby conditions it ended up being Chew’s day and to be honest a somewhat humbling affair for our boys.

The tone of the game was set from the kick off with sustained pressure from a very well organised Chew side that saw them run in a try before Clifton gained any real possession of the ball. It was apparent we were not going to get any favours and would have to scrap for every 50/50 decision through a collective effort and a defensive “bodies on the line” attitude. The injury count by the end of the game showed that the boys didn’t shirk their responsibilities, however it was always going to take more than brawn to win the spoils, bringing into focus individual responsibility and the decision making ability of all the players.

With a 25-0 deficit at halftime and not having been in this situation as a group before, it was really going to test the character of the boys. Reassuringly there was a genuine resolve and commitment from the team until the end, which everyone can be proud of, so it was just reward for Josh S and Luke to run in tries that lifted Clifton’s spirits and saw us grow in confidence to evenly contest the 3rd and 4th quarters.

Credit must go to a Chew side, who were outstanding and thoroughly deserved the Clifton scalp. Throughout the match their powerful forward play at the breakdown saw them win and recycle quick ball though the hands time and again, which just didn’t allow our boys to get on the front foot. In the end rugby was the winner and despite the reverse it will no doubt help with the team’s rugby education.

Looking forward to welcoming Chew back to Clifton in January for the reverse fixture!

Joe (Jakes dad)