Cold, Colder and Freezing....but happy Children

An hours drive to Berry Hill in the Forest of Dean on what was a very cold and windy day. The parents took shelter in the club house whilst the boys warmed up. Good to see we have sensible parents!

Once again Clifton only had 10 players due to players being away and some not realising that the game was an away match. Please keep an eye out on the website as it is kept up to date.

Berry Hill asked if we wanted them to play with 10 men but we opted to play against a full side and put our own team under pressure, which is when they play best. We played old rules with uncontested 3 man scrums as Clifton only had 2 of our forwards and no conversions.

The first period Clifton played uphill and into the wind. Clifton had the territorial advantage but could not make it count and a good breakaway piece of play by Berry Hill led to what would turn out to be Berry Hill's only try. It would have been easy for Clifton to put their heads down but as this team always do they would not be defeated and went straight back at Berry Hill. Sami broke through what was great defence by Berry Hill to open up the scoring for Clifton and a Birthday try.

The second period and Clifton had the advantage of the slope and wind and managed to finish this period 1-0 winners with a try from Jake.

Theo took a knock to the head at the end of the second period so Clifton were down to 9 players, playing uphill and into the wind. With some coaching on how to play to the ref Clifton piled on the pressure against Berry Hill. The final score was 4-0 with tries from Jake (3) and Ben Paine (1). Freezing and exhausted it was back to the Club House to warm up.

Berry Hill played some great rugby and did not give u until the final whistle. Clifton played some of the best team rugby they have played in difficult conditions. There was not one player today who played badly. There were great hands and some good movements in the backs. Also thank you to the parents for making the trip, warmer days are ahead!

Thank you Berry Hill for being good hosts and making the trip worthwhile.