Three way match with OBs & SBOB

Today we played OBs at the Downs which was an away fixture for us. Due to the size of the OBs squad they had invited SBOB so we could have a 3 way match.

Clifton were looking forward to this as it would give us a great opportunity to practice the new rules, which are very different to the rules played by Gloucestershire clubs. (12 v 9 players, contested 5 man scrums v 3 men uncontested scrums, contested lineouts v no lineouts - free pass, full rucks & mauls v 3 players from each side, knock on when trying to catch a ball and you get the put in at a non-contested scrum, plus some other differences). The rules confuse the parents but surprisingly the children cope well with playing both rules.

The area that catches the Clifton players out is the scrum half having to pass from a scrum /ruck / maul. The Gloucestershire rules allow pick and run. That said the Somerset players also seem to get caught out by this rule. So an area that we need to practice on.

The first game was against OBs with a few SBOB players. All the coaches were keen to have as many players on the pitch as possible.

The first half was an easy start for Clifton running in 4 tries to 0. Tries scored by Sami, Ben Paine, Ben BM and Jake. Not sure what the OBs coach said to his players at half time but it worked with neither side conceding a try. Final score 20 -0

Having expected to play SBOB next we ended up playing OBs other side. This was a very hard fought match with neither side looking like conceding a try. Eventually George scored in the corner to open the scoring in the first half. The second half was just as tight and with Clifton on their own try line last play was called. Clifton could have taken the easy option and kicked for touch but decided to play the ball. After a number of passages of play we found ourselves inside OBs half. With a pass to Nick, his size and swerve makes him difficult to catch, a last play try sealed the game. Final score 10 - 0.

So 2 games down and the boys were looking forward to the final game of the morning against SBOB who they have not played for 3 years. But alas it was not to be...........

Thank you OBs as always for giving us some great well played rugby with a superb group of players.