Both these teams came into this game on a series of wins. It was however Clifton who turned in their most complete performance of the season in the first sixty minutes to lead by thirty three points to seven before a red card and then a yellow forced them to hold on in the final quarter.

Head Coach Luke Cozens was quick to recognise the team’s development throughout the autumn period. The momentum generated by a largely settled team in recent weeks was evident in this fixture with strong defence, committed tacking, an impressive line out showing, and strong running across the back division.

The nomination of prop Jake Buckley as Clifton Sausage Man of the Match represented the solid foundations that have been built to create plenty of good ball in mounting attacks. Both forwards and backs attacking potential is being realised.

Early pressure from Clifton enabled number eight Jake Holcombe to power over from a catch and drive with fly half Tom Quinlan putting over the first of four conversions. Soon after full back Luke Daniels kicked high and gathered the ball to send AJ Kilbane over the line to increase his try tally towards the team’s twenty eight tries in four wins.

The impressive Clifton backs, with centres Will Owen and Matty Smith particularly strong, were making dents in the Taunton defence and slick passing gave wing man Zak Hamid the chance to step inside the defence with Quinlan converting from way out.

A storming run by Titan’s centre Jermaine Jones led to a try converted by Louie Sinclair to reduce the margin.

A quickly taken tap penalty by scrum half Mitch Spencer led to his score when further quick passing gave Hamid his second try after the interval.

Taunton took advantage of Clifton’s reduced numbers with winger Rocky Prowse speeding in twice and they won a penalty try to force Clifton to hold on at the end. Clifton’s reduced numbers saw them remain tight in the close areas but understandably exposed in the wider channels. The club now moves into the top bracket in the league chasing leaders Camborne.

Story: Roger Opie
Photo: Ian Clarke (Zak Hamid scores down the line)