The Hawks began this game seeking to maintain their momentum towards promotion while Clifton named an exciting back division full of attacking potential only to lose winger Fin Sharp very early on though injury.
The home side enjoyed most of the possession and territory in the first half with the weather forcing both sides to make handling errors. The Clifton defence was under pressure and held up well until a driving maul saw flanker Marcus Lowe go over for the first of two tries in the corner with one being converted.

Shortly before the interval some positive Clifton play took them into the home 22 and forced a penalty which fly half Brad Barnes converted to keep his team in touch.

The first score of the second period was a carbon copy of the first two tries as the Hawks used their effective rolling maul routine to cross the Clifton line.

However a remarkable turnaround saw the visitors mount sustained periods of pressure with firstly replacement James Dixon kicking a penalty followed by successive attacks and strong running with flanker Dan Broady crossing and Dixon converting.

Right at the death relentless pressure saw all action hooker Luke Stratford force his way over the line with Dixon again adding the extras to achieve a deserved victory
Clifton’s confidence returned through determination, tenacity and skill levels and other top table teams will approach them with caution.