Clifton travelled to Pontypridd looking for their first hit out of the pre-season schedule. Ponty took a third minute lead as outside half Ben Jones intercepted to cruise in for a try which he also converted. Having soaked up a good deal of early pressure, Clifton then struck back on the counter; a great set move from inside their own 22 saw a great line break from Cameron McDonald before good hands saw winger Bentley Halpin touching down on the corner flag. Clifton enjoyed periods of possession but were undone by another interception, this time Ponty winger Aaron Grabham pouncing for a try which Ben Jones converted.

The game was competitive as it progressed, Clifton pressing at times and matching the former Welsh Premiership champions up front whilst Ponty created opportunities but often undone by costly handling errors. The home side finally generated a dynamic wide attack for winger Ryan Davies to cross with twenty-eight minutes gone. A turnover and kick and chase gave Ponty momentum upfield before Clifton edged back into contention with a period of late pressure. The home team taking a 19pts to 5 lead into the interval.

Ponty struck early after the restart, flanker Sion Parry claiming the touchdown from a line-out drive with Ben Jones’ conversion rebounding back off the post. That score was replicated by Clifton who capitalised on a large period of possession, good momentum which saw them drive on from their own line-out take for Sam Taylor to ground and fly-half Bradley Barnes to convert.

The home lead was however extended following a sweeping attack as centre Corey Sheppard claimed a try, converted by replacement Lewis Williams. The game maintained a good tempo despite numerous changes being made by both sides, Ponty grafting hard in defence and their ranks depleted as Dafydd Carter was sent to the sin-bin. The home side regrouped to finish strongly, replacement winger Lewis Allwood crossing for two late opportunist tries, both converted by Williams to seal a hard fought victory by 45pts to 12.

Clifton gave an extremely good account of themselves against quality opposition. There were clear periods of prolonged pressure from which they were unable to capitalise on through inaccuracy. However, there is much for the coaching staff and squad to take away from this first game and Clifton will look to kick on once again when they face Hartpury on Thursday 22nd August at Station Road.