Mike Uren’s try gained this Clifton victory after twenty thrilling minutes of extra time during which the referee engaged in protracted discussions with touch line officials over the need expressed by the visitors to go to uncontested scrums.

Clifton dominated the closing stages but at times in looked like the visitors were heading for an away win. Although Clifton edged the scrums the Londoners defence was strong and their speedy backs took opportunities to find holes in the Clifton armoury to provide their half time lead.

An early Brad Barnes penalty was cancelled out by three Barnes converted tries. Firstly number 8 Alex Hind went over before hooker Cameron Ruddock set up Josh Daviesand then further pressure saw prop George Hunter crossing with Josh Hammett converting the trio

Clifton quickly responded with a Niall Gibbons burst feeding Fin Sharp to cross and then following a yellow to the visitors hooker Luke Stratford on debut who had led by example throughout to crash over under the posts with Barnes converting both efforts A converted Cam Ruddock try raised the visitor’s spirits.

Hammett and Barnes exchanged penalties before the influential Barnes dummying his way over and converting. It was now game on but few expected the final drama when the Clifton boys showed resilience to camp on the visitor’s line and secure several penalties before Uren completed the job.

CLIFTON
Tries Sharp [28] Stratford [36] Barnes [74] Uren [80]
Penalties Barnes [8 43
Conversions Barnes [29 37 75 80]
Drop goals

BARNES
Tries Hind [10] Davies [19] Hunter [25] Ruddock [37]
Conversions Hammett [11 20 28 38]
Penalties Hammett [77]
Drop Goals

Clifton 34 BARNES 31
Half time Clifton 17 BARNES 28
Attendance 241
Referee Philip Hallsworth
Star Man: Luke Stratford [Clifton]