Clifton v Lydney

Clifton under-13s lost 27-3 to a well-organised and powerful Lydney side in what was the classic game of two halves.

Clifton dominated the first half in possession and territory but failed to convert into points a number of good opportunities in the visitor' 22.

There were strong runs from forwards and backs on a number of occasions, getting beyond the Lydney defensive line before being pulled down by good scrambling defence.

Our forwards then showed great workrate in recyling the ball from the ensuing rucks. But quick defensive reorganisation by Lydney prevented us from running in tries from this good second phase ball. On reflection, we could maybe have opted for the blindside a few times where Sam Read had the measure of his opposite wing.

As it turned out, we turned around at half-time just 3-0 ahead from a penalty knocked over by Matthew.

This Jekyll and Hyde match then turned into a bit of a horror story for us as we failed to keep our composure.

Our heads dropped after two quick tries by Lydney, with a string of tacklers being pushed off by very strong runners.

In a game that had shades of the semi-final defeat at Old Bristolians, we lost our shape and discipline and Lydney racked up three more tries.

This was the first time this combination had played together, and we have not had much game time or training since before Christmas because of the weather. So we shouldn't be too harsh on ourselves. We need to build on that first half, get a bit fitter and learn not to get too frustrated when things don't entirely go our way. A decent cup run may still be on the cards.

I would make Sam Read our man of the match. Although he didn't get as much opportunity in attack as we would have liked, he was imperious in defence, shutting down a number of attacks with his pace and power.

Hamish