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Dinner & Dance
Friday, 18th May 2012

This being held at the prestigious, Clevedon Equestrian Centre, 19:00 for 19:30. Tickets can be purchased from Mike Thomas or from the clubhouse. Be there or be square!

Beer & Cider Festival
Saturday, 2nd June 2012

This being held at the clubhouse from 15:00 onwards. Tickets can be purchased from Mike Thomas or from behind the bar. Sunday, 3rd June has been designated "Survivors' Sunday" for those that still need to quench their thirst. Off the cuff entertainment will be provided by the antics of a few well know idiots who just can't control their behaviour whilst enjoying a pint. Get the hottest ticket of the summer before they go - phone Mike now.

21st April 2012

Team: M.Lowis, O.James, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, S.Johns, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, B.Stone, D.Vivian, A.Giltrow, H.Johnson, S.Hunt, O.Biggins, H.Russell, D.Rawle.Replacements: J.Williams, R.Biggins.

Brixham rested a few players in readiness for their Devon Cup final against Exmouth next week and paid the price.

Having said that, Clevedon were back to their best after a run of bad form and gave Brixham a torrid time in the scrums. The No Necks favourite son, prop Ben Stone delighted them with a try that had the grizzled old props repeating their tiresome "years ago, when I did this" stories to anyone that would listen.

Stoner, who is being groomed to become a member in the years ahead will have to pass the initiation ceremony first of course. It goes without saying that this involves consuming vast quantities of food and beer, a task for which he is supremely equipped.

Read the report and coach's comments here. Weave's photos can be found here and Derek Lilly's photos can be found here.

Next on the agenda is the Dinner Dance at the Equestrian Centre on the 18th May. The Beer and Cider Festival is the first Saturday in June. Tickets available at the club.

14th April 2012

Team: M.Lowis, J.Williams, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, S.Johns, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, B.Stone, G.Carpenter, A.Giltrow, A.Blundell, S.Hunt, J.Shopland, H.Russell, D.Rawle.Replacements: D.Vivian, H.Johnson, R.Biggins.

Unfortunately, and with the biggest travelling contingent of the season watching, Berry Hill put paid to any ideas that Clevedon may have had about a playoff spot.

The supporters has hoped to watch a win that would've kept the pressure on Avonmouth and take it to the last game of the season. Nevermind, a great day out despite the loss and Berry Hill's superb hospitality helped to ease the disappointment. It's a shame we won't be going back next season.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

Clevedon's last game is at home to league champions Brixham and a chance for them regain the lost pride of the last three games.

4th April 2012

Team: M.Lowis, M.Carpenter, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, S.Johns, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, A.Giltrow, A.Blundell, S.Hunt, H.Johnson, O.Biggins, D.Rawle, Replacements: J.Shopland, G.Carpenter, B.Stone, O.James, D.Burns.

The big sulk is finally over!

Apologies for the late updating of this site, but for a game, played in very cold and windy conditions, to end in a penalty shootout with the 1000 strong crowd unaware of what was going on is just unbelievable.

Rules is rules I suppose and the Somerset handbook (have you read it?) clearly states that there is no extra time in the final and that a penalty shootout would be conducted instead. Unfortunately, only a handful of officials knew what was going on and so everyone was left confused and frustrated.

North Petherton just about deserved their win and should be proud that they won the cup at their first attempt. Clevedon on the other hand, should take heart from the fact that they reached another cup final (1 from 6) and might've won it if lady luck had paid visit, but perhaps the weather put her off.

Derek Lilly's photos can be found here

Read the report and coach's comments here.

Clevedon's next league game is away to Berry Hill on the 14th April.

31st March 2012

Team: M.Lowis, M.Carpenter, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, S.Johns, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, B.Stone, A.Giltrow, A.Blundell, S.Hunt, H.Russell, O.Biggins, D.Rawle, Replacements: H.Johnson, J.Williams, R.Biggins.

The Mouth travelled to the Vale with a bigger crowd than they would normally have at home. The great and the good of Avonmouth Rugby were in attendance and they saw their side win a very close encounter against an error-strewn Clevedon side. The post match bar was the busiest it has been all season and a testament to the cameradie of two clubs that have been playing each other for years.

It seems now that the playoff spot is Avonmouth's and likely to be against Salisbury. Clevedon on the other hand have to regroup for the Renault Somerset Cup Final. They'll need to cut out the comical mistakes if they're to beat North Petherton who are flying hign in the league below.

One thing to note was that this game had an official team of three and for a league game this is unusual. Perhaps the league didn't want a repeat of the controversy in previous fixture when Avonmouth won in the last 30 seconds. Who knows and who cares? Both games were competitive and both enjoyable to watch. Good luck to Avonmouth in the playoff.

 

Read the report and coach's comments here.

On Wednesday, Clevedon play North Petherton in the Somerset Cup final at WSM, kick off at 19:30. Clevedon's next league game is away to Berry Hill on the 14th April.

31st March 2011

Another international player can be stamped "Made in Clevedon". Clevedon colt Nick Carpenter has recently played for England U18 against Scotland. Read the Evening Post report. The whole England U18 squad can be found at the RFU here and Nick's interesting profile can also be found on the RFU website here.

A report of the recent Georgia game is here. Nick manage to score a first international try - is this a Clevedon first? Answers on a postcard please?

Nick has two brothers, Tony and Matthew who play for Clevedon 1st XV. It is truthful to say that Tone, last seen panic buying hot pasties, is no where near the U18 level any more, but Matt, only a couple of years older, has made his mark at 1st team level, where he can play anywhere from full back to back row.

More scoops to follow from newshound Tone.

24th March 2012

Team: M.Lowis, M.Carpenter, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, S.Johns, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, B.Stone, A.Giltrow, A.Blundell, S.Hunt, H.Johnson, O.Biggins, D.Rawle, Replacements: J.Williams, D.Burns.

Some eagle eyed Clevedon stalwart noticed that Thornbury had got a TMO at this match, so the reaction was one of incredulity and disbelief from the Clevedon committee types.

Were Thornbury following the premiership guidelines about having voluntary TMO facilties? Where did they get the money from to implement this high tech facility? Why didn't we know about it beforehand?

As usual, a casual off the cuff comment sparked a rumour that was only stopped when Geoff Warren, IRB TMO, declared he was only there on a rare weekend off from international duties and decided to watch this end to end game.

It's just a pity he wasn't doing his TMO bit, because there were two or three incidents in the game where Clevedon players were over or near the line and seemingly failed to get the ball down. The replays would've been very comical indeed and an instant YouTube hit - Mike Lowis would've been more famous than he is now. Just as well Clevedon won with the last kick of the game.

This is quite an apt photo given that the coach is always being unkind to Cobweb Corner who just happens to be standing in the background. Perhaps the old stager is really a stalker, so coach Hill has every right to be forthright in his views about the old gentlemen.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

Next Saturday, Clevedon are home to Avonmouth in what could be the vital game for the play off place, which is the stepping stone to National League rugby. Ther kick off is at 15:00, preceded by a Vice Presidents' lunch at 14:00.

19th March 2012

Team: M.Lowis, M.Carpenter, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, S.Johns, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, B.Stone, A.Giltrow, A.Blundell, S.Hunt, H.Johnson, H.Russell, O.Biggins. Replacements: G.Carpenter, O.James, J.Williams. D.Rawle, T.Wain, L.Blizzard.

The people carrier was fully loaded with five overly wide sixty-somethings and a skinny runt who was relegated to the dog kennel at the back just because he was deemed flexible enough to get in it.

With the fuel consumption falling way below the recommended climate change levels, they arrived at Bridgwater feeling confident about beating the students for the second time in two years. All sorts of reasons were given, but chief among these was that was what they always thought, so no one worried about losing at all. As it turned out their confidence in the win was rewarded with a great game of rugby.

After a couple in the bar they went outside to watch the game. It took them a while to identify their team, who were playing in the Bridgwater change strip. Under the dazzling bright lights they were squinting like Mr. Magoo trying to see where the action was. Since the game was being played in a fast and furious fashion, some went into the stands for a clearer view, others gathered by the bar and others by the kitchen.

In the end they went home happy, heavier and looking forward to the final on the 4th April at WSM against North Petherton. A great evening out for everyone except the dog.

On Saturday, Clevedon are away to Thornbury in the league in a game they must win to keep their promotion hopes alive.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

10th March 2012

Team: M.Lowis, M.Carpenter, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, B.Stone, A.Giltrow, A.Blundell, S.Hunt, H.Johnson, H.Russell, O.Biggins. Replacements: G.Carpenter, S.Johns, J.Williams.

That's two weeks running now that Clevedon have got bonus point wins without being at their best.

Clevedon are near their best form, but with the hyper-critical home support ruing every missed tackle and bad pass, you wouldn't think so.

It's probably because having seen Clevedon play some devasting rugby during the course of the season, they're disappointed it doesn't happen all the time. This first team squad are improving all the time and sometime soon everything will click and then everyone will be wondering what the fuss was all about.

Their next outing is on Monday 19th March at Bridgwater against the University of Bath in the Renault Somerset Cup semi final. The kick off is at 19:30.

Clevedon Rugby Club are big on peculiarly named friendship groups. There is a one called the No Necks that travel far and wide in support of their team. They are prolific devourers of buffets and beer and are not adverse to singing inappropriate songs in inappropriate places. Their commander is one John "Florrie" Ford, former prop and Royal Marine.

There is another more recent group, peopled by old codgers, call Cobweb Corner. As you know, they drink tea and eat digestives all day while putting the world to rights. Their leader is also the club president.

The latest group are called the Cheesy Dips. They have been under the radar for a long time and it's time they were outed.

Their favourite trick is to grab a table as soon as anyone of them enters the clubhouse. They then cover it with cheese, pickles, biscuits and very hot condiments and dare each other to try their latest concoctions.

They are cider drinkers and are renown for consuming large quantities of anything that crosses their table. They are the first to get the left overs from the kitchen and then generously pass on the almost empty dishes when they've finished.

They are to be feared, because to go near them means gulping in their fetid air and certain death. They are also lovers of karaoke and needless to say they ain't slim. Their leader is a former ginger winger called Terry "Sulky" Sulley, who has a lovely way with words shall we say and jealously guards his fiefdom from all outsiders. They're a lively bunch who can always be relied upon to entertain. Without them there would be no late nights at the club.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

3rd March 2012

Team: M.Carpenter, S.Johns, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, B.Stone, A.Giltrow, A.Blundell, S.Hunt, H.Johnson, H.Russell, D.Rawle. Replacements: G.Carpenter, T.Wain, L.Blizzard.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next week, Clevedon are at home to Wadebridge. A Vice President's lunch is at 13:30.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

25th February 2012

Team: M.Lowis, S.Johns, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, B.Stone, A.Giltrow, S.Hunt, O.Biggins, H.Russell, D.Rawle. Replacements: A.Perry, M.Carpenter, H.Johnson, J.Shopland, G.Carpenter, L.Blizzard.

With the score at 10 each and full time imminent, Weston-Super-Mare were with the ball and pressing just outside the Clevedon 22. A WSM scrum was awarded, which they won and the Clevedon supporters held their breath for the final onslaught. It never came, instead WSM kicked into touch mistakenly believing they had a winning draw as the away side.

Ten minutes each way of extra time followed during which, Clevedon scored a try for the lead that they retained despite WSM clawing 3 points back with 5 minutes remaining.

Clevedon hung on to record a well earned win and a second successive semi final against University of Bath, which might be played on Wednesday March 14th (to be confirmed) and the same date as Bridgwater North Petherton match.

Unfortunately, this over running game caused the pitch clearer-uppers to miss the first 15 nailbiting minutes of the England game, particularly as some mindless morons had stamped two glass bottles into the touchline area near the path.

If you see these idiots, please ask them politely not to do it again. Thanks.

Next week, Clevedon are at home to Penryn who won last time out. A Vice President's lunch is at 13:30. The seconds are at home to Midsomer Norton, the thirds are away to Keynsham and teh Colts are awy to North Petherton. All kick offs are at 14:30.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

19th Febuary 2012
By Jon Pittard

Clevedon scored after beng held on their try line for the first 10 minutes with Guy Prideaux running in on the wing. The second was Dan Haskell's fine run on the wing with Kieran Hill's boot collecting the extras. Yatton won a penalty and added three points to their tally. The half time score being 12 to 3 in Clevedon's favour.

Clevedon played up the slope for the second half with Ben Williams just touching down in the corner. Yatton retaliated with a well won try. Clevedon's Jason Fisher ran another in wide to end Clevedon's tally, Yatton scoring a converted try on the final whistle.

Clevedon's coach Andy Lyon said "the lads had to really step up to the plate today as a unit, from front row to full back our defence was massive and it needed to be against a very capable Yatton/Cheddar attack. We always knew that our chances would come and we took them well, but this was a classic display of playing to a game plan based on defence. We have shown that we fear nobody in this competition and relish the challenge of the semi-final. "

18th February 2012

Team: A.Perry, S.Johns, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, M.Lowis, G.Towers, D.Vivian, B.Stone, A.Giltrow, S.Hunt(c), H.Johnson, O.Biggins, H.Russell, D.Rawle. Replacements: M.Carpenter, A.Jones, J.Shopland.

Once again, Clevedon travelled away without their full contingent of first choicers. They were shy of two props, one scrum half and a second row. It also didn't help that the windscreen wipers kept failing on the way down and they arrived slightly later than planned. Despite these setbacks, Clevedon did themselves proud and managed to come away with a good win from the not so balmy English Riviera.

They started strongly and were 5-0 up in the first minute after Jim "Loobrush" McVeigh elbowed his way to the line through a packed defence. Shortly after this, Clevedon found themselves camped out at Paignton's cricket end and going for more. James 'Sizzler' Hayward was particularly outstanding in this regard.

They didn't miss the usual heavyweights at all and managed to get another good score from Terry 'Pappa' Harris under their belt with 15 minutes to go, for a lead of 10-0 at the break. The omens for the second stint were looking good.

It was a soggy encounter that kept most of the home support in the stand, which was about 2 miles away from the pitch. Consequently, Clevedon's pitchside support, bolstered by some additonal travellers and one on post match extra-curricular activities (Paul 'Ivor' Tingle), were more vocal than the locals. They certainly made themselves heard.

The second stint saw Kev 'Hulk' Weaver, Alan 'Cruncher' Crane and Mike 'Cobweb' Thomas getting 5 each to finish the encounter 25-0. An impressive result to say the least and just sad that Sizzler didn't get his 5 either.

Next week, Clevedon are at home to Weston-Super_Mare in the quarter final of the Somerset Cup. The kick off is at 14:00.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

17th February 2012

The Clevedon Rugby Club Youth Chairman Neil "Tucks" Tucker will be running in the Weston Tough Ten this Sunday 19th February 2012 and he will be raising money for Diabetes UK.

There is a challenge on the www.diabeteschallenge.org.uk, Diabetes UK site. If you would like to sponsor Tucks please click here. Neil say "Please help me to help others, thank you". If you don't want to register yourself, please use these login details: User name: tucker71, Password: defender1

I think this means that Tucks won't be coaching on Sunday - good luck Tucks.

11th February 2012

Team: M.Lowis, S.Johns,D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, M.Honour, A.Giltrow, S.Hunt, H.Johnson O.Biggins, M.Carpenter, D.Rawle. Replacements: A.Perry, G.Carpenter, R.Smith.

"Forking at ten" was all the email said. As it came from former school teacher and current matchday reporter Mike Thomas, the spelling had to be correct, so the fork was plugged in over night to warm up. As things turned out, it wasn't required due to the freezing weather conditions.

After half-hourly pitch inspections at The Vale and at the school and with a Bristol Referees Society executive (Phil Pearce) on hand to ensure fair play, Clevedon declared the game on at 11:30.

Cullompton were informed that main pitch would still be thawing as they travelled, but the game would definitely be on because the school pitch was already playable. On their arrival, they inspected the pitch and were delighted that the game could be played without further travel, particularly as they've had three wins on the bounce.

Despite the bright sunshine and the rising temperature, this was the only game in town and Clevedon were beseiged by a controversy of referees and an ambiguity of assessors, who would've otherwise been engaged elsewhere. The most illustrious of these visitors has to be that old timer Ivor Sobey, who was the touch judge on hand in Nellie's Corner during that infamous game for promotion between Clevedon and St. Mary's way back when.

In fact way back when turns out be 10 years ago. If you look closely enough, you'll see eagle-eyed Ivor right on the corner flag. You can relive the excitement here.

Back to the game. It's no wonder Cullompton were happy with the conditions because they started off like a train in a shunting yard - going backwards and forwards, but not really getting anywhere. They were thwarted time and time again by the tenacious buffers of Clevedon's rock solid scrambling defence and I expect Cully will see this as an opportunity missed to do the double. Next season's fixtures will be worth watching.

Next week, Clevedon are away to Paignton, kick off at 14:30. Coach leaves at 11:00.

Read the report and coach's comments here and the Evening Post report here.

3rd February 2012

On Friday night, a successful Six Nations Dinner was held at the clubhouse. The food, consisting of a course from each of the nations involved, was excellent and the guest speaker was Mike Lewis who kept the guests entertained and well amused for an hour. Everyone had a good old chuckle with the exception of one person (who shall remain nameless) who steadfastly failed to crack his face throughout the entire speech. That in itself was funny as he struggled to keep a straight face that was almost as entertaining as Mike himself.

Another good night at the club and thanks should go to the organisers for doing such a grand job.

For all the latest Six Nations info, visit the website HERE.

Due to the very frosty and near artic conditions all games were postponed this weekend. They will be played this coming Saturday, which was originally designated as a league free weekend.

Cullompton will hopefully be visiting The Vale to play the 1st XV. The seconds are away to Bristol Barbarians and the thirds have a free weekend for shopping. Kick offs are at 14:30, shopping starts at 12 noon and should be completed by 16:00 in time for the England kick off.

28th January 2012

Team: M.Lowis, S.Johns, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, B.Stone, S.Hunt, A.Giltrow, O.Biggins, M.Carpenter, H.Russell. Replacements: A.Glen, A.Perry, T.Dauncey.

For the first time in many years, Clevedon travelled away with a full coach load. In addition, a dozen more had left earlier to begin their usual softening up process, led by man-mountain and first team legend Tim Brooks, who is fast becoming tour organiser-in-chief.

At 11:00, the young Colts ventured onto the first team bus and huddled together at the front like a mob of Meerkats. Their little heads began popping up and down whenever they sensed danger from the big boys at the back of the bus. They were a nervous looking bunch.

Coach Neil Tucker was hearding them about and generally doing a great impression of a mother hen that knew that there was a fox about, but didn't quite know where it was. He was trying his best to keep the youngsters away from the Big Bad Foxes that are Lowis and Stone, particulary as his eldest son was onboard. He failed spectacularly on the return journey when the wolves got into the run and caused mayhem.

Clevedon arrived at Sidmouth close to one o'clock and while the players got ready, the lucky six were invited to a sit down sponsors lunch that they thoroughly enjoyed. The food on offer was superb and very tasty indeed. Add to that some enjoyable conversation and the pre-match conviviality was complete. Thank you Sidmouth.

All that Clevedon needed now, to round the day off, was a couple of wins and in this regard they succeeded magnificently.

The Clevedon first team obliged by playing a brand of rugby that left the Sidmouth crowd silenced for long periods. It wasn't until the final 15 minutes, when the Sidmouth players began to exert themselves that they found their voice and encouraged their team to get themselves on the scoresheet.

The Colts managed a decent 10 nil win and when Clevedon won all three post match raffle prizes and then heard that the seconds and thirds had won as well, there was a euphoria on the bus not seen for a while. Needless to say, the Colts were the brunt of the entertainment on the way back and enjoyed the camaraderie and companionship afforded by the first team. They won't forget their day out in a hurry.

Next week, Clevedon are at home to Cullompton, kick off at 14:30. The usual pre-match buffet will begin at 13:30.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

 

21st January 2012

Team: M.Lowis, A.Perry, S.Johns, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, A.Dauncey, S.Hunt, J.Shopland, M.Carpenter, H.Russell, D.Rawle. Replacements: D.Ashfield, B.Stone, T.Waine.

Had Clevedon not have chosen Hill they might not be where they are today, enjoying a run of good form and flying high in the league.

The home crown certainly enjoyed the first half, but weren't too keen on the second when Clevedon were forced to defend by a committed Chosen Hill side. They needed more tries to keep them warm, but were left shivering waiting for them to arrive and some even retired early to the bar for warmth - no way to treat a good win like this.

Unfortunately, Clevedon won't be playing Chosen Hill for while as they are destined for the big drop down to the Western Counties league. If they can find some form from somewhere then they might well repeat last season's heroics and stay in the league. Good luck to them.

 

Next week Clevedon are away to Sidmouth. The coach leaves at 11:00 and kick off is at 14:30.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

 

14th January 2012

Team: M.Lowis, A.Perry, S.Johns, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, N.Tucker, A.Dauncey, O.Jones, R.Smith, M.Carpenter, H.Russell, S.Hunt. Replacements: D.Burns, A.Jones.

This was the third of three trips into Cornwall. On each occasion, Clevedon have stopped at Launceston on the way down so the boys could change and go through some drills.

The travelling few were left to enjoy a nice cup of tea in the clubhouse and have a natter with club stalwart Chris (pictured by the scarf), who was very welcoming. It certainly helped to break up the journey and left only an hour or so to travel to the match, which helped the aged on the bus especially when the onboard loo was locked. On the way back, Chris was still there when Clevedon called in for a pint or two before heading home. Thanks for your hospitality.

One win out of three in Cornwall was just about acceptable, but still a below par return for the effort involved. However, this was better than in previous years where wins in Cornwall were like rocking horse poo - very hard to find.

Still that's the last long trip out of the way and with six home games out of ten left, Clevedon are well placed to finish the season on a high. Let's hope the weather doesn't delay anything.

Next week Clevedon are at home to Chosen Hill, kick off is at 14:30 preceded by a VPs lucheon at 13:30.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

 

7th January 2012

Team: M.Lowis, A.Perry, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, A.Dauncey, A.Giltrow, S.Hunt, H.Russell, O.Biggins, D.Rawle. Replacements: D.Ashfield,S.Johns, M.Carpenter, G.Carpenter.

Ace photographer Kevin "Weave" Weaver 59, lost his bearings this week.

He knew it was a home game, but somehow took the wrong turning off Southern Way and found himself on the far side of the world. Obviously his son TomTom was to blame after buttoning in the wrong post code that caused them to end up in Clevedon, New Zealand. Come home soon Weave! Is this the farthest the badge has travelled?

As you'll see in the photo, Weave doesn't look too chuffed about having to miss the match, which turned out to be cracker with two of the best tries you'll see all season.

After a three week lay off for the festive period, everyone was aching to see how Clevedon would start the New Year. Would they be able to maintain their form? Would they be fit enough? Would the coach stick to his resolution - no swearing and temper tantrums on the touchline?

It can be reported that the answers are emphatically yes, yes and definitely no. In the light of this failing, the club have arranged for Nick to attend an anger management course this week, along with other serial hissy-fitters who can't be named here - you know who you are!

Next week Clevedon are away to Camborne, coach leaves early at 09:30.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

 

17th December 2011

Team: M.Lowis, A.Perry, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, A.Giltrow, R.Smith, S.Hunt, R.Birkin, O.Biggins, H.Russell. Replacements: S.Johns, M.Carpenter, B.Stone.

Clevedon completed the double over newbie fast starters Oldfield Old Boys, who have stumbled to four consecutive defeats, the last two of them to nil, which must be worrying for them.

This week, they met an uncomprimising Clevedon team that gave them no room to play in the way they expected to. Clevedon always had a cover tackler to deny Oldfield any chance of a score and this win helps Clevedon retain third spot in the league.

With a three week enforced rest, it'll be like starting a new season when play resumes in the New Year. Keeping fitness levels up will be crucial and coach Nick Hill will be well aware of the perils of Christmas excesses and will ensure that his team do the right things.

If you still believe in Santa Claus please look away now.

It can be revealed that Geoff Hutton (81), President of Clevedon Athletic Club and former touch judge is a professional Father Christmas. He was unable to attend this match, because he was on duty and has apparently been doing this for past four years. This year he decided to start a Santa Claus training school for wannabe Yohohoers, a few of whom were having a rare night in at the clubhouse this week. Is there no end to this man's talent?

Read the report and coach's comments here.

The leagues resume on January 7th 2012, when Clevedon will be at home to fifth placed Cleve, but only 2 points between them. The seconds are away to Wiveliscombe and the thirds are away to Winscombe. All kick offs are at 14:30.

 

10th December 2011

Team: M.Lowis, A.Perry, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, G.Carpenter, B.Stone, A.Giltrow, S.Hunt, R.Birkin, O.Biggins, H.Russell. Replacements: R.Smith, M.Carpenter, T.Dauncey.

The newly created clandestine organisation Cobweb Corner were out in full this weekend. Derek Lilly, John Payne, Fred Smith, Neville Pope, Terry Harris, Mal Morgan, Dickie Brace and Mike Thomas felt the need to show their solidarity in the face of unwanted public interest in their activities. As coach Nick Hill has noticed before, the digestives were being sucked with alarming frequency during the match, pervading the air with an odd mouse-cage type smell that was quite nauseating. Someone ought to tell them.

Apologies for mentioning our flag man Adam Glen again, but he showed remarkable commitment and dedication this week. Adam has taken the job to a whole new level by warming up on the pitch and not in the bar as the previous incumbent did. He is showing an appetite for the job that is hard to fault, so once again Adam, thank you and well done!

Please note that there is still time to donate to the Movember charity by using the link behind Tom Thie's face below - thanks.

Read the report and coach's comments here. Weave's Skydrive pics are here.

Next week, Clevedon are away to Oldfield Old Boys - can they do the double?.

3rd December 2011

Team: M.Lowis, S.Johns, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, M.Carpenter, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, A.Giltrow, S.Hunt, R.Birkin, H.Russell, O.Biggins, D.Rawle. Replacements: G.Carpenter, R.Smith, A.Perry.

Clevedon have at long last found a youthful new flag man in the shape of Adam Glen who is recovering from injury and trying to get fit again.

Adam, the current U14 coach also works behind the bar for pocket money and couldn't have chosen a more intimidating game to start his flag duties with. Avonmouth away, a local derby with plenty of history always meant that this was going to be a tasty affair and so it proved.

The game had plenty of end to end stuff and was littered with crucial mistakes by both sides. Add in a few controversial moments and Adam's nerve and judgement were certainly tested to the full. He came through with flying colours and is looking forward to his first home game of his fledgling career next week. Good luck young man!

Read the report and coach's comments here.

Next week, Clevedon firsts are at home to Berry Hill, preceded by a lunch at 13:30. The seconds are away to St. Bernadettes, the Allstars are away to Bristol Harlequins and the Colts are at home to Bridgwater. All kick offs are at 14:30.

3rd December 2011

Several club members grew moustaches during November for Movemember, the prostate and testicular cancer charity. Captain Tom Thie led the way and was joined by old and young a like in his quest to raise money. It is still not too late to donate, so please just click here to donate and see some amusing photos of one old duffer doing his bit.