Clevedon entertained Chew Valley in this Western Counties North encounter at the Vale in bright sunshine.  Clevedon having been relegated were determined to get off to a winning start especially under new coach Brian Hanlon and skipper Jeff Durant.

Clevedon applied the early pressure and took an early lead with a try by James Shopland after good ball retention and numerous phases of play.  Good ball won in the line out by Durant saw Owen Biggins pick up a loose ball and score a try under the posts, which Steve Pimm converted.

Clevedon at times over complicated matters and wasted good possession.  The Chew Valley gallant defence held out until just before half time a pick up at the base of the scrum saw Number 8 Anthony Fox go over for a try.

The second half saw veteran Neil O’Rourke at scrum half for the injured Steve Pimm.  Chew Valley fought their way into the game and occasionally had the Clevedon defence at full stretch.  Clevedon seemed to dig themselves into a rut, and the points failed to materialise, but did increase with an excellent try by Chris Cates in the corner after a swift simple handling movement.

A good start with two well earned points. Clevedon's man of the match was Owen Biggins.

Back to 1st XV fixtures