This game was the climax of a great season and Clevedon gained promotion to South West Two in dramatic fashion.

St. Mary's took an early lead with a penalty but Clevedon hit back in fine style in the only way they know best, by running the ball wide. Chris Cates scored two tries using his speed to outwit the home defence. Bothe kicks at goal failed.

A break down the blind side by Tim Brooks the space for elusive right winger Christian Bushell to score. Again the kieked failed.

Before half time St. Mary's hit back with a converted try for Clevedon to lead 15-10 at the break.

The second half saw Clevedon play up the slope and into the breeze. St. Mary's now took the game to Clevedon who were all of a sudden on the back foot. They lost the initiative in the scrums and were slower to the loose ball. Clevedon's defence was at full stretch for a long periodand Mary's did manage to score a converted try to take the lead with 10 minutes remaining.

Alan Dunn came on as prop to help Clevedon regain their scrum dominance for the final few minutes. Mary's increased their lead with a penalty to lead 20-15 with 5 minutes remaining but Clevedon had one trick left. Deep into injury time John Pearce won a vital line out ball five metres out. From the drive that followed, Neil O'Rouke touched down for a try to level the scores.

A draw was enough for Clevedon to get promotion because of their superior points difference.

Match day photos can be found here

John Higman uses his new camera

More photos from Helen Dauncey can be found here

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