Clevedon 39 Keynsham 17
26th March 2003

Back to 1st XV fixtures Clevedon progressed into the Somerset Cup Final with a thrilling victory over Keynsham from South West One. Clevedon started with a bang playing all the rugby but it was Keynsham who took the lead with a penalty. It did not take Clevedon long to get on the scoreboard and it was Owen Biggins who scored a try from a set move, which Steve Johnson converted. Even at this early stage Clevedon seemed to have a grip on the game and a slick handling movement from a tapped penalty saw Chris cates give a well timed pass to Tom Thie to score in the corner. Clevedon were now rampant and good hands allowed Chris Cates room to use his pace to score an outstanding try on the left. Johnson converted and increased the lead with a penalty. Keynsham who were shell shocked, gradually got into the game and scored a converted try from close range on half time. Clevedon led 22-10 at the break. The second half started with Keynsham applying all the pressure and were rewarded with their second converted try. Clevedon's defence held firm and they regained their momentum with a quick tapped penalty by Mike Lowis resulted in the outstanding Ashley Vailes scoring. This was quickly followed by a second Vailes try. The Clevedon backs were again on song and all the players sang from the same song sheet, with the pack well led by captain Jeff Durant producing good ball for the backs. The forwards began to get on top towards the end and the final score was a penalty try after Cates was fouled going for the touch down. Tom O'Rourke converted. A great result after a magnificent display of 15 man rugby. The final will be on Easter Sunday, 20th April at Bridgwater against the holders Weston-super-Mare. Match day photos can be found here Next Saturday Clevedon are away to Stroud in the league, kick off is at 2:30pm. Coach leaves the club at 12:00 Back to 1st XV fixtures