Both teams met each other in South West One having been promoted last season and provided a battle royale in this local derby. Clevedon played down the slope and the early exchanges were even. St Mary's took the lead through a penalty and mainly due to an enthusiastic whistle blowing referee.

In the scrum Clevedon's forwards had the upper hand and a strike against the head saw Tom O'Rourke cut the St. Mary's defence to pieces to score a fine try, which Steve Johnson converted. Clevedon's scrum continued to go well with John Potts making a starring role of his league debut. St Mary's had ample possession, but Clevedon's defence was sound. Clevedon led 7-3 at the break and must have been concerned about the lack of lineout ball.

The second half saw Clevedon mainly on the back foot, but the odd counter-attack came to nothing because the final pass broke down. Justin Herewini tackled well in midfield and Mike Panoho showed his strength at close quarters. Mary's reduced the deficit to a penalty, but Johnson replied to widen Clevedon's lead to four points. Clevedon led 10 - 6 going into injury time, but unfortunately St. Mary's dominance came through with a rolling maul converted try and a final penalty to secure victory, two points and second place in the league..

Photos by Alan Crane can be found here: