This Somerset Cup game had everything. Both sides were understrength for various reasons. Clevedon played into a strong, cold northerly wind and took the lead through a piece of opportunism by Steve Johnson, who took a quick tap penalty to score a try in the corner. Walcot hit back with an excellent try aided by some poor tackling. This try was converted. Dan Hawkes gave Clevedon the lead with a penalty. Clevedon found it hard into the wind, but good play by Dave Rawle resulted in a try for Clevedon to lead 13-7 at the break. Noticeable was the forward play of Jeff Durant and the outstanding Rich Hughes and Wayne McMillan

Team: A.Freeman, C.Cates, T.Thie, D.Hand, B. Ford, D.Hawkes, S.Johnson, B.Littleton, J.Morgan, N.Tucker(c), W.McMillan, J.Durant, N.Bridle, R.Hughes, D.Rawle. Reps: T.Lisney, S.Johns, N.Hudson, S.Barnes, J.Bale, J.Pearce

On the restart Hawkes increased the lead with a penalty. Walcot hit back with pathetic attempts by the Clevedon backs to tackle and they were rewarded with a converted try. Clevedon's forwards played well and a good run by prop Ben Littleton resulted in a try, which Hawkes converted. Again Walcot hit back with a blindside try with Clevedon's defence not at home. This was quickly followed by another simple try. The see-saw game saw Hawkes kick another penalty. A rare swift handling movement by Clevedon saw Chris Cates score in the corner. Hawkes converted. When Clevedon return to league rugby next week they will have to sharpen up a great deal, not kick good ball away. Tackling leaves agreat deal to be desired. It just goes to prove the amount of work done by James Shopland and Tom O'Rourke in defence. These boys were greatly missed in this game.

Next week the 1st XV are away to Basingstoke, kick-off 14:00. Coach leaves the club at 10:30. Supporters welcome, especially Alan O'Connell and Pete Hand!