Clevedon Rugby
Home

19th Febuary 2012
By Jon Pittard

Clevedon scored after beng held on their try line for the first 10 minutes with Guy Prideaux running in on the wing. The second was Dan Haskell's fine run on the wing with Kieran Hill's boot collecting the extras. Yatton won a penalty and added three points to their tally. The half time score being 12 to 3 in Clevedon's favour.

Clevedon played up the slope for the second half with Ben Williams just touching down in the corner. Yatton retaliated with a well won try. Clevedon's Jason Fisher ran another in wide to end Clevedon's tally, Yatton scoring a converted try on the final whistle.

Clevedon's coach Andy Lyon said "the lads had to really step up to the plate today as a unit, from front row to full back our defence was massive and it needed to be against a very capable Yatton/Cheddar attack. We always knew that our chances would come and we took them well, but this was a classic display of playing to a game plan based on defence. We have shown that we fear nobody in this competition and relish the challenge of the semi-final. "

18th February 2012

Team: A.Perry, S.Johns, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, M.Lowis, G.Towers, D.Vivian, B.Stone, A.Giltrow, S.Hunt(c), H.Johnson, O.Biggins, H.Russell, D.Rawle. Replacements: M.Carpenter, A.Jones, J.Shopland.

Once again, Clevedon travelled away without their full contingent of first choicers. They were shy of two props, one scrum half and a second row. It also didn't help that the windscreen wipers kept failing on the way down and they arrived slightly later than planned. Despite these setbacks, Clevedon did themselves proud and managed to come away with a good win from the not so balmy English Riviera.

They started strongly and were 5-0 up in the first minute after Jim "Loobrush" McVeigh elbowed his way to the line through a packed defence. Shortly after this, Clevedon found themselves camped out at Paignton's cricket end and going for more. James 'Sizzler' Hayward was particularly outstanding in this regard.

They didn't miss the usual heavyweights at all and managed to get another good score from Terry 'Pappa' Harris under their belt with 15 minutes to go, for a lead of 10-0 at the break. The omens for the second stint were looking good.

It was a soggy encounter that kept most of the home support in the stand, which was about 2 miles away from the pitch. Consequently, Clevedon's pitchside support, bolstered by some additonal travellers and one on post match extra-curricular activities (Paul 'Ivor' Tingle), were more vocal than the locals. They certainly made themselves heard.

The second stint saw Kev 'Hulk' Weaver, Alan 'Cruncher' Crane and Mike 'Cobweb' Thomas getting 5 each to finish the encounter 25-0. An impressive result to say the least and just sad that Sizzler din't get his 5 either.

Next week, Clevedon are at home to Weston-Super_Mare in the quarter final of the Somerset Cup. The kick off is at 14:00.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

17th February 2012

The Clevedon Rugby Club Youth Chairman Neil "Tucks" Tucker will be running in the Weston Tough Ten this Sunday 19th February 2012 and he will be raising money for Diabetes UK.

There is a challenge on the www.diabeteschallenge.org.uk, Diabetes UK site. If you would like to sponsor Tucks please click here. Neil say "Please help me to help others, thank you". If you don't want to register yourself, please use these login details: User name: tucker71, Password: defender1

I think this means that Tucks won't be coaching on Sunday - good luck Tucks.

11th February 2012

Team: M.Lowis, S.Johns,D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, M.Honour, A.Giltrow, S.Hunt, H.Johnson O.Biggins, M.Carpenter, D.Rawle. Replacements: A.Perry, G.Carpenter, R.Smith.

"Forking at ten" was all the email said. As it came from former school teacher and current matchday reporter Mike Thomas, the spelling had to be correct, so the fork was plugged in over night to warm up. As things turned out, it wasn't required due to the freezing weather conditions.

After half-hourly pitch inspections at The Vale and at the school and with a Bristol Referees Society executive (Phil Pearce) on hand to ensure fair play, Clevedon declared the game on at 11:30.

Cullompton were informed that main pitch would still be thawing as they travelled, but the game would definitely be on because the school pitch was already playable. On their arrival, they inspected the pitch and were delighted that the game could be played without further travel, particularly as they've had three wins on the bounce.

Despite the bright sunshine and the rising temperature, this was the only game in town and Clevedon were beseiged by a controversy of referees and an ambiguity of assessors, who would've otherwise been engaged elsewhere. The most illustrious of these visitors has to be that old timer Ivor Sobey, who was the touch judge on hand in Nellie's Corner during that infamous game for promotion between Clevedon and St. Mary's way back when.

In fact way back when turns out be 10 years ago. If you look closely enough, you'll see eagle-eyed Ivor right on the corner flag. You can relive the excitement here.

Back to the game. It's no wonder Cullompton were happy with the conditions because they started off like a train in a shunting yard - going backwards and forwards, but not really getting anywhere. They were thwarted time and time again by the tenacious buffers of Clevedon's rock solid scrambling defence and I expect Cully will see this as an opportunity missed to do the double. Next season's fixtures will be worth watching.

Next week, Clevedon are away to Paignton, kick off at 14:30. Coach leaves at 11:00.

Read the report and coach's comments here and the Evening Post report here.

3rd February 2012

On Friday night, a successful Six Nations Dinner was held at the clubhouse. The food, consisting of a course from each of the nations involved, was excellent and the guest speaker was Mike Lewis who kept the guests entertained and well amused for an hour. Everyone had a good old chuckle with the exception of one person (who shall remain nameless) who steadfastly failed to crack his face throughout the entire speech. That in itself was funny as he struggled to keep a straight face that was almost as entertaining as Mike himself.

Another good night at the club and thanks should go to the organisers for doing such a grand job.

For all the latest Six Nations info, visit the website HERE.

Due to the very frosty and near artic conditions all games were postponed this weekend. They will be played this coming Saturday, which was originally designated as a league free weekend.

Cullompton will hopefully be visiting The Vale to play the 1st XV. The seconds are away to Bristol Barbarians and the thirds have a free weekend for shopping. Kick offs are at 14:30, shopping starts at 12 noon and should be completed by 16:00 in time for the England kick off.

28th January 2012

Team: M.Lowis, S.Johns, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, B.Stone, S.Hunt, A.Giltrow, O.Biggins, M.Carpenter, H.Russell. Replacements: A.Glen, A.Perry, T.Dauncey.

For the first time in many years, Clevedon travelled away with a full coach load. In addition, a dozen more had left earlier to begin their usual softening up process, led by man-mountain and first team legend Tim Brooks, who is fast becoming tour organiser-in-chief.

At 11:00, the young Colts ventured onto the first team bus and huddled together at the front like a mob of Meerkats. Their little heads began popping up and down whenever they sensed danger from the big boys at the back of the bus. They were a nervous looking bunch.

Coach Neil Tucker was hearding them about and generally doing a great impression of a mother hen that knew that there was a fox about, but didn't quite know where it was. He was trying his best to keep the youngsters away from the Big Bad Foxes that are Lowis and Stone, particulary as his eldest son was onboard. He failed spectacularly on the return journey when the wolves got into the run and caused mayhem.

Clevedon arrived at Sidmouth close to one o'clock and while the players got ready, the lucky six were invited to a sit down sponsors lunch that they thoroughly enjoyed. The food on offer was superb and very tasty indeed. Add to that some enjoyable conversation and the pre-match conviviality was complete. Thank you Sidmouth.

All that Clevedon needed now, to round the day off, was a couple of wins and in this regard they succeeded magnificently.

The Clevedon first team obliged by playing a brand of rugby that left the Sidmouth crowd silenced for long periods. It wasn't until the final 15 minutes, when the Sidmouth players began to exert themselves that they found their voice and encouraged their team to get themselves on the scoresheet.

The Colts managed a decent 10 nil win and when Clevedon won all three post match raffle prizes and then heard that the seconds and thirds had won as well, there was a euphoria on the bus not seen for a while. Needless to say, the Colts were the brunt of the entertainment on the way back and enjoyed the camaraderie and companionship afforded by the first team. They won't forget their day out in a hurry.

Next week, Clevedon are at home to Cullompton, kick off at 14:30. The usual pre-match buffet will begin at 13:30.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

 

21st January 2012

Team: M.Lowis, A.Perry, S.Johns, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, A.Dauncey, S.Hunt, J.Shopland, M.Carpenter, H.Russell, D.Rawle. Replacements: D.Ashfield, B.Stone, T.Waine.

Had Clevedon not have chosen Hill they might not be where they are today, enjoying a run of good form and flying high in the league.

The home crown certainly enjoyed the first half, but weren't too keen on the second when Clevedon were forced to defend by a committed Chosen Hill side. They needed more tries to keep them warm, but were left shivering waiting for them to arrive and some even retired early to the bar for warmth - no way to treat a good win like this.

Unfortunately, Clevedon won't be playing Chosen Hill for while as they are destined for the big drop down to the Western Counties league. If they can find some form from somewhere then they might well repeat last season's heroics and stay in the league. Good luck to them.

 

Next week Clevedon are away to Sidmouth. The coach leaves at 11:00 and kick off is at 14:30.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

 

14th January 2012

Team: M.Lowis, A.Perry, S.Johns, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, N.Tucker, A.Dauncey, O.Jones, R.Smith, M.Carpenter, H.Russell, S.Hunt. Replacements: D.Burns, A.Jones.

This was the third of three trips into Cornwall. On each occasion, Clevedon have stopped at Launceston on the way down so the boys could change and go through some drills.

The travelling few were left to enjoy a nice cup of tea in the clubhouse and have a natter with club stalwart Chris (pictured by the scarf), who was very welcoming. It certainly helped to break up the journey and left only an hour or so to travel to the match, which helped the aged on the bus especially when the onboard loo was locked. On the way back, Chris was still there when Clevedon called in for a pint or two before heading home. Thanks for your hospitality.

One win out of three in Cornwall was just about acceptable, but still a below par return for the effort involved. However, this was better than in previous years where wins in Cornwall were like rocking horse poo - very hard to find.

Still that's the last long trip out of the way and with six home games out of ten left, Clevedon are well placed to finish the season on a high. Let's hope the weather doesn't delay anything.

Next week Clevedon are at home to Chosen Hill, kick off is at 14:30 preceded by a VPs lucheon at 13:30.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

 

7th January 2012

Team: M.Lowis, A.Perry, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, A.Dauncey, A.Giltrow, S.Hunt, H.Russell, O.Biggins, D.Rawle. Replacements: D.Ashfield,S.Johns, M.Carpenter, G.Carpenter.

Ace photographer Kevin "Weave" Weaver 59, lost his bearings this week.

He knew it was a home game, but somehow took the wrong turning off Southern Way and found himself on the far side of the world. Obviously his son TomTom was to blame after buttoning in the wrong post code that caused them to end up in Clevedon, New Zealand. Come home soon Weave! Is this the farthest the badge has travelled?

As you'll see in the photo, Weave doesn't look too chuffed about having to miss the match, which turned out to be cracker with two of the best tries you'll see all season.

After a three week lay off for the festive period, everyone was aching to see how Clevedon would start the New Year. Would they be able to maintain their form? Would they be fit enough? Would the coach stick to his resolution - no swearing and temper tantrums on the touchline?

It can be reported that the answers are emphatically yes, yes and definitely no. In the light of this failing, the club have arranged for Nick to attend an anger management course this week, along with other serial hissy-fitters who can't be named here - you know who you are!

Next week Clevedon are away to Camborne, coach leaves early at 09:30.

Read the report and coach's comments here.

 

17th December 2011

Team: M.Lowis, A.Perry, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, A.Giltrow, R.Smith, S.Hunt, R.Birkin, O.Biggins, H.Russell. Replacements: S.Johns, M.Carpenter, B.Stone.

Clevedon completed the double over newbie fast starters Oldfield Old Boys, who have stumbled to four consecutive defeats, the last two of them to nil, which must be worrying for them.

This week, they met an uncomprimising Clevedon team that gave them no room to play in the way they expected to. Clevedon always had a cover tackler to deny Oldfield any chance of a score and this win helps Clevedon retain third spot in the league.

With a three week enforced rest, it'll be like starting a new season when play resumes in the New Year. Keeping fitness levels up will be crucial and coach Nick Hill will be well aware of the perils of Christmas excesses and will ensure that his team do the right things.

If you still believe in Santa Claus please look away now.

It can be revealed that Geoff Hutton (81), President of Clevedon Athletic Club and former touch judge is a professional Father Christmas. He was unable to attend this match, because he was on duty and has apparently been doing this for past four years. This year he decided to start a Santa Claus training school for wannabe Yohohoers, a few of whom were having a rare night in at the clubhouse this week. Is there no end to this man's talent?

Read the report and coach's comments here.

The leagues resume on January 7th 2012, when Clevedon will be at home to fifth placed Cleve, but only 2 points between them. The seconds are away to Wiveliscombe and the thirds are away to Winscombe. All kick offs are at 14:30.

 

10th December 2011

Team: M.Lowis, A.Perry, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, O.James, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, G.Carpenter, B.Stone, A.Giltrow, S.Hunt, R.Birkin, O.Biggins, H.Russell. Replacements: R.Smith, M.Carpenter, T.Dauncey.

The newly created clandestine organisation Cobweb Corner were out in full this weekend. Derek Lilly, John Payne, Fred Smith, Neville Pope, Terry Harris, Mal Morgan, Dickie Brace and Mike Thomas felt the need to show their solidarity in the face of unwanted public interest in their activities. As coach Nick Hill has noticed before, the digestives were being sucked with alarming frequency during the match, pervading the air with an odd mouse-cage type smell that was quite nauseating. Someone ought to tell them.

Apologies for mentioning our flag man Adam Glen again, but he showed remarkable commitment and dedication this week. Adam has taken the job to a whole new level by warming up on the pitch and not in the bar as the previous incumbent did. He is showing an appetite for the job that is hard to fault, so once again Adam, thank you and well done!

Please note that there is still time to donate to the Movember charity by using the link behind Tom Thie's face below - thanks.

Read the report and coach's comments here. Weave's Skydrive pics are here.

Next week, Clevedon are away to Oldfield Old Boys - can they do the double?.

3rd December 2011

Team: M.Lowis, S.Johns, D.Ashfield, M.Taylor, M.Carpenter, T.Thie(c), G.Towers, D.Vivian, J.Williams, A.Giltrow, S.Hunt, R.Birkin, H.Russell, O.Biggins, D.Rawle. Replacements: G.Carpenter, R.Smith, A.Perry.

Clevedon have at long last found a youthful new flag man in the shape of Adam Glen who is recovering from injury and trying to get fit again.

Adam, the current U14 coach also works behind the bar for pocket money and couldn't have chosen a more intimidating game to start his flag duties with. Avonmouth away, a local derby with plenty of history always meant that this was going to be a tasty affair and so it proved.

The game had plenty of end to end stuff and was littered with crucial mistakes by both sides. Add in a few controversial moments and Adam's nerve and judgement were certainly tested to the full. He came through with flying colours and is looking forward to his first home game of his fledgling career next week. Good luck young man!

Read the report and coach's comments here.

Next week, Clevedon firsts are at home to Berry Hill, preceded by a lunch at 13:30. The seconds are away to St. Bernadettes, the Allstars are away to Bristol Harlequins and the Colts are at home to Bridgwater. All kick offs are at 14:30.

3rd December 2011

Several club members grew moustaches during November for Movemember, the prostate and testicular cancer charity. Captain Tom Thie led the way and was joined by old and young a like in his quest to raise money. It is still not too late to donate, so please just click here to donate and see some amusing photos of one old duffer doing his bit.