Ho Ho Hope you all have a Happy Christmas & Happy New Year!!

From everyone at the club, we'd like to wish all our players, members, supporters, volunteers, sponsors, business partners, friends, families, and the wider rugby community a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Whether you're with us week in, week out or supporting from afar, we hope you enjoy a great festive season and wish you all the very best for a happy, healthy, and enjoyable 2026.

Cheers, Tucks
Chairman

--- Table Toppers Topped ---

Clevedon would have travelled to Minehead in high hopes of retaining their unbeaten league record. However, Minehead Barbarians soon dashed those hopes within a minute of kickoff.

Despite the usual pre-match warmup routines, Clevedon started this game as if they'd just got off the coach, except that they didn't travel by coach, which made way they were playing even more alarming.

Minehead on the other hand started like they meant it and in those opening exchanges had Clevedon following the ball down the slope before switching it up hill to their speedy backs.

Clevedon conceded their first try after a minute, their second after five, their third after eight, a yellow card after eleven and a penalty after eighteen minutes for a 22-0 deficit.

A situation that Clevedon were never to recover from despite scoring next through an Alfie Harrison, converted try and a penalty from full back Ethan Thomas, 19-10.

Clevedon's first half resurgence, if you can call it that, was halted when the Barbarians scored a fourth try, which was converted. Five minutes later the first half was over with Minehead leading 29-10.

The second half started with Clevedon playing away from the clubhouse and into the corner. They pillaged two tries within ten minutes for a scoreline of 29-20.

There was no doubt about it, Minehead were rattled as Clevedon pressed to close the gap even further but to no avail. Minehead held firm time and again in that bottom corner and Clevedon's chances ended when they had to replace players through injury.

One those replacement was DOR Tony Dauncey. Yes, you read that right. Clevedon were shy of a few and the reason why "The Daunce" had to be the prop replacement on 52 minutes. He played quite well!

If you ignore the disruptions, Clevedon put up a stern fight but ultimately failed to close the gap through many handling errors and missed tackles, a sight not seen all season.

In the last five minutes, Minehead Barbarians, aided and abetted by their vociferous crown, scored two more tries to end the game worthy winners, 43-20.

A chastening and ignominious end to the first half of the season for Clevedon, which leaves them only three points clear at the top. Minehead on the other hand are unbeaten at home and looking strong.

There's a three week layoff now until they face Imperial at home on the 10th January 2026.

Start 2026 with a winner...

Choose yourself one of the available numbers in the pic, contact either Crunch or Jim for the bank details, set up a £2.00 a month standing order or £24.00pa and Bob is yer Uncle and Fanny is yer Aunt. Simples!

Former Clevedon Colt and first team player, Robbie Clilverd has recently passed away after a long illness.

Back in the day, he was great fun to be around and at the heart of any of the old rugby clubhouse traditions - enough said!

Rest in peace, Robbie.

Please note that tomorrow's kick off is at 14:00.

Please note that tomorrow's kick off is at 14:00.

See more on Instagram.

Chew Valley II proved a difficult problem to overcome on a day when the opposition's first team were fixtureless.

As is usual these days, Clevedon had to weather a torrid few minutes at the start of the game but broke the deadlock through a typical Charlie Tucker try.

The game ebbed and flowed with Clevedon's defence, once again, proving pivotal and negating any momentum that Chew were building up.

On the half hour mark, Tucker again scored a trade mark try to the relief of the large home crowd. Five minutes later Ethan Thomas ghosted in for his first try of the season and then right on the half time whistle, Guy Prideaux scored his try after legging it down the wing at the end of a loveley, flowing backline move.

Four tries in the first half was reward enough for Clevedon's hard work, three converted by Sol Scrace for a 24-0 half time lead.

Captain Jack Crew was next on the scoreboard at the start of the second half that was the highlight of his MOTM performance. He was everywhere and at the heart of Clevedon's huge defensive effort that kept Chew Valley at bay.

However, Chew Valley were next on the scoresheet with a penalty try after a yellow-carded high tackle in the corner, 29-7.

The next ten minutes belonged to Chew as they fielded some replacements who injected a bit of zip and go forward into their performance and scored their second try shortly after their first, 29-14.

It was at this stage that the Clevedon faithful began to have their nerves jangled as Clevedon had to scrap for everything to prevent a pivotal third score from Chew. In doing such a magnificent defensive job, Chew had a player yellow-carded and that was that for the opposition.

Johnny Hicks, returning from injury, scored a try for Clevedon to settle the nerves two minutes later, 34-14.

Ollie Jones then rumbled over three minutes later for a converted try. Shortly after that two-try Tucker was binned with six to go, which gave Chew the numerical advantage enabling them to score their third try, 41-19.

With the flood lights on and the gloom descending, the irrepressible Brian Largenton barged and stomped his way over the line for Clevedon's eighth try, converted by Scrace, and a final scoreline of 48-19.

A well deserved victory on The Vale pitch that looked in magnificent nick despite last week's waterlogged postponement.

Next week, Clevedon are away to third placed Minehead Barbarians.Please note that there is no coach (too expensive), so please make your journey by car to see a ding-dong match on a difficult Minehead pitch.

What a lovely present this is...

Choose yourself one of the available numbers in the pic, contact either Crunch or Jim for the bank details, set up a £2.00 a month standing order or £24.00pa and Bob is yer Uncle and Fanny is yer Aunt. Simples!

Last season, Clevedon won this home fixure 36-15 with a bunch of vets playing in what was an entertaining game.

How many of that group have survived this week's selection? Find out here on Instagram.

The Saxons are also at home to Gordano for a proper local derby.

Both games kick off at 14:30.

Please note: The home fixture against Keynsham has been rearranged for the 31st January 2026.

Clevedon Saxons, 4th in the league, travelled to Old Reds, who were 3rd going into the game on a very wet and windy Saturday, writes John McGuigan.

With a large number of games called off in and around North Somerset due to the conditions this was destined to be a challenge in more ways than one.

Clevedon lost the toss and were asked to play with the wind. Accepting the challenge the forwards quickly made the most of a line out, with a robust catch and drive taking them to within five metres.

A couple of phases later, number eight, Adam Livingston used his strength to barrel his way over with just 8 minutes on the clock.

The game then fell into a pattern with Clevedon winning lots of ball up front, making good ground only to give away penalties, allowing Old Reds to clear their lines and get back up the pitch.

The defensive line speed seemed to confuse the referee who couldn't quite believe Clevedon had backs who could move so fast and felt they must be infringing the off side line.

A well taken penalty by fly half Ethan Thomas made it 8-0 before Old Reds had a break away to make it 8-5 at the interval.

An injury early in the second half meant the game was switched to another pitch, making the weather conditions even tougher for the Clevedon team.

Undeterred, a well taken training ground move straight off a lineout brought a second try for Clevedon in the 44th minute from the strong running centre, Luke Collins, taking the score out to 5-12.

The wind and the rain provided a considerable handicap as both teams continued to try and play running rugby with Clevedon's MOTM, James Butler making some barnstorming runs on the sodden pitch.

With the teams trading penalties, Old Reds were left needing two scores with five minutes to go. They scored a try in the 79th taking the score to 16- 21 leaving a minute for the game to restart.

Not to be out done, Old Reds caught the restart and determinedly made their way down field. Having a lineout 10m out, with the last play of the game, Old Reds smelt a victory.

Clevedon had other ideas, decided to contest the lineout, won the ball and cleared their lines. A hard earned victory moving Clevedon to 3rd in the table.

This intrepid bunch arrived for an afternoon of fun and frolics and were well prepared for the distinctly chilly atmosphere in the clubhouse.

They hadn't planned to wrap up but had to because the heating failed to come on and the finger was firmly pointed at Operations Manager, Weave.

A bit unfair to him but that's what happens when some of them are on blood thinners, others have extra padding and some run hot anyway!

They were just about to send out a missive to Weave when he came into the clubhouse. After a bit of abuse, some amazing wit and repartee 😕 later and good old Weave fixed the heating by changing the timer.

With that crisis out of the way those old 'uns had to find something else to whinge about.

Whose round is it anyway?

"You can please some of the people all of the time, you can please all of the people some of the time, but you can't please all of the people all of the time."

Whatever your preference is for the spelling of his nickname, this superb player, Alex Giltrow has retired from playing but will remain an integral part of the Clevedon coaching setup.

A top bloke who now intends to add coaching success to his CV at Clevedon.

Good luck Alex!

The pleasing thing about this match was that Clevedon won on Sponsors Day at the club. In years gone by and with the sponsors watching post lunch, Clevedon neglected to win for them, which wasn't ideal.

This week it was different.

Clevedon had a determination about them from the start but had to weather a five minute spell of pressure from St Bernadettes. They did so because their defence was on it from the start and repelled the attacks with agressive intent.

Once Clevedon had found their way back to the opposing half, they scored almost immediately through Captain Jack. Thereafter and despite further threats from St Bs, Clevedon scored four more first half tries through Tucker (2) and Wills (2) for a 31-0 halftime lead.

From the restart, the second half was all St Bernadettes who refused to kick away possession. Consequently, the Clevedon scoring machine ground to halt for 25 minutes as St Bernadettes were more determined and direct.

However, try as they might, St Bernadettes were banged back every time with some very robust and resolute defence from Clevedon. On some occasions and with their refusal to kick, SBOB ended up losing ground, going backwards and miles away from scoring.

Clevedon's defence was definitely tested and found to be rock-solid, which paved the way for MOTM Tom Wills to score his hat trick try with 15 minutes to go and Alfie's ten minutes later, for a 45-0 lead.

SBOB kept at it though and got a deserved try in the 83rd minute for a final scoreline of 45-5.

That makes it eight from eight for Clevedon who next play Keynsham II, originally away but now AT HOME, on the 6th December.

The winners are...

Please arrange payment of prizes by contacting Jim McVeigh or Cruncher Crane.

October 2025
• £50 Phil Pearce
• £25 Andy Basset
• £25 Heather Shortman

November 2025
• £50 Claire Flower-Simmons
• £25 Louise Shepherd
• £25 Leighton Griffiths

Quarter Final to be played by the weekend 21st / 22nd February 2026

• Burnham vs Combe Down
• St Bernadette's vs Clevedon
• Wells vs Imperial
• Old Sulians vs Martock

The well attended Sponsors Day last Saturday was an eye opener. From the presentations to the sumptuous lunch, the whole event was a huge success.

Professionally MC'd by Chris White, there were chats from DOR Tony Dauncey, main shirt sponsors RAW Fire & Security, Club Ambassador Nathan Catt and from the Jack Hazeldine Foundation (JHF) who are our charity partners for the next two seasons.

The club held a fund raiser for them that involved picking out a ticket from a pot that contained 36 shirt numbers, corresponding to the players on the park.

Whoever had the number of the first player to score scooped the prize of Bristol Bears tickets and a vintage bottle Royal Marine rum.

There was one solitary ticket left and Chris Williams, former club chairman and sponsor paid the entry fee. He was happy because he got given the St Bernadettes number 13 who obviously had a decent chance of scoring first.

After a very early injury the SBOB 13 left the pitch (hope you're alright) and Chris's chance of a win left with him!

A good bit of banter later and Chris decided he wanted a photo of the event for posperity.

A gert laugh, that's what it was and a nice start to our charity donations effort.

Head to the menu to see old stories and news and other interesting things.

The Rebels have moved and hidden themselves away in the countryside at Milverton; off the M5 at J26 down a few lanes that satnav loves to use, and you're there.

A very picturesque setting it is too. The clubhouse that was once a cricket club but still is the Milverton sports and recreation ground is now the Rebels base of operations, although they must train somewhere else.

The pitch has a true coffin corner that did for Clevedon in the first five minutes. In the very greasy, mizzly and downhill conditions, a long kick by Rebels and a fumble by Clevedon allowed them to score the first of their two converted tries.

Clevedon replied a few minutes later through Tom Wills, to level the scores, shortly followed by one from Charlie Tucker for a 7-14 lead.

Rebels reponded quickly with their second converted try from a flowing backline move into coffin corner, to level the scores 14-14.

The playing surface was dewy, slippy and sticky and that lovely reddish brown colour that stains and is a nightmare to wash out.

Despite the tricky conditions, Clevedon scored at regular intervals after that with two more from Alfie Harrison, another from Charlie and one each for Cal Fear and Jack Davey.

It sounds like Clevedon had it all their own way but without the Rebels tenacious and committed tackling the scoreline could have been a lot higher. As it was, two or three silly mistakes by them gifted Clevedon tries that they duly accepted.

The final scoreline of 14-44 was a good result for Clevedon and a satisfying one after their shaky start and the dogged Rebels defence.

Next week, Clevedon are playing third placd St Bernadettes Old Boys at home. The Saxons have a free week.

The last time these two teams met was at the end of last season, at home. It was another of those games that drift from the memory because it was so bad.

However, the away fixture in September last year was a resounding 14-37 win for Clevedon and definitely a game to remember.

"Just like last time out two weeks ago, Clevedon will need to be sharp against a team that is well capable of causing an upset, despite their no show last weekend.

The kick off is at 14:30 and at the same time the Saxons will be at home to Nailsea & Backwell II.

Rebels are playing at a different ground this season in Milverton near Taunton. Have a look at their new pitch here.

The minutes silence allowed players and supporters alike to reflect on the past sacrifices of others, while thinking of the approaching kick off and what that might hold.

"Clevedon will need to be sharp to ensure there are no slip ups..."

The words from the previous post were superfluous as Clevedon were sharper than the sharpest knife in a draw full of sharp knives from a knife sharpening factory, impressively sharp in other words. (apologies to Blackadder!)

Apart from the 85-0 scoreline and a record win for Clevedon in this sensational match, there was one scoring feat that stands out. Never, in the century old history of Clevedon Rugby Club, has there been a scoring spree quite like this one.

Winger Alfie Harrison crossed the whitewash for eight tries that showcased Clevedon's new attacking style under the tutelage of player/coach Nick Carpenter-Brooks.

Castle Cary were completely overwhelmed, but still managed some strong attacks of their own. However, these attacks were thwarted by Clevedon's resolute and obstinate defence. Add to that a dominant, cohesive pack and Clevedon had everything their own way on a lovely sunny afternoon at The Vale.

They began their record breaking onslaught after four minutes through second row Joe Wood. Thereafter it became the Alfie Harrison show.

There were thirteen tries in all, ten of them converted by Sol Scrace. Apart from young Alfie's try-fest, there were another four tries - Ed Ryder(2) and one each for Carps and Adam Geldart.

This report could mention every player by name and probably should do but the MOTM has to go to Alfie Harrison for his clinical finishing, aided and abetted by the his backline mates and the forwards who provided the ball in the first place.

Clevedon are now 6 from 6 with a 30 point tally and remain top of the table 10 weeks into the season. There is another rest (!) weekend next week before getting into a 5 week run of matches that end only 5 days before Christmas(!), which will severely test the strength of every playing squad in the league.

The first of those 5 matches for Clevedon is Rebels Rugby, away. Hopefully, there won't be a walkover like they gave to Imperial this week.

The Saxons had a more down to earth game as they got well beaten by Yatton firsts, 63-5. Yatton remain top of the table with an unbeaten, 4 from 4 record.

League topping Clevedon face promoted mid-table Castle Cary this week at home.

Clevedon will need to be sharp to ensure there are no slip ups after a two week break in league fixtures.

Castle Cary, who have had some close games, will bring that unknown quantity to The Vale. Clevedon should be vigilant.

The Saxons are away at Yatton and both kick offs are at 14:30. You can view the squads here on Instagram.

This was a game for the ages and the final score was immaterial in this Looseheadz charity game.

There were players just out of Colts and some really gnarly old vets (you know who you are!) and a fair few from different clubs.

The game was an entertaining affair and the Looseheadz, with a smattering of Clevedon players, raised the physical stakes. Clevedon DOR Tony Dauncey was singled out for treatment on one or two occasions, whether he had the ball or not!

There was skill all over the park and a few of the grizzled ones tried to re-enact their youthful displays from years ago and realised it just wasn't quite there.

Despite the inclement weather, there was a large crowd on the sidelines watching this great spectacle and wondering who the next rolling sub might be. Players swapped sides regularly that confused the watching old 'uns on the sidelines, and only added to the party atmosphere.

Post match there was food from Gurtwings in the car park, great rocking live music from Treble & Pope or is Pop & Treble and an ensemble cast of various Halloween fancy dress costumes.

The bar was well tended for the hordes that were there and the kitchen out did themselves with some lovely pulled pork, chips, apple sauce and gravy served by the always cheerful, Rachel, Emma and Rachel.

The Man of the Match award is usually selected by the Clevedon DOR. His choice this week was rather surprising - he chose himself! A deserved accolade as he lasted almost the whole game and got whacked a few times. Well done Tone for going above and beyond.

View Weave's match pics here.

The winners are...

August 2025
• £50 Nigel Marrs
• £25 Paul Tingle
• £25 Jim McVeigh
• £25 Arthur Nichols
• £25 Natalie Fear

September Grand Draw 2025
• £200 Derek Robertson
• £100 Darren Lowis
• £75 John Ford
• £50 James Griffin
• £50 Kate Potts
• £50 Tait Cherrington
• £25 Edith McVeigh
• £25 Tony Dauncey
• £25 Jan Knowles

Please arrange payment of prizes by contacting Jim McVeigh or Cruncher Crane.

If you want to join the 200 club for next year from October 25 until September 26, please see either Jim or Crunch. They have a list of free numbers for you to choose from, as follows :

3, 5, 7, 17, 23, 33, 35, 37, 40, 44, 45, 58, 62, 71, 84, 91, 93, 106, 107, 118, 123, 124, 133, 135, 137, 139, 140, 142, 152, 157, 159, 163, 168, 169, 171, 173, 175, 181, 184, 187, 188, 189, 190, 192, 194, 197.

The October draw is imminent so please join NOW.

Thanks everyone, Jim & Crunch

When you look at the team for this charity match, the observant ones of you will notice a few old names from the past.

The obvious one to point out (a bit of sucking up here!) is former first team backrow, Harvey Russell.

You might wonder why he has been singled out and it is for one simple reason only. He's a very nice chap who also happens to be a main sponsor and whose company name is on the front of the shirts. There's lovely, smashin', tidy!

You can see them all in action from 14:30 down at The Vale and marvel at their physical prowess and skills.

It promises to be a great day of entertainment and fun. Halloween costumes are mandatory under penalty of a fine!

View the squads here on Instagram.

Food on the day provided by Gurtwings for the Looseheadz charity match this week.

View the full post here on Instagram.

View the full post here on Instagram from Somerset Rugby.

This was certainly sweet revenge for Clevedon. They lost the equivalent fixture last season in the final minute that ultimately dented their hopes of a bounce back promotion.

There was no mistake this time though, as Clevedon ran in ten tries, converting all but two of them.

Tom Maton led the way after 5 minutes and Avon replied with a penalty five minutes later. This wee set back galvanised the Clevedon team who scored a further four tries before half time that included a hat trick by the effervescent Ed Ryder. Alfie "Silky" Harrison was the other scorer.

With Ed playing at eight, Clevedon were obviously dominant in the pack with Ollie Jones a prominent part of that domination and being awarded MOTM for his efforts.

The half time score of 35-3 was impressive and those watching didn't think any sort of comeback by Avon was on the cards, and in fact seemed to be enjoying the whole afternoon.

If there were any doubts at all, they were soon dispelled when Carps scored early on in the second half. Avon hit back a few minutes later to bolster their score to ten points and that flourish would be the end of their scoring frenzy.

Four more tries followed for Clevedon from Danny Harris, Callum Fear, Tom Maton and Jack Davey. In the final analysis, six of the tries were from the backs and four from the forwards, which shows what an all round game Clevedon are developing. Being table toppers after five games is their just and deserved reward.

A two week break in the league fixtures will allow some time for a bit of RNR and preparation before the next game at home to promoted Castle Cary on the 8th November.

Meanwhile, back on home turf, the Saxons secured a rampant victory against Winscombe II, scoring fourteen tries to run out emphatic winners, 88-12 and to remain second in the league behind Yatton.

Things are happening at The Vale, so come on down and join in the fun.

The Saxons are at home to Winscombe II and both kick offs are at 15:00. You can view the squads here on Instagram.

After last week's leaning contest, this game was the complete opposite.

The scrummages were full-bore and ferocious from the start. Clevedon dominated the early scrums and after a strong nudge fifteen yards out they scored a great try through veteran scrum half, Joe Williams after four minutes.

Burnham-on-Sea, joining the league this season from Counties 1, didn't think much of that start from Clevedon and four minutes later scored a try of their own to level the scores.

With play from both sides having an attacking intent this game was one for the highlight reel. Play ebbed back and forth with Clevedon increasing their scoreline through the ever-impressive centre Tom Maton and winger Alfie Harrison.

Of course there were mistakes from both sides, caused by the uncompromising defence and relentless pace of the game but this just added to the excitement of a closely fought game.

Near the half time whistle, BOS-RFC scored a converted try to cut Clevedon's lead to 5 points. A penalty from Sol Scrace, shortly afterwards, made the score 20-12 at the break.

The second half began with BOS-RFC kicking a penalty taking their tally to 15 points and only 5 points behind. That was the last of their scoring though, no matter how hard they tried, as Clevedon began to tighten things up despite a two yellow card disadvantage.

Impressively, Clevedon scored two more tries through player-coach Nick Carpenter-Brooks, after a fab break by Alfie, and a proper forwards try through veteran second row-prop, Ollie Jones.

Stoppages and injuries meant this game finished a wee bit late, but as it was one of those games you didn't want to stop, it was alright as the first pint tasted even better!

MOTM William "Trolly" Trollope didn't think so, he would've liked it to finish earlier so he could slink on home to a nice, warm, bubbly, fragrant bath before getting into his pymmies for an early night. Keep it going trolly!

Next week, Clevedon are away to Avon for a 15:00 kick off, while the Saxons are at home to Winscombe II.

The Saxons are away to Old Sulians and both kick offs are at 15:00. You can view the squads here on Instagram.

Clevedon, despite the game-long uncontested scrums, found it difficult to dominate without their powerful scrum in action. However, the catch and drive was more fruitful and with Gilly's rampaging (2 tries) and Alfie's neat footwork (2 tries), Clevedon were able to keep the scoreboard operative busy.

Clevedon had plenty of opportunities, squandered a few but still scored six tries, one each for Captain Jack and the returning Ethan Thomas, to win comfortably in the end.

Throughout the game, Oldfield tackled really well and disrupted the Clevedon backline when play was from the static scrums. That Oldfield opted for scrums at penalty time, which they wouldn't have done otherwise, said a lot about the farcical situation.

Nevertheless, Oldfield travelled to play and at times they did. Unfortunately, they then met Clevedon's resolute defence that stpped them gaining any sort of momentum.

This was, without doubt, the most bizzare match you will ever see and the dearth of contested scrummages detracted from the spectacle it should've been. Rugby League is what it was! With the wind howling the comical kicks to touch at least added to the entertainment and the home crowd went to the bar happy.

A mention must go to MOTM, player-coach Nick Carpenter Brooks, whose senior Clevedon debut went very well despite not playing for some time. With his telling breaks and his marshaling of the team, Clevedon were able to keep a plucky Oldfield side at bay.

Another home game next week against Burnham-on-Sea, kick off at 15:00.

Kick offs are at 14:30 and you can view the squads here on Instagram.

Clevedon once again fielded a couple of last year's colts for their debuts. Centre Eesan Hussain and hooker Oliver White joined two of their old colts team mates, who had enjoyed their debuts two games previously. Ethan Thomas returned after more than a year out with injury and ended up going the full eighty.

The bench also featured Fergus Cole who was returning from his year long layoff and Brian Largenton who hasn't played since last season.

The rainfall just before kickoff suited Clevedon's gnarly old pack, because they scored within the first 5 minutes from a lineout catch and drive to go 0-7 up.

"Here we go then" thought the travelling supporters, which was a wee bit premature to say the least!

That was the only decent lineout Clevedon won all game. At subsequent lineouts, Mary's chucked someone up every time to steal the ball, allowing their dangerous backline to practice their moves.

However, if Mary's were hoping to use their scrums to start their attacks, they were in for a surprise. Clevedon's pack was so dominant that Mary's had to resort to uncontested scrums in the second half. Prop injuries and yellow cards, sustained as a result of Clevedon's brutal scrummaging hindered the away side, but helped the home side.

Despite their pack superiority, Clevedon could not prevent the speedy and skilful Mary's backs from running riot, even from their chaotic scrums.

The Mary's scrum half and number eight combined well, in the circumstances, to extract the ball from their fast retreating scrums. Consequently, the Mary's backs had plenty of scoring opportunities, handling the ball well with Clevedon's woeful defence aiding and abetting them.

It wasn't supposed to be like this!

St Mary's Old Boys deserved this win and move on to the next round. Good luck to them.

There are no senior games scheduled for next weekend.

The teams for this weekend have been announced and can be found here on Instagram.

Clevedon last visited (as far as memory serves, that is!) St. Mary's Old Boys in the leagues, way back in the 2009-2010 season when we were both in South West One West.

Clevedon did the double over them that season, winning 14-23 away and 60-13 at home, which didn't help their relegation fight that they eventually lost.

That was a shame because Clevedon had enjoyed many close encounters with them in both league and cup matches. On balance, Mary's had the edge over those encounters and could probably claim bragging rights this weekend. Whether they do or not is a moot point as none of the players involved back then will be playing (maybe Joe Williams?).

Both clubs are in equivalent Counties 2 leagues and this match could be sold as a Gloucester v. Somerset match - if you want to stretch the rivalry that far, that is!

The Saxons have no game this weekend, so please get on up to St. Mary's for your rugby entertainment.

Please note that the kick off time is 14:30.

The last time Clevedon visited West Town Lane to play imperial, it was a game to forget.

On arriving pitchside, the strong cross wind and the threat of rain, allied to a very large Imperial team, caused a few palpitations amongst the visiting old fellas.

They thought that if the game got soggy it was going to be close. As it was, a single short shower (justifying their umbrellas) was the only set back. Thankfully, it stayed dry and windy.

Imperial started the game at full tilt and Clevedon had to work hard for the first half hour against a large and committed home team.

It was Clevedon's impressive defence that kept their try line intact. Imperial threw all sorts of attacks at them and were frustrated by Clevedon's sheer stubborness and willingness to soak up pressure.

With the strong cross wind having a say, Clevedon eventually found themselves in Imperial's 22. After a strong scrum and a few bashups, centre Tom Maton scored Clevedon's opening try, converted by Sol Scrace.

This seemed to antagonise Imperial who came back strongly to score a try of their own, with the ref scrambling on all fours to confirm it, right on the half time whistle, 7-7.

Clevedon's half time talk had a positive, energising effect as centre Will Egerton scored the first of his two tries three minutes after the restart, which was converted, 7-14.

As Imperial tired the Clevedon pack began to dominate allowing MOTM Egerton to score his second, followed shortly by a try for colt debutant Adam Geldart, 7-26 after 60 minutes.

Although the bench was emptied, an ankle injury to replacement backrow Lewis O'Brien meant a pack reshuffle with prop Oli Jones going into the second row and Joe Wood slipping into blindside. Joe by the way must've promised the Imperial chucker-inner a few pints as he kept picking off his throw ins, which allowed Clevedon more attacking opportunities to tire Imperial out.

As a result of Woodies plundering, Tom Maton scored his second try and Alex Giltrow scored his just before the final whistle for a resounding 7-36 away win for Clevedon.

In the end, Clevedon won this game with room to spare as Imperial tired and the passes began to click. The coaching staff, players and supporters were chuffed to bits that a potential bananna skin of a game was over.

Next week, Clevedon have a Counties 2 Championship Cup match away against their old rivals, St May's Old Boys.

Weave's match pics can be found here.

Other match pics can be found here.

Clevedon Saxons, under the captaincy of Warren "Wozza" Taylor, were victorious in a game that had nine tries, with Wozza scoring the Saxons last one in his usual barnstorming style.

Without doubt, this was a very good win for the Saxons and I expect Tucker & McGuigan were over the moon with their first win of the season. They awarded Christopher Wilson the MOTM award.

This game was also the first senior game for another Clevedon colt, Eesa Hussein. The youthful Clevedon pipeline is paying dividends now and it all bodes well for the future as Clevedon become the community club to play at.

Come on down and join in the fun!!

Where to begin?

It could be the pick up mix up with a car load of oldies whose combined ages were over 300 years...

... OR

... the exchange of opinions pitchside with the ref by a couple of club legends...

... OR

... the pitchside banter with the a former Clevedon Colt who was the Imperial flyhalf.

Decisions, decisions!

Funeral Arangements Announced

Neil's funeral and celebration of his life will be held at 12 noon on Thursday, 25th September at South Bristol Crematorium, BS13 7AS and afterwards at Clevedon Rugby Club, BS21 6PF.

Please wear something bright and colourful.

The three teams for this weekend have been announced and can be found here on Instagram.

Last season when Clevedon visited Imperial they got well and truly beaten, and will be looking to avenge that defeat with bells on.

The returning player-coach Giltrow will be keen to make his mark and keep the team going for the full eighty to ensure this happens!

If you can't travel to Imperial, make sure you visit The Vale for the Saxons game against Bristol Harlequins.

Both games are a 15:00 kick off.

Despite some disruptions during the week and in the pre-match warmup, Clevedon played with heart and committment and definitely deserved their win over near neighbours, Hornets.

The weather was warm, sunny and very windy from the scout hut end. Not sure who won the toss but Clevedon were playing with the conditions in the first half, and used them to good effect.

They scored three first half tries through Charles Tucker(2) and Callum Fear to lead 21-0 at the break. An impressive scoring start to the season.

Clevedon fielded four debutants in this game; two of last season's colts in Charlie Andrews (wing) and Sol Scrace (flyhalf). Both had great games that belied their youthful inexperience on their debuts.

The other two debutants, Tom Maton (centre) and Luke Collins (centre), joined the club during the summer and proved their worth with some devastating defence and flair that kept Hornets on the back foot.

After half time and at 21 nil down, Hornets stepped up their game with the wind and threatened to make an unlikely come back. They turned Clevedon over at crucial times and had second half territorial advantage. They scored after 60 minutes, with a well worked try in the corner.

Despite Hornets pushing for their second try, Clevedon responded 15 minutes later with a well worked try of their own, through Edd Ryder for a scoreline of 26-7.

As Clevedon were pressing for a fifth try, a missed pass in the oppositions 22 allowed Hornets to score their second converted try through a breakaway in the the last minute, which left prop Blaise stranded on the halfway line. The final whistle went and he had to jog back to shake hands after a game long stint at prop - good job Blaise. A good all round performance from which Clevedon have learnt a lot.

This was a good all round performance and a very good start from Clevedon who travel to Imperial next week hoping to build on this emphatic win.

Match pics can be found here.

Match timeline highlights from Pitchero can be found here.

His legacy lives on...

Years ago past president Michael Thomas was not afraid to poke fun at anyone for whatever reason. With that in mind, the practice will be resurrected forthwith!

First of all, to get a mention, you have to go above and beyond and do something that really stands out.

Therefore, without any shadow of doubt, the first recipient of this accolade is former Royal Marine, Jim McVeigh for his sartorial elegance. No ifs and definitely no buts!

He was snapped, pitch side, during this week's home game and immediately stood out from the crowd with his colourful ensemble.

A point in his favour is, of course, his Club Blazer that is now available for ordering from the president, Alan Crane. Jim is an approachable type, so if you want to ask him about it, please do so and he'll pass your enquiry on.!

The Clevedon selection panel have made their choices for the first home game of the season against Hornets, as you'll see from the pic.

Once again, Clevedon, skippered by Jack Crew, will be raring to go on a softened Vale pitch and provide some entertainment for the crowds that are sure to visit. Kick off is at 15:00.

See you all there.

Post match there will be a beach party night for those of you hardy enough to wear your budgies.

If you come down to The Vale ...

Clevedon begin their league campaign against Hornets II at 15:00 on Saturday, 6th September.

They have some new and returning players, who will be waiting to see if they've been selected after a couple of months training to impress. Nervous times for them all.

Visit the club Instagram account for more info.

The pitch has been like the Serengeti all summer long but will be in tip-top condition come matchday, after some serious work by the ground staff. Make sure you buy them a pint.

... you'll sure get a big surprise!

See you there.

Counties 2 Championship

Clevedon have drawn St Mary's Old Boys in the first round of the RFU Counties 2 Championship cup.

A very old rivalry will resume on Saturday, 20th September away at Trench Lane and follows two testing league matches for Clevedon, the first against Hornets seconds this weekend and then Imperial away the week after.

Cup fun this early in the season - what's going on?