Cinderford could be forgiven for thinking that there is some sort of conspiracy against them, as no matter what the competition they always end up getting drawn against Clifton, and usually away. This year’s county cup was no exception.
Cinderford travelled to Clifton hoping to put their two previous defeats behind them and show Clifton how they could really play.
The first half started with Clifton putting Cinderford under pressure, however, Cinderford seemed to weather the early storm and started to gain some possession. Cinderford drove into the Clifton half but lost possession and after a number of missed tackles Clifton scored under the posts.
Cinderford were then penalised for a high tackle, Clifton kicked to the corner and managed to force their way over from short line out throw, which many felt hadn’t travelled the required five metres.
Cinderford then came more in to the game and started to pressure the Clifton line, Cinderford eventually forced their way over and appeared to touch down, however the referee was unsighted and deemed that the ball had been held up. The first half finished with Cinderford camped on the Clifton line.
Cinderford started the second half in the same vain and after five minutes a Clifton kick was charged down and Cinderford scored out wide.
For the next ten minutes Cinderford appeared to have Clifton rattled with mistakes starting to creep into their game. Clifton, however, know how to make the most of their opportunities and were quick to counter-attack whenever they had the opportunity.
Clifton quickly scored two breakaway tries to snuff out any thoughts Cinderford might have had of a comeback, and with Cinderford legs tiring, two late tries sealed the game and perhaps gave the game a somewhat flattering score-line.
The Cinderford team can be very proud of their efforts, this was a full on battle with no quarter asked or given, Clifton certainly knew that they had been in a game. Clifton are a talented and very well organised team and Cinderford can aspire to match their opponent’s fitness and game awareness.
Cinderford can go away and lick their wounds, of which there are many, and look forward to next year knowing that they had given the probable champions a run for their money
Final Score: Clifton 34 Cinderford 5