Bristol Imperial 19 Clevedon 7
23rd December 2024
Double Header Lost
A robust and enthusiastic Imperial side did the double over Clevedon in one swell foop. They harried and harrassed Clevedon at every turn and the visitors became a wee bit frustrated that their cunning plan was not that cunning after all!
With that said, Clevedon had their chances but didn't use the very strong wind to their advantage. Imperial, however mastered the home advantage wind and scored three tries to Clevedon's one.
Imperial were worth the win as their bigger personnel were fitter than first appeared and matched Clevedon for stamina and speed.
It was one of those away matches that Clevedon, again failed to gel and play as a team - perhaps their thoughts were on the impending visit of Mr Claus and his reindeers. Who knows?
Good luck to Imperial in the next cup round.
Merry Christmas everyone.
Clevedon Lineup
20th December 2024
First Team for Imperial
After a pitch inspection, it has been decided, given the saturated state of the pitches, that the second team game against Old Reds III is postponed until the 8th February.
Get on up to West Town Lane instead for the first team game.
Imperial v Clevedon
17th December 2024
"Double Header"
This week, Clevedon travel to Bristol Imperial for a double header match. There are league points up for grabs and also a semi-final spot in the Bristol Combination Vase competition.
There's a lot at stake, especially for Clevedon as their road trips haven't been anything to write home about. This coming week will be different, I'm sure.
The kick off at West Town Lane will be at 14:30 at the same time as the seconds host Old Redcliffians III at home.
On Sunday, a proper local derby game between Clevedon Colts and Gordano Colts, kicks off at 11:00 down at The Vale. Not one to be missed.
Clevedon 43 Hornets II 33
17th December 2024
"A very physical game"
Clevedon won this match in an emphatic and physical manner, scoring their first try within two minutes from a Hornets knocked on kicked off.
Despite conceding some soft tries along the way and being a man down after 41 minutes for a double yellow, Clevedon stepped up and looked nothing like the sides that had lost away to Oldfield and Minehead.
They had a purpose and clarity of playing that had the watching faithful wondering where it had come from.
It had come from the hard work and plain speaking at training by the coaching staff. The players rose to the challenge and kept the scoreboard operative busy all afternoon with 15 score changes throughout the match.
Wise old head Brian Largenton was seen passing on his wisdom to the young, straight out of colts hooker, Andrew Wilson. It must've been very good advice because he came on as the replacement hooker for 50 minutes of the match. It was great to see.
This week
16th December 2024
W/C 16th December 2024
Clevedon v Hornets II
14th December 2024
"Game on at The Vale"
Clevedon face Hornets II and are looking for revenge after their narrow loss at the start of the season. The kick off is at 14:30.
The seconds travel to Winscombe for a 14:30 kick off and will hope to get back to winning ways and return victorious in time for the club Christmas Party.
This is an event NOT to be missed. There is bound to be all manner of silly outfits and costumes as there are prizes for the most eye catching. Judging will be done by an unknown celebrity who will announce the winner(s) around 22:00 before revealing themselves. 😉
Yatton I 38 Clevedon II 19
7th December 2024
"Local Derby"
The first team game was postponed due that the wet and windy Darragh person, so Clevedon's only game was the seconds away to Yatton.
Everyone was wondering why it was on as many other fixtures throughout the leagues suffered as well.
As it was, the wind was chilly but the pitch was in great nick and a proper derby ensued. Clevedon went behind early on to a slicker Yatton side, and were trailing 14-7 at half time.
In the third quarter, Clevedon started a comeback, and scored two tries, one converted, to lead 17-19. They thought they would hold out for the win, but with only ten minutes left, Yatton struck back after a quick tap penalty and followed that up sharpish with two more well worked converted tries to win the game.
Bragging rights to Yatton!
The pre-match sit down lunch for 60 was excellent. A big thank you to chairman Jason Clark for inviting us. It was good to catch up with some "blasts from the past" and to swap years ago stories.
Yatton v Clevedon was always one to look forward to. 😉
This week
2nd December 2024
Clevedon II 14 Old Sulians 7
4th December 2024
"Referee is okay!"
Referee Adrian Johnstone, 79, was called up at the last minute, but his game ended just 15 minutes into the first half. He got absolutely battered around a ruck when a prop from either side double tackled him and flattened him. Although badly shaken and carrying an injured knee, Adrian restarted the game but was unable to continue.
He retired from the field of play and was, after much discussion, replaced by Tony Dauncey (level 2).
Clevedon were 7-0 up when this happened and Sulians levelled the scores just before half time. After the break, the game was an even affair with both teams threatening to score on several occasions.
Clevedon won the game with only ten minutes left when centre Johnny Hicks powered down the touch to score in the corner. The conversion from the touchline by Sean Leddy was as good as you'll see anywhere and Clevedon held on for the win.
The latest news is that Adrian is okay and is up and about, albeit with a bruised knee and a couple of cracked ribs! I'm not sure he's thinking about retiremeent, but with over 1550 games in a lengthy career, it's going to be a difficult one.
Get well soon, Adrian.
Archived Front Page
24th October 2024
Saxons Squad
29th November 2024
"Saxons are at home"
Clevedon Saxons take on Old Sulians down at The Vale for a 14:30 kick off.
This is the only senior game for Cleveon this weekend as the first team game was called off by Avon due to their soggy pitch.
Cavan Tour 2025
29th November 2024
"Cavan Rugby Tour 2025"
We are looking for expressions of Interest in a senior club tour to Cavan.
Twenty four years on from our last official Clevedon RFC tour, we are looking to return to Ireland.
Thanks to a club member's connections we have the opportunity to be hosted by Cavan RFC and we are looking to combine a pre-Season tour match and a Vets/Social game.
Open to any club member over the age of 18 on departure, we will be looking to tour over the weekend of the 9th or 16th of August 2025.
Like all great rugby tours there will be club socials to help fund raise and loads for us to do once we are there. As well as the rugby, there are 17 pubs in the town. We could look to take in a GAA game Breffni Park (depending on fixtures) or try Fishing in one of the 365 lakes.
At this point, we are gauging interest to find out whether you are wanting to travel as a player, help organise or just to be a tourist. Please express an interest by requesting to join the Whatsapp group here.
This week
25th November 2024
Weekend Update
20th November 2024
"Seconds are at home"
Originally, the seconds were playing Bristol Telephones in the Somerset Vase. They were given a walkover and now play Midsomer Norton seconds instead in this rearranged league match. They progress to the semi-final and will play the winners of Yeovil/Wincanton game.
The first team Bristol Combination Vase game against league rivals Imperial, has been postponed and is rescheduled for the 21st December at 14:30. The game will be a double header with both league points and a semi-final place up for grabs.
Clevedon 36 Chew Valley II 15
17th November 2024
"A different performance"
With Clevedon fielding a few vets alongside the young'uns, they overcame a good Chew Valley second string with some great rugby.
Good defence restricted Chew to three tries that were scored through their backs. In the end though, Clevedon scored six tries and ended up comfortable winners with the old boys doing their bit.
Next week is supposed to be a cup week for the seconds against Bristol Telephones and for the firsts against Imperial. There is some doubt that these fixtures will be played then, but all will become clearer during the next week. Please check back for an update.
Saturday Kitchen
15th November 2024
"England v South Africa"
Oldfield Old Boys 32 Clevedon 17
9th November 2024
"Away day blues"
The trip to Oldfield near Bath was a hour long at least, but did include a picturesque drive over the toll bridge and past Bathamptom Mill.
That was as far as the good stuff went as the game was played in a grey old fug and wasn't the spectacle, from a Clevedon perspective, that the birthday boy was expecting. The minutes silence for Remembrance was a brief respite in the gloom and the game kicked off with Clevedon in confident mood.
Unfortunately, it was one of those games (again!) that is difficult to explain, performanace wise, unless you start trotting out the same, same old excuses, which I'm not!
I'm sure the "learnings!😉" will help this week when Clevedon are at home to Chew Valley II for a 14:30 kick off.
The seconds are away to Chew Valley III also for a 14:30 kick off.
Looseheadz Mental Health
8th November 2024
"Bristol Bears - Check it out"
Clevedon Line up
8th November 2024
"Club versus Oldfield Old Boys"
The firsts are away for a 14:30 kick off and the seconds are at home also for a 14:30 kick off.
Christmas Craft Fair
8th November 2024
"IT'S NOT TOO EARLY!"
The Rise Of The She Wolves
6th November 2024
"Clevedon Kit Finds New Life In Uganda !"
For many years now we have been supplying old kit to Uganda and to the Elgon Wolves and now the She Wolves, this is a great way of supporting these teams and when we get to see how they are progressing it really makes it all worth while. Check out the link below for the full report and more pictures !
The She Wolves, a womens rugby team based in Mbale, Uganda, have quickly become a force in the rugby community.
Established in 2019, the team is the sister team to Elgon Wolves, and it operates from the Eastern region of Uganda. Rugby was first introduced to Mbale by white settlers as tag rugby, with early coaching support from Coach Fortunate, who began training children.
In 2020, the region saw the formation of an academy aimed at developing young rugby talent, led by Madam Penina and Coach Anguma Stephen. Coach Anguma, affiliated with the Uganda Rugby Union (URU), played a crucial role in spotting and nurturing talent.
Noticing potential in the girls, many of whom had previously played netball in Bugema barracks, he encouraged them to shift to rugby, hoping they would one day join the national team.
Check the link out behind the images.
This week @ 'The Vale'
6th November 2024
Clevedon 59 N&B 12
28th October 2024
"Forget the Analogy!"
Forget last week's silly analogy to describe a lacklustre performance from Clevedon down at Minehead.
This was a proper game of local derby rugby against the Nailsea & Backwell second string, a club we were playing at first team level before "The Relegation".
We had family connections on either side. The Giltrow brothers were up against each in the pack, with our Gilly coming out on top in the try scoring (five of) stakes!
They continued their head to head in the after match racing pint, MOTM awards, which our Gilly narrowly shaded!
That said, the game was as entertaining as you'll see all season and not just because Clevedon won. The Ravens played their part and troubled Clevedon with some strong and elusive running, testing the solid Clevedon defence.
There were a lot of very good performances from Clevedon who seemed to have found their cohesion again.
Let's hope it continues on the 9th November against Oldfield Old Boys, away for a 14:30 kick off.
Clevedon seconds lost at Bristol Harlequins by a few points. At least we sent a team away, unlike Cinderford whose second team gave Old Reds a HWO! The second walkover this season - what's going on in the forest?
The seconds are at home to Oldfield Old Boys seconds for a 14:30 kick off.
Colts School Award
24th October 2024
"Colts School Award"
Local Derby Anyone?
22nd October 2024
Next week, Clevedon firsts are playing Nailsea & Backwell seconds in the latest league match. Having played their first team last season before relegation came calling, Clevedon will be keen to win this one with a flourish.
As we all know, nothing is straight forward in this league, so it will need a solid, all round effort to secure a favourable result.
The kick off is at 15:00. Meanwhile, the seconds are away to Bristol Harlequins also for a 15:00 kick off.
Minehead 38 Clevedon 12
20th October 2024
"Sunday Lunch anyone?"
Last week, I went out for a Sunday lunch. It was perfect and everything was done to perfection, a couple of hard roasties, but nothing to worry about.
This week, I thought why not give it another go? It was that good the previous week, I wanted more of it.
I'd skipped a big breakfast, saving myself for the repeat Sunday lunch. It arrived at the table, a nice steaming belly pork with all the trimmings.
I was immediately overwhelmed with the portion size and the mountain of spuds and parships. It felt as if I was already full and I seemed to have no appetite to do it justice.
I persevered though and carried on tucking in. I thought I'd crack it, but unfortunately I was half a dozen roasties and a bit of veg short. Try as I might, I couldn't finish it off. I had to doggie bag the leftovers for next week, and look forward to the reheat with a little bit of chillie to spice it up.
However, there's always room for pudding (apple crumble and custard as it happens!) isn't there? It eased the disappointment of first course failure and I felt warm and cosy and revived.
I will try again next week and just enjoy what's put in front of me, rather than worrying whether I might not do it justice. Perseverance and tenacity is the key and I will endeavour to enjoy that perfect Sunday lunch, again.
Clevedon 37 Midsomer Norton 22
14th October 2024
"Table Toppers Topped"
Clevedon scored their first try in the 5th minute and their last in the 71st. It was a game that was as entertaining as it was nerve wracking, especially when Norton got it wide.
Clevedon coped really well with these attacks and their defence was immense, but unfortunately, a couple penalty reversals cost Clevedon two tries. This meant that the Midsomers got a bonus point and retained their top spot through points difference.
Clevedon's attack was going from strength to strength until a gratuitous (and not quite horizontal) tackle on opening try scorer Alfie Harrison saw him leave the field in a wee bit of discomfort. He was replaced by veteran Joe '200 cap' Williams who brought a tougher and more robust approach to the backline, aided by the always solid Harry Lyons.
The dependable kicking of Archie Birkbeck (21 the day before) kept the Clevedon scoreboard ticking over, which was just as well, because the visitors scored three unconverted tries to test Clevedon's resolve late in the second half.
The game was settled when Trolley barged his way over for a well worked team try.
It was a great home win and one that will do the world of good to Clevedon's confidence ahead of their next game away to fourth placed Minehead Barbarians.
Next week, Clevedon seconds have Midsomer Norton at HOME for a 15:00 kick off.
Coach anyone?
11th October 2024
"Commit now..."
THERE IS A COACH.
IT LEAVES AT 12 NOON.
SHARP!!
Non-players will have to stump up a fiver to help with the coach cost.
If you fancy coming down to Minehead for the first team game, please contact Tony Dauncey and let him know.
Thank you and I'll see you all there.
There will be a coach to Minehead providing enough people (20+) commit and pay a fiver.!
First team players are exempt of course, but Daunce still needs at least 15+ players to commit before he can justify the huge cost of a booking a coach.
Clevedon haven't played Minehead since before the leagues were introduced, way back in the nineties. They were a highlight of the season back then and there are still a few old boys about who remember those days and will know doubt reminisce about them. 😮 A trip to look forward to without a doubt.
"Commit now..."
League Game 5 Selection
11th October 2024
"The Vale beckons..."
...come on down and enjoy a top of the table clash.
This is the first team selection for the match against table-toppers Midsomer Norton on Saturday, 12th October.
This is the second team squad for the match away against Keynsham.
200 Club Grand Draw
11th October 2024
This was the end of season grand draw for 2023/2024. The winners are below and will be contacted forthwith.
In addition to these prizes, £1500 was donated to the club for the specific purpose of pitch and equipment maintenance.
This is in honour of past president Michael Thomas whose whitelining skills were a sight to see. Be in no doubt, the wavy lines on the seafront were modelled on his exceptional skills. 😊
The club also owe a great debt of gratitude to Ruth Thomas, who continued running the 200 club after Mike died in 2022. Ruth has done this for 30 years and is now handing the reigns over to others to continue their legacy.
Ruth doesn't want any fuss (her words) and has said she will be available to mentor the newbie taking her place. Thanks again Ruth.
2002 Squad Reunion
1st October 2024
There is a huge day in the offing on Saturday with back to match matches and a reunion of old boys.
The first team take on old rivals St Marys (KO 13:30) in the Bristol Combination Vase, who they narrowly beat 8-6 in the 2002 Combination Cup final at the Memorial Ground.
Bring your autograph book as the clubhouse will be filled, wall to wall, with the true legends of Clevedon RFC.
Up and comimg legends will be playing in the charity vets match against Looseheadz Barbarians in aid of the rugby specific mental health charity, LooseHeadz. This follows the cup match at 15:00.
Post matches, Big Nath's pre-ordered BBQ (essential!) will be available, followed by live music and a raffle.
See you all there.
This week @ 'The Vale'
1st October 2024
St Bernadettes 5 Clevedon 62
1st October 2024
"A great away win"
Clevedon went up The Airfield in Whitchurch and produed another fine and exuberant win on the road.They find themselves second in the league, behind Midsomer Norton.
The tries were shared around the team again as you can see in the image with Charlie Tucker doing a Christian Wade and getting a hat-trick.
Next week, is a non-league weekend, but Clevedon have a game and are at home to St Mary's Old Boys in the Bristol Combination Vase. The kick off is at 13:30, followed by a vets game at 15:00
Clevedon 89 Imperial 10
21st September 2024
"A massive home win"
Clevedon played out of their skins in their first home game at "The Vale" since the great flood earlier in the year.
Tries were scored by an assortment of players at regular intervals, showing the wide range of skills they've been trhreatening for a while.
Clevedon fielded the Wilson twins at hooker and prop (the first set since the Dunn twins Alan and Simon, from the 90s), fresh from the colts and the brothers Tucker at 8 and 9. Brotherly love simply oozed from the pitch!
Clevedon thoroughly entertained the large crowd in the bright, warm and muggy weather.
The thunderstorm that was forecast happened on the pitch instead and everyone went to the bar happy, except of course, Imperial who were very generous in their defeat. They promised to open their infamous container bar for the return fixture before Christmas.
Next week, Clevedon are away to St Bernadettes, while seconds are at home to Gordano seconds. Both are a 15:00 kick off.
Clevedon Vets
17th September 2024
"Clevedon Vet's on Parade @ The Royal Marines Family Day"
Family Day Fun...
Home after a cracking weekend of rugby friendship, sunshine and a little cider - all whilst supporting the The Royal Marines Charity!
Clevedon RFC Vets had the absolute privilege of being invited to the CTCRM Corps Family Weekend to play The Royal Marines Association RFC Vets this weekend. Not many get that opportunity or to be led out on to a pitch like this!! ?🧡
What a truly amazing thing the rugby family is, the whole weekend was entrenched with the rugby ethos. Supporting each other on and off the pitch.
These guys, 80 minutes plus of pure battle, each and every one of them gave above and beyond - battered and bruised, coming off to then share stories, laughter, dancing and a little more cider, rugby is the winner.
LEGENDS - Players and Clevedon supporters too, those that stayed all weekend and to those that took to the M5 early for the match, loud and proud you were!
Thanks all!
Learning point: "What happens in The Mess, stays in The Mess!"
Hornets 15 Clevedon 13
17th September 2024
"A very even contest"
A great local derby ended with the home side victorious, scoring a try with 2 minutes of the game remaining.
Clevedon had one last chance to win it and when the restart went their way, the great escape was on. Unfortunately, after a few phases, it was all over as Hornets secured a turnover on their 22 and that was that.
A close one for Clevedon who will rue their missed chances. They can take heart from the way they tackled and defended, keeping Hornets pinned in the own half for long periods.
It was through the excellent kicking of flyhalf Archie Birnbeck that put Clevedon in front with 10 minutes to go, and the win was waiting for them.
Alas, it withered away with that late try and the disappointment will put aside as next week, Clevedon firsts are at home to Imperial for a 15:00 kick off. The seconds travel to Old Reds.
Six Nations Tickets 2025
13th September 2024
Deadline: 23rd September
There are ONLY ten days left to secure your tickets with Jim McVeigh.
Make sure you contact him by the 23rd, September (RFU imposed date!) if you want any.
This week @ 'The Vale'
13th September 2024
Youth Fixtures'
13th September 2024
This weekend we have a full programme of youth fixtures, home & away.
If you get the chance pop down to 'The Vale' come watch the future of Clevedon RFC, they're great!.
Cheers, Tucks
Club Chairman
Rebel Rugby 14 Clevedon 37
7th September 2024
Clevedon's first foray in their new league saw them travel down the M5 to Taunton to the Richard Huish college and to their pitch that seemed to be in the back of beyond.
In fact it wasn't, but it just seemed like it driving down the bumpy farm yard track that ran behind the cricket club (too far for a pre-match pint!).
It reminded me of playing rugby back in late sixties, only this time there were no sheep to shoo off before kick off!
The game kicked off and Clevedon were immediately on the attack that resulted in a typical Largenton try after five or six minutes.
Clevedon were dominant in the first half, leading 25 nil when the whistle blew.
A nasty elbow injury to Lewis O'Brien at the end of the first half, caused some disruption and a reshuffle of the pack. Consequently the beginning of the second half was not as fluid as the first and Rebels scored first, with a well worked try.
Thankfully, Clevedon recovered their mojo and scored two more tries, one a final minute penalty try, while Rebels scored another for a final scoreline of 12-37.
A very good start for Clevedon and injuries aside, looked in good nick as a result of a productive pre-season.
Next week, Clevedon firsts are away to Hornets seconds. Kick off 15:00.
Clevedon II 52 Walcot 12
7th September 2024
As someone who watched the match said, "I was ready to go home after 20 minutes as Clevedon were playing like they didn't know each other!".
He was glad he didn't leave, as he was then treated to a festival of rugby with some great tries being scored. "That winning pint after the match was lovely", he said.
Next week, Clevedon seconds are at home to Winscombe seconds. Kick off 15:00.
This week @ 'The Vale'
7th September 2024
Join us @ 'The Vale' for the start of the rugby season.
With a full programme of games this weekend, it's going to be a busy start to the season.
On Saturday, the first team are away to Rebels Rugby (AKA The Huish Tigers) for a 15:00 kick off in Taunton.
The second team, once again led by Wozza, are at home to Walcot Old Boys for a 15:00 kick off.
Whatever your choice, make yourself heard and give the boys a noisy start they won't forget in a hurry.
On Sunday, the junior and youth sections begin their seasons:
See you over the weekend sometime!.
Teams for the weekend
7th September 2024
Star Scheme
7th September 2024
Making a material difference in the lives of young people.
Clevedon Rugby Club have teamed up with the Star Scheme whose mission is "To make a material difference in the lives of young people and their families who have multiple adverse childhood/community experiences (ACEs) or mental health issues".
The Star Scheme launch is on Sunday 8th September with the launch meeting at 9.45.
Membership DUE
7th September 2024
It's time to pay and it couldn't be easier!
With the season starting this week, it is time to get your membership paid.
I have put a link behine the image, which will take to straight to the various categories and payment page on the Pitchero website. You'll need to log in, but it couldn't be easier to pay.
I look forward to seeing you all soon.
Cheers, Tucks
Club Chairman
200 Club Winners
7th September 2024
...for July and August 2024 :-
This week @ 'The Vale'
21st August 2024
Pre-Season Game
21st August 2024
Join us at 'The Vale' tomorrow evening for the squad's first outing of the season V's North Bristol.
Kick off is at 19:15pm and the club will be open from 19:00 for you to enjoy some of the finest beverages this side of the Severn Bridge!
See you there.
Six Nations Tickets 2025
21st August 2024
Paid up club members can now apply for the matches shown in the image. The application forms are behind the bar.
Some tickets are restricted. Requests for more than two tickets for the France and Scotland games may be reduced to two or to zero if the allocation is exhausted. Italy tickets unlimited.
Send or deliver to Jim McVeigh, 5 Melbourne Terrace, Clevedon, BS21 6HQ. Tel: 01275 546046.
Alternatively, please visit the Pitchero site here, login and download the form.
Email the completed form to jimmcveigh@blueyonder.co.uk
Tickets are for your use only and cannot be resold. Unwanted tickets can be returned and will be refunded if the RFU can resell the tickets.
Please contact Jim McVeigh for advice.