Five Star Clitheroe

Clitheroe Cavaliers won a hard fought game against a strong Garstang 3rd team. The Cavaliers were expecting an experienced opposition and weren't disappointed as the opening exchanges went to the visitors. They dominated the first 10 minutes and were awarded a penalty in Clitheroe's 22. This penalty was missed and with it the initiative as the Cavaliers woke up from their slumber and started to play some attractive Rugby. Forwards worked hard to win and retain ball, scrum half Ben Rigby dictated the pace of the game and mixed up the options with backs and forwards given ball a plenty.
The first try came though the hands of Rigby where he dodged the would be tacklers to dot down just by the posts. The game then opened up with speedy Tom Redfearn scoring the first of his three tries. He is learning his trade well and with the speed of a cheetah is difficult to catch. Youngster Mark Piercy also managed to get on the score sheet with a well crafted run. It looked like the home side were going to run away with it but Garstang historically never lay down and managed to kick a penalty before the break.
The visitors also took the initiative in the opening minutes of the second half. A lapse in defensive concentration allowed one of their backs to barge over for a well worked try. Clitheroe have been guilty of capitulating in the past but not in this match; it galvanised their efforts and as a result they played some of their best rugby. The scrum took the upper hand providing plenty of ball; Steve Dowson ball in hand was looking menacing in the loose in only his second game back after injury. Johnny Walker on the wing was given opportunity to score and with experience will finish off these chances. William 'C.T.' Thatcher slotted 4 out of 5 conversions a penalty and ' unselfishly' a drop goal in the dying minutes. Garstang weren't finished though and scored a converted try.
A thoroughly entertaining game enjoyed by all.
Clitheroe 2nds look forward to their visit next week to Chorley 2nds where a competitive game is expected.

SR

*the only black spot on the day was afterwards in the clubhouse, when MoM Brian Sutcliffe-Wood [pictured] brought the name of the club to a new low in the 'drink off'. To say he was slow would be an understatement, but I think it evapourated faster.