National League One: Clifton 33 Taunton Titans 26
Both teams came into the game with winning sequences, writes Hugh Duder, and it was the home side that had a blinding first half going 21-0 up, scoring three converted tries after only 19 minutes.
Taunton continued the ping pong game which clearly disadvantaged them. And then came Jermaine Jones bulldozing Clifton’s defence 21-7.
Towards the end of the first half, the visitors conceded territory, giving away penalties, bringing Clifton closer to the white wash, enabling their scrum half Mitch Spencer to snipe a try under the posts.
Half time – 28-7.
Two minutes after the re-start, the kick by Taunton which no distance on it, went into the hands of Clifton who went through the phases to score their fifth try against what was now becoming a shell-shocked Titans outfit who were now facing an almost insurmountable challenge with Clifton leading 33-7.
A red card for the Clifton winger seemed to swing the game, Taunton adding 19 points in 12 minutes through Rocky Prowse twice and a penalty try. Then with time running out, with Clifton leading 33-26, the game went into over time and it looked as though the momentum, which was now clearly with Taunton, would give them a draw.
As the Titans were driving towards the posts, the referee spotted a knock-on and a scrum down which brought an end to the game.
Two points gained by the Titans, who could not make up for their lack of control in the first half when they persevered kicking the ball away with little purpose.
Next up Devonport Services at home on Saturday (November 16) and it will be the club’s armed services day at Veritas Park.
