Clifton 24, Redruth 15

Richie Kevern’s last gasp penalty attempt faded to the left of the posts thus denying the Reds a deserved losing bonus point, writes Bill Hooper.

There were a few changes to the Redruth side from last week as new Director of Rugby Nigel Hambly continues to cast his eyes over the players.

Despite the result Hambly was pleased with the effort and performance from his side, saying: “I felt we played better today against better opposition, one or two little things cost us a losing bonus point but we can work on that this week in training, we were forced in to a couple of late changes but all credit to the lads.

"No cards this week so that is pleasing improvement. Next week against Birmingham will be another big game for us at home.”

A cagey first half saw both sides turnaround level three-all thanks to penalties from Clifton’s Brad Barnes and Kevern for Redruth.

Clifton began the second half with a bang with flanker Chris Rovery being bundled over for a try that Barnes converted.

Redruth’s reply was almost immediate when full back Tom Notman made a good break before kicking ahead and re-gathering to score an unconverted try.

However, Clifton’s riposte was almost as quick as wing Will Pomphery finish off centre Chris Levesley’s break in the corner for an unconverted try.

Barnes added a penalty soon after to put Clifton 18-8 up as the game headed for the final quarter.

Good play from the Reds saw centre Connor Gilbert scamper in under the Clifton posts allowing Kevern a simple conversion to bring Redruth back to within three points.

Two late penalties by Barnes proved enough to ensure the win for Clifton and leave the Reds empty-handed.

  • Redruth are back in action this Saturday against Birmingham & Solihull at the Rec with a 2pm kick-off.

Redruth: T Notman, M Bowden, J Simmons, C Gilbert, D Bonds, R Kevern, R Coote; J Tompsett, M Gidlow, C Williams, E Pascoe, T Prisk, J Clemson, M Grubb, B Howe. Reps: J Hodge, R Brown, B Fox, S Stevens, A Simmonds.

Redruth scores: Tries - Notman, Gilbert; Con - Kevern; Pen - Kevern.