Sat 25 Feb 2023
Match report by Hilton Garner-Jones
Claverdon’s 1st XV travelled away to Worcestershire side Tenbury on Saturday, in the hope of securing a crucial win to finish in the top half of the league table. The visitors started with controlled aggression and a real intent to get forward. A disallowed try for number 8, Ethan Houghton momentarily allowed Tenbury to regather. However, a scrum in the opposition 22 gave fly-half, Hilton Garner-Jones an opportunity to use his pace and step the Tenbury defender to score. James Williams converted to give Claverdon an early 7-point lead. Celebrations, however, were cut short. Tenbury bulldozed their way to the Claverdon line, and quickly nullified the away side’s lead.
Difficulties in stopping Tenbury’s big ball carriers made life hard for the Lions throughout the game. The half-time whistle blew, providing some vital time for the away side to regroup and refocus. A positive spell for the Lions saw positive scrummaging from the likes of Kyle Saliss and Chris Glover. Centre, Josh Evans picked an excellent line to strike and touch over the line. Williams once again, converting, took the Claverdon points haul to 14. However, Tenbury’s efforts proved too hard to emulate. Frustrations from both sides saw a player from each team sent off for reckless conduct with fifteen minutes left to play. The game finished with a sevens-style approach from both sides in what was a product of exhaustion. The final score was 33-14 to Tenbury. Claverdon now look to their next fixture, away to Coventry side, Old Wheatleyans on Saturday.
