Sat 2 Apr 2022
Unbeaten Claverdon travelled to Kings Norton on Saturday, looking to add to their perfect Midlands 4 West (South) record.
In the first half Claverdon applied pressure to the Kings Norton defence from the outset, with the home team struggling to clear their lines. Finally, after a few spurned chances, the deadlock was broken when Claverdon number 8 James Kirby pinched a line out in the opposition 22. His tap back to his own side led to quick hands down the back line, where Sam Turrell went over in the corner.
Claverdon continued their territorial advantage for much of the rest of the first half, with a resolute Kings Norton defence keeping them at bay. However, a second try was added about half an hour into the game, as a strong Claverdon scrum on the 22m line gave the back line the momentum it needed. Once again Turrell scored, after finding a gap in the centres to speed through. He then continued his kicking duties by converting his own try.
The second try seemed to galvanise the home team, who finished the first half strongly. It took excellent turnovers from Will Jackson and Charlie Byrd to ensure that the Kings Norton attacks were broken up. On the stroke of half time the home team did get on the scoresheet with a penalty, after a rare foray into the Claverdon half. At half time, Claverdon led 3-12.
The second half started in scrappy fashion, with Claverdon failing to control the Kings Norton kick off. A scrum followed, and Kings Norton powered over on the blind side, for their first try of the game.
The momentum then shifted back in Claverdon’s favour, as the game became quicker and more open. A penalty in the Kings Norton half was quickly taken by Josh Evans, who caught the defence unawares. Centre Chris Calcott then stepped two defenders to score a fine try. Final score 8-41.
Claverdon play Old Wheatleyans at home this Saturday in a top of the league clash.
Report by Mike Jay
