After 28 years of striving, Clifton Rugby finally secured their place in National League One with a thrilling 48–22 victory over a spirited Exeter University side, in front of a jubilant Station Road crowd.

The Lavender and Blacks knew what was needed: win, and the title would be theirs. But Exeter University, battling to end their season on a high, ensured that Clifton had to earn every inch.

Within two minutes, the crowd erupted as Zak Hamid did what he does best — slicing through the defence to open the scoring.

However, Exeter struck back quickly through Freddie Hirst, who not only scored but also added a penalty to briefly give the visitors a 10–7 lead.

But Clifton’s forwards, led by the unstoppable Shay Sainsbury (named Clifton Sausage Man of the Match), soon imposed their authority. A powerful 20-metre driving maul saw Tom Anderson crash over, converted superbly by Ollie Millner, who would end the day with five conversions and a penalty to his name.

Before half-time, Jake Holcombe touched down after some excellent phase play, and Niall Gibbons, outstanding from Number Eight all afternoon, powered over to give Clifton a commanding 26–10 lead at the break.

Second Half Surge

While Exeter fought bravely — with Josh Cunningham and Archie Rolls scoring for the students — the second half was all about Clifton sealing their destiny.

Millner's penalty stretched the lead before the title-winning flurry arrived:

Will Owen, showing his class and pace, brushed aside defenders to score.

Mitch Spencer, ever-alert at scrum-half, benefitted from a Brad Talbot surge to touch down.

Fittingly, it was Hamid again who completed the scoring, sending Station Road into full celebration mode.

Champions At Last

At the final whistle, champagne flowed, medals gleamed, and tears fell.

Director of Rugby Matt Salter summed up the emotion, praising the players' journey and the club’s focus on homegrown talent:

“It’s not just about today. It’s about how far we’ve come. We’ve built this team, we’ve believed in our own. One defeat since early October – that’s not luck, that’s Clifton spirit.”

Head Coach Luke Cozens captured the mindset shift that made the dream real:

“We weren’t the best team at the start — but we became the best.”

Vice-President Wyn Tingley, visibly moved, led the post-match celebrations, booming into the microphone:

“We’re league champions! National One rugby, here we come!”

Final Words

Clifton finished the season with 21 wins, 1 draw, and only 4 defeats, after losing to Hinckley in Round Five, Clifton collected 101 points from a possible 105. Just four points dropped since the start of October.

From the Hinckley loss in October to the champagne spray of April, this team grew tougher, sharper, and more united with every challenge.

To everyone who has supported us this season — players, coaches, volunteers, fans, and sponsors — this title is yours too.

We are Clifton Rugby.
We are League Champions.
We are National League One bound!

C’MON CLIFTON!

Story: Roger Opie
Photo: Ian Clarke
Emotion: All of us