For the first time in thirty years, Clifton won promotion to National League One after a pulsating victory over a spirited Exeter student team. The university competed well for parts of the game, but ultimately it was the lavender and black machine which had too much firepower and tactical nous to demonstrate why they were receiving the trophy.

It was an emotional Director of Rugby, Matt Salter, who praised the achievement of only one defeat since early October. He stated that the club’s success was as much about the journey rather than just this result, and how well the home-grown team had developed without any dual-registered players.

Head Coach Luke Cozens pointed out that “we were not the best team in the league, but we became the best!”

Within two minutes key winger Zak Hamid burst through in his customary manner to open the account, but Freddie Hirst soon countered with his try and conversion to put his team in front and then added a penalty.

Before the interval a twenty-metre driving maul showed Clifton’s forward strength and sent Tom Anderson over with Ollie Milner, who was to kick five conversions and a penalty, kicking the conversion. Jake Holcombe made his presence felt by touching down.

Just on half time outstanding number eight Niall Gibbons, who made yards all afternoon, charged across the line.

While the sheer strength of the home pack, with Clifton Sausage Man of the Match Shay Sainsbury to the fore and backed by strong running by their backs, was proving too much for the visitors they kept coming back with some determination, leading to Josh Cunningham squeezing under bodies to score, and Archie Rolls scoring and converting his try with the clock in the red.

Ultimately, though, as resistance weakened new Barbarian selection Will Owen brushed aside defenders to add to the total, before the ever-alert Mitch Spencer at scrum half was on hand to benefit from a Brad Talbot surge. The experienced Owen was quick to recognise the progress of individuals and cohesion growth in the team over months.

The impressive ball handling and retention by all the team was enhanced by centres Owen and Marcus Nel on his final appearance. Wingers Hamid and Matty Smith constantly sought openings and made much ground.

Almost inevitably it was the in-form Hamid who completed the scoring, and the champagne was flowing before the trophy and player medals were presented.

What a day!

Written by Roger Opie