While the Clifton 1st XV and Wanderers saw their matches postponed due to Storm Darragh, the Misfits braved the storm to claim a thrilling 27-24 victory over St Brendan’s 1st XV.

Clifton Misfits XV vs St Brendan’s 1st XV

Clifton Misfits XV secured their first win of the season with a hard-fought 27-24 victory over St Brendan’s 1st XV in a thrilling contest.

Despite most rugby fixtures in the Southwest being called off due to Storm Darragh, this match went ahead. With regular captain Pete Anderson absent, loosehead prop Leo Howard captained the Lavender & Blacks, and there were league debuts for Ollie Ryder, Jono Morris, Hugo Ross, and Louis James.

Clifton opened the scoring through tighthead prop Luiz Gutierrez, who crashed over from close range. Alex Onyeahasi added the conversion.

St Brendan’s responded quickly with a try, which was successfully converted to level the score.
Clifton regained the lead when the ball was shifted wide to winger Mike Wyatt, who finished in the corner.
Brendan’s then hit back with a try of their own, levelling the game once more at 12-12.

The hosts edged ahead again thanks to veteran centre Will Pomphrey, who powered through the St Brendan’s defence to score.

Halftime: Clifton 17-12 St Brendan’s

In the second half, the intensity continued:
St Brendan’s again levelled the score again with a try.
The Misfits pulled ahead once more with a brilliant solo effort from debutant winger Jono Morris, who showed good strength to brush off three defenders to score and secure a much-needed bonus point.

Clifton extended their lead with quick thinking again from Pomphrey, who assisted second row Alex Andrews to score.

In the dying minutes, Clifton were reduced to 14 men after captain Leo Howard was shown a yellow card for offside.
Brendan’s capitalised on the numerical advantage, scoring a try in the final minute and converting it to bring the score to within three points, but were out of time.

Clifton held on to secure a much-needed 27-24 win, earning a deserved five-point victory.

Full Time: Clifton 27-24 St Brendan’s

Captain Leo Howard was named Man of the Match for his strong scrummaging performance, including a scrum penalty, and his tireless running throughout the match.

Next up, the Misfits face local derby rivals Dings Warriors at Station Road next Saturday.

Tries:
L Gutierrez
M Wyatt
W Pomphrey
J Morris
A Andrews

Cons:
A Onyeahasi