Chippenham's Under 15s started their defence of the Bristol Combination Cup with a hard fought win at Cleve, last year's runners-up on Sunday.

The big Cleve pack kept the ball in close while Chippenham worked hard to move it wide on the small pitch.

Chippenham broke and were denied by knocking on over the try-line.

Chippenham scrum-half Danny East dived over to open. The conversion was missed but Chippenham went in 5-0 up.

Ten minutes from the end, following a penalty, Chippenham's skipper Tom Boreham stepped up to convert, extending their lead to 8-0.

Cleve scored by the post and added the conversion to make it 8-7

This left a nervy last two minutes for Chippenham. Hold on they did despite Cleve missing a 40 metre penalty.

n CHIPPENHAM under 14s passed their first real test of the season, beating Clifton 31-12 in the Combination Cup.

Fly-half Matt Johnson ran at his opposite number, sold a dummy and went over to score the opening try.

The conversion was kicked by Tom Davies, but Clifton responded with a try.

Chippenham's Ollie Harris was taken to hospital and treated for a neck injury.

Luke Flower sprinted from 50 metres out for the second try and then added two more for his hat-trick.

Clifton had two sent off for violent play. Liam Baker scored in the corner and Clifton hit back with a try.