“Greatness comes not when things go well for you. Greatness comes when you're really tested, when you take some knocks, some disappointments, when sadness comes. Because only if you've been in the deepest valley can you ever know how magnificent it is to be on the highest mountain.”

The 70’s team have taken some knocks- last year people smiled and patted you on the back, ‘it’s the taking part that counts.’

Well at this moment the Clevedon 70’s are experiencing the magnificence of the highest mountain tops by leading the HM league, having beaten the title contender Abbeymead in a ferocious game to win 1-0. The second game of the tournament wasn’t so favourable with Exeter scoring two goals to beat us 2-0. The third game, played against Western Rebels was a tense affair until half time when the tiring opposition played against an increasingly smooth attack of Mark Plinston, Brian Nutt and John Hughes who between them slotted three excellent goals to seal the victory.

The defensive team of Gerry Thompson, John Skinner and Mike Coles played with a determination and skill which shut out any opposition chances. Gerry’s increasing dominance in his left back position was a pleasure to watch whilst Mike’s close marking of the dangerous forwards is the season's revelation, reminiscent of the great Mooresque in its execution. John Skinner's relentless defensive play was exhausting even for the spectators, and his ability to initiate attacks and deliver precise passes was impressive.

Tim Holman, played an incredibly disciplined game, several times blocking dangerous attacking movements and having a shot rattle into the side netting from distance.

Mark Plinston was indefatigable in his midfield play constantly creating and blocking in equal measure- a superb performance. John Hughes, although likening himself to Jack Grealish, the most fouled and hard done by forward, steadied the ship by scoring two superb goals, the first after a very neat interchange between Gerry, Mark and John and the second after a subline pass from the centre of defence, both first class goals. Brian's constant movement and excellent hold-up skills culminated in a perfect goal- scoring move against Weston Rebels, showcasing his depth of footballing talent..

Additionally, Glyn Clarke's outstanding distribution and competent shot-stopping were vital, only conceding goals through an extraordinary strike and a deflected longshot. Glyn's performance was crucial in keeping the team competitive.

Clevedon 1 vs 0 Abbeymead- (own goal)

Clevedon 0 vs 2 Exeter

Clevedon 3 vs 0 Western Rebels ( Hughes 2, Nutt 1)

Many thanks to Tony, Mike Tippins for their support and Eric for refereeing.

Report by Pete Lyne, 70s manager

[Final Round 5 on Monday March 31st