Clifton Ready to Host Plymouth Albion in Key National League One Encounter
As National League One heads into a crucial weekend on Saturday 20 December, Clifton will welcome high-flying Plymouth Albion to Station Road for a 3pm kick-off, with both sides eyeing momentum ahead of the festive period.
This is the second time the two sides will square up against each other, with the early-season meeting certainly setting the tone for Albion’s current form. Indeed, the only competitive meeting so far this season came back in September, when Albion ran out emphatic winners at Brickfields, posting a 62–5 victory that highlighted Albion’s attacking threat and league ambitions.
That result set the early tone between these sides, with Clifton continuing to struggle as the season has progressed. They will certainly be desperate to narrow that gap from September when back on home soil.
Form Guide: Last Four Matches
Plymouth Albion enjoyed a win over Sale FC last weekend, extending their current run with a 24–14 victory over one of the division’s most in-form challengers. Prior results this season, including wins over Rams, Sedgley Park, and top-of-the-league Rotherham Titans, show that Albion remain one of the league’s most consistent sides, with high points scored and points conceded kept relatively low. Albion currently sit among the top two sides in the National League One standings and look to have some of the best chemistry of any Albion team in recent memory.
Clifton’s form over their last four National League One fixtures has been mixed. A tough 38–7 loss away to Birmingham Moseley last weekend came a week after a 28–12 home defeat to Tonbridge Juddians, giving Clifton two losses in December. However, back in November, Clifton showed exactly what they are capable of at Station Road with a shock 37–29 win over Rosslyn Park, a top-four side at the time. They also recorded a 35–24 away victory over Dings Crusaders, marking their most consistent spell of the season so far.
Both sides come into the game needing a win. Clifton will look to claw back ground in the table and exact some revenge for Albion’s heavy victory earlier in the season. Albion, meanwhile, need to keep pressure on the front-runners and maintain consistency as they push for promotion and a solid top-four finish.
Standout Players to Watch
For Plymouth Albion, skipper Jack Oulton has been an influential leader, particularly in pack control and game management. His box-kicking and tactical awareness remain pivotal. Bobby Wigginton has been one of Albion’s most potent try-scorers, capable of turning half-chances into points. Meanwhile, both Frankie Dart and Iwan Jenkins have been reliable from the tee and central to Albion’s impressive points tally this season.
For Clifton, Mitchell Spencer, the club captain, remains key to their forward platform, with his leadership in the scrum and lineout vital. Zak Hamid, when fit, has been a dangerous attacking presence on the wing, capable of exploiting space and counter-attacking opportunities. James McKinney brings valuable National League One experience in midfield, offering playmaking and kicking control.
What to Expect
Albion arrive as favourites on paper, boasting a strong balance between attack and defence. However, Clifton’s home form in November and increased backing at Station Road could make this a more competitive contest than the earlier meeting suggested. Albion will aim to control territory and force errors, while Clifton will target quick ball and continuity to challenge Albion’s defensive line.
With momentum crucial at this stage of the campaign, expect a combative encounter with plenty riding on the outcome as the winter fixtures intensify.
Team in Full
Starting XV
- Jenson Boughton
- Rhys Williams
- Dan Pullinger (co-captain)
- Freddie Stevenson
- Joe Bailey
- Jake Clemson
- Angus Hodges
- Ben Moa
- Jack Oulton (co-captain)
- Iwan Jenkins
- Bobby Wigginton
- Archie Hill
- Oscar Stewart
- Shea Cornish
- Harry Legg
Replacements
16. Louie Gulley
17. Harry Wilkinson
18. Oscar Beckerleg
19. Ben Rav
20. Frankie Dart
Live Stream Information
Albion supporters who cannot make the trip to Bristol can still watch the match live. The club will be streaming the fixture live in the Stormforce Marquee at Brickfields from 3pm. Tickets include refreshments and are selling fast.
Tickets are available now at plymouthalbion.com.
