CINDERFORD United produced a spirited second-half fightback on their return to Level 7 before falling to a 33-24 defeat at Clifton.

United, playing their first league fixture since winning promotion, made the perfect start when Will Day crossed for an early try to give the visitors a 5-0 lead.

Clifton quickly responded with a converted score before adding two further tries as they opened up a 19-5 advantage.

Tom Reynolds gave Cinderford hope by crossing for their second try, but Clifton struck again before the interval to establish a commanding 26-10 half-time lead.

United emerged strongly after the restart and produced their best spell of the afternoon as they threatened to complete an impressive comeback.

Max Rendall crossed for their third try before Matt Tinker added the conversion, reducing the deficit to nine points.

JJ Horrobin then went over for Cinderford's fourth try and another successful Tinker conversion suddenly brought United to within two points at 26-24 with around 20 minutes remaining.

The visitors continued to push for a winning score but were unable to turn several opportunities into points as Clifton held on.

With the contest still in the balance, the hosts eventually secured victory with a try on the final play, adding the conversion to leave the final score at 33-24.

United manager Paul Morris said: "Our best period was the third quarter and with twenty minutes to go we'd reduced the arrears to 26-24 and looked the most likely side to win.

"Our failure to go on and win the game is down to our own failings and we have to accept that and learn from it. We missed multiple opportunities."

United will now turn their attention to their first home league fixture of the campaign when they welcome Old Bristolians to Bell Sports & Rugby Park next Saturday.