By David Harrison at Mount Wise

SWPL PREMIER WEST (SATURDAY)

Newquay 3 Launceston 1

THE Clarets continued their run of tough fixtures against top SWPL teams when they travelled to Mount Wise on Saturday, to face unbeaten title favourites Newquay.

Manager Neil Price was pleased to welcome back skipper Mike Steele, alongside new signing Ryan Dawe, son of popular former Claret Jon.

Newquay, fresh from a 6-0 league victory over Bude, controlled possession from the off with top scorer Callam Mconie a constant threat.

The Clarets were well organised, with central defenders Jude Jago and Archie Wall supported by full-backs Josh Harris and Carl Aldridge, in front of busy keeper Lewis Slade. Mark Elvidge and Lewis Young provided the goal threat, prompted by Steele and the excellent Andy Watkins.

Under sustained pressure, the Clarets held out for 38 minutes, at which point Cam Turner struck a fine 22-yard free-kick past Slade.

Manager Price introduced Aaron Hughes at the break as his side looked to turn the tide, but were unable to build much in the way of sustained possession.

The home team were becoming anxious, with just a single-goal lead, but doubled their advantage after 70 minutes when substitute Louis Price ran clear to beat Slade.

The Clarets were right back in the game in the 78th minute when a left-wing corner was flicked on by Watkins and rammed home by Young but within a minute Newquay scored the goal of the game, a stunning 25-yard drive by Price that left Slade helpless.

Things get no easier next Saturday when old rivals Liskeard visit Pennygillam (3pm).

LAUNCESTON: Lewis Slade; Josh Harris, Carl Aldridge, Ryan Dawe, Jude Jago, Archie Wall, Lewis Young, Mike Steele (captain), Andy Watkins, Mark Elvidge, Isaac Varga. Subs: Dan Clifton, Jason Hoar, Aaron Hughes.

Clarets man of the match: Carl Aldridge.