CAMELFORD put in a battling performance before going down 2-1 to Okehampton Argyle at Trefrew Park last night.

Oke – last year’s SWPL League Cup winners and runners-up in SWPL Premier East – are expected to put together another title charge once more, but despite starting the better side were unable to provide an early breakthrough as the home side defended well.

The Camels grew into game as it became more even as time went on, while Okey did put the ball in the bet once, but it was ruled out for offside. 

Camelford made eight changes at half-time and play continued to be fairly even with both defences looking sound. 

Okey took the lead when a misplaced pass out of defence fell to Brad Ausden and he made no mistake from 20 yards. 

Okey doubled the lead five minutes later when Camels failed to deal with a long ball out of defence and the winger raced clear before crossing to the far post where Ausden tapped in for his second.

Camelford responded well and a through ball from Andy Boxall saw Shae Cardiff race clear. His cross to the far post was met by Olly Taylor who finished well.

Camelford huffed and puffed for an equaliser, but with just ten days to go until they welcome Callington Town in their league opener, boss Reg Hambly would have been pleased with what he had seen.