A FREDDIE King goal eight minutes from time denied St Blazey an opening day victory – but they returned from Somerset with their heads held high.

The Green and Blacks had fought back from Dan Dodimead’s 32nd minute opener to lead with goals from striker Harry Probyn (44 minutes) and new signing Teigan Rosenquest (77).

King’s late equaliser was a blow for Blazey, but manager Mark Carter was delighted with the performance.

He said: “Facing one of the toughest sides in the league, the opening 30 minutes were tightly contested.

“Both teams showed real quality, and while Bridgwater had the better chances early on, the boys responded brilliantly after falling behind.

“Harry Probyn was a constant threat, causing problems throughout the game, running the front line alone. By the time we reached half-time, we didn’t want the whistle — we’d taken control and looked the stronger side.”

He went on: “The second half saw us continue with the same intensity. Sam Clifton was outstanding in midfield, dictating play and winning key battles, while Teigan Rosenquest deservedly earned man of the match for a superb all-round performance.

“We created some excellent chances in the final third, and with a touch more composure, we could have scored three or four.

“That’s the level of performance we’re striving for – and matching Bridgwater, a side heavily tipped for promotion, across the pitch is a huge positive and we’ve shown ourselves that we can compete with the best teams in this league.”

Blazey also gave a debut to Tyler Elliott in midfield.

ST BLAZEY: Kyle Moore, Will Tinsley (capt), Tom Strike, Charlie Hambly, Tom Cavanagh, Reece Shanley, Tom Hensman, Sam Clifton, Harry Probyn, Tyler Elliott, Teigan Rosenquest. Subs: Charlie Menear, Ronnie Reynolds, Noah Maund, Rio Daly, Mac Dewsnap (gk).

St Blazey man-of-the-match: Teigan Rosenquest.