CAMBORNE put up stout resistance before going down to last season’s runners-up Dings Crusaders 27-17 on their long-awaited return to the National Leagues, writes Martin Symons.

In front of a crowd of more than 500 at a Recreation Ground bathed in sunshine, the visitors took an early seven-point lead.

Playing some excellent running rugby, the Cherry & Whites hit back with a brace of unconverted touchdowns through left wing Alex Ducker and hooker Ben Priddey following centre Connor Gilbert’s scything run.

A third home try was chalked off for a forward pass before a penalty late in the half saw the visitors level at 10-10 at the break.

The third quarter of the match belonged to the powerful Crusaders as they exerted control playing down the slope and added 14 unanswered points for a 24-10 advantage.

With all to play for, ‘Town’ roared back into contention with industrious flanker Jordan Nicholls bagging a try improved by full-back Aaron Simmonds.

Going into the closing stages a penalty took Dings a crucial two scores clear and Camborne could not respond.

Camborne will take great encouragement from this opening day performance as they look ahead to a mouthwatering home derby clash with Redruth on Saturday (2pm KO).

Camborne: A Simmonds, A King, C Gilbert, Along, A Ducker, J Matavesi, L Jolly, S Rodman, B Priddey, J Drew, J Heazelton, D Cook, C Fuca, J Nicholls, J Rose (capt). Reps: T Southworth, D Prowse, A Hughes, A Brassington, R Gurnett.

Camborne: tries; Ducker, Priddey, Nicholls, con; Simmonds.