Failure to capitalise on openings during a first half they dominated cost Penzance as they slipped to a disappointing defeat in the final run-out of the season. “Today, we were unlucky to come away with a three nil loss,” said joint manager Darren Smith. “I think in the first half especially, we battled really well. Had a couple of our chances gone in, then I think we would have been quite comfortable.” Connor Thomas, Adam Lewis and Kizzy Snowden all went close as the Magpies played some great football in the blazing sun. The best chance fell to Thomas after an exhilarating run down the left by Lewis, but the striker could not quite keep his shot under the cross-bar.
The match became increasingly fractious with referee Alan Hoon doing well to keep the lid on a simmering pot in the Clijah Croft heat. A minute after the restart, Odiayo Kayode opened the Magpies defence with a fine pass that allowed Joel Heard to roll home the opening goal.
At kick-off, Redruth had needed an improbable sixteen without reply to wrestle the title from the grasp of New Inn Titans. They inched closer to this huge ask when Bailey Packenas applied a crucial diversion to a Jake Williams shot, then Heard bundled home his second from a corner. But at the final whistle it was the Titans players in a 100+ crowd who were cracking open the beers celebrating a third successive championship.
“I honestly don't feel we were out-played or out-muscled,” concluded Smith. “A lapse in concentration for their first, a deflected second, and a goal that bounced of their lad’s back for their third ultimately were enough for Redruth. Overall though, we were pleased with the fight and spirit today. There were positives to take, but I also understand the lads’ frustrations. Congratulations to Redruth who showed why they have finished second in the league and have now been promoted. Also thank you to all those that came and supported today - It's much appreciated.”
Penzance: Georger Hanner, Matt Robinson (Henry Ramsay 46), Lewis Hitchens, Josh Reeves, Steve Miller, Ewan Trevains (James Payne 82), Sam Payne (Connor Thomas 83), Adam Lewis, Kizzy Snowden, Connor Thomas (Kai Baxter 63), Fin Sharp (Freddie Neaum 46). Unused sub: Joel Steel
Redruth: James Isaacs, Nathan Jeffree, George Bennetts, Owen Clowes, Aaron Clarke, Kien Adams, Kane Isaacs, Dario Pisane, James Petty, Lewis Pellow, Jake Williams. Subs: Bailey Packenas, Zack Heard, Joel Heard, Odiayo Kayode, Cole Adams
Referee: Alan Hoon
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