LAUNCESTON failed to back up their decent performances against Wendron and Wadebridge as they were beaten 2-0 at top-four hopefuls Penzance.

Simon Minett’s young Clarets travelled without in-form striker Alfie Fothergill, who scored twice in the 3-2 defeat by the Bridgers in midweek, but were still able to field a strong starting eleven.

The Clarets started brightly on an excellent Penlee Park surface and George Bills headed narrowly over from an early corner.

However the home side soon assumed control and moved in front after 15 minutes when Ollie Butler converted a deep cross from the left.

The Magpies doubled their lead in first half added time when Charlie Willis was on hand to finish sharply.

Manager Minett would not have been happy with Launceston’s performance and would have looked for a step up in intensity.

The home side appeared generally content to sit back on their lead after the break, although Joe Moynan headed narrowly wide from a dangerous Launceston corner.

Both sides made a series of substitutions in the second half, leaving the game somewhat disjointed.

The referee added to what became a rather unsatisfactory affair by brandishing several yellow cards to both sides.

The game rather petered out with Penzance seemingly content to defend their lead and the Clarets unable to strike a meaningful blow against a well-drilled defence.

Minett was nevertheless able to give valuable game time to his substitutes, including young striker Alfie Freeman.

Launceston remained competitive throughout but the final score was a fair reflection of a generally drab affair.

LAUNCESTON: Howie Evans; Sam Tattersall, Ryan Dawe, Joe Moynan, Jude Jago, Archie Wall, Denham Guild, Mike Steele (capt), Joe Jasper, Will Gilbert, George Bills. Subs: Taylor Davey, Jack Stephens, Kian Berry, Tom Manuel, Alfie Freeman.