CAMBORNE earned the local bragging rights with a deserved victory in the first National League clash between the two great rivals in 32 years.

In bright sunshine and in front of a crowd of more than 2,500 the two teams served up a nine-try thriller that showcased the enduring passion and quality associated with grassroots rugby in Cornwall.

The newly promoted Cherry & Whites made a dream start with hooker Ben Priddey’s early try converted by Aaron Simmonds but the lead was short-lived as a home mistake allowed Red’s centre Jack Simmons to romp over and Nat Dart added the extras.

Fly halves Dart & Simmonds then traded penalties before a try from visiting prop Tommy Phillips midway through the 1st period made the score 10-15.

The Cherry & Whites then enjoyed a scoring purple patch before the break that would ultimately prove the difference between the two teams.

First Alex Ducker went on a dazzling run to set up a Josh Matavesi touchdown to level the scores. Wing Ducker was then denied a try as a pass was adjudged forward but soon after centre Matavesi showed his strength by barging over to complete his brace. Simmonds converted.

On half-time Camborne’s forwards drove infield from a close-range lineout setting up centre Connor Gilbert to charge in under the crossbar. With Simmonds slotting the extras the home side led 29-15.

Early in the second half Redruth cut the deficit with a try from No 8 Sam Stevens converted by Dart.

That however was as close as the visitors would get as ‘Town’ defended resolutely for long periods including seeing out two yellow cards which saw them down to 13 men for a spell.

Late in the game, Camborne ensured victory as they camped on the Redruth goal line eventually earning a penalty try to go clear at 36-22.

Redruth would not lie down and before the final whistle bagged two losing bonus points courtesy of hooker Mackenzie Oliver’s try converted by replacement Rhys Brownfield.