RUGBY: Westcliff were beaten 40-0 at table-topping Redruth in National Two South.

Bottom of the table Westcliff fought hard against their high-flying hosts.

But Westcliff’s first team Rick Compton admitted it was always going to be a tough test for his side.

“It was a tough game which was nothing less than expected,” said Compton.

“Redruth are top of the league and we are not.

“The usual effort was there and the lads tackled themselves to a standstill but Redruth were ruthlessly efficient.

“It was disappointing to not get on the scoreboard, which in many ways would have been deserved, however we have to be more ruthless with the opportunities we create and that is something on which we must work.

“It’s clear the team has better results in them and there is confidence that positive results will come.

“Next week though we face an equally stern test when second placed Clifton visit for the first time.”

As ever Westcliff were committed and dogged in defence at the weekend but Redruth had a physical advantage that they efficiently exploited in the opening 20 minutes with two carbon copy tries from their number eight.

Both tries came from dominant lineout mauls the visitors failed to contain and each was converted.

Two further tries followed in the second quarter one of which was converted.

Despite periods on the front foot Westcliff were unable to breach the home defence and trailed 26-0 at the break.

Westcliff started the second period strongly but again came up short, failing to make the breakthrough they sought and on effort at least, deserved.

Redruth did score again and once more before the end of the game with both tries being converted.

Westcliff did not wilt or capitulate and ended the game camped on the home team’s line but again their efforts, which were considerable, went unrewarded as the hosts ended worthy and convincing winners.

Westcliff: Hogarth, Lanre, Bannister, Gladdish, Ajeigbe, Slater, H Morrant, Brown, B Morrant, Binneman, Scogings, Doyle, Nicholls, Walker, Maloney.

Replacements: Richmond, Whiting, Dane, Lane & Moss.

>There was also disappointment for third from bottom Rochford Hundred in National Two South as they lost 53-32 at Dings Crusaders in a high scoring clash.