Wharfedale 20 Launceston 33

By the 46th minute, having spent virtually the whole of the action penned in their own half, Wharfedale faced a 19-0 deficit.

To the Dalesmen's credit, they rallied strongly and had the better of the remainder of the game - but it was too late.

There were some good aspects to the Greens' performance: skipper Andy Bag-gett had a 100 per cent record from four shots - none of them easy - and line-out technique was immaculate.

Home fans had two splendid second-half tries to raise their spirits but the Cor-nishmen took just two minutes to score, centre Steve Perry crossing. Fly half Sam Young landed two penalties and a yellow card against lock Antony Capstick added to the Greens' problems.

Winger Andy Matchett crashed over in the left corner after 32 minutes but it was a different Wharfedale after the interval.

Though Young landed a 38-metre penalty, a thrilling right-wing dash to the line by Chris Malherbe, sent on his way by centre partner Andy Hodgson, at last gave home fans something to cheer and Baggett's first penalty reduced the deficit.

However, a defensive mix-up allowed Dave Kimberley to score (67min), restoring a three-score 26-10 lead. Baggett kicked his second penalty, from 38 metres, but this was trumped by a converted try for winger Nigel Simpson.

Malherbe then sprinted 60 metres from a quick tap for a James Doherty try.