NEWQUAY 2 PENRYN ATHLETIC 4

PENRYN Athletic overcame a much-strengthened Newquay side at Mount Wise to finish convincing winners in this Jolly's Combination League clash.

With rivals Penzance going down at Hayle, Athletic now have a crucial four-point lead at the top of the table.

It looked as if Athletic would be in for a tough time when the Peppermints took a sixth minute lead after Damien Dyer outpaced the visiting defence to shoot past Symon Winnan.

The opening half was certainly well contested, but Athletic deservedly got back on level terms when Andy Trathen's shot was parried by the 'keeper only for Darren Martin to pounce and slot the ball into the net.

Newquay found themselves under pressure and were fortunate to escape when Casey Adams picked up Matt Potts pass and set up Trathen who had his shot blocked on the line.

Paul Kneebone headed over the bar from close range and Will Scoley went close with a shot from Shane D'Cotta's pass, but after 34 minutes Athletic took the lead when Martin was released by Martin Murphy whose cross into the box was tucked away by Trathen.

Early in the second half Athletic tightened their grip on the game with a third goal when Winnan's clearance found D'Cotta who went round a defender and crossed for Martin to control the ball before placing his shot past Crane.

A good move involving Murphy and Daniel Knowles saw Knowles find D'Cotta in space and his cross was powered into the net by Trathen who gave the 'keeper no chance.

With 15 minutes to go Newquay reduced the arrears when Leon Holland lobbed Winnan from 12 yards, but there was to be no comeback as Athletic comfortably held on for an important three points.