Robinson's brace gives Clarets dogged home win

LEE Robinson scored in each half as Launceston moved further clear of trouble with a 2-0 success over Millbrook at a wet and windy Pennygillam on Tuesday night.

With the Clarets missing dangerous duo Dylan Rangecroft and Kian Berry, and despite the first wild weather of the season keeping the crowd down, those who battled the elements and made it to Pennygillam were treated to a full-blooded encounter.

The visitors started brightly and Launceston keeper Howie Evans needed to be at his sharpest to keep them out.

After 25 minutes, however, the Clarets moved in front with a fine goal from Robinson. This season’s top Launceston scorer ended a good passing movement with a composed finish past keeper Harrison Lucas-Smith.

The rain fell harder in the second half as conditions became testing.

Robinson looked to have doubled his tally but was ruled offside.

Jude Jago and Tom Bullock collected yellow cards as Launceston were forced onto the back foot, looking to protect their lead. Jago made one desperate goal-line clearance with Evans looking beaten.

Owen Davies was prominent in the Clarets midfield, but they were mostly fighting a second half rearguard action in front of their busy goalkeeper.

The tension lifted markedly when, after 82 minutes, Davies played a neat pass through to Robinson who finished precisely into the far corner for his seventh goal of the season.

The improving Clarets closed the game out effectively to claim three precious points as they prepare for Saturday’s tough trip to table-toppers St Austell (3pm), followed by Wednesday’s clash at local rivals Holsworthy (7.30pm).

Mike Steele, who alongside Kevin Hatch and Paul Hider are overseeing first team affairs, told the Post: “Last night’s victory over Millbrook was a fantastic performance from the lads and a real reflection of the hard work they’re putting in.

“The transformation in this group in less than two weeks has been incredible. We’ve introduced some structure, positivity and togetherness, and the players have responded brilliantly.

“Every single one of them is playing for the badge and for each other and leaving absolutely everything out there. There’s a real belief growing within the squad, and we genuinely feel we’re starting to build something special, although we know this is only the beginning.

“We now head to St Austell and Holsworthy in the next week determined to build on this momentum.”

LAUNCESTON: Howie Evans; Alex Parnell, Ryan Dawe, Tom Manuel, Harry Eaton, Tom Bullock, Kaiet Rasche, Lee Robinson, Owen Davies, George Bills. Subs: Mike Steele, George Davey, Danny Mitchell, Cory Chapman, Bertie Hodgetts.

Clarets’ man-of-the-match: Lee Robinson.