HEAD coach Tony Yapp believes Taunton Titans defensive effort was ‘the key’ to Saturday’s 19-16 victory over Redruth, as they climbed back to the top of National Two South in front of a bumper crowd at Hyde Park.

In blustery conditions, Josh Claydon touched down twice for Titans, who were also awarded a penalty try – and Yapp said his side’s defensive willingness ‘was a massive positive’.

He said: “We always knew it was going be tough against Redruth and both teams showed a willingness to play rather than succumbing to the conditions, which was great.

“I think our defence was the key to the win today against a good Redruth team.”

“The defence was a massive positive today.

“That, along with the fact that we got into the 22 twice in the first half and scored twice shows that ruthless edge.

“The backs fronted up today and I thought some of the handling was excellent in those conditions.

“We played very well today and I thought our defence was probably the best it has been all season - and our willingness to get off the line and chop tackle was there to see.

“I thought we played well in the first-half and to come in ahead was a bonus.

“I think in the second-half we didn’t do a lot wrong, but our indiscipline nearly let Redruth back into the game.”

Forwards coach, Chris Brown said he was ‘delighted’ with the win, but insisted Titans must improve their discipline.

He said: “Given the conditions and the amount of possession we squandered in the first-half, l am delighted with the win.

“We gave away too many scrum penalties and the lineout didn't function as per usual.

“The team spirit and application to defence in the second-half was superb.

“We made our tackles and I felt that we dominated territory with good field position and pressure rugby.

“We were pleased to close out the game and hold on for a win on a day in the league when results were tight.

“I think this was a great advert for South West rugby.

“As usual, both sides threw the kitchen sink at it and Reds were rightly disappointed at the end.

“For us, the first ten games as a whole have been fantastic and we are pleased to keep the habit.

“Next week, however, we must raise it again it what I'm sure will be an enthralling encounter against Old Albanians.”

Table-topping Titans travel to second-placed Old Albanians this weekend, who are back in the division after several seasons in National One.

Traditionally, OA’s are known to play an entertaining style of rugby and are the league’s top points scorers with 327.

They also boast the best defensive record in the league, so the Titans will have to be at their best to get any rewards from this fixture.

Taunton head into the game with a clean bill of health, with the likely possibility of Charlie Walker-Blair and Ratu Vakalutukali close to a return, as well as centre Matt Tichias.