The Saints started strongly with midfielders Matt Williams, Simon Hitchcock, James Alexander and Edward Gillroy looking dangerous in broken play.

The team’s first real chance came off a free kick that was placed perfectly on the edge of the six-yard box for what should have been a Gillroy header.

But the Camden Haven goalkeeper rushed out and punched the ball clear.

The Saints continued to attack the Redbacks goal with Williams putting a shot just wide.

The Redbacks appeared sharp every time they went wide but the cover defence of David Bruce was consistent and effective, continually defusing the threat.

Camden Haven took the lead midway through the opening half when a break down the line led to a cross that found the head of a diving attacker.

It proved impossible for keeper Terrance Stafford to save.

A free kick for Camden Haven, in a dangerous position, resulted in another goal.

Saints’ keeper Stafford was exposed slightly out of position and the pin-point shot found the top corner and put the Redbacks 2-0 up in the second half.

The Saints refused to give in and the inclusion of Sam Trembath in the midfield gave them much-needed speed in the centre of the park.

With continual assaults on goal the Saints became frustrated and it showed in their inability to finish their chances.

Finally, after dozens of attempts, the visitors got on the scoreboard, courtesy of Alexander and a display of aerobatic excellence, performing a perfect bicycle kick off a deflected cross and putting the Saints back in the game.

Unfortunately for the Saints, just minutes before the final whistle, a sickening incident marred the game and resulted in a hospitalisation.

During a shoulder-to-shoulder tackle between Alexander and a Camden Haven player, the young Saint received an elbow to the face.

The foul was pulled up instantly and the Redback offender red-carded appropriately.

But, the concern was for Alexander, who stayed down in pain.

An ambulance was called and took Alexander to hospital where X-rays were taken.

Suffering severe concussion, the player remained there for observation.

The Saints play host to competition powerhouse and local rival Port Panthers at Findlay Park this weekend, with reserve grade kicking off at 1.15pm and first grade at 3pm.