COLCHESTER Gladiators' early-season struggles continued with a 19-7 defeat against high-flying Kent Exiles at Mill Road.

The game highlighted Gladiators' lack of depth, as they suffered their third successive league defeat.

Trailing 7-0 late in the first half, starting quarterback Curtis Bourke scrambled for an 11-yard gain but took a hit to the ribs and left the game.

With both back-up quarterbacks unavailable, head coach Karl Bourke was forced to use a “Wildcat” formation, utilising the skills of running backs Casey Campbell and Chris Jackson with no quarterback.

But with no real passing threat, the Exiles could stack the line of scrimmage to focus on stopping the run.

Bourke was unable to return to the game which left the Colchester offence struggling for production and ultimately unable to rally around a solid defensive performance.

Gladiators head coach Karl Bourke said: “Every man gave his all and the Exiles know they have been in a game.

"Defensively we played a good game, holding a high-scoring offence to three scores but we need to get healthy and we need to get to training.”

Gladiators, who were missing several players due to injury, saw their defence foil Exiles' strong passing game.

American quarterback Zac Ritchie forced three consecutive punts but another Bourke pick and some equally solid Exiles defence ensured the quarter ended scoreless but the Kent in possession.

Kent Exiles completed an eight-play drive covering 54 yards and scored the opening touchdown on a four-yard run.

The extra point was good to give Exiles a 7-0 lead.

The Exiles took to the air to try to extend their lead before half-time but good defence ensured Colchester were just down by one score at the break.

With Bourke unable to return after the Gladiators received the kickoff, Campbell and Jackson lined up in the backfield.

Campbell took the direct snap on the first play of the second half, avoided a tackle, picked up Paul Bovingdon's monster block and scampered down the sideline for a 75-yard touchdown.

Nathan Brown's extra point was good and the game was tied at 7-7.

But Exiles responded well to the setback, taking the ensuing possession 52 yards in nine plays including converting a third and 13.

The drive was completed with another short touchdown run and although the extra point attempt failed, the Exiles took a 13-7 lead.

The Exiles went further ahead, after a Gladiators fumble gave them excellent field position just 24 yards out.

A missed tackle on a short pass became a 33-yard touchdown reception to give the visitors a 19-7 lead, just before the third quarter ended.

And although Gladiators tried to get back into the game, successive fumbles diminished their threat.

Gladiators return to action on Sunday June 5 against unbeaten leaders Bury Saints at Colchester Rugby Club, kick-off 2.30pm - admission is free.