DENBIGH TOWN 0
HOLYWELL TOWN 1
THE year ended on a losing note for Denbigh Town.
John James’ gang pushed Welsh Alliance League Division One leaders Holywell Town all the way before falling to Tony Roebuck’s second half strike.
That goal brought an end to Denbigh’s month-long unbeaten stretch, but they had the chances to claim something from the visit of the high-flyers.
Holywell were first to attack and the lively Steve Thomas appeared to be fouled in the box, but referee Gareth Hughes waved play on.
Denbigh’s first real attack came after Ian Griffiths was brought down, but Kristian Pierce’s free kick failed to trouble Holywell keeper Richard Dolphin.
The hosts were on the attack soon after and Eilir Edwards’ threatening cross was gathered by Dolphin, with Griffiths and Mark Roberts waiting for the loose ball.
Griffiths then set up Roberts as Denbigh continued to press, but his strike went wide of the target.
Home keeper Gareth Roberts was forced into action 10 minutes shy of the interval when he pulled off a great save to keep out a Sam Jones header.
The home side threatened at the start of the second period and Dolphin had to be alert to punch clear an Eilir Edwards free kick, with Mark Roberts rushing in to challenge.
However, soon after Holywell claimed the lead.
Roebuck’s shot found the bottom corner of Gareth Roberts’ goal to make it 1-0.
The visitors went close to finding a second goal when former Caerwys player John Haseldin headed narrowly over the top, while Sam Jones and Roebuck both had sights of goal as the leaders looked to put the game to bed.
At the other end, another Eilir Edwards effort worked Dolphin, and Denbigh pushed players forward in the closing stages in their efforts to salvage a point.
This left a few gaps at the back and Holywell almost took advantage through Gareth Thomas, whose shot was well saved by Gareth Roberts.
In the dying minutes, Denbigh very nearly sneaked a point as Ian Griffiths’ shot was well saved by Dolphin.