RHYL 2, RUTHIN TOWN 0

FOR the second time in the space of four days, Ruthin Town lost out in a Denbighshire derby.

Hot on the heels of their Boxing Day loss at Denbigh, Chris Williams' outfit suffered a 2-0 reverse during their Saturday trip north to Rhyl.

Town made a promising start and they had the majority of play in the opening minutes.

Ryan Jones' free kick was saved by Rory Crowther, while Rhyl's first chance came when James Murphy fired over from distance.

Rhyl claimed the lead in the 12th minute.

Murphy received the ball just outside the box after a pass from Aaron Hassall and he drove into the box from the right before firing a low shot past the despairing dive of Ryan Goldston.

Turning to the 33rd minute and the home side were able to double their advantage.

Matthew Cook's shot from 30 yards out was diverted into the net by the head of Reece Fairhurst.

Lewys Turner did have a chance for Ruthin with three minutes of the first half remaining, while Town almost fell further behind when Rhyl failed to convert from a goalmouth scramble.

During this incident, Kevin Evans cleared an effort off the line.

Rhyl started the second half well, with good link-up play between Gareth Partridge and Joe Sullivan creating an opportunity for James Murphy on the left, but he was unable to take advantage of the opportunity.

Gradually, Ruthin began to create half-chances, with the majority being comfortably dealt with Rory Crowther.

The closest chance came was in the 70th minute, when Tom Dyer's lofted shot went towards the top corner and it drew a great reaction save from Crowther, who tipped the ball over the bar.

Wil Owen broke free for the visitors, but he fired over the bar under pressure from Cai Owen.

The closing 10 minutes saw Ruthin enjoy the majority of the pressure.

The best late chance went the way of Ilan Hughes, but his shot hit team-mate Llyr Morris.