LLANRUG UNITED 4

ST ASAPH CITY 2

ST ASAPH City’s indifferent Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division One form went on after they were beaten during their weekend trip to Llanrug United.

The Saints were unable to build on some positive momentum of late against a strong United side on their travels during their first game following the Christmas period.

They they now find themselves looking over their shoulders in 14th spot, with all sides around them boasting games in hand.

Daniel Brewerton’s men face another stern test of their credentials this Saturday when they make the trip to Llanberis, who head into the game on the back of a heavy 5-1 loss at Llanrwst United.

Turning back to Saturday and the home side managed to get their noses in front on 11 minutes when Gavin Lloyd Jones found the net, and things looked bleak for the visitors midway through the first period when an unfortunate own goal increased their deficit.

A strong end to the first half from the hosts saw them pull further clear on 38 minutes when a neat passage of play was finished off by Jonathan Sadler to all but secure the points before the break.

Credit to the away side, though, who came out with a renewed sense of purpose after the interval.

St Asaph found a way back into the contest on 59 minutes when experienced defender Jamie Brewerton made the most of the space afforded to him with a neat finish.

City were handed a golden opportunity to make things very interesting in the closing stages when they were awarded a penalty on 82 minutes.

Luke Wandless held his nerve to put away the spot kick and the gap between the teams was down to a solitary goal.

The visitors threw everything at their opponents in the dying stages in pursuit of a point from the clash, which left them exposed at the back.

Alan Mark Owen took full advantage in stoppage time when he was sent through on goal before rounding off the scoring.