IT was always going to be tricky for Denbigh Seconds in their home encounter with the favourites for the North Wales Cricket League Division Two title.

Pontblyddyn Seconds, who have lost just once all summer, were the latest visitors to Ystrad Road.

It was the visitors who claimed a comfortable eight-wicket triumph to move to the top of the rankings with one match left to play.

There was a tricky start to proceedings after Denbigh won the toss and made the decision to bat first.

An early finish looked to be on the cards when Denbigh found themselves being reduced to 23 for five.

Ioan Jones (3-12) and Daz Wilcock (3-16) caused this early damage, but some recovery came about thanks to number seven batsman James Tilley.

He top scored with 40 and was the penultimate batsman out as the hosts made 105.

Also into double figures were Josh Jones (19) and Ifan Jones (17).

Osian Jones polished the innings off with his figures of 3-12.

Pontblyddyn weren't too far from securing a maximum points triumph, but Denbigh did battle back to secure a couple of wickets.

Richard Davies (61) and Nick Thomas (23) added 86 for the first wicket, which was the main factor in Pontblyddyn's 109 for two.

James Tilley completed a fine all-round showing by picking up 2-20 to at least make sure Denbigh picked up a point.