IT may have been another narrow defeat for Prestatyn Town in their fight for JD Welsh Premier League survival, but once again there was plenty of cause for optimism for the current basement dwellers.

Their 1-0 defeat against Newtown leaves them 11 points adrift of top flight safety, but the result may have been different had it not been for the absence of key individuals for the contest.

Midfield talisman Michael Parker, James Stead, Noah Edwards and Reece Fairhurst were all missing from the line-up, and the Seasiders really missed their presence in the last third of the pitch due to their lack of cutting edge throughout.

If Gareth Wilson’s side are to stand any chance of remaining in the division then they will need the quartet back as soon as possible to give them the best possible chance of succeeding.

Skipper Dave Hayes may have made a costly error for the goal early on, but the defender was assured from the remainder of the game and his influence in organising and motivating the struggling side he captained to a Welsh Cup cannot be underestimated in the weeks to come.

New signing Louis Irvine also showed a great deal of promise against a resolute Robins’ rearguard, and the former Guilsfield man can at least be commended for trying to make things happen with the ball at his feet.

Given the situation Town find themselves in, it would be easy for a recent arrival to go hiding and let more senior members of the squad dictate proceedings, but Irvine was always probing and more importantly looking for the ball which will stand both him and his new club in good stead going forward.

Although he was left a little isolated at times, Damian Ketley put himself about well and provides a physical presence and steely determination that has been lacking at times throughout the season, and especially since the departure of Jack Kenny who left to join Atherton Collieries in the Evo-stik Northern League.

Wilson will be hoping that the injury sustained by the ultra-consistent Tom Kemp is not too serious, as the recently appointed manager will need the full-back at the top of his game for the remainder of the season, and Ben Maher demonstrated his commitment to the club with a surging run in the dying stages to clear an opportunity off the line.

This is exactly what it is needed from every member of the squad, and although it is going to be a very tough ask to avoid an instant return to the Huws Gray Alliance their fighting qualities have been there for all to see.

This alone can give the Town faithful cause for encouragement not just for their remaining fixtures, but in their future if this current squad remains intact.