PRESTATYN Town suffered a fatal blow in their hopes of JD Welsh Premier League survival as they fell to a narrow 1-0 home defeat to Carmarthen Town.

The Seasiders once again had nothing to show for their efforts despite a spirited second half display, and they now look set for an instant return to the Huws Gray Alliance as they are 13 points from safety with five games remaining.

Gareth Wilson’s side could be relegated this weekend during their trip to Barry Town United on Saturday (2.30pm) if they do not beat the Europa League playoff favourites.

A tense opening to proceedings brought little in the way of chances, with Macauley Taylor’s bicycle kick on five minutes going narrowly over after good work from skipper Dave Hayes and Ben Maher.

Striker Damian Ketley and Zebb Edwards both went close midway through the half thanks to quick counter attacks, with the physical play of the Old Gold ensuring they enjoyed the majority of possession in the first period.

Keeper Carl Jones pulled off a fantastic save from point-blank range to keep his side in the contest, but the home side were dealt a blow just before the break when they were reduced to ten men after Edwards was dismissed.

After the break saw Hayes come within inches of breaking the deadlock when his header came back off the crossbar on 55 minutes, with Ross Stephens unable to turn in the rebound.

Stephens, Noah Edwards and Reece Fairhurst all had efforts blocked during a goalmouth scramble shortly after, and they were made to pay for their inefficiency in front of goal on 69 minutes when the visitors were awarded a penalty, which Liam Thomas duly despatched.

Despite their best efforts, the hosts were unable to find a crucial leveller and suffered their 18th defeat in 27 league contests to leave them looking at the prospect of second tier football next season.