RELEGATED Prestatyn Town were left rueing a poor start in their 1-0 loss to Aberystwyth Town at the Motion Finance Stadium.

The Seasiders had nothing to show for their efforts yet again despite putting in a spirited display, and they remain at the JD Welsh Premier League basement Gareth Wilson’s side welcome Barry Town United on Tuesday night in their rearranged fixture, before hosting Llandudno on Friday, April 27 to close out their season in the top flight.

The home side began the contest in sluggish form and were punished after just five minutes when Seamus Heath took advantage of some hesitant defending to slot past Carl Jones.

Malcom Melvin and John Owen spurned a number of opportunities throughout the first period to extend Aber’s advantage, while at the other end the lively Oli Buckley was unable to find the target with a pair of opportunities.

Skipper Dave Hayes headed over for the hosts just after the half hour mark, while after the break saw Reece Fairhurst come close when he effort was parried.

The home side kept plugging away but found no luck in front of goal, with Ben Maher produced a scintillating individual run before firing a shot that fell inches wide of the post.

Nev Powell’s side weathered the storm and had the perfect chance to wrap up a crucial three points on 82 minutes when Joe Phillips was felled in the box, but Declan Walker’s spot kick was brilliantly diverted by Jones.

Town piled on more pressure in the closing stages with numerous shots blocked during a goalmouth scramble, which eventually condemned them to their 20th reverse in 29 league contests and secure Aber’s status in the WPL following Carmarthen Town’s home draw with Llandudno.