ST ASAPH could not follow up their weekend win as they fell to a narrow 11-run home defeat at the hands of newly promoted Pwllheli.

The Saints are now 11 points behind North Wales Cricket League Premier Division leaders Menai Bridge having played a game more, and Will Ryan’s men will; look to get back to winning ways when they next take the field on June 9 against Connah’s Quay at Elwy Grove Park.

Ryan ran out dangerous opener Swapnil Kate for just 15 to get his side off to a great start in the field, while Alex Baker managed to remove Morgan Murray-Williams after he contributed just 14.

Pwll responded well to the initial setbacks and took control of proceedings thanks to a stunning knock from Jason Underwood, who proved to be a formidable presence at the crease to end the day unbeaten on a superb 112.

He was aided at the other end by Chris Moore, who smashed eight boundaries on his way to 79 before he was eventually dismissed at the hands of Richard Marsh-Evans as the away side ended their allotted 50 overs on 244-3.

The home run chase got off to a moderate start with double-figure scores from Duncan Midgley (17) and wicketkeeper Nathanael Scott (20), with opener Mathew Ryan making a promising 34 before he was run out at a crucial stage.

Danny Ryan was sent packing by Moore after failing to contribute a single run, but outstanding knocks of 40 and 41 from Jason Foulkes and Paul Fleming gave them a fighting chance of reaching their total.

The captain fell three runs short of his half century which proved to be another turning point, and despite a valiant effort of 23 not out from Baker it was not enough as the hosts finished on 233-8 in reply.