ST ASAPH Seconds remain in command of the North Wales 2nd XI League West Division despite falling to a shock five-wicket home reverse to Bethesda.

The home side put on 98 for the first wicket courtesy of opening duo Ben Murphy and David Lloyd, who contributed 75 and 24 to the overall scoreboard before they were eventually removed from the crease by Dewi Roberts, who also ran out skipper Mark Dine and ended the day with figures of 2-24.

A stunning knock from Joe Lunn put the Saints further in control, with the talented batsman smashing ten boundaries to finish the day unbeaten on 70 off just 57 deliveries.

Andrew Price also aided his side’s cause at the other end with 27 not out as the hosts ended their allotted 40 overs on 226-4.

Pesda’s run chase began poorly as captain Chris Hobby (5) and Andrew Day (0) were both sent back to the pavilion early, but they got back into the contest thanks to promising knocks from Roberts (33), Gavin Owen (36) and Tomos Jones, who was two runs shy of his half century when he played a Lloyd delivery into the hands of Lunn.

Geraint Jones then came to the middle and performed exceptionally which proved to be the difference between the two sides, with the middle order batsman securing his half century and ended a hugely successful innings.

Another valuable score came from Tomos Jones’ 20 not out as the visitors reached their required target for the loss of five wickets with two overs to spare.

The Saints still hold a 40-point advantage at the summit having played one game more than their title rivals.