MELIDEN were unable to cause a stir at the Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division Two summit as they fell to a narrow 2-1 home loss to Blaenau Ffestiniog Amateurs.

Despite the result it was an improved performance from the fourth-tier side against the runaway leaders as new manager Peter Evans continues to implement his style of play on the group, and the result leaves them in tenth position in the standings after 15 games.

They begin their quest for Take Stock Van Hire Challenge Cup glory next Saturday, but Meliden face a stern test on their travels in the form of Pentraeth.

The home side got off to a blistering start and took a shock lead after just one minute of play when Scott Stewart pounced to give them an early advantage.

Their rearguard held firm in the face of some stern pressure throughout the majority of the first period, but they conceded at a crucial time just before the break when Kieron Ellis produced a neat finish to level matters on 32 minutes.

After the break saw the visitors take a crucial lead on 58 minutes when Ellis fired in his second of the game with a sensational effort from the half-way line, and despite their best efforts the hosts were unable to secure a share of the spoils from what was a spirited and encouraging outing overall.