Rhyl notch 13th win in last 14 with narrow Porthmadog triumph

The Lilywhites picked up their 13th win in 14 contests in all competitions against their in-form opponents, and they are now 12 points behind Huws Gray Alliance leaders Airbus Broughton in fourth position.

Eddie Maurice-Jones’ side turn their attentions to JD Welsh Cup action this Saturday when they make the long trip to Nathanial MG Cup finalists Cambrian and Clydach BGC at the fourth-round stage (2.30pm).

The visitors got off to a strong start and almost went ahead early on when Iwan Jones fired wide on five minutes, with recent signing Mike Sharples heading over from close range soon after.

Gradually the Lilies’ began to impose themselves on the contest and they broke the deadlock on 19 minutes when striker Barry Torrence made it three goals in as many games when he turned in an Aaron Hassall corner from inside the six-yard box.

This provoked a strong response from Port, who had a Sion Edwards attempt blocked by defender Max Peate, before Sharples hit the side netting with another chance during a good spell of pressure.

Talented youngster Cai Owen headed over at the other end towards the end of the first period, and James Murphy curled an effort wide in the final action of the half.

After the break saw livewire Shaun Cavanagh blaze over for the away side in the opening exchanges, and they were made to pay for their lack of conviction on 50 minutes when Mike Pritchard doubled the Lilies’ advantage after good approach play from Hassall and Murphy.

Port bounced back in fine style and reduced the arrears after 65 minutes when Julian Williams capitalised on some hesitant defending to fire past Rory Crowther, and the stopper was involved in a moment of confusion with Owen immediately following the restart which Sion Edwards could not take advantage of.

The introduction of debutant Sam Molyneux almost brought instant dividends when his effort was diverted by Paul Pritchard, with Canavagh spurning Port’s best chance in the closing stages.