ST ASAPH’s North Wales Cricket League Premier Division status remains in slight jeopardy following an 80-run home loss to derby rivals Denbigh.

The Saints were unable to capitalise on an improved performance in the field at Elwy Grove Park during the loss, which leaves them 19 points clear of the relegation sound with four contests remaining.

Will Ryan’s side next take the field on Saturday when they travel to title-chasing Mochdre, who currently sit in second position and 12 points behind leaders Bangor.

The home side made a good start with the ball as Alex Baker took the wicket of opener Harrison Jones for 21, before Danny Ryan took out the dangerous trio of Tom Scrimshaw (19), Stuart Griffiths (14) and wicketkeeper Joe Clayton (13) during a dominant early spell.

Darren Nixon was caught off a Mathew Ryan delivery after making just two, but batsman Gerallt Lyall proved to be a far sterner proposition to remove from the crease with a knock that gave the visitors a fighting chance of securing success.

The opener was in fantastic form on his way to 86 off 145 deliveries until he was caught off a Danny Ryan delivery to bring his tally to 5-62 from a 12-over spell, enabling the visitors to set a target of 194-9 from their allotted 50.

A disastrous start saw Nathanael Scott and Mathew Ryan make one apiece as they fell to Ifan Jones and Jack Griffiths, with the latter also disposing of skipper Will Ryan after he made a promising 18.

Daniel Williams (13), Danny Ryan, (16), Jason Foulkes (10) and David Lloyd (21) were unable to make a significant score after making double-figures, leaving the hosts all out on 114.

Griffiths and Harrison Jones were the pick of the visiting bowlers, claiming three wickets each at the combined expense of 44 runs, with Ifan Jones and Gethin Williams each securing a brace.