PENMAENMAWR Phoenix suffered a blow to their Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division Two title hopes with a late 3-2 loss at Y Felinheli.

The long-time leaders were leapfrogged by Saturday’s opponents in the standings after a dramatic winner left them with nothing to show for their efforts, and they have also played three more games than their championship rivals in addition to an inferior goal difference.

Things began well for Martyn Jones’ men despite the eventual result, with Sean Williams taking advantage of some space to drill in the opener on 18 minutes.

The home side bounced back midway through the half with a goal from Iwan Owen on 27 minutes, only for Phoenix top regain the upper hand after the break courtesy of Alfie Caldecott with 69 on the clock.

This joy proved to be short-lived as Ryan Cain found the net to restore parity once again on 72 minutes, and the visiting hearts were broken thanks to a decisive effort from Gruff John a minute from time to condemn them to defeat.

There was better fortune for Llandudno Junction, who continued their recent improvement with a thrilling 4-3 triumph at Gwalchmai.

Things looked bleak for the Railwaymen in the first period thanks to home goals from Cory Sinnott, Marc Evans and Gareth Allman within the opening 21 minutes, but they mounted a sensational comeback thereafter which resulted in Rob Torr, Jack Williams and two own goals giving them the points.

Derby day bragging rights went to Mochdre Sports in their narrow 3-2 home success over Llandudno Amateurs.

First half strikes from Scott Brown and Peter Bould put the hosts in the ascendancy, and they extended their cushion further following the interval through an Alex Williams attempt on 65 minutes.

Credit to Sandy Malone’s side, who kept fighting until the end but were unable to claim a share of the spoils despite two late goals from Ryan Rowlands and Joseph Jones.