The New Saints pulled two points clear at the top of the JD Welsh Premier League table while Bangor City maintained their impressive run of form to move up into third.
Two late goals ensured Saints of a comfortable 5-2 winning margin over Carmarthen Town but the visit of the league’s basement side was far from straightforward.
Kyle Williams’ shot crossed the line before Saints defender Simon Spender could clear to give Carmarthen – winless in their previous 10 league outings – a shock lead before Greg Draper restored parity shortly after with a low shot into the bottom corner.
Two goals in the space of five-minutes put The New Saints firmly in the driving seat when Wes Fletcher and Ryan Leak found the target before Carmarthen again struck, this time through Liam Walsh, inside a frantic half hour at Park Hall.
Despite their contrasting form, relegation threatened Carmarthen continued to push in the second-half and it wasn’t until the final few minutes when Saints winger Jamie Mullan grabbed two late goals was the result beyond doubt.
Cardiff Met had the chance to match The New Saints’ points total on Sunday but were held to a draw as their clash with Connah’s Quay finished in a stalemate.
The Saints now have the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the table to five points on Tuesday when they face Cefn Druids in their game in-hand.
Kevin Nicholson’s Bangor City continued their impressive run of form thumping Bala Town 5-0.
Three defeats had placed City’s European ambitions under threat a month ago, but clinical finishing and an inspired performance from young goalkeeper Matthew Hall saw Bangor notch their fourth straight win.
Assistant Gary Taylor-Fletcher scored his first goal since returning from injury to open the deadlock. Starlet Luke Wall claimed a brace as Bangor continue to find their stride.
At the bottom of the table, Aberystwyth’s 3-0 derby win over Newtown moves them 11 points clear of Carmarthen.
Craig Hobson rediscovered his goalscoring form scoring twice after John McKenna had put the Seasiders in front.
Llandudno recorded their first win under Iwan Williams, winning 3-1 at Prestatyn Town.
A late goal from substitute Jonathan Taylor lifted Cefn Druids to a 2-1 victory against Barry Town with the Ancients moving up to fifth in the table.
Next weekend see’s attentions turn towards the Welsh Cup as WPL sides enter the competition’s third round.
Featured image: The New Saints/Welsh Premier League
