MELIDEN began life without recently departed manager Gareth Jones with a narrow 1-0 win at Mochdre Sports.

The popular figure announced his resignation from his role at the helm after more than a decade on the eve of Saturday’s Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division Two clash, although Jones will still be part of the set-up in some capacity after agreeing to stay on as a committee member.

Ollie Jones and Paul Welburn have been put in charge of the fourth-tier side until the end of the season, and they began in the best possible fashion with a hard-fought success on their travels.

A club statement, said: “We, at Meliden FC, are extremely sad to announce that Gaz ‘the gaffa’ Jones has left his role as manager of the club.

“It’s a decision that Gaz has not taken lightly but we fully support and respect his decision. Gaz has given 10 plus years of unbelievable service, dedication and commitment to the club.

“It’s because of this that everyone associated with the club, players, coaches, supporters and sponsors, will miss him immensely.

“We wish him well and still hope to see him at some home games cheering us on as a spectator. He is still an active member of the committee which we as a club are grateful for.”

A tense first period brought little in the way of goalmouth opportunities, but the visitors finally got the breakthrough shortly after the interval when David O’Neill slotted home after being presented with a rare chance.

Despite being put under sustained pressure in the closing stages, the visitors held firm to claim a priceless victory and move up to eighth position in the standings after 11 contests.