KINMEL Bay improved their Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division Two title hopes with a superb 3-2 triumph at leaders Blaenau Ffestiniog Amateurs.

Andy Thomas’ side went into the game knowing defeat would see their championship prospects all-but finish in their first season operating at fourth tier level, and the Bay are now ten points behind in third spot ahead of their daunting Mawddach Challenge Cup second round trip to Llanrug United on Saturday.

The visitors started the game on the front foot and went ahead on 24 minutes through a fine effort from veteran midfielder Ashley Wood, and another impressive spell of possession saw them double their tally thanks to a Ross Roberts strike with 35 gone.

This was met by a swift response from the home side, who reduced the arrears just before the break when Sion Roberts finished well, but the Bay restored their two-goal cushion in the second period when prolific forward Kieron Ellis rounded off a fine team move.

A stoppage time goal from Bryn Humphries gave the ending a frantic feel, but Thomas’ side remained resolute to inflict a first home defeat of the season on the Amateurs.

Meliden were left rueing a host of missed chances during their 0-0 home draw with Pentraeth, which leaves them in tenth position and seven points clear of the drop zone.