LLANGEFNI’s hopes of mounting a WRU National League Division One North top three bid suffered a blow as they were beaten 19-17 at home to Bala.

The away side had the better of things early on and got their rewards when Owain Aled despatched a penalty after ten minutes, and the same player was on hand to increase their lead with two more free-kicks before the interval to give them a nine-point cushion.

After the interval saw Aled secure yet another penalty soon after the restart, but Cefni finally responded with three points of their own from the boot of Rhys Hughes.

This was followed by a well-worked try from Will Brown which resulted in a number of different phases utilised by the hosts, with Hughes adding the extras to reduce the deficit further.

Bala responded well and crossed the white wash for the first time in bizarre circumstances midway through the half, and a nervy ending to proceedings was ensured when flanker Tom Williams powered over for the hosts after good work from Greg Horsman and Rich Foulkes.

Hughes notched the conversion but the home side were unable to add to their tally and fell to a bonus point defeat.

Cefni`s next match is away at Mold on March 24, before welcoming the all-conquering champions elect Nant Conwy on April 7.