MENAI Bridge saw their lead at the North Wales Cricket League Premier Division summit cut following an 87-run loss at title rivals Llandudno.

The long-time leaders produced their most disappointing batting display of the season which was the catalyst behind their downfall, and the gap is now 24 points with five games to play ahead of their home clash with Connah’s Quay on Saturday.

The hosts made a moderate start to their time in the middle with double-digit scores of 23 and 32 from openers Matthew Jones and Danial Evans, but Gerallt Roberts decimated the middle order with the quick-fire wickets of Sam Rimmington (8), Ethan Hill (5) and Jack Rimmington (7) to finish his 12-over spell with figures of 3-45.

Wicketkeeper Keegan Armstrong was a far sterner presence at the crease and produced some dazzling shots to end the day unbeaten on 42, with Jamie Grimshaw and Tom Thornton providing valuable runs for the lower order with 11 and 27 as the home side finished their allotted 50 overs on 177-8, which was revised to 168 from 46 overs following a weather delay that resulted in a brief spell in the pavilion for both sides.

Grimshaw made an instant impact with the new ball after disposing of dangerous Bridge openers Arwel Thomas (1) and Jack Gower (14), and Luke Jones was sensationally run out by Evans after contributing just five.

Visiting captain Dion Holden was trapped lbw by Jack Rimmington on 16, and the Lions skipper also sent Gethin Roberts (1) back to the pavilion midway through the innings at a crucial time.

Robbie Jones mustered eight before he was caught off a Tom Thornton delivery, and despite Patrick Glover (10) and Gerallt Roberts (22) making a fight of things late on it was not enough as the championship favourites were skittled for 80 in reply.