CAERSWS were defeated but not discouraged after giving a strong Bala Town a fright at the Recreation Ground.


The Bluebirds matched the league newcomers stride for stride only to be undone by a late blast.


Manager Mickey Evans unleashed new signing Phil Jones, who gave a good account of himself and the general display of the team will offer hope of a revival to Bluebirds’ fans.


Jones wasted little time in endearing himself to his new team-mates when he forced a smart save from Leon Bimpson early on.


However on eight minutes ex-Bluebird Ricky Evans saw a goalbound shot deflected past the helpless Dave Jones by Gethin Lloyd.


Caersws refused to capitulate and frustrated further Bala attacks, while also providing a goal threat of their own through top scorer Matthew Prosser and debutant Jones.


However chances were sparse for the Bluebirds with ex-Newtown skipper Danny Jellicoe outstanding in the heart of the Bala defence.


Caersws were cruelly undone on 76 minutes when Bala secured the points with a predators goal from veteran John Toner.


Substitute John Irving’s cross was deflected into the path of the ex-TNS hitman, who made no mistake.


The Bluebirds were dealt another hammer blow four minutes later with Owain Roberts completing the tally from close range.


However the Bluebirds gave their long suffering supporters a boost by battling to the bitter end and deservedly reduced the arrears with just a minute remaining.


Geraint Lewis’ right wing cross was met by Prosser, who netted at the far post to give Caersws a consolation.


“It was a game where we were always in with a chance and kept going for the full 90 minutes,” said Evans. “I could not fault the lads for their commitment.”

Caersws

D Jones, A Davies, Holt, P Jones, Clarke, G Jones (S Jones), L Jenkins, Melia (Smith), Prosser, Griffiths (C Jenkins), Lewis

Bala Town

Bimpson, Powell, S Fisher, B Jefferies (Irving), Jellicoe, Williams, Duckett (N Fisher), O Roberts, Toner (R Jefferies), R Evans, Lloyd