LLANIDLOES Town fired the MMP-NL Mid Wales League One title race wide open with a 2-0 derby day victory at Caersws.

Having lost at home to Kerry in midweek the Daffodils made the short journey to the Recreation Ground knowing victory would keep alive their pursuit and dreams of the title.

It proved an eventful afternoon for home defender Paul Grant, starting with him deflecting a Llion Jenkins cross into his own net inside the opening 20 minutes.

The former Tywyn Bryncrug player’s day worsened 10 minutes later when he saw red for a professional foul for pulling back Llanidloes Town striker Connor Bird when through on goal to leave his side to see out the game with 10 men.

Llanidloes doubled their lead on the stroke of half-time with George Clarke nodding home Adam Worton’s free-kick to leave the Bluebirds facing an uphill battle to save the game.

Caersws had plenty of possession after the break but Llanidloes were not to be denied a rare win on their bitter rival’s turf.

The Bluebirds, unbeaten in 13 games, failed to penetrate the well organised visiting defence with goalkeeper Kris Williams largely untroubled as Llanidloes Town manager Hugh Clarke celebrated a triumphant return to the club he became a Welsh Premier legend.

The result ensured the MMP-NL Mid Wales League One title race remained wide open with Caersws six points clear at the top with Llanidloes climbing to second place with a game in hand.