Penrhyncoch 3 Queens Park 1

Jonny Evans struck twice on the stroke of half-time as Penrhyncoch took a major step toward safety with victory over Queens Park.

The match was played on a heavy surface with the Wrexham side arriving desperate for points to boost their own season long bid for survival.

Club veteran Aneurin Thomas was deployed in goal but had no chance as Queens Park’s early pressure yielded a 20th minute opener with Tom Williams firing home.

The Roosters were galvanised into action and immediately looked to respond as Jon Foligno blasted over before Liam Lewis headed wide from Cledan Davies’ cross.

The turning point arrived on 38 minutes with Evans lobbing goalkeeper Richard Cowderoy from 40 yards.

Moments later and star man Evans was hacked down in the area by James Etherington who earned his marching orders before Evans slotted home the resulting penalty.

The Roosters hit the ground running after the break and extended their lead on 48 minutes with Steffan Davies on hand to steer home after a shot from Elian Evans was blocked on the line.

Penrhyncoch continued to take the game to the 10 man visitors who were indebted to Cowderoy who produced a fingertip save to deny substitute Liam Doherty.

The heavens opened as the second-half wore on with Cae Baker battered by snow and strong winds but Penrhyncoch weathered the storm to see out the game and celebrate three hard fought points in their bid to secure survival.

Manager Gari Lewis paid tribute to man of the match Evans and deputising goalkeeper Thomas who filled the breach at the11th hour with regular incumbent Lee Jenkins sidelined through illness.

“Jonathan’s his first goal inspired everyone and in the second-half there was only one side in it,” said Lewis. “It was a big win and we must keep on working hard.”

“It’s great to be able to call on Aneurin. He is a big presence at the club and made an important save for us when it was still goalless early on.”

PENRHYNCOCH: A Thomas, E Evans, C Davies, S James, Foligno, O James (S Meredith), C Jones, Mousley (Corbisiero), S Davies (Doherty), J Evans, L Lewis. Subs: Blake, G Lewis.