Newtown 1 Connahs Quay Nomads 2

NEWTOWN’S long unbeaten league home record came to an end at the hands of title chasing Connahs Quay Nomads.

The Robins returned to action following a fortnight break with new signings Rio Ahmadi and Sam Barnes making the starting XI and the duo both impressed upon their debuts.

The match was far from a classic with the Nomads stifling the Robins best efforts to build momentum while the visitors twice went close in the early stages with Andy Owens testing goalkeeper Dave Jones.

Mike Wilde steered a headed effort over the bar after Newtown failed to blot out Danny Holmes’ 18th minute cross while 10 minutes later the ex-TNS star headed another Holmes’ cross wide.

Newtown led against the run of play having weathered the Nomads pressure with Ahmadi breaching the visitors offside trap to slot beyond goalkeeper Jon Danby on 33 minutes.

Nomads dominated the end of the half but a combination of staunch defending and fortune ensured Newtown preserved their lead with Wilde spurning another opening with his lofted shot dipping over the bar.

It was a similar story after the break with Owens rounding Jones only to fire into the side netting before the Newtown No1 saved a close range header from George Horan.

Nomads were level on 64 minutes in controversial circumstances when Rob Hughes’ cross was gathered by Jones who was clattered by Danny Harrison who headed home.

Referee Dean John awarded the goal despite the protests from the home bench with Jones soon forced off through the injury.

Newtown looked to respond with Steve Leslie’s low drive gathered by Danby but with 13 minutes remaining the Robins were dealt a further blow when Jake Phillips’ cross was powerfully met by Wilde who made no mistake.

Nomads manager Andy Morrison marred his side’s goal with a goading celebration toward the home bench.

Newtown strived to get back in the game but Nomads shut up shop and could have added to their tally late on with Hughes firing wide.

NEWTOWN: Jones (Perry 70), Williams, Denny, Barnes, Roberts, Hughes, Fletcher, Mitchell (Kenton 87), Leslie (Boundford 73), Rushton, Ahmadi. Subs: Phillips, Evans, Mann

Att - 210