Nomads stay three points clear of Rhyl at the top of the league after struggling to a 2-1 victory at the Recreation Ground, Caersws this afternoon.

Louis Mackin retained his place in goal after assured performances against both UWIC and Ruthin Town over the past week. Andy Alston was recalled following a three-match suspension with Tommy Baker reverting to right back. As Stuart Scheuber was unavailable, Rob Jones filled the No.11 shirt while Ben Alston, who missed the Ruthin game, took his place on the bench.

The game was far from memorable with both sides struggling to string passes together on a pitch that was very soft in places. True, Nomads should have taken the lead after only three minutes. Jamie Petrie crossed from the right wing but James McIntosh struck his effort weakly and the home 'keeper was able to make a save with his legs. That miss was to prove costly soon afterwards when Bluebirds' striker Mattie Davies fired home from 10 yards. And that was that for a first half of indifferent football with neither goalkeeper being unduly troubled.

In fact, the second-half was little better as both sides cancelled each other out and chances were few and far between. Caersws comfortably shaded possession with Nomads happy to keep their opponents at bay and look to make the occasional foray upfield.

Eventually, Connah's Quay grabbed an equalising goal. Craig Jones sent a superb right-wing corner into the danger area and watched as Andy Alston rose above everyone to bullet his header into the Caerws net. Spurred on by this change in fortunes, it was not long before the league leaders added another. With the home side pressing, Alan Hooley broke clear from his own half and found Gary O'Toole with his pass. O'Toole did the rest, netting from 12 yards for his 27th goal of a fantastic season.

Nomads will reflect on three points that maybe they earned without really deserving to do so - but that is the hallmark of champions.

NOMADS: Louis Mackin, Tom Baker, Ben Collins, Mark McGregor, Andy Alston, Craig Jones, Jamie Petrie, Alan Hooley, Gary O'Toole, James McIntosh, Rob Jones ( Dean Thurston 45 > Ben Alston 83).
Substitutes not used: Sam McNutt, Danny Forde, George Baxter.