DOLGELLAU Athletic suffered one of the heaviest defeats in recent years as Queens Park powered to a comprehensive 6-1 victory in the Lock Stoch Ardal North East on Saturday.

The visitors made the perfect start and were gifted the opening goal after just four minutes when a mistake by Queens Park goalkeeper Joshua Edwards allowed Ioan Roberts to put Dolgellau ahead.

However, their lead lasted only three minutes. Queens Park equalised from a corner through Michael Pritchard, although Dolgellau felt the ball had been turned in with the aid of a hand.

The hosts then took control and went in front thanks to a superb free-kick from Corey Smart after Dolgellau had conceded a foul just outside the penalty area.

Trailing 2-1 at the break, Dolgellau's hopes of a comeback suffered an immediate setback when Queens Park won possession high up the pitch and Harry Jones headed home from a cross less than a minute into the second half.

The visitors' frustration increased on the hour mark when Michael Latham converted a penalty. Dolgellau protested that the foul had occurred outside the box, while Gethin Evans was shown a second yellow card despite claims that team-mate Joey Jones had committed the offence.

Queens Park continued to dominate and added further goals through Pritchard and Ethan Simpson to complete an emphatic win.

Dolgellau manager Rob Evans admitted his side had been second best.

"Full credit to Queens Park today, who were by far the better side," he said.

Meanwhile, Bow Street began their league campaign with an impressive 3-0 victory over Carno.

Managed by stand-in boss Amlyn Ifans, the Magpies were frustrated during a goalless first half but found their cutting edge after the interval.

Steffan Williams broke the deadlock in the 64th minute before doubling his tally with 15 minutes remaining. Osian Burrell completed the scoring in stoppage time to cap an excellent all-round display.

Attention now turns to Tuesday evening's local derby, when Bow Street host Dolgellau Athletic at Cae Piod.

Other results: Llanrhaeadr ym Mochnant 4 Llanfair United 1; Rhos Aelwyd 3 Kerry 0; Penycae 4 Cefn Albion 0; Radnor Valley 1 Llangollen Town 2.