A CONTENTIOUS penalty decision frustrated Penrhyncoch as they continued to languish in the basement zone in the Huws Gray Cymru Alliance after a 1-1 draw with Holywell at Cae Baker on Saturday.

The Roosters had led through a 15th minute goal from Liam James, but they were pegged back on 72 minutes when Shaun Tuck dispatched a penalty, despite the efforts of keeper Lee Jenkins, after substitute Daf Carruthers was somewhat harshly ruled to have tripped Steve Thomas.

The sub appeared to make contact with the ball as Thomas went over his outstretched leg, and manager Gari Lewis was unhappy at the decision.

The draw kept Penrhyn in the bottom two on goal difference, but still in range of several sides above them.

They now face a crunch clash at Llanfair United next Tuesday (27 December, 2pm), with their hosts having won 2-1 when the mid Wales rivals met earlier in the season at Cae Baker.

Although last weekend’s point against good opposition could still prove crucial come the end of the season, Lewis felt the penalty cost his side a much-needed win in their quest for Cymru Alliance survival.

“It was a big, big moment in the game as it was a soft penalty, and the young referee bought it,” he said.

“It was disappointing as we had worked ever so hard, we were dealing with their pressure and three points would have been massive for us, particularly with the players we had out.

“But we can’t dwell on it too much, and we’ve now got to prepare for next Tuesday’s big game at Llanfair United, who are four points above us.”

The Roosters had got their noses in front when Arron Lemon overlapped down the right, and he swung over a tremendous cross that was headed home by James for the opening goal.

With Josh Shaw back to his best after taking over the captain’s armband from the unavailable Owain James, Penrhyn created several promising first half openings, before holding their own in the second period.

Hopes of a much-needed win were dashed, however, with Lewis ending with a red-card after venting his disappointment at the final whistle.

Captain Owain James and Sion Meredith are back to bolster the side at Llanfair, and there is a chance that the experienced Antonio Corbisiero may be included following injury.

PENRHYNCOCH (v Holywell Town): L Jenkins, M Mousley, J Foligno, S James, A Lemon, L James (D Carruthers 70), J Shaw, M Gornall, E Evans, J Evans, L Doherty (L Jacques 80). Not used: A Thomas, Lewis.