HOLYHEAD Hotspur manager Darren Garmey breathed a sigh of relief after his side secured a narrow 2-1 home win over Nantlle Vale.

The Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division One side were made to sweat before eventually securing victory against a solid Vale outfit, leaving them three points behind current pacesetters Denbigh Town with a further three games in hand.

Garmey, said: “I am really pleased with the reaction after Saturday’s defeat.

“I thought we just shaded it but we were made to work really hard for the three points. We knew Nantlle Vale would be a difficult game and if I am honest I would have to say they are the one of the best sides we have played so far this season.

“We could and should have been out of sight in the first half but to their credit they came out and put us under a lot of pressure with the conditions in their favour.

“We had to deal with a lot of set pieces and the lads stood up to them and defended with everything they had.

“Overall, we are delighted with the three points and fully aware of the value of that win.”

The home side opened the midweek contest in stylish fashion and went ahead on 13 minutes when Kenleigh Owen produced a powerful effort from the edge of the area that gave the visiting keeper no chance.

Spurs’ missed a wealth of opportunities throughout the remainder of the first period as they looked to increase their advantage, and they were made to pay when the away side levelled matters thanks to a well-timed attempt from Sion Williams.

This was met by a swift response from the hosts, who restored their advantage on 23 minutes when Sam Ashworth finished well following some fine approach play from Dewi Thomas, and the promotion hopefuls managed to hold on during the second period despite significant pressure from Danny Bell’s squad.