BARRY Town United suffered their first league defeat at the weekend, a 1-0 loss to Llanelli in a competitive festive fixture at Stebonheath Park.

Liam Samuel's individual effort in the 72nd minute was enough to separate the sides, in front of a Christmas crowd of 304.

Samuel ran the ball past Barry goalkeeper Dan Bradley and fired home from an angle, into the empty net, to score the vital winner.

Striker Craig Frater then went close to doubling the Reds' advantage, only to be denied by the crossbar.

Barry had a golden chance to snatch a draw late on, but substitute Scott Jones' snap shot ran agonisingly wide.

Nevertheless, few of the large travelling contingent would begrudge Llanelli the spoils, and the Reds' impenetrable defence ensured they held on tightly to all three points.

The victory saw Llanelli climb into 7th, with Barry remaining in second; the Town holding a game in hand on leaders Llanwern, who head the table by a point.

The Reds's win also saw them lay claim to the inaugural Gary Lloyd Cup; a new trophy created in honour of the decorated defender's legendary career at both Stebonheath and Jenner Park.

Llanelli coach Lloyd was on hand for the post-match presentation, while Barry boss Gavin Chesterfield spoke in admiration of Lloyd's achievements.

Chesterfield will now lead his team into 2014 this Saturday, when Bridgend Street are Jenner Park's first visitors of the New Year (2pm).

Admission is £4 (adults), £3 (OAPs/students) and £2 (unaccompanied children), as the Town seek a swift return to winning ways in front of a home crowd.