BASINGSTOKE Town were narrowly edged out in South Wales, as they were beaten 1-0 by high flying Merthyr Town.

The visitors had Dan Collier back in their line-up but they were minus suspended Sam Argent and injured midfielders Charlie Kennedy and Harry Pearse.

The home side came closest early on as Kieran Lewis’ effort clipped the crossbar.

Basingstoke striker Ben Wright then had a shot blocked, before visiting goalkeeper Tom McGill was called into action to save from Jay Foulston.

The best chance of the first 45 minutes arrived with four minutes left, but Jarrad Wright’s header from Ian Traylor’s corner was cleared.

Just after the hour mark, home goalkeeper Lewis Webb was called into action to deny both Rob Gerrard and Sam Deadfield in quick succession.

Then with 14 minutes left, Merthyr scored what turned out to be the winner as Traylor’s cross to the back post was converted by Tom Meechan.

The visitors tried to force an equaliser with Shane Hollamby narrowly heading over from a corner near the end.

The loss keeps the Dragons in the relegation zone, and they will hope to climb out of it on Tuesday night, with a victory at Chesham United.