THE New Saints replaced Bangor City at the top of the table for the first time in seven months following a 2-0 away success at Llanelli.
The Saints soaked up pressure from the Reds in the early stages and scored both goals on the breakaway inside the first half hour.
Home defender Kris Thomas hoofed a Richie Partridge cross into his own net after 17 minutes and, when Chris Sharp sprang the offside trap down the right, he crossed for Craig Jones to beat keeper Ashley Morris from close range.
The hosts could well have been level by the break, Rhys Griffiths dragging a good chance wide of the far post and TNS clearing their line in a goalmouth scramble.
The visitors were happy to soak up the pressure in the second half, Kris Thomas almost atoning for his error but shooting straight at Paul Harrison, and Wyn Thomas sending an effort over the angle.
Chris Venables went close with an 18-yarder and Griffiths sent another effort just wide of the far post, but TNS almost grabbed a third on the break through Matty Williams.
It was a workmanlike and thoroughly professional performance from the Saints which achieved the desired objective of three points at a crucial stage on the title run-in.
Photo: Craig Jones beats keeper Ashley Morris for the second TNS goal.