The fight for Welsh Premier survival remains tantalisingly poised as 10-man Carmarthen climbed clear of the basement with a crucial win over their fellow strugglers Newtown at Latham Park.
Both sides have endured topsy turvy campaigns, with the Old Gold being dragged closer to danger following a three-match losing run.
But they stopped the rot to gain a battling three points, despite playing an hour with 10 men following the dismissal of defender Steve Evans.
Defeat was a disappointing blow for Newtown who had high hopes of climbing out of the bottom two following recent improvements.
However, the Robins failed to deliver in front of their home faithful despite a couple of first-half chances, one of which saw Dylan Blain head past the post.
They appeared to be handed a boost when Evans was red-carded following a 29th-minute melee that also saw the visitors’ Stephen Pockett booked.
But Carmarthen’s 10 men got their noses in front three minutes into the second period courtesy of Tim Hicks’ header.
And after that, they rarely looked troubled following a disciplined show.
Victory will have been a relief for Tomi Morgan’s(pictured) Carmarthen, who moved six points clear of the drop zone