IN WHAT many thought would be a straightforward outing for CPD Y Rhyl 1878, against Abergele, this couldn’t have been further away from reality in a closely-contested entertaining cup tie on Friday (July 29).

Both teams started the season in the JD Welsh Cup after preparations for the new season were completed last week.

The day began with Lilywhites frontman Carl Lamb announcing his retirement from football. A serious injury outside of football has led him to call time on a successful career, having played in the Welsh top flight, as well as spells in England, too.

With minutes left in the half, young attacker Leon Atkins was involved in an altercation with defender Ben Pamment.

This sparked a large confrontation between both sides and dugouts, as referee Tony Moore and his assistants took a minute to assess the situation before booking both players.

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With 20 minutes to go, Rhyl manager Gareth Thomas brought on both Alex Jones and Tom Cain for Aaron White and Leon Atkins.

This was to be vital and changed the course of the game; instantly, the impact was seen by all, with Jones linking up with Casey Faulkner and Reece Fairhurst on the left.

The visitors started to struggle and it would be from the left that the goal would come.

Jones received the ball from a brilliant Fairhurst through ball far out on the left; he turned the first defender, rounded the second, and slotted the ball through to Kieran Ellis, who lifted the ball into the net from a couple of yards out.

The visitors would have a free kick late on saved by keeper Jamie Griffiths, and Jordan Worthington would find himself going into the referee’s book for a late challenge.

Following the game, Thomas credited the visitors on their spirit, and commented on the struggle the club has faced in the lead up to the game with injuries, holidays and suspensions.

He also referenced the excellent debut from goalkeeper Griffiths, and thanked Brickfield for their support with the transfer for goalkeeper cover due to Luke Wilmot being injured and Ryan Roberts away on holiday.

Up next for the Lilywhites will be the first league fixture of the Ardal North West League, when Rhostyllen visit Belle Vue on Saturday, August 6 (2.30pm kick-off).