CPD Y Rhyl 1879 put their cup defeats behind them with an emphatic 4-1 league win at Holyhead Hotspur on Saturday (September 23).

The Lilywhites had the benefit of the wind in the first half, causing difficulties for the Holyhead back line, and on 21 minutes, Oli Buckley slotted home after home goalkeeper Guto Hughes parried an Alex Jones header.

On the stroke of half-time, Hughes then handled a back pass, leading to an indirect free kick just eight yards from the goal line.

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Jones squared the ball to club captain Reece Fairhurst, who calmly struck the ball home through a packed Hotspur goal line to double Rhyl’s lead.

The home side came out for the second half with fresh impetus, with Deian Parry getting a goal back for Holyhead just one minute after the restart.

But Rhyl weathered the storm and, with 78 minutes played, Buckley slotted the ball home to grab his second goal of the game and restore their two-goal lead.

Then, as the home team threw more and more players forward, Rhyl struck again on the counter attack in the 89th minute.

Oli Staveley broke through the last line of defence, running clear on goal, and unselfishly set up the unmarked Sam Ashton who slotted home a neat effort to put Rhyl 4-1 ahead.

Manager Gareth Thomas said after the game: “It’s a tough place to come, they’re a good side. An absolutely outstanding performance from the lads.

“A massive thanks to the traveling support; this isn’t the easiest place to come to, and we appreciate their support after a difficult two weeks.”

Due to a shortage of match officials, Rhyl’s fixture against Llay Welfare, due to be held on Saturday (September 30), has been re-arranged for October 14.

Next up for the Lilywhites after their weekend off is Conwy Borough at home on October 7.