RHYL and District began their WRU National League Division Two North campaign with a 21-14 defeat at Wrexham.

The Dragons were on the wrong end of the result after a physical encounter and had just a solitary bonus point to show from their opening day clash, and the home side began the contest in imposing fashion to score twice in quick succession thanks to huge surges from their dominant pack.

After the break the dragons started to play the kind of expansive rugby that the side is capable of and despite a steady stream of injuries, some impressive runs from forwards Cal Morris and Simon Johnson contributed to the visitors’ securing a penalty try following a noticeable infringement.

The rest of the game was a very evenly contested affair with great work from the busy Ian Marshall, in addition to encouraging displays from Jason Blackmore and the dangerous Reeve Wright keeping Rhyl in contention until the final whistle.

A further penalty and try for the home side increased the lead, but winger Reeve Wright ensured a nervy end to proceedings when he crossed the white wash following good work from centre Ben Jones.

They were unable to penetrate the Wrexham rearguard in the closing stages despite putting the home side under considerable pressure.

Rhyl’s first team fixtures for September and October will all be away as the club nears its eagerly awaited return to the town following completion of the new pitches and Community club on Tynewydd Road.

Abergele suffered a heavy defeat to begin their Division Two North fixtures with a 45-7 drubbing at home to Llanidloes.