RHYL director of football Eddie Maurice-Jones said his side can take plenty of positive from their 5-3 Nathaniel MG Cup defeat to Llandudno.

The Lilywhites bowed out of the competition following a thrilling cup contest that produced a flurry of goals in the second period, and the Huws Gray Alliance side now have the weekend off to prepare for their crunch clash at Holywell Town on Friday (7.30pm).

Maurice-Jones, said: “There are loads of positives we can take from the game, and we aren’t going to dwell on the result.

“Llandudno are a very good side and made us work hard, and it was a bit like pre-season where we didn’t see much of the ball at times but had to remain composed and take our chances when they arrived.

“That being said we should have shown a bit more focus when we were 2-1 up, but Llandudno were clinical and I think there quality was the difference between the sides on the night.

“We are going to train hard and do our bit ahead of the Holywell game. Some of the lads are also carrying some niggling injuries that hopefully they can get over so that everyone is fighting fit what what is going to be another tough game.”

The visitors went into the break a goal to the good after George Harry capitalised on a mistake from Matthew Cook before curling a superb effort past Jonathan Hill-Dunt on 25 minutes, but a sensational start to the second period from the Lilies saw them go ahead within two minutes of the restart through Mike Pritchard and an own goal from Ieuan Hewitt.

This joy proved to be short-lived as Tudno struck back instantly following the restart through former Rhyl star Toby Jones, before another ex-player in Alun Webb gave the visitors the advantage with a smart finish after 51 minutes.

Iwan Williams’ side extended their cushion on 70 minutes when John Owen slotted home from close range, but a superb effort from James Murphy reduced the arrears after Tudno skipper Mike Pearson blazed over a penalty.

The tie was finally settled when Owen despatched his second of the contest on 87 minutes.