RHYL manager Eddie Maurice-Jones praised his side’s response after their 1-0 derby loss at Prestatyn Town.

The youthful Lilies’ produced a much-improved display following their recent defeat at Llandudno, which gave the boss plenty of reasons to be optimistic despite slipping to seventh in the JD Cymru North standings.

He said: “All we asked for was a reaction in a game of this stature and we got it.

“In a derby game you need heart and desire and they’ve proved the doubters wrong. Last week was way under par by everyone’s standards and are we are still cross about it, but they’ve done themselves proud in this one.

“It was disappointing to concede an early goal, but I thought the reaction was fantastic from the young lads who were magnificent for us.”

Maurice-Jones also lauded the impact made by U19 duo Callum Roberts and Mason Blackwell-Jones, who formed the attack after Sam Molyneux was forced off through injury after a bad challenge from Zebb Edwards.

The talented forward went to hospital for six stiches and severe swelling in his right leg following the incident, which was a better prognosis than initially expected.

“Sam’s injury looked a bad one. It was a bad challenge and it was a big decision for the referee to make,” added Maurice-Jones.

“I thought Callum and Mason were fantastic and for two young lads to play against experienced defenders that have player in the Welsh Premier shows the talent they have.

“They were brave and didn’t give up and we have lacked that of late. We might have been beaten here but they’ve shown heart and commitment which is all you can ask for and it is something we can definitely build on.”

Rhyl entertain Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant on New Year’s Day before travelling to Ruthin Town on January 11.