CPD Y Rhyl 1879 has criticised a decision not to permit its supporters to attend an away league fixture at Bangor 1876 later this month.

It follows a mass brawl towards the end of the reverse fixture between the two sides at Rhyl’s Belle Vue ground on October 22, which led to five red cards and a Football Association of Wales (FAW) investigation.

Rhyl say the club was informed by the Ardal North West League, in which the two clubs compete, that tickets will only be available to Bangor fans.

The kick-off time for the match, to be held at played at Bangor’s Treborth stadium on the city’s university grounds, has been moved to 12.30pm on Saturday, February 18.

A statement from Rhyl last night (February 2) read: “We are hugely disappointed and angered that no Rhyl fans will be allowed to watch one of the biggest and most important games of the season, but unlimited Bangor fans will.

“We will always raise and challenge discrimination, especially when it involves our loyal supporters.”

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No alcohol will be allowed on site at the match, while there will be enhanced stewarding and security checks.

Bangor won the October clash between the two “phoenix clubs” 2-1, and had a late corner kick when tempers suddenly boiled over.

As a result, three red cards were shown to Rhyl players and two to Bangor.

Rhyl had already had another player and their manager, Gareth Thomas, sent off earlier in the game.

North Wales Police opened an investigation into the matter following the match.

A statement from Bangor 1876 added: “Following consultation with the league, North Wales Police, and the university, it has also been decided that the game will be all-ticket.

“Due to segregation issues at Treborth, tickets will only be available to Bangor 1876 supporters.

“Bangor 1876 season ticket holders will be able to attend by showing their season ticket at the gate.

“Bangor 1876 supporters who are not season ticket holders will need to purchase tickets in advance and arrangements for this will be announced early next week.

“We would like to thank clubs with prior bookings for Treborth who have kindly agreed to move them in order to accommodate this fixture change.”

A spokesperson for the Ardal North West League said: “The league has received communication from both clubs over the fixture but has yet to meet to consider it.”

A North Wales Police spokesperson added: "North Wales Police would not take any decision, or unilaterally suggest that any club’s fans should be excluded from a fixture, and it would be the responsibility of both clubs involved to make any such decision.

"We would then provide the appropriate support and advice, and subsequently police the fixture based upon the prevailing circumstances, deciding if any police involvement was required."

Rhyl and Bangor are currently first and second in the league respectively, with Rhyl holding a three-point lead but having played three matches more than Bangor, who are unbeaten.

Attempts were made to contact FAW for further comment.