A BUMPER crowd watched CPD Y Rhyl 1879 see off rock-bottom Hawarden Rangers 2-0 at Belle Vue on Friday (September 1) in the Ardal Northwest League.

After a goalless first half, manager Gareth Thomas’s half-time changes proved inspirational; just minutes after the restart, they nearly paid off, as substitute Aaron White’s shot from outside the box went just past the post.

Rhyl would finally break the deadlock with 12 minutes to go, after Adam Hold played in a corner from the left, a wonderful out-swinging ball which hung in the air for what seemed an eternity.

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James Jones positioned himself with his back to the goal, before meeting the ball with the sweetest connection with an overhead kick, before the ball smashed the back of the net.

Before James could get up, he was engulfed by his team mates in the celebrations.

With five minutes to go, the Lilywhites secured the win and the three points; Kieran Ellis was this time the scorer.

James Cairns played in a corner from the left that was drilled in low and hard; the ball bounced around before Ellis was able get hold of it and fired it home.

Dan Sim would make an appearance with minutes left, replacing Sam Ashton who showed real promise on his first start.

The three points secured Gareth Thomas’ side their place at the top of the league table after five games.

Focus will now turn to the trip to Llay Welfare in the League Cup on Saturday, September 9.