CPD Y Rhyl 1879 exited the FAW Amateur Trophy after a disappointing defeat to Lex XI at Belle Vue. 

This match came on the heels of a historic week for the club, with the confirmation of ownership of their famous stadium.

Fans arrived hopeful for a win, but Lex XI, sitting at the top of the tier 4 North East Wales Premier Division, had other plans.

Gareth Thomas, the Rhyl manager, made three changes to the starting line-up, including a debut for Calum Proctor and the return of brothers James and Alex Jones, the latter having missed the last seven games.

From the outset, Lex XI appeared more determined and physical.

They were first to every ball and their energy quickly paid off.

In the 14th minute, Harry Massey, Lex’s number nine, capitalised on defensive errors by the Rhyl players, allowing a looping ball to find the back of the net to make it 1-0. 

Rhyl managed a few attacking moments in the first half, with Jonny Bravo coming close in the 40th minute, but Lex goalkeeper Joey Jones was in fine form, stopping all threats.

Rhyl felt aggrieved when a handball by Lex’s Steve Evans in his own box was missed by referee Dukes.

The half ended with a flare-up involving former Rhyl player Jonny Taylor, now with Lex, who clashed with Proctor and allegedly spat in his face.

This led to a mass confrontation, resulting in Taylor receiving a red card, much to the crowd's dismay.

The second half saw Lex XI extend their lead just three minutes in.

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Massey, after evading James Jones, set up Adam Griffiths to slot the ball past Rhyl’s goalkeeper Reid to make it 2-0 to the visitors. 

This goal prompted Rhyl to respond, leading to a spell of possession.

However, this left them vulnerable to counterattacks.

In the 70th minute, Rhyl finally got on the scoresheet when Alex Jones headed home from a quality cross by new signing Jason Foulkes making it 1-2. 

Despite this, Rhyl struggled to create clear chances, with Jones later blazing over from eight yards.

Lex XI defended resolutely and deservedly advanced to the next round.

After the match, the Rhyl management team expressed disappointment but acknowledged Lex XI's superior performance.

Rhyl now face crucial away matches against Trearddur Bay, Caersws, and Porthmadog.