North Wales Blogs - Lilywhites Online with Dave Jones

LILYWHITES BACK TO WINNING WAYS

Sat, 22 Nov 2008 00:43:37 +0000

AIRBUS UK BROUGHTON 1 (Williams 62)
RHYL 3 (N Roberts 28, Strong 58, Jones 86)
WELSH PREMIER LEAGUE - NOVEMBER 21, 2008
NOT a vintage performance from Rhyl but in such difficult windy conditions the important thing was they returned to winning ways.
The Lilywhites took a 28th minute lead when Jamie Reed did well to beat two men down the left and his cross found Neil Roberts in ample space to fire home from the penalty spot and claim his 11th goal this season.
Matty Williams should have made it two when he fired over from a Gareth Owen free-kick with the Airbus defence nowhere.
Lee Kendall was forced into his first save soon after the break, but then on 58 minutes an Owen free-kick was bundled home by Strong.
Airbus replied soon after with a good strike by Ashley Williams, but the visitors remained in command.
Four minutes from time Craig Jones cut in from the right and his shot seemed to take a deflection on its way over the keeper and into the net.
Rhyl: Kendall, Connolly (O'Neill), Stones, Horan, Strong, Wilson, G Owen (C Roberts 90), Jones, Reed, N Roberts (C Owen), M Williams. Att: 339.

RHYL FC RESULTS 2008/09
Aug 16, 2008 - Newtown (h-lge) 3-0 (Stones, N Roberts, Reed)
Aug 19, 2008 - Airbus UK Broughton (h-LC) 6-1 (C Owen 2, Jones 2, N Roberts, D Williams)
Aug 23, 2008 - Caernarfon Town (a-lge) 1-0 (Horan)
Aug 30, 2008 - Llanelli (h-lge) 5-1 (Strong, Reed, N Roberts 2, Johnson)
Sep 02, 2008 - Welshpool Town (h-LC) 1-2 (Jones)
Sep 05, 2008 - Porthmadog (a-lge) 3-0 (Reed, N Roberts, Jones)
Sep 13, 2008 - Haverfordwest County (h-lge) 2-0 (Reed 2)
Sep 21, 2008 - Neath Athletic (a-lge) 2-2 (Reed, Stones)
Sep 23, 2008 - Airbus UK Broughton (a-LC) 4-0 (C Owen 2, C Roberts, Johnson)
Sep 27, 2008 - Aberystwyth Town (h-lge) 0-0
Oct 04, 2008 - Castell Alun Colts (h-WC R2) 8-0 (Jones, Strong, Johnson, O'Neill, C Owen 2, M Williams 2)
Oct 07, 2008 - Welshpool Town (a-LC) 2-0 (C Roberts, C Owen)
Oct 10, 2008 - Connah's Quay Nomads (h-lge) 2-0 (Horan, O'Neill)
Oct 18, 2008 - Carmarthen Town (h-lge) 3-0 (G Owen, N Roberts 2)
Oct 28, 2008 - Bangor City (a-LC) 1-3 (aet) (Strong)
Nov 1, 2008 - Haverfordwest County (h-WC) 4-0 (Horan, M Williams, N Roberts 2)
Nov 8, 2008 - Caersws (h-lge) 3-1 (Wilson, Williams og, Johnson)
Nov 11, 2008 - Bangor City (a-lge) 2-0 (Reed, N Roberts)
Nov 15, 2008 - Port Talbot Town (h-lge) 2-3 (M Williams, G Owen)
Nov 21, 2008 - Airbus UK Broughton (a-lge) 3-1 (N Roberts, Strong, Jones)
GOALS (57): 11 - Neil Roberts; 7 - Carl Owen, Jamie Reed; 6 - Craig Jones; 4 - Matthew Williams, Josh Johnson, Greg Strong; 3 - George Horan; 2 - Gareth Owen, Greg Stones, Chris Roberts, Paul O'Neill, 1 - Danny Williams, Gareth Wilson, 1 own goal.

RHYL LOOK TO BOUNCE BACK

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 01:52:20 +0000

AIRBUS UK BROUGHTON v RHYL
WELSH PREMIER LEAGUE
NOVEMBER 21, 2008
WELSH Premier leaders Rhyl will be anxious to obliterate memories of last weekend's surprise defeat at the hands of Port Talbot by claiming a crucial victory at The Airfield tonight.
Based on their League Cup clashes this season, the Lilywhites should comfortably see off the Wingmakers.
At Belle Vue, Rhyl won 6-1 and in the return at Broughton, the Lilies were very convincing 4-0 victors.
Striker Carl Owen scored two in each other those group games, but whether he will be involved this evening remains to be seen.
Senior coach Allan Bickerstaff has insisted there will not be wholesale changes at Airbus despite the lacklustre performances of several players against Port Talbot.
Rhyl have beaten the Planemakers in each of the last four league tussles between the clubs and have triumphed in six of eight WPL meetings in total.
HEAD-TO-HEAD
2004/05 - Rhyl 2 Airbus UK 0; Airbus UK 1 Rhyl 0.
2005/06 - Airbus UK 1 Rhyl 2; Rhyl 1 Airbus UK 1.
2006/07 - Rhyl 4 Airbus UK 0; Airbus UK 0 Rhyl 2.
2007/08 - Rhyl 2 Airbus UK 1, Airbus UK 0 Rhyl 2.
WINS: Rhyl 6 Airbus UK 1; DRAWS: 1.

NO PANIC FROM BICKERSTAFF

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 11:34:08 +0000

ALTHOUGH Rhyl lost their unbeaten league record at the weekend, senior coach Allan Bickerstaff insists there is no panic at Belle Vue.
Despite Saturday's shock defeat at the hands of a Port Talbot side which had lost on all eight previous visits to Rhyl, the Lilywhites remain top of the Welsh Premier on goal difference.
"There is no panic at the club," said Bickerstaff. "I'd be panicking if we were in Caernarfon's position but certainly not in the position we're in."
After dominating the first half hour, the Lilies found themselves 2-0 down at half time and then conceded a third on 62 minutes, their normally watertight defence for once all at sea.
All seemed lost but two very late goals from Matthew Williams and Gareth Owen gave the leaders hope, then with the last kick of the game Josh Johnson so nearly equalised but saw his lob come back off the post.
"We hold our hands up - it was a bad day at the office," added Bickerstaff. "It was a below par display; the players admitted afterwards they didn't perform to their full potential.
"We'd have a major problem if the players had thought they performed quite well, but they were big enough to admit they didn't.
"We can't play to the high standard we have been in every game and it was inevitable we were going to lose sometime. Hopefully Saturday was a one-off and we'll look to put things right at Airbus this Friday (7.30pm). There certainly won't be wholesale changes.
"I can't fault Port Talbot; they set their stall out not to concede and took their chances on the break.
"The one positive is most of the other results went for us; we're still top of the league and that's a good position to be in."

CITY TOP ATTENDANCE TABLE

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 15:10:29 +0000

BANGOR City can currently boast being the club with the highest average home attendance in Welsh Premier League games this season.
Following matches played on Saturday, November 15, City's average crowd over their first seven home league fixtures is 613.
That edges them ahead of Welsh Premier leaders Rhyl, whose average attendance is 584 from their first eight league fixtures.
Rhyl have topped the WPL average attendance table for the past five seasons.

Bangor City - league attendances so far 2008/09
959/468/440/427/502/790/702. Total = 4288; Average = 613.

Rhyl - 2008/09
586/937/522/572/569/489/479/516. Total = 4670; Average = 584.

UNBEATEN RECORD GOES DOWN THE PAN

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 01:38:35 +0000

RHYL 2 (M Williams 87, G Owen 90)
PORT TALBOT TOWN 3 (Fahiya 34, Rose 45 & 63)
WELSH PREMIER LEAGUE - NOV 15, 2008
WHAT a strange afternoon this turned out to be.
Rhyl lost their unbeaten league record against a side which had failed to pick up as much as a point at Belle Vue in eight previous visits.
It was no fluke result, though. Port Talbot were worthy winners even though a dramatic late rally from Rhyl almost earned them a fortunate draw with substitute Josh Johnson hitting the post with the last kick of the game.
The only consolation for the Lilywhites is they remain top of the table despite this shock setback.
Llanelli could only draw 3-3 at Porthmadog, so Rhyl stay at the summit on goal difference.
After the first half hour, it looked likely that the Lilies would go on to complete a routine victory with only the heroics of Port keeper Kristian Rogers keeping his side in the contest.
But then suddenly the miserly Rhyl defence which had conceded just four goals in 11 league starts began to play like strangers.
Neil Roberts saw an early shot blocked before the home side had a scare when Drew Fahiya latched on to a poor header from Greg Strong, nipped in ahead of keeper Lee Kendall, but his chip drifted off target.
On 12 minutes Danny Williams' lofted ball put Matthew Williams in the clear but his well-struck low shot was superbly stopped one-handed by Rogers.
Rhyl were guilty of a glaring miss on 17 minutes when Jamie Reed's byeline cross was only parried by Rogers into the path of Neil Roberts who scooped over a gaping goal.
Only a great interception by Leigh De Vulgt denied Matthew Williams a sure strike at goal from a Craig Jones cross, then Greg Stones volleyed straight at Rogers after a Gareth Owen free-kick was cleared to him.
Port served notice of their capabilities in the 28th minute when James Burgin's cross from the left was met by a powerful downward header from Martin Rose but Kendall saved impressively.
In the 32nd minute an Owen free-kick was blocked by the Talbot wall but the ball came to George Horan who let fly from 15 yards only for Rogers to produce a fantastic tip-over.
Then on 34 minutes, against the run of play, a Rose headed flick found Fahiya in far too much space, and the tricky wide man coolly rounded Kendall before slotting in the opener.
Rhyl looked certain to equalise when Mark Connolly's cross flew invitingly into the six-yard box, but neither Reed nor Strong could get a touch.
On the stroke of half time Belle Vue was stunned into silence when from a Mathew Thompson free-kick Rose jumped in ahead of the flapping Kendall and headed home. Half-time: 0-2.
The start of the second half saw Port grow in stature and they began to look the more quality outfit as Rhyl struggled to retain possession.
Burgin hit a firm drive straight at Kendall before on 63 minutes the third visiting goal arrived.
Man of the match Fahiya made a monkey out of Stones down the right. scooped the ball to the back post and Rose headed in off the bar with the Rhyl defence again a shambles. The same defence which squeezed the life out of Bangor four days earlier were being made to look second rate.
Rhyl launched non-stop attacks in the last 20 minutes, but initially struggled to create clear-cut openings as they tried too hard to force the action with the passing far too inaccurate.
Matthew Williams miskicked from a Paul O'Neill cross, then Strong's off-target shot hit Williams and could have gone anywhere but found Rogers' arms.
Josh Johnson's effort was blocked by Lee Surman and there was a suspicion of handball, then Neil Roberts' flick from a Johnson cross went agonisingly wide.
It was starting to look like Rhyl wouldn't score if they played till next week.
Then on 87 minutes came a lifeline. Danny Williams crossed to the back post, Craig Jones headed across the six-yard box and Matthew Williams volleyed home.
Moments later Rogers produced an heroic block at Williams' feet as all of a sudden a Port team which blew a 3-0 and 4-1 lead against Llanelli the previous weekend began panicking.
They could have made it 4-1, though, when Rose broke clear from halfway but missed out on a hat-trick by steering wide.
Five minutes of injury time were issued and in the fifth minute Matthew Williams' cross was drilled home by Gareth Owen - 3-2 and time for one more attack? Yes.
Port tried to head out for a corner but Johnson stopped the ball from crossing the line, chipped to the back stick, hit the woodwork, and Mathew Walsh produced a desperate clearance. Seconds later the final whistle blew and Port celebrated a landmark victory.
Too little, too late from Rhyl? Ultimately yes, and credit must go to the visitors for breaking the trend of travelling teams coming to BV to defend.
The Steelmen took their chances when they came, boast one of the league's best strikers in Rose, and returned home worthy victors.

RHYL: Kendall, Connolly (O'Neill 68), Stones, Horan, Strong, D Williams, G Owen, Reed (Johnson 56), N Roberts, M Williams, Jones. Unused sub: Wilson.

MATCH FACTS
GOALS - Rhyl 2 Port Talbot 3
ATTEMPTS - Rhyl 16 Port Talbot 9
ON TARGET - Rhyl 9 Port Talbot 5
CORNERS - Rhyl 5 Port Talbot 1
YELLOW CARDS - Rhyl 2 Port Talbot 1
RED CARDS - Rhyl 0 Port Talbot 0
ATTENDANCE - 516
LILYWHITES ONLINE MAN OF THE MATCH
Drew Fahiya (Port Talbot)
One of the best attacking players seen at Belle Vue in some time. Received a good ovation from the home fans when he went off injured.

RHYL FC RESULTS 2008/09
Aug 16, 2008 - Newtown (h-lge) 3-0 (Stones, N Roberts, Reed)
Aug 19, 2008 - Airbus UK Broughton (h-LC) 6-1 (C Owen 2, Jones 2, N Roberts, D Williams)
Aug 23, 2008 - Caernarfon Town (a-lge) 1-0 (Horan)
Aug 30, 2008 - Llanelli (h-lge) 5-1 (Strong, Reed, N Roberts 2, Johnson)
Sep 02, 2008 - Welshpool Town (h-LC) 1-2 (Jones)
Sep 05, 2008 - Porthmadog (a-lge) 3-0 (Reed, N Roberts, Jones)
Sep 13, 2008 - Haverfordwest County (h-lge) 2-0 (Reed 2)
Sep 21, 2008 - Neath Athletic (a-lge) 2-2 (Reed, Stones)
Sep 23, 2008 - Airbus UK Broughton (a-LC) 4-0 (C Owen 2, C Roberts, Johnson)
Sep 27, 2008 - Aberystwyth Town (h-lge) 0-0
Oct 04, 2008 - Castell Alun Colts (h-WC R2) 8-0 (Jones, Strong, Johnson, O'Neill, C Owen 2, M Williams 2)
Oct 07, 2008 - Welshpool Town (a-LC) 2-0 (C Roberts, C Owen)
Oct 10, 2008 - Connah's Quay Nomads (h-lge) 2-0 (Horan, O'Neill)
Oct 18, 2008 - Carmarthen Town (h-lge) 3-0 (G Owen, N Roberts 2)
Oct 28, 2008 - Bangor City (a-LC) 1-3 (aet) (Strong)
Nov 1, 2008 - Haverfordwest County (h-WC) 4-0 (Horan, M Williams, N Roberts 2)
Nov 8, 2008 - Caersws (h-lge) 3-1 (Wilson, Williams og, Johnson)
Nov 11, 2008 - Bangor City (a-lge) 2-0 (Reed, N Roberts)
Nov 15, 2008 - Port Talbot Town (h-lge) 2-3 (M Williams, G Owen)
GOALS (54): 10 - Neil Roberts; 7 - Carl Owen, Jamie Reed; 5 - Craig Jones; 4 - Matthew Williams, Josh Johnson; 3 - Greg Strong, George Horan; 2 - Gareth Owen, Greg Stones, Chris Roberts, Paul O'Neill, 1 - Danny Williams, Gareth Wilson, 1 own goal.

RESERVES BLOW IT AT LLANRUG

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 01:38:35 +0000

LLANRUG UNITED 4 (D N Williams 26 pen & 46, A Williams 48, G E Jones 64)
RHYL RESERVES 3 (Owen 10, Roose 20 & 32)
WELSH ALLIANCE LEAGUE - NOVEMBER 15, 2008
ALTHOUGH they journeyed to Eithin Duon with the bare 11 players and had eight regulars missing, manager Jon Stazicker refused to make excuses for Rhyl's poor showing which saw them blow a 3-1 half time lead and end up losers on their travels again.
"We switched off completely in the second half and to concede three goals so quickly as we did was nothing short of a disgrace," said Stazicker. "Yet again our away form let us down and things must improve."
The visitors started well and James Hay missed with a free header from a Jack Roberts corner before the Lilywhites took a 10th minute lead.
Carl Owen played a great one-two with Jack Roberts before firing into the bottom corner to break the deadlock.
It became 2-0 after 20 minutes when Hay rounded keeper Luke Hughes and although the ball was heading for the net Mike Roose made sure and got the final touch.
Rhyl were unlucky not to win a penalty when Gareth Eifion Jones appeared to have handled inside the box, but a free-kick was given instead which Owen blasted just wide.
Then on 26 minutes Sam Brewerton needlessly pulled down David Noel Williams in the area and a spot-kick was awarded which Williams himself despatched.
Jon Stazicker's men were on top, though, and on 32 minutes Owen set up Roose to head home his second and 13th of the season from close range. Roose went close with two other efforts before the break.
A sloppy start to the second period cost Rhyl dear. The visitors failed to clear their lines and David Noel Williams fired the loose ball into the bottom right-hand corner.
And two minutes later it was 3-3 when Andrew Williams cut in from the left and lashed a great effort into the top corner.
Shellshocked Rhyl rallied, a Jack Roberts free-kick well saved by Hughes before Brewerton had a header cleared off the line.
But on 64 minutes a long Llanrug throw came to Gareth Eifion Jones who neatly chested the ball down and his shot on the turn beat Paul Pritchard to make it 4-3.
That was the end of the road for Rhyl who were unable to respond and were left to reflect on a disappointing third league defeat of the season which leaves them five points clear at the top of the Welsh Alliance, but second placed Bethesda now have six games in hand.
RHYL: Paul Pritchard, Sam Brewerton, Tom Roberts, Sean Morgan, Sam Heenan, Tom Patel, Jack Roberts, James Hay, Keiron Evans, Mike Roose, Carl Owen. Subs: none.

RHYL RESERVES RESULTS 2008/09
Aug 16, 2008 - Barmouth and Dyffryn (a-lge) 2-2 (Evans, Ahern)
Aug 20, 2008 - Glan Conwy (a-lge) 0-1
Aug 23, 2008 - Nefyn United (h-lge) 3-0 (Patel 2, Roose)
Aug 26, 2008 - Halkyn United (a-lge) 4-1 (Brewerton, Millington, Roose 2)
Aug 30, 2008 - Nefyn United (a-lge) 1-1 (Hay)
Sep 5, 2008 - Halkyn United (h-lge) 3-0 (Hughes, Roose 2)
Sep 9, 2008 - Llanrug United (h-lge) 4-2 (Hay 2, Roose, Griffiths)
Sep 13, 2008 - Rhydymwyn (a-lge) 2-1 (Heenan, Hughes)
Sep 16, 2008 - Nantlle Vale (h-lge) 5-2 (J Roberts 2, Roose, Millington, Hughes)
Sep 20, 2008 - Amlwch Town (h-lge) 8-0 (Hay, C Roberts, Millington, Williams, J Roberts, Roose 2, Griffiths)
Oct 14, 2008 - Llandudno Junction (h-lge) 7-3 (M Williams 3, Strong, Ahern, N Roberts, Roose)
Oct 18, 2008 - Conwy United (a-lge) 4-1 (M Williams 4)
Oct 21, 2008 - Llanllyfni (h-lge) 2-1 (Ahern, Brewerton)
Oct 25, 2008 - Rhydymwyn (a-Cookson Cup) 1-2 (Roose)
Nov 1, 2008 - Llanberis (a-lge) 0-1
Nov 4, 2008 - Glan Conwy (h-lge) 1-0 (Patel)
Nov 15, 2008 - Llanrug United (a-lge) 3-4 (Owen, Roose 2)
GOALS (50): 13 - Mike Roose; 8 - Matthew Williams; 4 - James Hay; 3 - Tom Patel, Gareth Hughes, Scott Millington, Jack Roberts, Joe Ahern; 2 - Craig Griffiths; 1 - Chris Roberts, Keiron Evans, Sam Brewerton, Sam Heenan, Neil Roberts, Greg Strong, Sam Brewerton, Carl Owen.

PORT AFTER THE STORM

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 00:41:04 +0000

RHYL v PORT TALBOT TOWN
WELSH PREMIER LEAGUE
SATURDAY 2.30pm
IN eight visits to Belle Vue since they joined the Welsh Premier League in 2000/01, Port Talbot have not managed to acrue a single point.
And Rhyl will be very much hoping that by 4.15pm today their home league record against the Steelmen will read: played 9 won 9.
Three points will keep the Lilywhites in the top spot they reached after Tuesday night's 2-0 victory at Bangor City.
After the hostility which led to such unsavoury scenes at Farrar Road, the atmosphere is likely to be much friendlier at BV this afternoon.
Port Talbot achieved their best ever WPL finish of fourth place last term, but the current campaign is not shaping as well. Nicky Tucker's side are down in 13th position and have shown only snatches of their best form.
Last weekend they were involved in an astonishing game at home to Llanelli. Port led the champions 3-0 and then 4-1 at half time, yet finished up 6-4 losers.
So, while scoring goals doesn't seem a problem to the South Wales outfit, defending certainly does.
However, in Martin Rose they boast one of the best strikers in the league and a player capable of causing Rhyl problems.
Rhyl should have a full squad to choose from with new-look striking duo Neil Roberts and Matthew Williams set to retain their places up front after two very impressive performances together against Caersws and Bangor.
HEAD-TO-HEAD
2007/08 - Rhyl 5 (Sharp 2, Lloyd Williams 2, Garside) Port Talbot 0; Port Talbot 1 (Rose pen) Rhyl 2 (Jones, Connolly).
2006/07 - Rhyl 2 (Cameron, Hay) Port Talbot 0; Port Talbot 3 (Stephens og, Johnson, Pierce) Rhyl 2 (Cameron 2).
2005/06 - Port Talbot 1 (Griffiths pen) Rhyl 0; Rhyl 3 (G Powell, Adamson, Sharp) Port Talbot 0.
2004/05 - Port Talbot 1 (John) Rhyl 3 (Smith, Adamson, G Powell); Rhyl 1 (Atherton) Port Talbot 0.
2003/04 - Rhyl 2 (Moran pen, Wilson) Port Talbot 1 (Dodds); Port Talbot 1 (Hughes) Rhyl 2 (Moran, Hunt).
2002/03 - Rhyl 3 (McGinn, Moody, Moran pen) Port Talbot 0; Port Talbot 0 Rhyl 3 (Moran 2, Jackson)
2001/02 - Port Talbot 2 (Bartley, Fleming) Rhyl 3 (Stannard 2, Moran); Rhyl 3 (Cross, Stannard, Durnin) Port Talbot 1 (Ryan).
2000/01 - Rhyl 4 (M Jones pen, Brewerton, Stannard, Graves) Port Talbot 3 (Bartley 3); Port Talbot 1 (Wiseman) Rhyl 6 (Trundle 3, Barton, Holmes og, McCosh).
PLAYED: 16
RHYL WON: 14
PORT TALBOT WON: 2
GOALS:
RHYL 44
PORT TALBOT 15

EARLY START FOR WELSH CUP TIE

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 11:48:39 +0000

THE kick-off time for the Welsh Cup fourth round tie between Bangor City and Rhyl at Farrar Road on January 31, 2009, has been put back to 12.15pm.
The earlier start has been agreed by both clubs in a bid to avoid a potential repetition of the crowd violence that marred Tuesday night's derby.
It has also been decided there will be segregation between opposing sets of supporters at the Welsh Cup match - a move many believe would have averted the trouble had it been in operation on Tuesday.
Rhyl FC secretary Joe Furnival and Bangor City counterpart Alun Griffiths are due to meet with Welsh Premier League secretary John Deakin to discuss security arrangements for the January tie.
The FAW is investigating Tuesday night's incidents, which were captured on film by S4C.

RHYL FC ISSUE STATEMENT ON LAST NIGHT'S GAME

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 12:05:33 +0000

RHYL Football Club have issued an official statement following last night's game at Farrar Road which was marred by crowd trouble.
Club secretary Joe Furnival said: "Rhyl FC is very disappointed that crowd trouble disrupted an excellent game at Farrar Road last night.
"We are satisfied that Bangor City undertook a risk assessment prior to the game and did consult with local police.
"Bangor City employed a private security company to provide stewarding at the game and Rhyl FC were informed of the security arrangements prior to the match.
"Rhyl FC takes the safety of its fans extremely seriously and will liaise with all parties, including the police, prior to future fixtures."
The FAW revealed this morning it is launching an investigation into last night's incidents.

SWEET REVENGE FOR LILYWHITES

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 22:39:56 +0000

BANGOR CITY 0
RHYL 2 (Reed 24, N Roberts 28)
WELSH PREMIER LEAGUE - NOVEMBER 11, 2008
TWO goals in four first half minutes were enough to secure Rhyl a comfortable victory at Farrar Road which sent them back to the top of the Welsh Premier.
However, on a night where the football should have taken centre stage, it was yet again the intense rivalry between the fans of the two clubs that spilled over and led to violent scenes that have no place in the sporting arena. And on Armistice Day too, shameful.
The unbeaten Lilies were out for revenge after their 3-1 League Cup defeat at Farrar Road two weeks earlier, but were facing a Bangor side which had not lost in the WPL since the opening day of the season.
Unlike in that League Cup classic, though, it was Rhyl who made the better start.
Twice in the first four minutes the impressive Matthew Williams signalled his intentions by hitting long range shots just over.
Neil Roberts' header from a Mark Connolly cross looked goalbound but hit team-mate Williams, then City had a couple of close calls courtesy of Rhyl mistakes.
First, keeper Lee Kendall raced out to meet a long ball from Les Davies but only succeeded in heading straight to the returning Chris Seargeant.
There may have been scope for a first time shot from the midfielder with Kendall out of his goal, but he ran forward unopposed and hit a 20-yard rocket which just cleared the bar.
Shortly after Connolly was caught in possession by Chris Sharp who fed the ball inside to Davies and his fierce shot from an acute angle went pretty close.
On 24 minutes, though, Rhyl took the lead. Michael Johnston fouled Matthew Williams on the right and Gareth Owen's quick free-kick caught Bangor napping, enabling Jamie Reed to fire home from six yards.
City's defence slept again as Owen chipped a free-kick from a central position into the box and Neil Roberts' free header went agonisingly close.
But in the 28th minute it became 2-0 when Matthew Williams played the ball back to Connolly who fed a low delivery into the area, Neil Roberts turning sharply before his stunning shot went in off the post.
It could have been three when from a corner the ball fell to Matthew Williams who let fly with an absolute rocket but Paul Smith produced a stupendous save.
Rhyl had enjoyed an armchair ride in the first half, but the second 45 minutes saw City emerge much more competitive.
On 53 minutes Marc Limbert's quick free-kick found Sion Edwards who drilled just wide.
Clear chances were at a premium, though, Matthew Williams going closest at the other end when he worked the ball on to his left foot 20 yards out but narrowly missed the target.
Bangor's passing was awry and Rhyl's experienced defence coped with everything thrown at them, Kendall not having to make a single serious save in the 90 minutes.
The home side sent on Kevin Lloyd, the super sub and two-goal hero from the League Cup tie, midway through the half and City went three up front, but this time he made no impact, although his header straight at Kendall proved to be the hosts' only on target effort.
Rhyl were a constant danger on the break in the closing stages but their final ball always let them down.
All in all a fair result with the Lilywhites' quality up front a decisive factor, but City are still a force in the Welsh Premier and will have many better nights than this.
TEAMS:
RHYL: Kendall, Connolly, Stones, Horan, Strong, D Williams (Wilson 80), G Owen, Reed, N Roberts, M Williams, Jones. Unused subs: Johnson, O'Neill.
BANGOR: Smith, Swanick, Beattie (Lloyd 68), Johnston, Hoy, Seargeant (Corrigan 82), Limbert (Killackey 61), Walsh, Davies, Sharp, Edwards.
MATCH FACTS
GOALS - Bangor 0 Rhyl 2
ATTEMPTS - Bangor 5 Rhyl 17
ON TARGET - Bangor 1 Rhyl 6
CORNERS - Bangor 4 Rhyl 7
YELLOW CARDS - Bangor 1 Rhyl 1
RED CARDS - Bangor 0 Rhyl 0
ATTENDANCE - 790
MAN OF THE MATCH:
RHYL - Matthew Williams
BANGOR - Sion Edwards

RHYL FC RESULTS 2008/09
Aug 16, 2008 - Newtown (h-lge) 3-0 (Stones, N Roberts, Reed)
Aug 19, 2008 - Airbus UK Broughton (h-LC) 6-1 (C Owen 2, Jones 2, N Roberts, D Williams)
Aug 23, 2008 - Caernarfon Town (a-lge) 1-0 (Horan)
Aug 30, 2008 - Llanelli (h-lge) 5-1 (Strong, Reed, N Roberts 2, Johnson)
Sep 02, 2008 - Welshpool Town (h-LC) 1-2 (Jones)
Sep 05, 2008 - Porthmadog (a-lge) 3-0 (Reed, N Roberts, Jones)
Sep 13, 2008 - Haverfordwest County (h-lge) 2-0 (Reed 2)
Sep 21, 2008 - Neath Athletic (a-lge) 2-2 (Reed, Stones)
Sep 23, 2008 - Airbus UK Broughton (a-LC) 4-0 (C Owen 2, C Roberts, Johnson)
Sep 27, 2008 - Aberystwyth Town (h-lge) 0-0
Oct 04, 2008 - Castell Alun Colts (h-WC R2) 8-0 (Jones, Strong, Johnson, O'Neill, C Owen 2, M Williams 2)
Oct 07, 2008 - Welshpool Town (a-LC) 2-0 (C Roberts, C Owen)
Oct 10, 2008 - Connah's Quay Nomads (h-lge) 2-0 (Horan, O'Neill)
Oct 18, 2008 - Carmarthen Town (h-lge) 3-0 (G Owen, N Roberts 2)
Oct 28, 2008 - Bangor City (a-LC) 1-3 (aet) (Strong)
Nov 1, 2008 - Haverfordwest County (h-WC) 4-0 (Horan, M Williams, N Roberts 2)
Nov 8, 2008 - Caersws (h-lge) 3-1 (Wilson, Williams og, Johnson)
Nov 11, 2008 - Bangor City (a-lge) 2-0 (Reed, N Roberts)
GOALS (52): 10 - Neil Roberts; 7 - Carl Owen, Jamie Reed; 5 - Craig Jones; 4 - Josh Johnson; 3 - Matthew Williams, Greg Strong, George Horan; 2 - Greg Stones, Chris Roberts, Paul O'Neill, 1 - Danny Williams, Gareth Owen, Gareth Wilson, 1 own goal.

RIVAL FANS CLASH AT DERBY

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 22:39:56 +0000

CROWD violence marred tonight's Welsh Premier League clash at Farrar Road between Bangor City and Rhyl.
Just after the half hour mark, shortly after the Lilywhites had taken a 2-0 lead, rival supporters at the main entrance end of the ground began fighting.
Several scuffles broke out as the ground stewards struggled to control the fracas. Reports say at least one person was injured and required hospital treatment.
The game was held up for a couple of minutes while the trouble calmed down, but at half time further fighting broke out.
Police officers arrived at the ground shortly afterwards and there were no further major incidents.
There was then a heavy police presence outside the ground following the final whistle to act as a deterrent. The North Wales Police helicopter was also on patrol.
Rhyl won the match 2-0 thanks to two goals in four first half minutes from Jamie Reed and Neil Roberts and returned to the top of the Welsh Premier. Report to follow...

ALL TO PLAY FOR AT FARRAR ROAD

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 10:57:12 +0000

BANGOR CITY v RHYL
WELSH PREMIER LEAGUE
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 7.30pm
IS there any need to build up tomorrow's Welsh Premier crunch clash between Bangor City and Rhyl?
The game was originally scheduled for October 25, but was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
Three days later Farrar Road was fit for the League Cup quarter-final battle between the teams which Bangor won 3-1 after extra time. It was City's first home win over the Lilywhites in eight attempts.
Now comes a second meeting between the coastal rivals within a fortnight.
Rhyl remain unbeaten in the WPL and moved up to second on Saturday after a 3-1 win over Caersws.
But Bangor are hot on the heels of the leaders in fourth and have not lost in the league since the opening day of the season.
Ex-Rhyl defender James Brewerton will be suspended for tomorrow's match following his red card in City's 3-2 win at Airbus on Friday.
There may also be a doubt over striker Chris Sharp, the former Rhyl player who has netted 10 goals for the all-blues this season. Sharp came off at Airbus and has been struggling with injury for some weeks. If he does figure against his former club he will pose a real threat.
Rhyl senior coach Allan Bickerstaff expects to have a full squad available.
"Bangor are on a good run, they see us as the team to beat, but we're quietly confident we can get revenge (for the League Cup defeat)," he said.
Security will be stepped up for tomorrow's tussle following the problems that occurred at the League Cup tie two weeks ago.
Rhyl secretary Joe Furnival said:
"Bangor City have advised that all travelling Rhyl fans have been requested to arrive early because extra security searches will be conducted at the only two turnstiles that will be in operation for this game.
"There will be a 20-strong ground security team backed up by North Wales Police officers. The outside perimeter fences at Farrar Road will also be patrolled in an effort to prevent any recurrence of the problems during the Loosrmores League Cup game recently. These security checks will undoubtedly delay entry into the ground and we repeat that early attendance is advised."
It is now a well known fact that in 28 LoW/WPL meetings, Bangor and Rhyl have never played out a draw. City lead the series by 17 victories to 11.

HEAD-TO-HEAD - LEAGUE OF WALES/WELSH PREMIER

2007/08 - Rhyl 1 (Hunt) Bangor 2 (Limbert pen, Seargeant); Bangor 1 (Walsh) Rhyl 2 (Lloyd Williams 2)

2006/07 - Rhyl 3 (Hunt, Connolly 2, 1 pen) Bangor 1 (Wynne); Bangor 1 (Stott) Rhyl 3 (Murtagh, Moran, Hunt).

2005/06 - Bangor 0 Rhyl 3 (Hunt, Moran, Horan); Rhyl 4 (Hunt, Stones, Moran 2) Bangor 1 (Hay).

2004/05 - Bangor 2 (P Roberts, Gray) Rhyl 1 (Graves); Rhyl 2 (Moran, Limbert) Bangor 3 (P Roberts 2, Blackmore).

2003/04 - Bangor 2 (Hunt, Blackmore) Rhyl 3 (G Powell 2, Moran); Rhyl 2 (Edwards 2) Bangor 0.

2002/03 - Rhyl 0 Bangor 1 (Hunt); Bangor 1 (S Davies pen) Rhyl 0.

2001/02 - Rhyl 0 Bangor 3 (Lloyd Williams 2, Goodall); Bangor 3 (Lloyd Williams 3, 1 pen) Rhyl 0.

2000/01 - Rhyl 6 (Trundle 2, McCosh 2, Sharratt, Barton) Bangor 1 (P Roberts); Bangor 0 Rhyl 3 (O'Callaghan, Stannard, Graves).

1999/00 - Rhyl 1 (Barton) Bangor 0; Bangor 3 (P Roberts, Hazelden, Sc Williams) Rhyl 2 (Fuller pen, A Thomas).

1998/99 - Bangor 4 (Sharratt 2, Shepherd, Filson) Rhyl 1 (Abercrombie); Rhyl 1 (Hader) Bangor 2 (Twynham 2).

1997/98 - Bangor 2 (McKenna, Highdale) Rhyl 0; Rhyl 2 (Williams og, Steel) Bangor 1 (McKenna).

1996/97 - Bangor 3 (Griffiths, Alun Evans 2) Rhyl 0; Rhyl 1 (Steel) Bangor 2 (Alun Evans 2).

1995/96 - Rhyl 0 Bangor 3 (Mottram, Langley 2); Bangor 3 (Buxton, Parry, Davies) Rhyl 1 (A Jones).

1994/95 - Bangor 2 (Noble, Buxton) Rhyl 0; Rhyl 0 Bangor 1 (Lloyd Williams).

PLAYED: 28

WINS: Bangor 17 Rhyl 11, DRAWS: 0.

GOALS - Bangor 48 Rhyl 42.

LEADING SCORERS IN THE SERIES:
8 - Marc Lloyd Williams (6 Bangor; 2 Rhyl)
7 - Lee Hunt (5 Rhyl; 2 Bangor)
6 - Andy Moran (6 Rhyl)
5 - Paul Roberts (5 Bangor)
4 - Alun Evans (4 Bangor)

GOALS OF THE SEASON SO FAR

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 03:35:57 +0000

TOP 10 GOALS OF THE SEASON TO DATE
JOSH Johnson netted Rhyl's 50th goal of the season in all competitions against Caersws on Saturday.
Here is a look back at the Lilywhites' best 10 netfinders so far - in our opinion at least.

1 NEIL ROBERTS (Rhyl v Haverfordwest, Welsh Cup, November 1, 2008)
This goal belonged at a much higher level. Robbo lobbed the ball over his head with back to goal, swivelled, and in the same movement hit a stunning half-volley from all of 20 yards into the bottom corner off the post. Has he ever scored a better goal in his illustrious career?
2 JOSH JOHNSON (Airbus v Rhyl, League Cup, Sep 23, 2008)
Every left winger dreams of scoring a goal like this. Johnson chased and retrieved a ball which looked to be going out of play on the left, nutmegged two defenders, raced into the box and with everyone expecting a cross Josh drove home under the keeper.
3 CARL OWEN (Rhyl v Airbus, League Cup, Aug 19, 2008)
What a thunderbolt! Josh Johnson crossed from the left, Owen turned on a sixpence and lashed an absolute rocket in off the bar, stunning the Belle Vue crowd.
4 CHRIS ROBERTS (Airbus v Rhyl, League Cup, Sep 23, 2008)
To chip the keeper from 18 yards from a stationery position is pretty good, but to do it on the run from a moving ball with a split second to think about it is something else. A truly sublime strike from Roberts at The Airfield.
5 GARETH WILSON (Rhyl v Caersws, Welsh Premier, Nov 8, 2008)
Willo hit a much better one than this v Porthmadog in the League Cup a couple of seasons back, but taking into account he'd only been on the field a couple of minutes and let fly with a cracking low strike from about 35 yards, and the fact it broke the deadlock after a frustrating 70 minutes for Rhyl, made this one was pretty special.
6 NEIL ROBERTS (Rhyl v Llanelli, Welsh Premier, Aug 30, 2008)
A vicious volley by Robbo from outside the box gave the Llanelli keeper absolutely no chance and made it 3-1 to Rhyl during a golden spell for the Lilywhites in front of a buzzing Belle Vue.
7 GREG STONES (Rhyl v Newtown, Welsh Premier, Aug 16, 2008)
Rhyl's first goal of the season and one of their best. Stones started the move down the left, played a neat one-two with Neil Roberts and then sent a lovely left foot shot in off the far post.
8 NEIL ROBERTS (Rhyl v Llanelli, Welsh Premier, Aug 30, 2008)
A fabulous glancing header into the far corner rounded off a sweeping move at a time where Rhyl were playing the champions off the park.
9 CARL OWEN (Airbus v Rhyl, League Cup, Sep 23, 2008)
Tremendous move by the Lilywhites. Gareth Wilson won a tackle outside his own box, broke forward and sent a great ball down the left for Owen who outpaced the defence and beat the keeper with a magnificent finish from an acute angle.
10 CARL OWEN (Rhyl v Airbus, League Cup, Aug 19, 2008)
First of two on the night for Owen. Greg Stones played in a cross from the right and Owen scored with a superb diving header which gave the visiting keeper no chance.

RHYL TOP CROWD PULLERS

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 01:04:53 +0000

RHYL have been the best supported club in the Welsh Premier for the past five seasons - and they are leading the way this term as well.
Based on the first five home matches for each club during the current campaign, Rhyl have the highest average attendance of 637.
Bangor City are second on 559, Aberystwyth third with 416 and newcomers Prestatyn Town an impressive fourth on 401.
ATTENDANCE TABLE - FIRST FIVE LEAGUE MATCHES 2008/09
1 Rhyl: Total 3186; Average 637.
2 Bangor City: 2796 - 559
3 Aberystwyth Town: 2082 - 416.
4 Prestatyn Town: 2004 - 401.
5 Carmarthen Town: 1686 - 338.
6 Llanelli: 1642 - 328
7 Neath Athletic: 1212 - 303 (played four home games only)
8 Newtown: 1476 - 295
9 The New Saints 1359 - 272
10 Haverfordwest County 1325 - 265
11 Porthmadog: 1282 - 256
12 Caersws: 1241 - 248
13 Caernarfon Town: 963 - 241 (played four home games only)
14 Airbus UK Broughton: 1159 - 232
15 (joint) Technogroup Welshpool (four games only) 754 - 189; Gap Connah's Quay 947 - 189
17 Newi Cefn Druids 876 - 175
18 Port Talbot Town 767 - 153

WILLO TURNS THE TIDE

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 22:49:33 +0000

RHYL 3 (Wilson 70, Williams og 72, Johnson 78)
CAERSWS 1 (Hughes 83)
WELSH PREMIER LEAGUE - NOV 8, 2008
SO much has been talked about the quality players Rhyl have brought in this season but it was their longest-serving first team squad member who proved the key man in unlocking the stubborn Caersws defence this afternoon.
Gareth Wilson came on as a 66th minute substitute with the score at 0-0 and the Lilies getting frustrated, but the 30-year-old midfielder broke the deadlock with a stunning 35-yard daisy-cutter which puts his side on the road to yet another victory.
Caersws came to Belle Vue with one intention - defend deep and play for a draw.
In the first half their tactics worked a treat as the Lilywhites struggled to create even one clear cut chance.
Their first on target shot did not come until the 37th minute when Jamie Reed fired straight at Bluebirds keeper Andy Hughes.
Rhyl continued to be off-radar in the second stanza but should have scored when Craig Jones' chip beat Hughes, came back off the post, and Matthew Williams looked a cert to score with the goal gaping but he somehow missed.
The only defence Williams could have is the ball came back at him off the woodwork too quickly and he was unable to adjust his feet, but the incident certainly had shades of Chris Iwelumo's unbelieveable miss for Scotland against Norway recently.
In the end it didn't matter for Rhyl - but it could have done.
On came Wilson and the game changed when, making his first league appearance for the first team this season, he let fly from 35 yards and his low shot carried sufficient power to beat Hughes, who really should have done better.
Caersws had been largely anonymous in attack, but soon after Rhyl scored ex-Lilywhites Stewart White rattled the post with a thunderous free-kick from 30 yards.
Two minutes later Rhyl went 2-0 up when George Horan tried to knock on a Gareth Owen free-kick in the box and Caersws' on-loan defender Rob Williams scooped into his own net.
Then on 78 minutes a corner was cleared to substitute Josh Johnson who hit a right foot shot from about 25 yards through a ruck of bodies - and the legs of the unfortunate Hughes. It was Rhyl's 50th goal in all competitions this season.
Rhyl had conceded only three league goals in nine starts and senior coach Allan Bickerstaff will be unhappy at the way Caersws nabbed a consolation seven minutes from time.
A poor pass from Greg Strong only found Dave Hughes who smartly fired past Lee Kendall, but that was the end of the scoring and Rhyl gained the victory which moved them back up to second in the WPL, two points behind Llanelli with a game in hand.
RHYL: Kendall, Connolly, Stones, Horan, Strong, G Owen (O'Neill 81), Kelly (Wilson 66), M Williams, N Roberts, Reed (Johnson 59), Jones.

MATCH FACTS
GOALS - Rhyl 3 Caersws 1.
ATTEMPTS - Rhyl 14 Caersws 6.
ON TARGET - Rhyl 6 Caersws 4.
CORNERS - Rhyl 11 Caersws 2.
YELLOW CARDS - Rhyl 1 Caersws 0.
RED CARDS - Rhyl 0 Caersws 0.
ATTENDANCE - 479
LILYWHITES ONLINE MAN OF THE MATCH
Gareth Owen (Rhyl)

RHYL FC RESULTS 2008/09
Aug 16, 2008 - Newtown (h-lge) 3-0 (Stones, N Roberts, Reed)
Aug 19, 2008 - Airbus UK Broughton (h-LC) 6-1 (C Owen 2, Jones 2, N Roberts, D Williams)
Aug 23, 2008 - Caernarfon Town (a-lge) 1-0 (Horan)
Aug 30, 2008 - Llanelli (h-lge) 5-1 (Strong, Reed, N Roberts 2, Johnson)
Sep 02, 2008 - Welshpool Town (h-LC) 1-2 (Jones)
Sep 05, 2008 - Porthmadog (a-lge) 3-0 (Reed, N Roberts, Jones)
Sep 13, 2008 - Haverfordwest County (h-lge) 2-0 (Reed 2)
Sep 21, 2008 - Neath Athletic (a-lge) 2-2 (Reed, Stones)
Sep 23, 2008 - Airbus UK Broughton (a-LC) 4-0 (C Owen 2, C Roberts, Johnson)
Sep 27, 2008 - Aberystwyth Town (h-lge) 0-0
Oct 04, 2008 - Castell Alun Colts (h-WC R2) 8-0 (Jones, Strong, Johnson, O'Neill, C Owen 2, M Williams 2)
Oct 07, 2008 - Welshpool Town (a-LC) 2-0 (C Roberts, C Owen)
Oct 10, 2008 - Connah's Quay Nomads (h-lge) 2-0 (Horan, O'Neill)
Oct 18, 2008 - Carmarthen Town (h-lge) 3-0 (G Owen, N Roberts 2)
Oct 28, 2008 - Bangor City (a-LC) 1-3 (aet) (Strong)
Nov 1, 2008 - Haverfordwest County (h-WC) 4-0 (Horan, M Williams, N Roberts 2)
Nov 8, 2008 - Caersws (h-lge) 3-1 (Wilson, Williams og, Johnson)
GOALS (50): 9 - Neil Roberts; 7 - Carl Owen; 6 - Jamie Reed; 5 - Craig Jones; 4 - Josh Johnson; 3 - Matthew Williams, Greg Strong, George Horan; 2 - Greg Stones, Chris Roberts, Paul O'Neill, 1 - Danny Williams, Gareth Owen, Gareth Wilson, 1 own goal.