BANGOR City have continued to show progression this season as they look to finally challenge The New Saints of Oswestry Town in the coming years.

Kevin Nicholson’s men closed out Phase One of the JD Welsh Premier League season in third spot after a narrow defeat at the all-conquering champions, and although they are now 14 points behind the full-times there is still plenty to play for during the second half of the campaign.

While catching the runaway leaders may be a task too fat for the group, the Citizens are in a prime place to possibly claim a European spot, and there appears to be far more cohesiveness within the squad than there has been in recent years.

They have a number of players who are capable of winning a game on their own, with the likes of Dean Rittenberg and Brayden Shaw demonstrated their immense prowess throughout the season.

Luke Wall is another that has caught the eye for City thanks to his consistent performances, while player-assistant manager Gary Taylor-Fletcher’s experience during critical moments has been another huge positive.

While the big money signings have gathered most of the attention, Nicholson has not been afraid to throw in members of the club’s thriving Academy if he deems them good enough, something that will be pivotal to their success in the coming years.

Talented individuals such as George Harry have already proven that they can made an impact for the senior side if given the opportunity, and the future is extremely bright for him under the guidance of one of the best young managers anywhere in the country.

Nicholson has proven beyond all doubt that he is the man that can lead Bangor City to heights rarely seen at the club, and as long as he is given time to continue to develop the squad then the sky is the limit in terms of what they can achieve.

It has been a busy January transfer window as the boss continues to make changes in order to improve, and there have been moments this season when you thought that they were really going to push TNS all the way to the crown.

A difficult period of results ensured that in all likelihood, this will not be the case – at least this season – but there is nothing to suggest they cannot finish in the runners-up spot and possibly enjoy JD Welsh Cup success in the process.

Top performer: Dean Rittenberg

The former Blackburn Rovers forward has been in fantastic form throughout the season, and already has 12 goals to his name after a series of outstanding performances.

His link-up play and work-rate are first class, and he has the ability to find space in tight areas that not many possess in the top flight.

Best result: 5-2 (W) vs The New Saints of Oswestry Town

The Citizens sent out a warning to their league rivals on the opening day of the campaign with a thumping victory over the reigning champions, and this brought with it an increased sense of expectation that maybe City were not ready for at this stage of their development.

Nevertheless, it was a real indication of the level they need to perform at on a consistent basis if they are to reach their objectives in the future.