CAERNARFON Town face another stern test in their bid for the Huws Gray Alliance crown when they travel to Flint Town United on Saturday.

Despite their league position this promises to be another very difficult game for the Canaries, with the Silkmen improving rapidly under the leadership of newly appointed manager Niall McGuinness.

The decorated coach was not out of work long after leaving Rhyl and he has already begun to make his mark on the squad, bringing in some quality signings that have really hit the ground running since the start of the New Year.

Full-back Jack Lewis is a significant arrival from Prestatyn Town and brings with him a wealth of experience and eye for goal from a defensive position, while also offering a different dimension with an imposing long throw.

Another eye-catching signature is that of Obi Anoruo from Gresford Athletic, who is a strong and classy striker capable of causing any team problems.

There is no doubt that the last few weeks have been tough on Sean Eardley’s side, but although they have been faced with significant adversity against both Denbigh Town and Rhyl they have emerged with something from both contests, which shows you the character in the squad.

This is the toughest stretch of fixtures so far for the Cofis and if they can emerge from unscathed then they will be extremely hard to stop in their pursuit of reaching the JD Welsh Premier League.

United have relatively nothing to lose given the fact they are clear of the drop zone and some way off the top three, but McGuinness will be looking to make a statement against the best side in the division and there is no doubt he has the quality at his disposal to give them plenty to think about.

Regardless of the way he departed the Lilywhites there is no doubting McGuinness’ credentials within the game, and with the likes of Richie Foulkes, Ieuan Hewitt and Carl Rodgers leading their charge it would not be a surprise to see the new boss mastermind a win over the promotion candidates.

Things do not get any easier for the Canaries between now and the end of the season, and they also face a landmark JD Welsh Cup clash with all-conquering champions The New Saints of Oswestry Town next weekend in what is expected to bring a bumper crowd to The Oval.

The league must remain the priority and with games against Ruthin Town, Guilsfield, Gresford Athletic, Airbus Broughton and title rivals Holywell Town on the horizon the Cofis are going to have to earn the right to compete wat the top of the Welsh pyramid next.

And do not let their league position fool you, Flint Town United are a massive obstacle to overcome.