MENAI Bridge advanced to the Gwynedd Cup final with a 24-23 derby win at rivals Holyhead.

The home side started well and went ahead in the first minute through a penalty, and this was swiftly followed by another free-kick after 12 to extend their advantage further.

This finally sprung the visitors into life, and they were rewarded for their improved effort on 19 minutes when a powerful run from flanker Gerwyn Morris saw him cross the white wash. Dion McGrath added the extras.

A cagey period of play followed before the hosts grabbed the initiative shortly before the break through a converted try after 36 minutes, and things got even better for the Holy Islanders when a quick break resulted in another score immediately following the restart.

After the interval saw McGrath close the gap with a well-struck penalty on 44 minutes, and their initial spell of dominance brought with it further success Sam Williams touched down after 54 which was converted by McGrath.

Another gritty spell from the home side saw them extend their lead to six with an unconverted score, but Bridge full-back Danny Hughes conjured up some magic soon after to cross the line in reply.

McGrath drilled the conversion attempt to give them a narrow one-point advantage, and despite having to withstand heavy pressure in the closing stages they held out for the win and will now take on Nant Conwy Thirds on Saturday at a neutral venue to be confirmed.