COLWYN Bay continued their encouraging pre-season with a 3-1 home triumph over Kidsgrove Athletic.

The Seagulls emerged victorious from a hugely competitive affair that will stand each member of the squad in good stead as they look to make a significant impact in JD Cymru North this term.

Craig Hogg’s men got their noses in front early on when Julian Williams timed his run perfectly to steer in a delivery at the near post, but a Trialist levelled matters just after the interval with a powerful volley from 20 yards.

This provoked a strong response from the home side, who restored their advantage midway through the half when Damian Ketley react first to prod in a rebound, and Bay skipper Tom McCready sealed the win late on with a sensational free kick that found its way into the top corner.

Bay take on Crewe Alexandra on Tuesday night before their first competitive fixture since returning to the Welsh domestic system next weekend, which sees them travel to Gresford Athletic on Sunday in the Nathaniel MG Cup first round.

Hogg, said: "It was a proper game of football against a team with whom we've had some really good battles against last season in the NPL.

"I've learnt more about the new lads we have, and I feel that a certain degree of trust in each other is now starting to form.

"Credit must go to both sets of players as both went about the game as if it was a league fixture.

"The quality of football played was really good for the neutral in the stadium and it was a really worthwhile friendly game to be involved in.

"The performance from our players was again really encouraging.

"We looked like a side who are now starting to develop with a better understanding with each other and that is a big positive. Hopefully we can build on the last few weeks of good work now.

"I think I speak for everyone when I say we are excited to be close to kicking the campaign off and we look forward to be starting for real."