HOLYHEAD Hotspur got some much-need minutes in readiness for the new season in their 4-0 friendly loss at Colwyn Bay.

There was plenty of encouraging signs for the Holy Islanders’ to take from their latest pre-season fixtures, with the squad receiving praise from Bay manager Craig Hogg following the encounter.

The home side made a strong start to the contest and took a one-goal advantage at the break when Sion Edwards, a recent signing from second tier rivals Porthmadog, produced a fine finish after a period of consistent pressure to break the deadlock.

After the break saw the hosts extend their advantage when skipper Tom McCready delivered a sensational free kick into the net, and the win was all-but sealed soon after when lively forward Joe Chaplin was the latest beneficiary of some neat approach play to notch a third.

Credit to Darren Garmey’s men, they worked incredibly hard to try and withstand a barrage of pressure from the Bay in the second period, but they were undone again late on when Julian Williams’ deflected effort found its way into the net to round off the scoring.

Garmey, said: “Nothing but positives to take from the game, great to see the lads working hard and adapting to changes, and to give some youngsters their first team debut.

“Thanks again to Craig and everyone at Colwyn Bay FC for the fixture and I wish them the best of luck for the season.”

There was good news for Spurs in midweek after they managed to secure the signing of Rob Jones from Llannerchymedd.

The prolific forward enjoyed a fantastic campaign with the Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division Two outfit last term, emerging as their top scorer thanks to a series of exceptional displays.

“Glad to have Rob back with the club. He enjoyed a very good season, he has matured a lot as a player and will be an asset to us now in our promotion bid,” added Garmey.