NANTLLE Vale manager Daniel Bell outlined his pride after his side fell to a narrow 1-0 home loss at the hands of Colwyn Bay.

The Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division One side turned in a tremendous display against their JD Cymru North opponents before eventually falling to a late goal that saw them exit the JD Welsh Cup at the second-round stage.

Bell, said: “I am very proud of my squad. It was the biggest test of the season against a very strong Colwyn Bay side and we showed what standard we are capable of playing at.

“We competed for 90 minutes and lost to a moment of individual quality.”

Bay striker Joe Chaplin started the game in the absence of Mitchell Bryant and had two good chances thwarted early on, with Julian Williams and Damian Ketley also spurning opportunities throughout a tight first period in difficult conditions.

Vale had a real go at their higher league opponents after the break and would have taken the lead had it not been for a sensational goal-line clearance from Matt Russell to keep the scores level.

The crucial moment arrived on 76 minutes and went in favour of the visitors, with Williams unleashing a ferocious left-footed strike that flew into the net to decide the tie.

Bangor 1876 also exited the competition despite an encouraging display in their 2-0 home defeat to Ruthin Town.

Mel Jones’ men have been ousted from two knockout competitions in consecutive weeks against higher league opposition, with more than 400 descending on their Treborth base to witness the clash.

Evergreen defender Kevin Evans headed Town in front following set-piece on the half hour mark, and they booked their place in the hat when prolific striker Llyr Morris hit the target with 49 on the clock.

A disappointing display from Llanrug United saw their cup dream end at Mold Alexandra thanks to a heavy 8-1 reverse.