LLANDUDNO Albion advanced to the FAW Trophy quarter finals with a dramatic penalty shootout victory at Berriew.

The Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division One championship hopefuls had plenty to celebrate following their long trip to South Wales, extending the club’ rich history of cup achievements in recent years.

This latest triumph gives Darren Jones’ men plenty of confidence heading into their next outing at struggling Prestatyn Sports on Saturday as they look to close the 11-point gap between themselves and league-leading Holyhead Hotspur.

A series of sensational saves from Albion stopper Paul Whitfield kept them in the game early on after a rousing start to the tie from the hosts.

Gradually the visitors began to find their feet and were rewarded with the opener on 25 minutes when a neat passage of play presented a chance to Jack Williams, who demonstrated tremendous composure to open the scoring.

Some stout defensive work ensured their slender lead lasted until the interval, but their resilience finally relented after the break when the hosts levelled proceedings on 57 minutes thanks to a fine finish from Joe Haycock.

Both sides missed good chances to progress during the remainder of normal time, and this same pattern continued during the additional 30 minutes to send the game into a shootout.

Whitfield, who was outstanding all afternoon, was the hero of the hour for Albion thanks to a number of impressive penalty spots to give his side a fighting chance.

Those taking the spot kicks took full advantage and emerged victorious by a 4-2 score to book their place in the hat.