LLANGEFNI Town showed their never-say-die attitude to secure a pivotal win in the quest for JD Cymru North survival.
The newly promoted side dug deep to move out of the bottom four with a 2-1 victory at Llandudno, and although there is plenty of work still to be done, manager Chris Roberts can be hugely encouraged by what he saw from his side in difficult conditions.
Nobody gave Cefni much of a chance of staying up after finally securing promotion from Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division One last season. They lost some key attacking options in the summer and do not have the resources of some of the big-hitters operating in the division.
Regardless of these issues, the club have more than held their own and find themselves with a fighting chance of securing their second tier status. Much will depend on the fortunes of Buckley Town, who are just a point behind Cefni but have an eye-watering five games in hand.
Having more games to play is one thing, but securing points in a notoriously difficult JD Cymru North is another matter. If Cefni can keep within touching distance of Buckley heading into the final few games then there is no telling what may happen when the nerves reached fever pitch.
Roberts has done a tremendous job of building a superb work ethic that has made up for their lack of quality in other areas compared to some in the league. They are organised, buy into the manager’s ethos and remain entirely committed to achieving their overall objective.
The boss also has an ace up his sleeve in Mel McGinness, a January window signing from Porthmadog.
A highly experience figure at this level, McGinness has the ability to carve something out of nothing, which is essential for any team in Cefni’s precarious position during the business end of the campaign.
This weekend poses another stern test for Llangefni as they get set for home clash with Ruthin Town, who will be looking over their shoulders closely if they fail to secure three points.
It is a stiff test for Cefni, but they can go into the game with plenty of confidence. Going to a blustery Llandudno is never the easiest task but to emerge with three points is a testament to their will, desire and ability to rise to the occasion at critical moments.
With champions-elect Prestatyn Town, Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant, Ruthin and Llanfair United upcoming for the squad, they are going to need plenty of mettle in order to exceed expectations and secure a second season in the division.
They deserve tremendous credit for giving themselves a chance, but Roberts will know that will count for nothing if they make a quick return to tier three.
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