After managing to avoid relegation from the Welsh Premier League last season due to Port Talbot’s failure to gain a licence, it was evident things weren’t quite right at Rhyl. Under the guidance of a younger, newer manager in Niall McGuiness and a completely revamped squad, will their fortunes be much improved in the 2016/17 edition of the Dafabet Welsh Premier League?
Manager
Niall McGuiness has only been in charge of Rhyl for a matter of months having been thrown into the deep end with father, Laurie McGuiness back in February after the club dismissed the managerial duo of Mark Roberts and Gareth Owen, who left the Lillywhites struggling in the relegation zone.
Despite being only 24 years old, with the experience of his father and with his UEFA A License under his belt, the McGuiness duo could prove to be a successful and longstanding managerial part reship that helps drive Rhyl forward once more to challenge for the European places.
Current Squad and New Signings
It is apt that these headings are combined into one because Rhyl have had a total revamp of their squad this season with over 10 new signings arriving at Belle Vue. Many have had Welsh Premier League experience before and could be vital to a successful campaign.
| From | To | |
| Andraes Alvarado | Conwy | Rhyl |
| Jack Roberts | Conwy | Rhyl |
| James Bell | Caernarfon | Rhyl |
| Kristian Pierce | Denbigh | Rhyl |
| Mike Sharples | Denbigh | Rhyl |
| Rory Crowther | Glan Conwy | Rhyl |
| Jack Abraham | Flint | Rhyl |
| Zyaac Edwards | Caernarfon | Rhyl |
| Tom Hartley | Camell Laird | Rhyl |
| Kieran Hilditch | Holyhead Hotspur | Rhyl |
| Oliver Buckley | Meliden | Rhyl |
| Stefan Halewood | Australia | Rhyl |
| Liam Walsh | Wrexham | Rhyl (loan) |
With Toby Jones also joining the squad from Caernarfon Town, McGuiness has certainly made the squad his own. Despite the fact many would be considered sound acquisitions, it may turn out to be too much change in a short space of time, which could ultimately cost Rhyl come the end of the season.
Prediction: 10th
Most definitely a pre-season relegation candidate considering the number of changes occurring a the club, however McGuiness will have definitely surprised a few with some of his astute signings which may well be enough for Rhyl to keep their heads above water. But, it’s sure to be a close run thing.
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