Interim Lilywhites boss Mark Connolly recruits two experienced defenders to Rhyl

Rhyl FC’s interim boss Mark Connolly has put his own stamp onto his squad as he adds two defensive reinforcements to the squad in Ben Collins and Jason Jeffries.

Collins joins from Brickfield Rangers who play in the league below Rhyl, whilst Jeffries joins from Northern League Premier side Skelmersdale United.

Connolly who was a defender himself in his playing days has identified the need for defenders and has signed the duo after shipping 14 goals this season.

The 29 year-old played for Conwy Borough during their time in the Cymru Alliance before their relegation last season, as well as featuring for Chester-based side Upton AA.

The left-back has played most of his football in Wales after playing at clubs like Ruthin Town, Caernarfon Town, Buckley Town and the Connah’s Quay Nomads, before moving to Bala Town where he featured 43 times for the Lakesiders in the Welsh Premier League.

Jeffries who can also perate as a centre-back was recently involved with Skelmersdale and made a total of 12 appearances last season, building on the 23 he made for the club last season after moving there in November.

The former Oldham youth trainee moved to Accrington Stanley before featuring for Scottish side Motherwell. After moving from Motherwell, he had spells at Prescot Cables, Droylsden and Witton Albion, highlighting his experience in the English pyramid system. His move is subject is international transfer clearance but has already featured for Rhyl in their mid-season friendly defeat to Morecambe on Tuesday evening.

“I’m delighted to have signed Ben and Jay, my staff and I  have been working hard to recruit the right players and with Ben and Jay coming in,  we are not far off where we should be.” said Rhyl boss Mark Connolly when speaking to RhylFC.co.uk on the two signings.

“Jay joins us from Skem, we’ve been keeping an eye on Jay for the last couple of weeks and have been impressed with him in training and Tuesday night’s game versus Morecambe. He is ideal for the way we are trying to play. Both players know what I want from them to help us move forward and push us on for the rest of the season.”

As part of the moves, Chris Boungou and summer signing Shelton Payne have left the club as they seek pastures new.

(Featured Image: Rhyl FC)