After falling in the playoff final last year and missing out on a spot in the Adran Premier, reigning Adran North champions Llandudno are determined to go all the way this year.
Dudno had a magnificent season on their way to the title last year, scoring 80 goals, conceding 18, and only dropping three points all season. Jordan Hadaway’s side could do anything and everything, as they booked their place in the playoff final.
Yet, at Latham Park, the northern champions would leave disappointed, as they were handed a 4-0 defeat by Briton Ferry.
The squad have had a full summer to reflect on the loss, but captain Sofie Owen says the squad have shaken off that loss and are ready for the season ahead.
“It is never nice to suffer a defeat but as a team we don’t generally dwell on it; we like to focus on the task ahead. We will play some tough games this season, so it was important for us to just regroup, stick together and focus on the upcoming season.”
Sticking together has been the team’s MO this summer. No big name has departed, and while Hadaway has left his post as manager, his assistant Billy Fuller has taken over.
Having the same players and same familiar faces around the changing room has certainly helped boost confidence, according to Owen.
“It helps massively that we’ve kept the core of last season’s squad. We have got some top-quality players who have been together as a team for years now. We are thrilled to have welcomed both under 15 and under 17 junior sides this season so are excited to see what the youngsters can offer us too.”
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With the likes of top scorer Maddie Williams around, along with a supporting act that includes Kelsey Davies, Ella Jones, Stevie Donougher, and Erin Doran, this is an incredibly strong side.
As you can imagine, this team only have their sights one thing and one thing only this season, the title.
“Our aim is to certainly win the title again. Every game is important to us, and we like to go out and do a good job of it. There is a lot of tough opposition in the league, so it won’t be easy but yes, of course we are aiming for the top.”
The competition, however, won’t make life easy for the champions.
Connah’s Quay have strengthened well and have put their faith in youth this season, while Felinheli surprised many as they pushed Fuller’s side all the way to the title.
Dudno’s first game is tough too, as they make the short trip over to Rhyl. Owen knows this league isn’t going to be a gimme, and that they will have to work hard for every point on offer.
“I think a lot of teams have strengthened their squads in recent months. Of course, CQ and Felin will be tough games, but no games are easy.
“Rhyl will and have always given us a good, tough game. They’ve got some good talent in their side and certainly don’t make it easy to get a result from.”
It’s sure to be a long season for the team on the Creuddyn peninsula, but for Owen and her squad, they want to reach the promised land, having been close enough to touch it last year.
“We want the title and promotion. The girls work hard in training week in week out, so I think it’s important to put that into practice and for each player to be the best version of themselves.”
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