CPD Y Rhyl 1879 have appointed Barry Owen as their new manager after he left Cymru North rivals Mold Alexandra, where he spent more than two years in charge.
Owen takes over at the Lilywhites following a selection process that saw the club consider 35 applications for the position, with a club representative describing him as the ‘standout candidate’.
Owen will be joined at Rhyl by his assistant from Mold Alexandra, Rhyl local Liam Groves, with the pair officially beginning their new roles on Sunday, November 1.
Their appointments will take effect following the Lilywhites’ away fixture against Mold Alexandra on Saturday, with the new management team set to begin work at Belle Vue the following day.
The experienced manager arrives at Belle Vue having previously managed St Asaph City and Llanrwst United, bringing a wealth of knowledge of the Welsh domestic game to his new role.
His appointment comes as Rhyl look to take another important step forward, with managing director Adam Roche outlining the club’s ambitions after confirming the news.
Rhyl explain why Barry Owen stood out from 35 applicants
Roche revealed the club had spoken to a number of highly respected and experienced managers before deciding Owen was the right person to lead their project.
He said to the official club website: “Having reviewed 35 applications and spoken with some highly respected and hugely experienced managers, Barry’s ambition for Rhyl really stood out.
“His winning mentality immediately caught my attention, but it was his passion, vision and the thought and planning he has already put into taking this club forward that genuinely blew me away.”
Roche added that Owen’s understanding of the club’s significance to the town, its supporters and the wider community was an important factor in the appointment.
He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Barry to Rhyl. I firmly believe we’ve appointed someone who shares our ambition, understands what this club means to the town, its supporters, the wider community and has the drive and determination to help us achieve something special.”
The managing director also pointed to the progress being made both on and off the pitch, describing the appointment as another important step in the club’s journey.
He added: “There is so much to be excited about at CPD Y Rhyl 1879, both on and off the pitch, and this appointment is another important step in our journey.
“I genuinely believe our players, everyone connected with the club, and our fantastic supporters will be excited by what lies ahead. The future is bright, the ambition is real, and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.”
Owen leaves Mold Alexandra after 80 games in charge
Owen departs Mold Alexandra after spending two years and five months in the role, overseeing 80 matches during his time with the club.
His record consisted of 34 wins, 12 draws and 34 defeats, giving him a 42.5 per cent win rate across his spell in charge.
Mold are currently sitting third in the Cymru North, underlining the competitive environment Owen leaves behind as he begins his new challenge at Rhyl.
One of the notable achievements during his tenure came in the 2024/25 season, when he guided Mold to the last 16 of the Welsh Cup.
His experience of managing at Cymru North level could prove valuable as Rhyl look to build momentum and establish themselves among the division’s competitive sides.
Rhyl welcome new boss as club outline ambitious future
The Lilywhites have made clear that Owen’s appointment is about more than simply filling the managerial vacancy, with the club placing emphasis on a shared vision and a desire to achieve something special.
His track record at Mold, alongside his previous experience with St Asaph City and Llanrwst United, gives him a foundation to work from as he settles into life at Belle Vue.
Rhyl said: “Everyone at CPD Y Rhyl 1879 would like to welcome Barry to the club and wish him every success as he takes charge of the Lilywhites.”
Rhyl’s first five games under Barry Owen
Owen’s first match in charge of Rhyl is scheduled for November 7, when the Lilywhites host Holyhead Hotspur in the Cymru North.
The new manager will then take his side on the road for consecutive away fixtures against Llanuwchllyn and Penrhyncoch before returning to home action against Gresford Athletic.
Rhyl’s first five fixtures under Owen are:
- Holyhead Hotspur (H) – November 7
- Llanuwchllyn (A) – November 14
- Penrhyncoch (A) – November 21
- Gresford Athletic (H) – November 28
- Guilsfield (A) – December 5
The run of fixtures will give Owen an early opportunity to assess his squad and begin putting his plans into practice as he takes charge of the Lilywhites.
