LLANDUDNO remain at the WRU National League Division One North summit after a sensational 18-14 win over defending champions Nant Conwy.

The Goats were at their brilliant best in the first period to extend their unbeaten start to the campaign, and they have now emerged as one of the favourites for the title next spring after an incredible opening to the new season.

They came out all guns blazing in the first period and opened the scoring after just nine minutes when talisman Ryan Pike slotted over a penalty.

Pike then suffered a significant head injury that forced him to withdraw from the clash soon after, and he is set for a significant spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery to repair a broken jaw.

Oscar Lennon took over the kicking duties and he increased their advantage with another penalty, and they continued their dominance to notch the first try of the contest when Lloyd Evans latched on to an Ed Weston pass to touch down.

Lennon despatched the conversion attempt with the last action of the half to give the hosts a 13-point cushion at the interval.

The second half saw the away side finally get a grip of proceedings and they find a route back into the game when Carwyn Ellis broke through the Goats’ rearguard to cross the white wash. Steffan Horan added the extras.

With momentum now fully with the visitors, Nant went over again following another impressive spell of phases that eventually ended up with Caron Davies surging over for a score that was converted by Horan.

There was still time for further drama in the closing stage, with the home side picking up a critical victory after Rhys Henderson produced a fantastic burst of pace to score the final points in a memorable win for the early pacesetters.

The Goats will look to continue their scintillating recent form when they travel to Ruthin on Saturday (2.30pm).