THE first trial game in relation to the Ynys Mon men’s football team took place this week, which saw a wealth of talent from the island compete against each other with a view to making the squad for next summer’s tournament.

Sports reporter Dean Jones outlines five players that stood out during the showcase at the home of Holyhead Hotspur.

Jay Gibbs (Porthmadog):

Although playing his first meaningful minutes since recovering from a long-term injury, Gibbs turned in a performance of genuine quality and he will undoubtedly have a huge part to play during the tournament next summer.

He is something of a maverick but can win a game on his own at any opportunity, with his ability to conjure pieces of magic and goals from long range another huge asset that Campbell Harrison would be foolish not to call upon when he names his squad.

Alex Boss (Bangor City):

The talented Citizens’ winger is widely regarded as one of the brightest young prospects anywhere in the region, and his boundless energy and quality of delivery were there for all to see during a thoroughly entertaining affair.

Boss can be a real difference-maker and he plays with a fearless energy that makes him a threat almost anywhere in the final third that will only be a good things going forward for the Ynys Mon side.

Joe Donavan (Holyhead Town):

Donavan showed his quality during a rousing display that has undoubtedly put him in with a chance of making the squad despite more high-profile players at his position that are currently playing to a higher standard.

He has been a huge factor in the Harbourmen’s incredible rise to prominence over the last two years, and this showing further enhanced his growing reputation and undoubtedly gave Harrison and his staff plenty to think about going forward.

Marc Evans (Holyhead Hotspur):

A prolific marksman who seems to score anywhere he goes, Evans recently returned from New Zealand following his record-breaking spell with Melville United and really hit the ground running both with the Holy Islanders and during the trial match.

There are few better finishers when presented with a chances, and his vast experience of big game situations matched with his clinical finishing are sure to make him an indispensable part of the set-up when the tournament rolls around.

Sam Jones (Bangor City):

Jones is another product of the hugely successful City Academy, and his overall contribution to the trail match have done his chances of making the 23-man squad the world of good.

The sky is the limit in terms of what he can achieve providing he is given the chance to shine in the Citizens’ senior set-up under Craig Harrison, who seems to be keen to involve the youngster whenever possible which is sure to further aid his progression considerably.