LLANDUDNO have caused huge shockwaves at the WRU National League Division One North summit after a scintillating start to the season.

The Goats have produced a sensational unbeaten run that sees them occupy top spot in the standings, and they have also thrown a real spanner in the works in relation to the chances of powerhouses such as Pwllheli and defending champions Nant Conwy.

Make no mistake, Dudno are real contenders thanks to their fantastic balance of powerful defence and blistering attack, and their resurgence has been a breath of fresh air for a division that has become somewhat predictable in recent seasons.

Whether they can keep it up or not remains to be seen, but there is a growing belief within the club and those looking in that an elusive title is within the realms of possibility, something that would represent a significant achievement given their stature within the game compared to other fancied sides.

One thing they will have to overcome is the loss of talisman Ryan Pike, who is set to miss significant time after an operation to repair a broken jaw that comes at the worst possible time for the Goats.

They are fortunate to have a ready-made replacement at the fly half position in Nick Dundee, with the former RGC Academy prospect really catching the eye since joining from Bangor and his boot played a huge part in their narrow weekend at Ruthin to sustain their four-point cushion at the top.

Oscar Lennon is another that will be relied on heavily during free-kick situations, and the tireless Dan O’Sullivan has been another exceptional performer on both sides of the ball, so there is plenty to suggest they can remain in the hunt even without Pike until the standout is ready to return to action.

There seems to be a steely determination both on and off the field within the squad that has aided their cause considerably so far, and although there is a long way to go you would not bet against them following their recent success against Nant, who dominated the league last season and will now know they are in for a real fight if they want to retain their crown.

The unpredictability of the league this season ensures there will be plenty of twists and turns to come, but the Goats can be rightfully encouraged by the start they have made which could end up with some unlikely silverware at the end of the season.