SPORTS reporter Dean Jones picks out five key battles that could determine the outcome of Rhyl’s pivotal JD Cymru North home clash with resurgent Colwyn Bay.

Dave McIntyre vs Tom McCready

This battle for midfield supremacy is a fascinating and one that could go a long way to determining the overall outcome of the contest.

Bay skipper McCready is arguably the best player in the division and has been a standout performer so far this term, dictating possession in the middle of the park and coming up with some vital goals both from open play and set pieces.

McIntyre’s influence within the Lilies’ set-up has grown considerably this season following his return from a fractured skull, and like McCready he has the ability to designate the tempo of a contest and open things up in the final third.

Max Peate vs Mitch Bryant

Experienced Rhyl captain Peate is the heartbeat of their back-line both from a leadership and organisational perspective, but he faces a stern test of his credentials in the form of Bryant, who has made a successful transition to the Welsh domestic season so far.

He is a strong presence up-front and is a lethal finisher when presented with an opportunity, and Bryant has thrived starting on a more consistent basis after being bedded in slowly by manager Craig Hogg during their initial fixtures.

Arek Piskorski vs Darren Thornton

Polish striker Piskorski, on loan from Cefn Druids, has really hit the ground running and looks to be another astute acquisition from manager Eddie Maurice-Jones and assistant Richard Williams-Cooke.

He is a real livewire who has gelled quickly with James Murphy and Sam Molyneux, who have formed a front three of genuine quality that have fired the Lilies’ up the standings in recent weeks.

There is not much that would phase Thornton, who is an experienced figure that is equally as adept coping with a threat on the floor as in the air.

How he copes with Piskorski’s movement off the ball is another important aspect of the game to consider, especially if the home side dictate possession during the opening quarter of the clash.

Cai Owen vs Julian Williams

Two of the brightest young prospects anywhere outside of the JD Cymru Premier look set to lock horns, which is set to be an electric match-up providing both are selected.

Owen is a hugely talented full-back who has boundless energy for the entirety of the 90 minutes, providing the Lilywhites’ with a real outlet thanks to his ability to get forward and the quality of his deliveries.

He is sure to be tested at the other end of the field by Williams, who is a tricky individual to pick up and makes the very most of any chance that comes his way while also possessing a great creative nous to bring others into play.

Steve Thomas vs Sion Edwards

A pair of summer signings for their respective clubs, Thomas and Edwards will also have a huge say throughout the clash if their form this season is anything to go by.

Thomas is an asset at either end of the field thanks to his incredible engine and strong tactical awareness, with Edwards’ consistent methods or making an impact in whatever way possible being a significant help to the Seagulls’ during their exceptional run of recent results.