RHUDDLAN Town manager Wayne Hughes outlined his relief after his side came from behind to secure a 3-3 draw at Abergele.

A thrilling encounter between the Vale of Clwyd and Conwy League Premier Division title rivals ended with both sides having something to show for their efforts, which leaves Gele enjoy a one point cushion at the summit having played a game more than Town and Llansannan, who are two behind in the standings.

Hughes, said: “It was probably the worst half of football I’ve seen us play all season. Credit to Abergele they absolutely ran circles round us in the first half.

“Not one single player stood out for us because as a team we struggled. Missing Jordan Bellham, Matty Beach, Connor Bucknall who have been on fantastic form of late with goals galore it was always going to be a struggle and another five players pulling out during the week we had our work cut out.

“After a fantastic chat at half time the lads came out flying, got the early goal we needed but it was a fair result and definitely a game of two halves.

“I would say overall I’m happy with the point the way we started the game and the amount of players missing but we have a big squad this season with lots of young keen lads ready when they are needed, massively proud of the lads who stepped in and did a job for the team.”

A blistering start from the home side saw them go ahead on eight minutes when Connah Atkinson found the net, and the same player was on hand once again later on in the first period to double their advantage with 35 on the clock.

After the break saw the visitors up the tempo and get back into the contest on 50 minutes when Jordan Frazer finished well, and they restored parity to the score line with 57 gone when talented playmaker Jay Whitehouse rounded off a fine team move with a superb strike.

Gele bounced back in fine fashion almost immediately after the restart and gained the upper hand once again through a well-taken attempt from Sam Aston, but the away side were handed a golden chance to salvage something late on when they were awarded a penalty, which Matty Rees duly despatched.