A DETERMINED display from Llandudno saw them extend their unbeaten start to the season with a 22-16 victory at Ruthin.

The defending Specsavers National League Division One North champions were made to work incredibly hard for their latest triumph against a physical home side, and Goats’ talisman Ryan Pike successfully converted three penalties within the opening half hour to put them ahead.

This was met by two free kicks of their own from Nathan Jones to reduce the deficit to three going into the half-time break, and they went ahead for the first time on 50 minutes when a fine team move resulted in Iestyn Davies crossing the white wash.

Jones added the extras to increase the home side’s cushion, but the Goats’ used their power play to tremendous effect thanks to a sensational try from Lewis Jones, who got to the ball first after initially charging down a kick that was converted by Pike with 58 on the clock.

The outstanding Pike continued his exceptional form with another penalty on the hour mark, which brought an instant response in the form of another Jones free kick to leave the game finely balanced heading into the closing stages.

Arthur Lennon proved to be the Goats’ hero for the second consecutive week, successfully delivering another expert drop goal with two minutes remaining to seal the triumph.

Nant Conwy secured an away success in far more convincing fashion thanks to a 43-8 bonus point rout at Bro Ffestiniog to enhance their title claims.