Craig Lindfield scored twice to lead a Bala Town fightback in a 3-1 victory over Rhyl 1879 in the Novira Cymru North on Friday evening. The Lakesiders secured three points with a dramatic late winner from substitute Tomas Jones after falling behind early in the second half.
This match report is based on coverage from the Cambrian News. The game was played at the Hops and Barley Community Stadium, a venue with European pedigree for Bala Town, having hosted four of their continental fixtures in the past. Colin Caton's side entered the contest with a lengthy injury list, making the result even more significant.
How did Bala Town turn the game around?
Rhyl 1879 took the lead shortly after the restart through Josh Jones, a former Bala Academy player. The home side's advantage didn't last long. Bala Town equalised around the 60th minute when Craig Lindfield headed home from a Tom Kelly corner. Lindfield then put his side ahead with a second goal later in the match, completing his brace.
The decisive third goal came deep into stoppage time. Substitute Tomas Jones, who had replaced Tom Kelly in the 71st minute, found the net in the 94th minute to seal the three points. The victory lifts Bala Town in the standings as they look to build momentum.
Who were the key performers for the Lakesiders?
Craig Lindfield was the clear standout, scoring the equaliser and the go-ahead goal. His aerial threat from set-pieces proved vital. Goalkeeper La'Trell Jones also made a crucial close-range save to keep his team in the game during the first half.
Tom Kelly created early chances before being substituted, while captain Nathan Burke led from the front despite picking up a first-half yellow card. Charlie Fisher received an early booking and was later replaced by Will Bell. Lindfield himself was cautioned four minutes after the 71st-minute substitution, around the 75th minute.
What does this result mean for the Novira Cymru North?
Friday's win was part of a full slate of Novira Cymru North action. Other results saw Bangor 1876 beat Brickfield Rangers 2-1, Buckley Town defeat Guilsfield 3-1, and Newtown secure a 4-0 victory over Llanuwchllyn. Penrhyncoch drew 2-2 with Denbigh Town, Porthmadog lost 1-3 to Caersws, and Ruthin Town fell 0-4 to Mold Alexandra.
These results have reshaped the early season table. For Bala Town, managing their injuries list will be key to maintaining this form. The team's depth was tested and responded well, with substitutes making a direct impact on the scoreline.
What challenges did Bala Town overcome?
Playing away from home on a Friday night presented its own difficulties. The Lakesiders also had to cope with the setback of conceding first. Rhyl made late changes, bringing on James Farr and Emmanuel Osilaja for Naim Arsan in stoppage time, but Bala's defence held firm.
The team showed character to fight back and then see out the game, a positive sign for the management. You can view the full squad available to Colin Caton as he plans for the next fixture. Bala Town's next match is at home against Penrhyncoch on Saturday, September 12th.
