Bala Town’s new signing hopes it will be third time lucky in Europe

Bala Town’s latest signing cannot wait for a third stab at European football.

Defender Nathan Peate today joined the Lakesiders, who recently secured entry to the Europa League for the sixth time in eight seasons.

The 28-year-old arrives at Maes Tegid from Cefn Druids, who he played for in Europe against FK Riteriai of Lithuania in 2018-19, as well as featuring for Llandudno versus famous Swedish outfit IFK Göteborg in 2016-17.

Druids lost their tie just 2-1 to the Lithuanians, while Tudno were whipped 7-1 overall by Gothenburg.

Peate told the Bala Town website: “Playing European football is a huge achievement. I’ve been lucky enough to play in Sweden and Lithuania, but with Bala having such a good season I will get the opportunity to join them and experience it all again.

“Playing in Europe will give me the opportunity to go away and bond with the lads, as well as making memories for the club. Hopefully we don’t have to wait too long.”

Peate joins the Lakesiders from Druids after spending three years at The Rock.

The central defender appeared for Gresford Athletic, Flint Town United, Denbigh Town and Llandudno before signing for the Ancients in January 2017.

Hailing from Wrexham, he has represented the Wales C squad versus England including earning a second call-up in February for the planned international at The Oval.

Bala manager Colin Caton said: “Nathan has established himself as a very good centre half over the last few years at Cefn Druids. I’ve been a big admirer of him for a long time and it’s great to get him over the line and bring him on board with us.

“Nathan is a no-nonsense defender that strengthens the defensive competitiveness and he must to try to get himself a place in the team like all the other lads that we have signed.

“I’m really looking forward to working with him, he’s a top lad and he’s going to add a lot to the squad. His aerial presence is exceptional.”

Bala ins and outs summer 2020

Ins
Nathan Peate
Alex Ramsay
Will Evans

Outs
Josh Tibbetts
Mike Hayes
Stuart Jones
Louis Robles
Nathan Burke
Ashley Morris

Re-signed
Chris Venables
Anthony Stephens
Steve Leslie
Lassana Mendes
Jonny Spittle
Andrew Burns
Kieran Smith