Corrig’s 50th goal of the season seals famous derby win for Bangor 1876 over title rivals Rhyl 1879

LOCK STOCK ARDAL NORTH WEST LEAGUE – APRIL 8, 2023

Bangor 1876 2 (Petrie 1, McGonigle 88)
CPD Y Rhyl 1879 1 (Higgins pen 35)

Corrig McGonigle’s 50th goal of the season for Bangor 1876 could turn out to be his most important.

The prolific striker’s 88th minute winner clinched three priceless points which breathed new life into the fan-owned club’s Ardal North West title bid.

Michael Johnston’s side are now six points behind leaders Rhyl with two games in hand and a better goal difference of five.

The only other contender, Denbigh Town, were in cup action today and trail 1879 by 10 points but have played five games less.

Just like when the teams met at Belle Vue in a controversial first ever-clash between the pair in October, McGonigle’s late decider sealed a 2-1 victory.

Unlike the first encounter, where seven red cards were eventually brandished, no-one was sent off today and there were just four bookings.

A crowd of 840 watched a lively battle at Nantporth Stadium which was made all-ticket in the interests of security.

While 1876’s recent form had been patchy, Gareth Thomas’ Lilywhites were on a red-hot streak of nine straight league wins and 12 victories in 13 games unbeaten.

However, Bangor 1876 took the lead after just 27 SECONDS.

A long pass forward from Les Davies in central defence found Jamie Petrie running towards the right side of the Rhyl area. After steadying himself, Petrie fired in a low shot across goal that went in off the post.

In the seventh minute, Bangor so nearly doubled their lead when Liam Morris’ powerful low shot across goal struck both posts and stayed out. Visiting goalkeeper Josh Wilmot then showed good reactions to save McGonigle’s follow-up effort.

At the other end, Rhyl’s Kieran Ellis saw his half-volley from the edge of the area saved by Huw Shaw.

Ten minutes before the break, the visitors were awarded a penalty after Joe Culshaw was adjudged to have fouled James Stead.

Jack Higgins stepped up to send Shaw the wrong way from the spot to level the score.

In the final minute of the half, Ellis turned after receiving the ball near the penalty spot but was denied by a well-timed block from Kian Owen.

HALF-TIME: Bangor 1876 1-1 Rhyl 1879

Things were much tighter after the break with both sides extra anxious to avoid a loss.

On 70 minutes, Sion Edwards’ cross from the left found McGonigle at the back post and his header forced the Rhyl defence to clear from just in front of the goal line.

McGonigle turned neatly with just over 10 minutes left but could not direct his shot on target.

Davies had a chance following a corner from Edwards only for his header to be off-radar.

However, Bangor had better luck shortly afterwards. Morris cut in from the right wing and sent in a curling shot that McGonigle deflected past Wilmot and into the net for his 33rd league goal of 2022-23.

Rhyl went on search of a late equaliser but to no avail as the Bangor defence held out to secure an important victory.

Bangor 1876’s next game is on Tuesday 11 April when they make the short trip to Y Felinheli for a league match that kicks off at 6.30 pm.

Due to the limited availability of parking in the immediate vicinity of the ground, people are asked to car share or travel by public transport if possible.

HOW THEY STAND – ARDAL NORTH WEST

CPD Y RHYL 1879
Played 24 Points 59 Goal Difference +36
April 15: Denbigh Town (home)
April 22: Nantlle Vale (home)

BANGOR 1876
Played 22 Points 53 Goal Difference +41
April 11: CPD Y Felinheli (away)
April 15: Llandudno Albion (away)
April 28: Nantlle Vale (home)
May 6: Hawarden Rangers (home)

DENBIGH TOWN
Played 19 Points 49 Goal Difference +52
April 11: Hawarden Rangers (home)
April 15: CPD Y Rhyl 1879 (away)
April 22: Llangefni Town (away)
April 26: Llay Welfare (away)
May 2: Llanrwst United (away)
May 6: Nantlle Vale (home)
May 13: Rhostyllen (away)
CUPS
Ardal Northern League Cup Final – v Bow Street or Llangefni Town
April 29: Trethomas Bluebirds (FAW Amateur Trophy final)