LLANRHAEADR go into the new season determined to cause a shock in the Huws Gray Alliance.

Manager Marc Griffiths has retained last season’s Mid Wales League One title winning squad with goalkeepers Jimmy Haynes and Harri Lloyd adding further depth.

Griffiths was under no illusions as the size of the task facing his club which play their home matches at nearby Llansantffraid Village this season.

Griffiths feared the days when village clubs could climb as high on merit were coming to an end with the Football Association of Wales (FAW) enforcing new criteria from next season.

Griffiths said: “With the league and FAW changing ground requirements and requesting clubs are run like a business I fear the days of small village clubs with local players playing in the second tier will soon come to an end.

“Hopefully we can do ourselves proud and enjoy it and one thing is for sure we will all be better for the experience.”

Dan Graham has been added to the coaching staff to support Griffiths and assistant Graham Evans as the village side seek to survive.

Young forwards Iwan Matthews and Khyam Whytton are joined by Iain Edmunds in a potent attacking threat while midfielder Joe Vaughan will look to utilise his recent experience gained in the Alliance during two seasons with Llanfair United.

Griffiths said: “Being the only side without a budget means we are under no illusions that the task ahead is going to be difficult but we are all excited about the campaign ahead.

“We have a great group and I believe if they all commit to the cause then there will be a few upsets on the cards.