BANGOR City progressed to the Nathaniel MG Cup second round with a narrow 1-0 win at Conwy Borough.

The new-look Citizens’ took their impressive JD Cymru North form into their first cup clash of the season, coming out on top by the odd goal during a hard-fought midweek contest at Y Morfa.

A tense opening to proceedings saw few chances of note created, with City coming closest to breaking the deadlock during the opening exchanges when Francesco Serafino blazed an effort narrowly over on seven minutes.

Aldair Neto carved an opening for himself on 20 minutes with some impressive individual skill, but this was not matched by the finish as he hit the side-netting with his attempt.

The Tangerines’ came within inches of gaining the advantage on 41 minutes when Harry Galeotti agonisingly missed out on connecting with a pinpoint delivery, and after the break saw a David Thompson free-kick comfortable saved by Borough stopper Huw Shaw at the other end with 54 on the clock.

The lively Harry Blackburn spurned a golden opportunity for Stephen Vaughan Jr’s men after a period of sustained pressure, but they finally got their noses in front at a crucial stage of the contest when full-back Eugenio Dalia produced a thumping strike from a tight angle that found its way into the net.

Warren Gibbs’ side piled on the pressure in the closing stages in their pursuit of a leveller, but they were unable to penetrate the resolute City rear-guard and their misery was compounded in stoppage time when Shaw was shown a controversial red card for a challenge just outside the penalty area.

A huge test awaits Vaughan Jr’s squad in the second round, with all-conquering JD Cymru Premier champions The New Saints visiting the EuroGold Stadium.