Connah’s Quay Nomads continued their Europa League preparations with an impressive 2-1 victory over Crusaders.

Nomads, who were drawn against Belarusian side Shakhtyor Soligorsk in the first qualifying round, found themselves a goal down after four minutes as Jordan Forsythe put the Northern Irish Premier League champions in-front.

But midfielder Callum Morris quickly levelled things with a penalty for Nomads, who got themselves ahead after the break through Michael Bakare.

Despite making a number of changed in the second period, Andy Morrison’s men held on to secure a hard fought victory.

Nomads director of football Jay Catton tweeted: “Great pre @EuropaLeague game today against @CrusadersFC a good performance and workout against last season’s National League winners. Tenth contact down, recovery, evaluate and we go again Monday.”

The performance followed on the back of the news that midfielder Jay Owen has signed a full-time contract with Nomads, who face Isle of Man FA next Saturday.

Fellow Europa League qualifiers Bala Town were also 2-1 winners as they defeated The New Saints 2-1.

Ryan Brobbel handed Saints, who face KF Shkendija in the Champions League on July 17, but Chris Venables levelled things up after a clever pass from recent signing Andy Mangan.

Kieran Smith won it for Bala, who face Tre Fiori on Thursday, the attacker saying: “Pre-season isn’t all about the results, but it’s nice to get two wins in a row.

“The boys are really prepared and looking forward to next week now.”

Cefn Druids, who face FK Trakai in the Europa League preliminary round at Belle Vue on Thursday, have signed Frenchman Virgil Moutaud.

On Moutaud, who made the move from Belgian side Betekom, Druids assistant boss Jayson Starkey told the club’s official website: “Virgil was brought to our attention by a goalkeeper who trialed with us last season.

“Virgil is our third midfield signing of the summer and has already shown some of his ability in training. He still has a lot to learn and is keen to improve his skills with us.”