EXCITEMENT is building at Wrexham ahead of what is set to be a promising season for the Bryn Estyn side, writes JACK HARRISON.

The first fifteen have their minds set on achieving Division One status after narrowly missing out last term, whilst the seconds are hoping to establish themselves in Division Three after clinching the Dean Griffiths Memorial trophy.

Both squads head into the new season off the back of a couple of positive games against tough opposition in pre-season. A combined squad pushed Ruthin close in a 32-14 loss before defeating Denbigh 10-7.

The first team begin the season at Welshpool today, whilst the seconds travel to Holyhead.

Head coach Alan Jenkins said: “We played some really good rugby last season but just missed out in some tight games”, said Jenkins.

“If we can fix some of the problems that cost us in those gritty, bad weather encounters then we should be able to put together a run of wins during the winter.”

First team captain Calum Chaloner praised the work of John Aby, who has worked with the whole squad during pre-season.

He said: “We’ve had a good pre-season block, which has just been a progression from last year. Our sights are firmly set on getting promoted this year. We’ve been so close the last few seasons as far as I’m concerned, promotion is the benchmark.”

Second team captain Danny Guy set out targets for his side as they prepare for life in a competitive Division Three.

He said: “We want to be top half of the table and hopefully push towards the top four. We need to be strong at home and possibly try and stay unbeaten at home.We need to be known as a team that is hard to beat and if we can get a full squad out each week then we can have lads that can go on and push for selection in the first team.”

Division One champions Llandudno start their title defence at home to Bro Ffestiniog, Llangefni host Caernarfon, Nant Conwy face Bethesda at home, Pwllheli host Denbigh, newly-promoted COBRA travel to Ruthin and fellow newcomers Dolgellau go to Bala.

Relegated Mold start life in Division Two at Newtown, Colwyn Bay host Rhyl, Shotton Steel entertain Bangor while Nant Conwy seconds host Llanidloes.

In Division Three, Flint will be out to gain positive momentum with a strong start to the season at Machynlleth.

Meanwhile Rhos start their season by hosting Menai Bridge and senior coach Chris Williams is anticipating a close game.

He said: “Results in this fixture often reflect home advantage so I will be looking for a positive performance from the side. Pre-season training has gone well and the squad has been boosted by the return of Alun Richards after an 18 month lay-off due to a knee injury.”

Mold seconds host Llangefni seconds while Denbigh seconds go to Pwllheli seconds.