Rhyl edge nearer Welsh Premier League return

Former champions Rhyl are a step closer to a return to the Welsh Premier League after being granted a Football Association of Wales domestic licence.

Rhyl, champions in 2004 and 2009, were relegated three years ago after failing to achieve the necessary licence.

The Lilywhites are currently 14 points clear at the top of the Cymru Alliance.

The FAW has granted 14 domestic club licenses, with only Llanelli and Gap Connah's Quay unsuccessful from current Welsh Premier clubs.

But the FAW added that Connah's Quay's rejection was on a technicality and suggested it would be overturned on appeal.

"They were requested to supply supplementary information on the day," said FAW Head of Competitions Andrew Howard.

"Although this has now been dealt with, the information was not received until after the meeting had been closed.

"They will have to wait for the appeals body for their outcome."

Llanelli recently fended off a third attempt is six months by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs to have it wound up at the High Court in London.

Non-Welsh Premier clubs Cefn Druids, Llandudno Town and Haverfordwest County were also awarded the domestic licence, which is a pre-requisite for participation in the national league.

Nine Welsh Premier League clubs were awarded Uefa licences, required for participation in the Uefa Champions League or Europa League. Llanelli, Connah's Quay and Afan Lido were unsuccessful.

Appeals for both licenses have to be lodged to the FAW within 10 days and the appeals body will meet on 23 April for a final decision.