CHARLEY EDGE conjured up a dramatic last gasp strike as Llay Welfare went so close to opening the season with a triumph.

Phil Hudson’s visitors held a 1-0 advantage over Gresford Athletic deep into stoppage time at The Rock.

Then, Edge took centre stage with his 98th minute free kick to make sure it finished up 1-1.

It was tight in the first half and Gresford threatened in the 27th minute.

Dominic Deacon’s cross was almost turned into his own net by a Llay defender, but ex-Gresford keeper Mike Jones was on hand to make a crucial save.

Haci Ozlu and captain Josh Griffiths had further efforts as the half developed, while Llay enjoyed a promising start to the second period.

Home keeper Nik Bulmer was forced into a terrific save, while Welfare did go in front with 12 minutes remaining.

Substitute Samuel Lestrange capitalised on a defensive mix-up to force the ball home.

That looked to be that, but Gresford and Edge had other ideas.

In the eighth minute of added time, Edge fired a stunning free kick from the edge of the box into the top corner.

Buckley Town also made their point to open the campaign.

Asa Hamilton’s charges played out a 0-0 draw at home to Penrhyncoch. There were decent opportunities for both sides but there were no goals at The Globe.

Bangor 1876 enjoyed a stunning start to the season with their 4-0 success away to Colwyn Bay.

In front of a crowd of 1,236, Bangor took the lead on 24 minutes with Corrig McGonigle scoring from close range.

Jay Owen hit the post as Bay sought a leveller, but the Seagulls were reduced to 10 men with the 37th minute dismissal of Lewis Sirrell following a tackle on Mason Blackwell-Jones.

McGonigle free kick gave Bangor a 2-0 lead at half-time, while Tom Clarke and Blackwell-Jones added to the tally in the second half.

Bay boss Michael Wilde’s reaction after the game was “disappointment to say the very least”.

He added to the club’s website: “We can do a lot of things a lot better and we certainly will do.

“We’ll analyse it, reflect on it and make sure we’re right next time.

“As soon as you’re down to 10 men, your backs are up against a wall and you have to then try and change things and try and be positive.”