Just one week remains until the beginning of another thrilling Lock Stock Ardal Leagues season, with plenty of twists and turns set for the new campaign.

In anticipation for the new year, here we preview a wide-open Ardal North-East.

Promotion Race

Last season saw one of the surprise packages of the division mount a terrific campaign and take the title, can the same happen again in 2025/26? 

Brickfield Rangers topped the league last season, pipping Bow Street on the final day to take the trophy. Bow Street have finished the last two seasons as the runners-up in the division and will be desperate to go one better come May 2026. However, it’ll be a big ask for the Aberystwyth-based side, who’ve lost key members of the squad to JD Cymru North and South sides. Callum Page, who netted 28 goals in 23 games last term has signed for Caersws whilst Richard Ricketts signs for Aberystwyth. Those goals will be difficult to replace.

One of Wales’ real upcoming sides in the last few seasons has been Llanuwchllyn, who for the last two seasons have had to struggle with the heartache of losing in the promotion playoff final. In May, they were beaten by Holyhead Hotspur and will be desperate not to go through the same process as they aim for the title. Striker Meilir Williams in the headline grabber having finished as the league top scorer with an eye-watering 38 goals. Williams is one of a host of key players retained this season, along with the addition of Dale Davies from Bangor City 1876 and Kyle Jones.

Meanwhile, Corwen move across from the North West and could be a surprise package. With some quality additions in Calum Butler, Mackenzie Stark and former professional Gary Roberts, there’s a real chance of a local derby when it comes to the title race if they face off with Llanuwchllyn for top spot. 

New Kids on the Block

Corwen, as mentioned, have come from the North West whilst a host of other clubs come up from the fourth tier. Knighton Town return to the third tier and could well be looking for back-to-back promotions when looking at their incomings over the summer. Shane Sutton made over 300 appearances in the JD Cymru Premier as well as more than a century in the National League North with AFC Telford United and now heads to the Showground. Taylor Wozencraft (30), Callum Stead (23), Luke Boundford (22) and Declan Beddoes (20) all netted 20 or more goals last season as they earned promotion, and all will be key this term. 

After dropping from the Cymru North to the fourth tier, last season’s Central Wales North champions Llanrhaeadr Ym Mochnant will be looking for some stability following three difficult years, and with a host of signings this summer, will want to start well. 

Finally, Lex make their return to tier three and their first appearance in the Ardal Leagues following promotion from the  North East Wales Premier Division. At one time a regular in the second tier, Lex will be looking for a comfortable finish this term as a foundation to build on.

Dark Horses

Last season Kerry arrived in the Ardal Leagues and impressed with a solid first campaign, finishing the season 6th. This year, with a host of additions, they’ll look to go again and possibly even challenge for the top two. Likewise, Cefn Albion finally return home following exile and the feel-good factor will spread as they look to build on last season. Additions with experience at a higher level, like Callum Mannion, Morgan Sadler and Mark Richards, will be vital.

Need a Boost

Rhos Aewlyd will be desperate not to see a repeat of last season as the Wrexham-based side sweated out the remainder of the season. Surviving by three points, Rhos finished before anyone else and had to await their fate, with Llanidloes finishing just short. Similar can be said for Llanfair United, who were safe by six, whilst mid-table finishers Radnor Valley, Llandrindod Wells, Penycae and Llangollen will all look to make progress.

Lock Stock’s Tips

With no sides coming down from the Cymru North this term, the league is wide open at the top end. Our ‘way too early to call’ tip for the title goes with Llanuwchllyn, who’ve retained well and know they need to go one better. However, Corwen’s impressive finish in the North West gives them real hope and we could see them challenge, particularly with their additions. 

New boys Knighton are one we’re looking out for and could well be up there. As a top three, we wouldn’t be surprised. Dolgellau and Builth Wells have challenged previously, and a similar finish isn’t out of the question. Do however, keep an eye on Cefn Albion who may well be in the mix. 

Opening Day

The league campaign begins on Tuesday night (29th July) with plenty of mouth-watering clashes. The pick of the bunch will be Cefn Albion’s return to the MUGA as they take on Wrexham neighbours and league new boys Lex. Builth Wells meet Kerry in mid-Wales with both sides finishing in the top six last term.

Llanuwchllyn begin their season with a trip to Rhos Aelwyd, Corwen head to Llangollen, and Llandrindod Wells begin with hosting Radnor Valley. Llanrheadr v Dolgellau and Llanfair v Penycae rounds up the opening night. Knighton’s first game in the Ardal North-East comes on August 5th against Radnor Valley, and Bow Street begin at the same time away to Dolgellau.