The First Division outfit showed full respect to their North Wales opponents, bringing a first team squad to Belle Vue for the pre-season fixture.

The Potters were left stunned by the home side, who took a shock lead through James Brewerton. Brewerton headed home neatly from a Steve Walters cross, sending the 1,000 Rhyl supporters in attendance in to delight.

Stoke had dominated the opening stages, but failed to finish in front of goal, and Rhyl continued to surprise by taking their lead to 3-0 before half-time.

Gareth Wilson raced through the Stoke defence to score the second, and moments later, Andy Moran curled in a third for Rhyl.

Rhyl's tremendous effort continued to show in the second-half, and they secured a superb victory, from an Andy Moran header.

As the second 45 went on, fatigue began to show in the Rhyl side, and Stoke made the score line look slightly more respectable with two goals in the latter part of the half, the best of which coming from Kris Commons.

Commons turned in a crowded penalty area, and finished neatly, giving the small away following something to cheer about.

Stoke play Manchester United in a friendly next Wednesday, and will need to vastly improve against the Premiership Champions, with finishing in front of goal being a major worry for their supporters

It was a great win, and a great night for Rhyl, and many are tipping them to qualify for Europe next season with the possibility of a challenge for the Welsh Premier crown.

Full Time - Rhyl 4-2 Stoke City

Attendance - 1,077.

by Chris O'Brien - Bluebird to the Bone