FOR the second successive season, Barry Town overturned a 1-0 deficit to secure a terrific 2-1 win over Risca United at a sunny Jenner Park on Saturday afternoon.

The Cuckoos, promoted to Welsh League Division Two alongside Barry, took an early first-half lead, when a clever, flick-on shot eluded long-serving Town goalkeeper Dan Bradley.

However, the visitors were soon pegged back by the ever-resilient hosts; defender Ryan Evans left-footing a spectacular free-kick from distance over the Risca wall and into the top, left-hand corner, after sixteen minutes.

While December 2013's clash at Jenner Park saw a tentative hour of play before the match sparked into life, Saturday's first half delivered much in terms of entertainment, excitement and quality on show.

In what ultimately proved the decisive act, spritely forward Curtis Hutson accelerated down the right flank and unleashed a fiery low drive to give Town a 2-1 lead heading towards the break.

However, with little to separate the two unbeaten rivals, Risca remained a threat right to the final whistle; with Town defenders Lewis Cosslett and Damon Searle contributing some vital tackles and Bradley making one particularly dynamic stop at his near post to keep the home side in front.

Barry did create a number of standout chances to seal the three points late on; with 6' 4'' striker Tom Billing running through on goal, only to see his effort roll wide by a whisker.

Risca would dice with danger once more, as their goalkeeper handled outside of the penalty area, only to escape with a caution. Their fortune though would prove short-lived, as the last defender's challenge on Barry's Rhys James at the edge of the box resulted in a straight red card.

Evans' second bite at the free-kick cherry would be less successful than his first and former Wales Youth international James' day would end in agony; the midfielder stretchered off the field after getting hurt in the dying moments.

In terms of a result though, this was a fine day at the office for Barry, against formidable opposition on the national Non-League Day. Gavin Chesterfield's team now stand third in the division, with games in hand on the rest of the top five.

This Saturday, the Town welcome Ystradgynlais to Jenner Park for the first time ever, in a Welsh Cup Second Qualifying Round tie. Kick-off is at 2pm, with admission at £5 (adults), £4 (OAPs/students) and £3 (unaccompanied children).