Deeside Dragons have signalled their intention to challenge for honours in the Laidler Conference this season with the addition of prolific Slovakian import Adrian Palak.

Palak, a forward, arrived from Romanian side Dunarea Galati where he amassed a remarkable return of 75 points in just 25 games last season, including 38 goals, as he led his side to the domestic league title.

Dragons boss Lol Paul has been tracking 25-year-old Palak for much of the summer as he looks to build a squad capable of challenging for the league title, and the Deeside chief is delighted to have finally got his man.

"Bringing Adrian on board has taken much of the off-season, but last week we got together and agreed a contract for him," said Paul.

"He is a great player and last year really came into his own in Romania. I think he’ll be a great player in this league and raise the bar for us.

"Alongside Filip Supa, Adrian is another guy who will provide a statement of intent for The Dragons. We want to give the fans a great season."

Although still relatively young, Palak will be handed a senior role at the Flintshire in a dressing room that is already "full of leaders" according to Paul.

He spent much of his early career with HK Dukla Trencin in the Slovakian under-20s league, before moving to France and then back to Slovakia.

And Paul believes his team-building strategy will pay dividends during a lengthy Laidler Conference campaign.

He added: "Adrian is only 25, but he’s played in several good leagues during a short career. Wherever he’s played, his stats have usually been over a point per game.

"Like many of our other players, he will be able to pass on that experience to the rest of the team. As I have said before, I want a dressing room full of leaders."