FEB-28

The money gap widens for Irish and welsh clubs

FEB-28

New Saints boss relishes final hurdle

"It's been a long time coming, we've had a little bit of bad luck in this competition over the years," he said.

"But we deserved it, we controlled the game... the chance when it came was a scruffy goal but we'll take that."

Striker Mike Wilde pounced on a mistake from Bluebirds goalkeeper Mark Howard to upset the odds at Ninian Park.

The result also guaranteed Saints £50,000 for winning Tuesday night's semi-final, with a prize of £100,000 now in reach should the Welsh Premier leaders win the final.

Port Talbot are already through to the other semi-final and await the winner of Wednesday night's delayed quarter between Newport County and Wrexham.

BBC

FEB-28

Striker excited at facing Wales cap Ryan

Hughes believes County are equipped to go all the way in the competition and can still keep their Conference South promotion bid on track.

Wrexham arrive at for tonight's game in the bottom two of the Coca Cola League, Two and without a win since December 23, meaning the two clubs could well be playing in the Conference next term.

Hughes, whose enthusiasm for playing in any kind of match is always infectious, explained: "I am bang up for this one and I know all the boys are, it's great to test yourself against professional players.

"Wrexham have an international defender (Valentine) so that will be interesting, a fantastic test and we are taking it one game at a time in the cup but we feel we can win this one if we are at our absolute best.

"Ultimately our priority is promotion, but we are just two games away from a cup final so that's a big target as well."

South Wales Argus

FEB-28

Martinez courts Swans side-kick

"I have someone in mind and hope to settle it in the next two days," said Martinez after the 2-1 win at Rotherham, his first match in charge.

"You have to do these things in the right way as he's currently under contract with another club.

"You must get the right balance with your backroom staff, I want someone who shares my passion for the club."

A new coaching addition would raise question marks over the Liberty Stadium future of first-team coach Colin Pascoe and Kevin Nugent, ex-manager Kenny Jackett's assistant and the man who took temporary charge in the middle of the month.

"I've told Kevin that I want to keep him on board, he's a huge asset to the club," Martinez told BBC Sport Wales.

"It's been such a difficult time for him over the last couple of weeks that I've given him a few days off to clear his head.

"He's done a fantastic job in his time at Swansea, taking on a number of different roles and succeeding spectacularly in all of them."

BBC

FEB-28

City to contest FAW charges

Jones and Walton have 10 days to appeal. They will not know their possible punishment until after that period, but a £1,000 suspended fine for Jones will almost certainly be implemented.

Chopra was also scathing in his comments on Clattenburg's performance, but appears to have escaped punishment.

BBC

FEB-28

Swans start Martinez era in style

Evening Post

FEB-28

New Saints knock Cardiff out of Premier Cup

BBC

FEB-27

County ready for Prem cup game

BBC

FEB-27

Cardiff pair charged by FAW

BBC

FEB-27

Wharton wont throw in the towel

Despite this latest defeat last Saturday, which plunges the Gwent side into the bottom two, seven points ahead of Caernarfon, manager Sean Wharton refuses to throw in the towel.

Overall this was a far better display by the Crows, with the commitment so badly missing at Airbus thankfully restored.

"I thought it was a good effort by the players today," he said. "Lack of finance means none of them are being paid, but it's great they want to perform, regardless of money.

But the side's inability to score is now costing them dear, and this defeat and the fact both Airbus UK and Newtown picked up points means only Caernarfon Town are below Cwmbran in the table in the one-strong relegation zone. The team's meeting at Cwmbran Stadium on March 17 could well decide just which club loses its Welsh Premier League status.

"We hope for the best, but, if relegation follows, we will deal with that as well."

FEB-27

Chopra to get new deal

Michael Chopra will open talks on a new Cardiff City contract this week.

His 20-goals scoring spree has activated a clause in his contract which means he is entitled to an improved and longer contract.

'Michael's agent sent me a text 15 minutes after he had scored twice against Preston on Friday night,' said Bluebirds chairman Peter Ridsdale.

'There is a clause in his original contract saying that if he scores 20 goals this season he has the right to a new contract.

'At the time we felt 20 goals would be a tall order, but he has done exceptionally well.'

Chopra, who took his tally to 21 in the 4-1 win against Preston, is committed to Cardiff City until 2009. Any new contract would have to, under FA rules, be extended for at least 12 months.

He set a personal target of 20 goals - and will now make that either 25 or 30 with 11 Coca-Cola Championship matches to go.

Western Mail

FEB-27

Barrow says no to Swans job

South Wales Echo

FEB-27

Toner the main worry for under-strength City

Montreal-born John Toner is a major threat to Cardiff City hopes of winning the FAW Premier Trophy.

It is a trophy which ranks low in City's priority list, but the £100,000 prize on offer for the winners is a big pull.

Cardiff will field a mixture of teenagers and experienced pros who are currently just outside the starting line-up at Ninian Park.

Full-timers TNS, reigning champions and leaders of the Principality Welsh Premier League, bring their full strength team to South Wales including Toner, a Canadian who has netted 24 goals in 35 appearances this season.

City manager Dave Jones will think long and hard before deciding on his line-up to face TNS, even though he has an extra day this week before the Bluebirds take on Birmingham City at St Andrews on Sunday.

Goalkeeper David Forde will almost certainly start because Neil Alexander is on the mend from his bout of flu, while Lloyd Evans and Bradley Middleton are likely to be the central defenders.

Kevin Cooper, who played at Carmarthen Town in the last round, is now on loan at Walsall, while Iwan Redan is working to shake off an ankle injury. Matt Green is cup-tied, having already played for Newport County in this competition, and that means Andrea Ferretti will surely get a chance in attack.

South Wales Echo

FEB-27

I will not turn my back on Evans

WALES boss John Toshack last night handed Wrexham’s Steve Evans a vote of confidence after the defender’s red card during Sunday’s derby with Shrewsbury at the Racecourse

Sent off twice already this season, Evans now faces a five-match League Two ban but Toshack said that would not affect his prospects of being involved in the two important European Championship qualifiers coming up next month.

The 28-year-old defender followed up a debut against Liechtenstein with another solid performance in Northern Ireland, and Toshack confirmed he would be in the squad for the Group D matches against the Republic of Ireland and San Marino.

“In fairness to Steve, his performances for Wales could not be faulted,” said the Wales boss.

“During the second half of the game against Northern Ireland in Belfast we came under some severe pressure, but Steve stood firm with a number of younger lads around him

“So he would be in my squad for the forthcoming games, although his ban means he might have gone a month without playing.”

Toshack’s first choice defenders, West Ham’s Danny Gabbidon and James Collins have been injured for much of the season and the Wales boss admitted they face a race against time to be involved next month.

“We are keeping our fingers crossed but I’d have no problem playing Steve,” he added. “If he was suspended from playing for Wales, it would not stop him playing club football, so there’s no moral dilemma for me. But let’s not forget his loss to Wrexham in their current situation is a major blow for the club, never mind us.”

Daily Post

FEB-26

Port Talbot crash land against Airbus

IN recent seasons, good performances from Airbus tend to have one common factor - the presence of Gareth Owen.

Now player-manager, the experienced Owen once again had a huge influence on this outing - in a third successive win for resurgent Airbus.

For Port Talbot, it was a bitterly disappointing day. It seemed as if they had ridden out a bad spell, with four wins in the last five, but the wheels came off with a vengeance.

Owen made the difference in an even first half, sizing up the situation at a free kick on the edge of the box, and coolly steering the ball past home keeper Kristian Rogers to make it one-nil at half time.

For Port Talbot, Richard French went close and Matthew Rees should certainly have done better when he found himself in a scoring position.

Those missed chances became doubly costly when Airbus struck to extend their lead. It came from a pretty straightforward cross from the right, but James Husanney was quickest to the ball, and he steered it home with his right foot.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-26

Llanelli back to winning ways

THE home fans could scarcely believe the half-time scoreline. Llanelli had dominated but the struggling visitors from north Wales crafted an equaliser through Paul Addo, who proved to be their best attacker.

Nicky Palmer put the home side ahead on nine minutes, having already missed one good chance. In truth, he almost messed up again, receiving the ball after a sharp one-two with Rhys Griffiths and letting the keeper get a hand on the ball before forcing it home at the second attempt.

However, Addo equalised after 28 minutes, when a Lee Phillips throw-in was headed on to Addo in acres of space.

Llanelli put things back on course in the first minute of the second half, when Nicky Palmer squared the ball for Andrew Mumford to blast home.

The game looked safe five minutes later when Efren Fernandes put Jacob Mingorance through for the Spaniard to shoot home. There was hope for Caernarfon when Leighton Maxwell scored from the penalty spot, but a good move between Gary Lloyd, Andrew Mumford and Rhys Griffiths left the latter in space to fire home.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-26

No goals to crow about for Cwmbran

Cwmbran 0-1 Bangor City

IT was a bad day for the South Wales teams with only Llanelli scrambling a win.

This win for Bangor meant they moved above Port Talbot, while Cwmbran dropped two places, as Newtown and a resurgent Airbus leap-frogged them.

Certainly Cwmbran fans suffered, as they dominated the game against a side several places higher in the table, only to see Mark Smythe 'steal' the game with a goal direct from a free kick just after the hour.

Cwmbran assistant manager Steve Graves summed things up pretty bluntly, saying: "We can't buy a goal at the moment."

Cwmbran took the field with two new young strikers, Matthew Prosser and Matthew Houston, and with Geraint Goodridge back in midfield, replacing Gareth Moucher, who picked up an injury last week.

The Bangor camp agreed that the home side had been in total control over the first 45 minutes - although they felt that they took a fair share of the second, particularly when veteran striker Marc Lloyd-Williams hit the crossbar.

The crucial score came just after the hour, and it was a one-man effort.

Mark Smythe taunted the home defence down the left, beat two men and was fouled as he cut in towards the area.

He dusted himself down and took the kick himself, finding a chink in the home defensive line-up and sending the ball low into the corner, past the despairing dive of Gareth Wesson.

Soon afterwards, he was at his best again to parry a drive from Bangor substitute Marco Adajico.

Hard though Cwmbran tried, they could not find a way to unlock the solid Bangor defence, and the home fans watched the clock tick down with that sense of foreboding that is inevitable when things are running against you.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-26

Merthyr draw a blank at home

THIS game will hardly stay in the memory of the faithful who turned out hoping to witness part two of the Martyrs' revival following their victory over Stamford in midweek.

Instead, they endured a turgid affair which suited the visitors, with the biggest disappointment being that Merthyr lacked the craft and guile to unlock a stubborn Corby defence.

Nine minutes in, Craig Lima's header drew a fine save from visiting goalkeeper Ian Pledger to suggest Merthyr may cause Corby problems but that proved to be the high point with very little threat offered at either end for much of the game.

Garry Shephard headed just wide on 15 minutes before Chris Goodman spurned Corby's best chance just before half-time after being put free down the right.

The second half was much the same with Gareth Warton having a header cleared off the line on 76 minutes by Corby defender Steve Towers and Kris Dimond having his free kick smothered by Pledger.

Right at the death the Northants outfit almost snatched the three points when a swift break out of defence saw Brett Darby deliver a flighted cross that was eventually scrambled clear of the Merthyr line to seal the goalless draw.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-26

Aber are no walk in the park for TNS

LEADERS TNS suffered a slight setback to their title ambitions as they were held to a goalless draw in an entertaining Park Avenue encounter.

Neither side can complain at having to share the spoils. However, while Aberystwyth manager Brian Coyne will be pleased that the mid-table Seasiders once again proved that on their day they can mix it with the best, his opposite number Ken McKenna will be a little concerned about the increased pressure the loss of two points puts on his side at the top of the table.

Playing their first home game in five weeks and their first on a Saturday for three months, Aber started with a flourish as Glyndwr Hughes and Craig Jones provided the visitors with a few early problems.

Indeed the fast pace from the kick-off never let up, with any thoughts that Aber might eventually tire against full-time opponents entirely misplaced.

Immediately before the break, youngster Geoff Kellaway, enjoying a well-deserved extended run in the Aber side, found himself clear but his parting shot proved little trouble for Doherty.

There was no let-up in the momentum after half-time but opportunities continued to be at a premium. John Toner should have clinched his 15th Welsh Premier goal of the season in the 55th minute when a slip by the otherwise impeccable Christian Edwards left him free, but he fired wide.

With his front men continually frustrated, McKenna sent on fit again striker Alfie Carter for Oscar Gonzalez but he enjoyed no greater success than the Spaniard in breaking down the Aber rearguard.

At the other end two Kellaway crosses from the left caused TNS problems. Glyndwr Hughes narrowly failed to connect with the first before Craig Jones fired the second inches wide of Doherty's right-hand post.

The home side hung on for a deserved point and enjoyed some consolation for an early season defeat at Treflan.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-25

Welsh league division 1 round up

NEATH ATHLETIC showed true championship form when they overwhelmed Bryntirion Athletic in the first division of the Welsh league extending their lead at the top.

It was a one-sided romp from the start at Llandarcy with Neath sweeping into a 4-0 half-time advantage.

They completed the job in style after the break making it a comprehensive 5-0 success.

Chris Miller led the way for Neath with a stunning hat-trick while Andy Hill and Steve Evans also got on the scoresheet.

Their position was strengthened by the failure of nearest rivals, second-placed Pontypridd, to defeat Goytre. Their match at Pentre Hafod Park ended scoreless.

At the other end of the first division Ely Rangers did their survival chances a power of good when they thrashed Maesteg Park 4-0 with goals by Wayne Matthews, Spencer Clarke, Sean Nash and Nicky Hooper.

Elsewhere, Taffs Well were much too good for Pontardawe, winning 3-0, and a 35th minute goal by Gareth Jones gave ENTO Aberaman a 1-0 success at Caerleon.

Barry Town and Bridgend Town fought out 2-2 draws at Croesyceiliog and Newport YMCA respectively.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-25

Welsh leagues division 2&3 round up

WEST END stepped up their challenge for promotion from the second division of the Welsh League running out 5-0 winners against Ammanford.

Wayne Jones bagged a brace of goals in the first half to give them a 2-0 interval advantage and Darren Griffiths swooped for a hat-trick after the break to complete the rout.

Although the Swansea side are in with a splendid chance of going up they will have to move up several gears to catch league leaders Garw, who won again yesterday this time 1-0 at second-placed Cambrian & Clydach in a true test of nerves.

Deadly striker Richard Ready netted for Bettws as they edged to a 1-0 victory over Caldicot Town, while Cardiff Corries, helped by a brace of goals from Robbie James, beat Penrhiwceiber Rangers 3-2.

Ian Batten gave Treharris a first-half lead at Pontyclun but the hosts levelled through Eliot Davey after 10 minutes of the second period.

Troedyrhiw, who are pressing hard for promotion, secured an important 5-2 home victory over Morriston with Richie Collins grabbing a hat-trick.

Shamrock Cup quarter-finalists Tredegar Town pipped Merthyr Saints 3-2.

For the second time in three weeks Ystradgynlais went goal crazy, this time at the expense of third division promotion favourites Llangeinor, and ran out 6-3 winners.

Craig Hopkins scored two of their goals with Nicky Maggs, Liam Soroko, Darren Langford and Andrew Miller getting the others.

In a battle between two sides near the foot of the table Porthcawl Town drew 2-2 with Seven Sisters and there were draws also at Llantwit Fardre and Pentwyn Dynamo,

Wales on Sunday

FEB-25

Shrewsbury pile more misery on Wrexham

Leo Fortune-West put the visitors ahead on eight minutes when he scored with a free header from Derek Asamoah's cross.

Asamoah doubled the lead when his shot was parried in by Wrexham goalkeeper John Ruddy and then home defender Steve Evans was sent off for an elbow.

Fortune-West made it three after the break from a low cross, Danny Williams then replying with a 30-yard cracker.

Shrewsbury midfielder Mike Jones found the back of the net with the last kick of the game, but the goal was ruled out because he had fired in from an indirect free-kick.

The result leaves Wrexham in the drop zone, but Shrewsbury move up three places to 10th in the table

BBC

FEB-25

Yeovil edge the Swans

EVENING POST

FEB-25

Martinez: I couldn't say no

EVENING POST

FEB-25

Welsh premier league round up

The top two both played out draws, with leaders The New Saints being held in a goalless affair in the early kick off at Aberystwyth, but Rhyl failed to take advantage, being surprisingly held to a 2-2 scoreline by Newtown at Belle Vue. In fact, the Lilywhites left it desperately late to get even a point, with defender Adrian Moody equalising in the last minute, after the visitors had twice led, through Daniels and a Glenn Tolley spot kick.

Llanelli secured a welcome victory at Stebonheath and still have hopes of a top three finish with games in hand on all of the clubs above them. In a 4-2 victory over bottom of the table Caernarfon, Nicky Palmer got the Reds opener after nine minutes, which was cancelled out by the Canaries, Paul Addo after 28 minutes. Andrew Mumford regained the advantage for the home side just after the break, and Jacob Mingorance made it 3-1 five minutes later. Layton Maxwell got Caernarfon's second from the spot after 55 minutes, but the prolific Rhys Griffiths finally settled it for Peter Nicholas' outfit three minutes later. That defeat really adds to Town's already dire plight, with revitalised Airbus winning again, this time 2-0 at Port Talbot. Player Manager, Gareth Owen opened the scoring after 12 minutes and James Hussaney settled it with the second a quarter of an hour from time. Port Talbot boss, Wayne Davies will be hoping for an improved display next weekend when they entertain local rivals Afan Lido in the Welsh Cup Quarter Finals.

Another of the Welsh Cup Quarter finalists, Porthmadog warmed up for their trip to Carmarthen next weekend in style, defeating Newi Cefn Druids 3-0 at Y Traeth. It was brothers in arms in the first half with Les Davies giving them a sixth minute lead and younger sibling Ryan getting the second on 29 minutes, the evergreen Clayton Blackmore added a third three minutes after the break.

WELSHPREMIER.COM

FEB-24

Martinez confirmed as Swansea boss

The Swans offered him the post on Friday after agreeing a compensation package with his former employers Chester City.

Martinez spent three seasons with Swansea before joining Chester last summer after falling out of favour with former manager Kenny Jackett.

The 33-year-old is hoping to bring in an assistant in the next few days.

Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins said Martinez's preferred candidate is contracted with another club and so further negotiations are required to secure his release.

Chester City assistant Graham Barrow, who first brought Martinez to English football in 1995 when he was in charge of Wigan, is believed to be the man in question.

Caretaker manager Kevin Nugent will be in charge for Saturday's game at Yeovil, but Martinez is expected to take over for Tuesday's visit to Rotherham.

BBC

FEB-24

Neath still hit with bans and injuries

Leaders Neath Athletic are again below full strength for tomorrow's first division clash with visiting Bryntirion Athletic. Still out through suspensions are Jock Fairbairn, Jonathan Keaveny and Chris Pridham while Jarrod Price, Carl Shaw and Chris Vardon are all likely to miss out because of injuries.

However, Jack Jenkins returns, following a suspension served at former club Morriston.

Neath have abandoned interest in centre-back David Burrows, who has plumped for Port Talbot Town.

Terms had been agreed with the ex-Aberystwyth player-manager, but he then went with the Blues last Saturday to New Saints.

Tomorrow Goytre have an equally demanding clash against second-placed Pontypridd Town at Glenhafod Park.

The Port Talbot side will be bidding for a double, having taken the Ynysangharad Park meeting 2-1 back in October thanks to goals from Jonny Walkley and Kevin Bartley.

Pontardawe have some of their walking wounded back for the clash at Taffs Well, who beat Barry Town, 3-1, in midweek.

Former Garden Village striker Paul Dickie is set to make a club debut, with Steve Crabbe, Gavin Guy and Jonny Owen also in the selection mix.

Maesteg Park, beaten in their last five matches, have Gareth Davies and Ryan Morgan out at bottom-club Ely Rangers.

Lee Michael is nursing a shoulder injury, but is expected to recover in time.

Evening Post

FEB-24

YMCA know what to expect from Bridgend

Newport YMCA certainly aren't quaking in their boots at the thought of taking on Bridgend Town tomorrow who wiped the floor with luckless Croesyceiliog last Saturday.

YM go into the match fresh from their win at Maesteg Park where all their goals in a 3-1 came from back four players.

Mark Coldrick, YM manager, said: "We know what they did to Croesyceiliog (Bridgend won 7-0). Perhaps it was a combination of Bridgend playing their last game at Coychurch Road and 'Croesy' having a bad day at the office.

"We are full of confidence after the win at Maesteg where we had eight first-team regulars missing with four youth team players in the squad."

And, although two were on the bench and did not get on, Coldrick is more than happy with the ways are going and, coining a well-used advertising phrase, Coldrick added: "The future is looking bright."

Craig Ford, one of the young quartet, played at left back and scored the opening goal following a set piece when the ball dropped to him in the penalty area. Alex Jenkins played in a central midfield role, both youngsters impressing Coldrick while on the bench were Kanisorn Janrunsri and Lee Morris.

Robbie Painter and John Pardue both return after completing suspensions while Faris Yafai has one more game to go before his comeback. Striker Aaron Stewart, recovered from a hamstring injury, has trained this week and returns to the squad but front runner Sean Pearce is out with a thigh strain and Craig

James inactive following the recurrence of a knee injury.

Central defender Danny Heath was boosted this week after visiting a specialist. He is recovering from a broken cheekbone and could be back within a couple of weeks as opposed to the initial fears of a month or more.

Coldrick said: "Danny was a big loss to us because he has been playing so well."

South Wales Argus

FEB-24

Bluebirds back in play off places

Whittingham brilliantly finished off a Paul Parry cross just before half-time and Michael Chopra added a second from the penalty spot just after the break.

A minute later Graham Alexander gave Preston hope from the spot only for Roger Johnson to then head in a third.

Whittingham helped seal the win with a great piece of skill before crossing for Chopra to score his second.

BBC

FEB-24

Welshpool consolidate 3rd place

It consolidates them in 3rd place and keeps them on target for their first ever venture into Europe. 

Rogers goal came after 30 minutes when he headed in a Geraint Windsor cross. The goal was the first notable effort from either side in a poor first 30 minutes.

Caersws did make a fight of it in the 2nd half but could not get on the score sheet. And to make matters worse for the visitors they had Hugh Clarke sent off after 90 minutes for a second yellow card.

The game drew Welshpool's largest crowd of the season, 382 turned up at Maesydre to watch the game.

Tony

FEB-23

Seasiders seal Cadwallader's Signature

Cadwallader started his career as a trainee with Shrewsbury and he made his first appearance at Carlisle United in February 2006. At the end of the season, following the completion of his three year scholarship programme, he was handed a professional contract despite suffering a number of injuries, but in January 2007, Cadwallader was released by the club, along with fellow squad player Marco Adaggio, who subsequently joined Bangor City.

He has also played for Kidderminster Harriers reserves and is the son of former Welshpool goalkeeper and Manager Russell Cadwallader and could make his Welsh Premier League debut on Saturday against Champions and League leaders, The New Saints.

Welshpremier.com

FEB-23

League asked to rethink ground upgrades

MEMBER clubs, including 12 from Gwent, have asked MacWhirter Welsh League officials to reconsider proposals to upgrade grounds in all three divisions.

At a special general meeting held at First Division Maesteg Park, clubs discussed the matter after studying a three-page document issued by the WL.

The proposals included a "lights only" First Division, with a working PA system, hard standing on all sides of the ground and 50 sears in a stand - individual or bench.

Also proposed was for grounds to be enclosed by permanent boundaries on all four sides which would prevent spectators from viewing matches from outside the ground.

"The item concerning the proposed alterations to the existing Standard Code of Facilities was debated at length and as this was presented as a discussion document, many different views were expressed," said league secretary Ken Tucker.

"The clubs decided, particularly in view of the cost implications, to refer the item back to the league management committee for further consideration."

No date was set for the proposals to be met. However it had been suggested that if they were to be brought in and clubs could not match them, then they would be relegated.

But costs alone would be far beyond the reach of the vast majority of clubs, hence their stance in asking league officials to re-evaluate the proposals placed before the meeting.

Caerleon manager Brendan Dowd had mixed feelings about the ground-improvement ideas.

"Some of the proposals are too much, too quickly," he said.

"Some are OK, such as the hard-standing and the seats but I'm not at all convinced by the ground being enclosed - perhaps we should let our hedge grow at our Cold Bath Lane ground!"

South Wales Argus

FEB-23

Big games coming up for Goytre

THE next few days will have a significant bearing on Goytre United's success this season.

Wednesday they faced Welsh League Division One title rivals Ton Pentre away, and came away with a point. while tomorrow they host big-spending and most people's championship favourites Pontypridd Town at Glenhafod Park.

If that's not enough to get the juices flowing in the Afan Valley, then next week Andrew Radford and Craig Duggan's side clash with Bettws in the semi-finals of the Shamrock Cup.

It's all about building momentum as the season heads towards a climax with Goytre fully aware that any slip-ups now could put them out of the title race.

'We are looking forward to the next couple of games and, hopefully, we can get on a good run,' said Goytre joint/manager Andrew Radford.

Robert Skeels

FEB-23

Bluebirds: We want out of FAW

CARDIFF City will try to sever ties with the Football Association of Wales and move under the command of England's governing body, the Football Association.

In an extraordinary development, the Echo has discovered that Bluebirds chiefs are investigating how they can free themselves from FAW jurisdiction, with concerns about future participation in European competition believed to be at the centre of the affair.

City bigwigs are worried that if and when they secure Premiership status, their path to Europe will be barred because the FAW could refuse to nominate them for Uefa tournaments on the grounds that they do not play in the Welsh system.

It would effectively leave them in no-man's land, without the carrot of a Uefa Cup or Champions League place were they to finish high up in the top flight.

And the club want the matter addressed now rather than further down the line.

But the Ninian Park hierarchy are also understood to be at breaking point over their dealings with the FAW on disciplinary issues.

Manager Dave Jones has already criticised the organisation for its slowness in dealing with appeals on red cards and earlier this week accused the FAW and other football authorities of "hiding behind rules" by not rescinding Simon Walton's dismissal against Leeds United last weekend.

And now City are believed to be ready to prepare a legal case if necessary for them to switch allegiance.

However Alun Evans, former secretary of the FAW and now an FAW council member and renowned authority on European football, believes the Bluebirds face an impossible task.

"You have to be affiliated to the association of the country where you are based, where your ground is and where you play from," he said.

"There is the odd exception, for example the case of Derry City who due to the political situation could not guarantee the safety of visiting teams.

"But that was an exceptional case."

FAW secretary-general David Collins was unavailable for comment.

South Wales Echo

FEB-23

Boss boosted by confidence vote

Merthyr Tydfil boss Paul Sugrue has revealed why he was ready to walk away from the Penydarren Park hot-seat following the club's recent dismal run of results.

But just hours after being given a vote of confidence, Sugrue guided the Martyrs to a much-needed BGB Premier League win over Stamford in midweek.

The victory - their first since January 6 - also eased any relegation fears having slipped down the table following a culmination of postponed matches and a succession of defeats.

'No-one is unsackable,' said Sugrue, who is also vice-chairman at the club.

'I stressed that if we went through a run of defeats like we have, I was just like everyone else and that I would offer to step down.

'I wrote a letter to the board, the Supporters' Trust and the Travel Club suggesting members vote in a ballot on my future.

'And the decision to back me unanimously was overwhelming.'

The news came as a major boost to Sugrue, who then went on to see his side end their drought thanks to strikes from Gareth Wharton and Steve Williams.

And looking ahead to struggling Corby Town's visit tomorrow (3pm), Sugrue added: 'We are well aware of what Corby can do after they beat us a few weeks ago.

'Hopefully the doom and gloom has been lifted and it can kick-start us to get as high up the table as possible.'

South Wales Echo

FEB-23

Martinez set for Swansea hot seat

The Spaniard, 33, held further talks with the club on Friday and a compensation package with current employers Chester City has been agreed.

Swansea have refused to comment, but Chester have confirmed that Martinez is leaving the club with immediate effect.

Martinez joined Chester as a player last summer after falling out favour with former Swansea boss Kenny Jackett.

But a return to the club he captained to promotion in 2005 became a distinct possibility last week when Jackett stepped down.

Martinez was given until 1400 GMT on Friday by Chester to decide where his future lay after Swansea made it clear he was on their wanted list.

"Roberto has got a good rapport with the chairman down there [Swansea], but it's got to be resolved by Friday at the latest because we'll be travelling to Swindon by 2pm," said the Chester manager Mark Wright on Thursday.

"So, if it's not done by then, I'll be trying to speak to our chairman to say, 'Finish it, that's it, because it's unfair to us all'."

Former Wales striker Dean Saunders and ex-Leeds United manager Kevin Blackwell are also believed to have held talks with Swansea over the manager's position.

But despite having no previous coaching or managerial experience, Swansea have decided to put their faith in Martinez.

Nugent, Jackett's former assistant, will be in charge for Saturday's League One match with Yeovil, but a new man could to be appointed in time for Swansea's next match at Rotherham on Tuesday.

Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins told BBC Wales Sport he had received over 50 applications for the job.

BBC

FEB-23

Beadle praises County's new strike pairing

Peter Beadle has hailed the contribution of Newport County's new twin strike force of Dean Holdsworth and Charlie Griffin.

The pair were instrumental in last weekend's 3-1 win over high-flying Welling - County's first win in seven games - with veteran Holdsworth netting a brace on his home debut and Griffin also impressing.

And with Julian Alsop now requiring ankle surgery, the pair's arrival in Gwent couldn't have come at a more opportune time in the Exiles' promotion push in the Conference South.

'They look very sharp and have settled in well,' said boss Beadle.

'Dean scored twice while Charlie had a hand in another which I was delighted about.

'With us losing Julian to injury and having sold Matt Green recently to Cardiff, adding to our squad with quality was vital.'

South Wales Echo

FEB-23

Morgan wary of Bluebirds threat

WELSHPOOL Town will be looking to keep the heat on the league’s pacesetters in tonight’s home encounter with Caersws.

Having earned a creditable goal-less draw at rival Euro challengers Rhyl last weekend, manager Tommi Morgan will he hoping his charges can capitalise by collecting maximum reward on home soil.

But Caersws, despite their lowly league position, are certain to provide stern resistance, with little to choose between the sides in their three meetings this season.

Third-placed Pool won in the league 3-1 at the Recreation Ground, while Caersws had the edge in the Loosemores Cup with a win and a draw.

“If we have aspirations then we have to win our home games,” said Morgan. “But it’s another difficult game as we’ve already played them three times and honours have been even. Caersws are very competitive.”

Midfielder Richard Harris is added to the squad after missing the Rhyl game while defender Brett Jefferies is set to play on despite a groin injury.

Some of Pool’s fringe players were given a useful workout last Monday with a 4-3 win over Penrhyncoch in the Central Wales Floodlit Cup.

Daily Post

FEB-22

All square between Bulldogs and Goytre

The biggest winners were the teams directly above then Neath and Pontypridd.  The draw did move Goytre into 4th place above Aberaman, but leaves them 13 points behind 2nd placed Pontypridd and only 2 games in hand. Ton are in the same boat 7 points behind Pontypridd but having played the same amount of games.

It does the Lido a favour as we can now overhaul both sides if we gain maximum points from our games in hand over both Goytre and Ton Pentre. But it would still leave us 5 points adrift of Pontypridd who must now be favourites for the title :(

View league table

Tony

FEB-22

Work starts on Bluebirds Stadium

The £38m stadium in Leckwith, near the club's current Ninian Park ground, is due to be ready by February 2009.

The work on the stadium project, which includes a retail development on the 60-acre site, is in preparation for major construction work in April.

Leckwith athletics stadium will also be replaced as part of the scheme.

Bosses from the club and its development partners Cardiff-based PMG Estates were joined by Cardiff Council leader Rodney Berman on Wednesday at the construction site.

"We've been battling for years to get to this point and it's fantastic that this work is commencing," said Mr Berman.

Paul Guy, director of PMG said: "Cardiff has been hearing about the plans for a new stadium for Cardiff City Football Club for a long time.

"Now the talking is over and the action begins." Mr Guy said the preparatory work would pave the way for the main contractor Laing O'Rourke to begin work on site in less than two months time.

BBC

FEB-22

Mark Jones eyes Euro spot

Carmarthen Journal

FEB-21

Cwmbran say "I'll be back"

The Gwent club is the only one in the Welsh Premier League not to pay its players, having been forced to revert to amateur status following a financial collapse earlier this season.

The Crows are currently embroiled in a second successive relegation battle - a fight they lost last season before earning a reprieve when no club was eligible for promotion.

Although officials have always said the Cwmbran Stadium outfit would see out the current campaign, there has been great concern over speculation that the inaugural 1992-93 WPL champions would voluntary drop down a level to the Welsh League - or go bust as Ebbw Vale did before the start of the 1998-99 season after appearing in Europe.

Should a club withdraw from the top-flight, then it must give notice to the league on or before February 28 - failure to do so would make them liable to incur a fine of up to £15,000.

However, Cwmbran chairman Mike Lewis today moved to set the record straight: "Cwmbran Town Football Club has no intention of withdrawing from the Welsh Premier League and will still be around next season," he declared.

"We are still seeking financial sponsorship from either a company, a group of people or an individual and should we gain that, then we would like to think we could give a budget again to our manager Sean Wharton.

"He and his back-room staff have done a great job under severely restrictive conditions and we remain positive that we can retain our WPL status "We would also like our followers to know that we are currently in the process of implementing a five-year plan to take this club forward."

Earlier this season Cwmbran received a takeover bid from a local businesswomen, although she withdrew the offer the following day.

Two months ago she alleged she'd lodged a fresh bid with Cwmbran officials, but they have strenuously denied the claim.

The Crows are currently seven points above the one-strong drop zone and will continue their battle to avoid the drop on Saturday when they host Bangor City, kick off 2.30pm.

South Wales Argus

FEB-22

Double blow for Swans

Evening Post

FEB-22

Deano wins fan's website vote

Evening Post

FEB-22

Cwmbran sign County striker again

Matthew Prosser starts his second spell with the "Crows" after a short spell with us towards the start of the season. Having returned from a similar brief spell at Taunton Town i am sure Matthew will be keen to impress Sean and hold down a regular spot in the first team.

Clearance was given by the FAW today so he will be eligible for selection against Saturday's home game against Bangor City at Cwmbran Stadium kick off 2.30pm.

Official Cwmbran Town website

FEB-21

League leaders win over woeful Swans

Sharp put Scunthorpe in front on three minutes, Swansea keeper Willy Gueret's save with his feet falling to the top scorer who gave a clinical finish.

The home side's misery increased when striker Adebayo Akinfenwa was stretchered off with a broken leg.

And, when Gueret could only parry a long-range strike from Neil Mackenzie, Beckford was left with a simple tap-in.

The defeat was Swansea's first under caretaker boss Kevin Nugent, following Saturday's draw at Doncaster, and it leaves them five points adrift of sixth-placed Tranmere in the race for the play-offs.

BBC

FEB-21

West Brom see off rivals Cardiff

Robert Koren proved an early threat to the visitors, though Steve Thompson and debutant Darcy Byrne had chances for the Bluebirds in a goalless first 45.

Kevin Philips had a goal ruled out for offside, but it needed Ellington's introduction to break the deadlock.

Six minutes after coming on the striker speared a spectacular 25-yard effort from the left into the far top corner.

The win was the Baggies' ninth in 10 home games and ended Cardiff's five-match unbeaten run.

The visitors have also been stung by a suspected broken toe suffered by striker Jason Byrne.

"A lot of people had us down for a beating at West Brom because I had so many of my big hitters missing.

"But, as it turned out, we created the game's better chances, especially in the first half when our movement caused West Brom all sorts of problems.

"Even when West Brom scored we still had chances to get an equaliser, but it was not to be.

"I am very proud of my players and the performance they gave because they frightened West Brom to death and showed there is a very bright future at this football club.

"But we want the future now, we are greedy and we want promotion now so we are going for it."

BBC

FEB-21

Wrexham back into the relegation zone

Lee McEvilly gave Wrexham the lead from Toner's poor back pass, seeing his shot saved by Phil Barnes, then hitting the post, before scoring at a third chance.

Paul Bolland levelled on the stroke of half-time, rising highest to head home a Danny Boshell corner at the far post after poor marking from the visitors.

Grimsby pressed for the winner late on, and saw Toner unleash an unstoppable volley after Gary Jones' knockdown.

The Blundell Park side have now won their last four games, scoring 14 goals in the process.

Wrexham are still seeking a first win since caretaker manager Brian Carey took over from Denis Smith eight matches ago.

BBC

FEB-21

Airbus stun Nomads to earn excellent win

The visitors stunned the home side by taking a 33 minute lead through striker James McIntosh, who was well assisted by fellow striker Darren Williams. The latter chased a long ball and beat two defenders before laying off to his strike partner, who cooly found the back of the net. The team currently lying in penultimate position in the Principality Welsh Premier then doubled their advantage, when midfielder Dave Hughes struck an excellent half-volley from the edge of the box into the corner after a half-clearance with five minutes remaining in the Half.

Darren Williams was sent off with a quarter of an hour remaining for his second bookable offence, which gave Nomads hope, but their only strike came from the spot through skipper Marc Limbert, but it was too little, too late. Neville Powell had a full squad to choose from for the Nomads and selected new signing Chris Melia up front for a full debut, with Tommy Mutton dropping to the bench after an unusual baron spell, but this had little affect and he will be seriously disappointed that his side have been defeated twice on the bounce.

Welshpremier.com

FEB-21

Seasiders overcome Druids to go Ninth

The visitors took the lead in the 38th minute through midfielder Geoff Kellaway, but the Druids responded in the second half to draw level. Their scorer was Andrew Iniabere, who struck his first for the club on 58 minutes

The lead only lasted eight minutes though as the Seasiders responded through winger Craig Jones and his effort proved decisive as Aber took maximum points back to Park Avenue. The Druids had veteran striker Lee Jones sent off to add further disappointment for Manager Dixie McNeil.

Welshpremier.com

FEB-20

Koumas' warning to Bluebirds

FORMER Cardiff City midfielder Jason Koumas has warned his former team-mates there will be no room for sentiment tonight when he lines up for West Brom against the Bluebirds.

It will be the first time Koumas has played against City since his controversial summer return to the Baggies from Ninian Park.

The Welsh international midfielder spent a year on loan with the Bluebirds, returning to West Brom at the start of the season after a permanent deal could not be agreed.

And with both clubs chasing promotion to the Premiership, Koumas has told the Echo he will be plotting City’s downfall at the Hawthorns.

“I had a fantastic time with Cardiff and made a load of friends there and the manager looked after me during some troubled times when things were not going well,” said Koumas.

“But Dave Jones and the supporters will know that during my time at Ninian Park I gave them everything I could and they will understand I will do the same with West Brom tonight.

“I am looking forward to the game and touching base with a few friends at Cardiff.

“But this is no time to get all emotional. We need to win to stay close to the top because we want to go back to the Premiership automatically.” not be involved in the play-off, where anything can happen.”

South Wales Echo

FEB-20

Nomads eye swift revenge

NOMADS new signing Chris Melia could be set for his first full game in tonight’s re-arranged Welsh Premier game against neighbours Airbus UK.

The ambitious Deesiders will look to put Saturday’s 3-1 defeat at Bangor City behind them.

Manager Neville Powell said: “It was a big disappointment, especially after we had enough chances to have won it twice over in the first half.”

“If anything we seemed to suffer from over-confidence, wanting to walk the ball into the net and we were made it pay for it.

“Now we have to pick ourselves up after the accident and get back into the driving seat straight away.”

Fortunately for Nomads they don’t have long to dwell on the Bangor debacle, taking on Airbus after their game was snowed off a week ago last Friday.

Powell has a full squad to call upon as Nomads came through without any injuries at Bangor.

Daily Post

FEB-20

Dixie after continuity

NEWI Cefn Druids and Aberystwyth Town come face to face at Plaskynaston tonight with both sides desperate to get back to Welsh Premier action.

The encounter was postponed last Friday due to a waterlogged pitch, but the clubs have quickly rearranged the game as they look to get back to business.

Druids boss Dixie McNeil will be looking for his side to rediscover winning ways after their disappointing 3-0 home loss in their last outing against Bangor City two weeks ago.

“Like Aberystwyth, we need games to get a bit of continuity,” he said. “To have played so little since the turn of the year is not helping us. It’s been stop and start.”

Defender Timmy Edwards returns after missing the Bangor game, but striker Steve Watkin is out with a one-match ban.

Aberystwyth will be anxious to make up ground in tonight’s clash.

“We can’t seem to get a run of games together at the moment,” said manager Brian Coyne. “It’s frustrating.”

Danny Barton is still struggling with an ankle injury, while Gareth Watkin continues be troubled by a back problem.

Daily Post

FEB-20

Martyrs begin their bid to reach safety

Merthyr Tydfil start their bid to escape the Southern Premier Division's bottom four when they entertain Stamford tonight.

'The table does not lie and we need to pull ourselves out of this rut and back on track because the games in hand will soon start to disappear,' said assistant manager John Lewis.

'We're got a great bunch of lads here and I'm sure once that winning feeling is back we will go from strength to strength.

'As far as tonight is concerned, there is no respite as Stamford are going for promotion, but as we have said many times before this season - there is little to choose from top to bottom.'

South Wales Echo

FEB-20

City's youth push Gunners all the way

Steve bould, legend of the Scrooge-like Arsenal defence of the George Graham era, heaped praise on Cardiff City's youngsters after they were knocked out of the FA Youth Cup at the Emirates Stadium last night.

Bould, now in charge of the Arsenal academy, admitted his side were fortunate to run out 3-2 winners in the quarter-final tie.

'Cardiff City were tremendous and can count themselves unfortunate,' said Bould.

'They made it so difficult because they battled so hard, especially in the first-half when I thought we were a bit lucky to be 3-1 ahead.

'I wish them well because they are an excellent side with a lot of talented players and there were times when we struggled to contain them.'

And Bluebirds youth coach Geraint Twose stressed his pride in his team after they matched Arsenal for long spells, only being undone by a hat-trick from lightning quick Gunners striker Jay Simpson.

'We had three moments of madness in the first half when we conceded the goals that cost us,' said Twose.

'Apart from that I thought we were outstanding. We worked ever so hard and I felt we actually deserved to be in front at half-time. But that's football.

'I'd like to thank the supporters who made the trip to see us, they were tremendous.'

The game turned late in the second half when City left-back Matt Smith had a penalty brilliantly saved and Arsenal scored a third straight after.

'I'm not going to blame Matt because he had the guts to step up and take it,' said Twose.

And Smith was singled out by Bould for praise after the final whistle.

'He has a great left foot and caused us problems with his set-piece delivery,' said Bould.

South Wales Echo

FEB-20

Happy Izzy is off transfer list

Evening Post

FEB-20

Jones: Gunter can follow Bale to the top

BLUEBIRDS boss Dave Jones believes his teenage defender Chris Gunter is as good as Southampton's £10m-rated Welshman Gareth Bale.

Speedy right-back Gunter came on for the second-half of City's victory against Leeds on Saturday and, with Kerrea Gilbert fighting for fitness, the 17-year-old could start at West Brom tonight.

It would only be Gunter's third league start, but Jones insists he would have no problem throwing the youngster in at The Hawthorns.

Indeed, the City boss believes Gunter, who was recently short-listed for Football League Apprentice of the Year, is as good a prospect as teenage hot-shot Bale who has earned rave reviews in the Championship and was recently the subject of £8m and £10m bids from Manchester United and Tottenham.

"If you look at Gareth Bale at Southampton, who's come through their ranks, then I think Chris Gunter is as good as him," said Jones.

"You look at the price that's been quoted for Bale and then you look at Chris. I don't think there's much in it.

"I don't want to put too much pressure on Chris' shoulders, I mean when he played for us at Hull he had a bit of a nightmare.

"But we pulled him out, which we can do, and we got him back up and running and the important thing is he learnt from it.

"He's got better and stronger, he had a fantastic game against Carmarthen in the Premier Cup last week and he didn't look out of place against Leeds when he came on.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-19

My heart lies with Swans, says Martinez

FORMER Swansea City favourite Roberto Martinez has hinted he would love nothing better than to return to the Liberty Stadium as manager.

Chester midfielder Martinez says his "heart lies" with the Swans and he is itching to begin a career in management.

"Swansea City is in my heart and it always will be. I had a fantastic time there, but at the moment it's not in my hands."

But the 33-year-old midfielder - who spent over three years at Swansea and has taken coaching badges - added, "My dad was a manager and, since I was two years old, I've always been in that environment. It's in my nature."

Martinez, who has two years left on his Chester contract, believes Swansea's passionate fan base and new stadium means they could compete in the Premiership

"It's a fantastic club, but they're in a division that they don't belong in and that brings a lot of pressure and frustration.

"If you see the set-up, they belong in the Premiership, but from League One to the Premiership is a long way and you need time."

But Martinez insists it is up to Chester chairman Steve Vaughan to decide whether he will be allowed to open discussions with his former club.

"I know there has been a lot of speculation, but it's disrespectful for me to speak about it while I'm contracted to Chester.

"The clubs need to get in a position to allow me to make a decision, but at the moment all my concentration is going on helping us reach the play-offs."

Since Kenny Jackett's departure last Thursday, Martinez has been linked with the Swansea vacancy alongside the likes of Dean Saunders, Joe Royle, Mickey Adams, John Hollins and Mark McGee.

But Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins said last night, "There is no update I can give.

"As I said last week, we will take our time and look through all the applications."

Western Mail

FEB-19

Drop zone beckons for Cwmbran

It was their fifth successive loss, and the togetherness and camaraderie which had developed as a result of the club's well-documented financial problems now appear to have evaporated.

It's now 473 minutes without a goal, and unless Cwmbran can recapture their early-season form, and quick, then there's only going to be one outcome - relegation.

The Crows earned a reprieve from the drop when no club was eligible to be promoted last April.

But with a whole host of promotion applicants now matching ground criteria, it's almost certain one club will go down at the end of the current campaign.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-19

FAW approve new U23 semi-pro Tourney

Plans are under way for the competition, which was won by England's under-23 non-league side last year, to be expanded to an eight-team event with teams from Wales, Ireland and Northern Ireland joining the existing quartet in next season's competition. The competition was still seeking one more nation to come on board before confirming the revised format.

Initially the FAW Football Committee had recommended to the full FAW Council that the invitation be refused but at last week's Council Meeting an impassioned plea by Principality Welsh Premier League Chairman Alun Evans pointed out the benefits of participating in such a potentially prestigious tournament.

"We have seen too many promising youth and Under 21 international players drop from view because of the restricted opportunities in the English system. An Under-23 semi-pro team will offer them an important second chance to make the grade, just as Mark Delaney and Steve Evans have done.

"It will also establish the Welsh Premier League as the pathway into the professional game, leading to a further rise in playing standards. Our league can continue to play a key role in the development of young Welsh talent, which we have already begun with the adoption of the academy system."

Wales will join England, Italy, Holland, Belgium, Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and probably Scotland in the competition, which would be played in two groups of four with a one-off final in the spring of 2009 and play-off matches for the other positions. UEFA have already sanctioned the competition, which will be re-named, "The International Challenge Trophy", and is due to get under way in November 2007.

A major difference for the Welsh team however from the existing Home Nations Tournament is that the side would have to be made up of Under-23 players at the start of the tournament, with anybody surpassing this age limit throughout the competition remaining eligible through to the final. The current Home Nations Tournament, played over a week in May, will not change at all and subsequently players of any age will be eligible.

The Four Nations Tournament will be held in May 2007 and it is planned that the draw for the International Challenge Trophy will be made at that competition in Inverness. The Wales team at the competition in Inverness will be managed by Tony Pennock for the first time.

Welshpremier.com

FEB-19

Jones still chasing loan defender

Dave Jones is revisiting his list of 10 central defenders in a bid to strengthen his squad before tomorrow's Coca-Cola Championship match at West Bromwich Albion.

With Darren Purse injured and Glenn Loovens suspended, the City manage has a list of 10 defenders he would like to bring in.

That quest became even more crucial after the dismissals of Michael Chopra and Simon Walton on Saturday.

Chopra will miss tomorrow's match at West Brom. Jason Byrne will play in attack alongside Steve Thompson, who collected his eighth caution during the clash with Leeds.

That leaves a serious gap in midfield and even though Riccy Scimeca is close to fitness again, Jones is unlikely to risk him.

Seven of the 10 defenders on Jones' list are injured, but he will ring the clubs of the others to see whether they will change their mind and allow their player out on loan.

'We are working flat out,' said Cardiff chairman Peter Ridsdale. 'Dave (Jones) and I will do everything possible to bring somebody in.'

If Cardiff City do get their man then Kevin McNaughton could move forward into midfield, allowing Scimeca to start his comeback from a hamstring strain on the bench.

South Wales Echo

FEB-19

Carey calls on Evans experience

"It's not easy waiting for your first three points as manager, but we must continue to believe in ourselves."

Wrexham's next league test come on Tuesday night, when the Dragons travel to Blundell Park to face Grimsby.

BBC

FEB-18

Seventh heaven as Town bow out

BRIDGEND ended more than a half-century of football at their Coychurch Road ground yesterday with a record-breaking 7-0 First Division drubbing of Croesyceiliog.

The ground has witnessed celebrations following Welsh and Southern League titles and many Cup exploits but Bridgend signed off with one of their biggest ever wins.

Now they will move to a temporary home at Lock's Lane, Porthcawl, before finding a permanent venue with cash from a land deal involving Asda, the supermarket giant - and the long-term aim is a place in the Welsh Premier League.

Appropriately, it was a local youngster - 17-year-old Adam Carpenter - who got the final goal on the ground with a superb overhead kick.

Earlier, Mike Hartley had bagged a hit-trick with Ashley Mainwaring getting two and Nicky Burke also on the scoresheet.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-18

Division 1 round up

a last-gasp goal by Christian Orchard gave former champions Ton Pentre all the points in a 1-0 victory over Bryntirion.

Maesteg Park crashed to their fifth straight defeat 3-1 at home to Newport YMCA with Craig Ford, Steve Edwards and Leon Spargo netting for YMCA.

With League leaders Neath's match against Dinas Powys lost to a waterlogged ground, Pontypridd were able to cut the gap at the top to just two points with a 4-1 victory at Barry.

Andrew Hughes grabbed a hat-trick and Dean Morris got the other goal.

Elsewhere, goals by Perry Harding and Mena Baah gave ENTO Aberaman a 2-0 win over Grange Quins and there were victories also for Pontardawe and Goytre United in the top flight.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-18

Bala in shock slump

FIFTH-from-bottom Bodedern, whose home form has been poor for weeks, came good at last in a thoroughly deserved 2-1 win over title contenders Bala Town.

Goals by Mark Evans after 20 minutes and Corey Sinnott after 52 did the trick and stunned Bala, second from top, were left with a solitary late reply from a Neil Fisher penalty.

Both teams ended a man short after the dismissal in the closing minutes of Bodedern's Evans and Bala's Ashley Wilson.

Leaders Flint Town took advantage of Bala's stumble to stretch out a five-point advantage, beating Llanfairpwll 2-0 by means of early goals by Kevin Leech and Steve Thomas.

Holyhead Hotspur staged one of their best displays of the season when they trounced a poor Lex outfit 6-2 - and the margin could well have been even bigger.

Nigel Moore hit a pair of goals for Holyhead in the opening quarter and the scoring flurry then featured Simon Davies, Dean Garmey, Mike Kelly and substitute Ian Williams.

Llangefni Town beat Gresford Athletic 3-1, thanks to Geraint Mitchell, Dave Nottage and Kevin Lloyd scoring, while league cup holders Glantraeth overcame Llandyrnog 3-2 to reach the semi-finals.

Penrhyncoch remain deep in basement danger after crashing 4-0 at home to Mynydd Isa.

Two goals just before the break put the visitors in charge with Anthony Williams and Julian Jones capitalising on defensive slips.

And another brace late in the game settled matters as Sam Pugh tapped in before Williams bagged his second of the game.

Guilsfield's recent revival was halted after slipping to a 2-1 home reverse against Llandudno.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-18

Swans primed for Deano talks

HUW Jenkins has opened the door for Dean Saunders to take over as Swansea City's manager.

The Swans chief has revealed he is not 'excited' by 'experienced yet journeymen' managers to replace Kenny Jackett, who left the Liberty Stadium despite a successful three-year reign last week.

And Wales on Sunday believes Saunders has already had informal talks with connections at the Swans.

Big-name bosses like Joe Royle, Mickey Adams, John Hollins and Mark McGee have all been linked to the vacant managerial post at the League One promotion chasers but Jenkins has effectively ruled them out.

Chairman Jenkins, though, has all but pleaded for former Welsh international Saunders, winner of 75 caps, to make a formal application to become Swansea's 18th manager since John Toshack's hugely-successful reign ended in 1984.

Jenkins wants a first-time boss who "is enthusiastic but experienced in football generally.

"There are a lot of experienced managers available," said Jenkins, "but experienced managers who've gone round from club to club don't excite me at all.

"Having a big-name manager is not always the right way to go. We wouldn't have any problems in giving someone their first job again as we did when we appointed Kenny Jackett three years ago.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-18

Llanelli draw builds pressure

Gary Lloyd had already missed a penalty for the visitors before they took the lead through Nicky Palmer, but that one-goal lead was not enough and Llanelli are now without a win in their last eight league games.

That sparked rumours on Saturday morning that Nicholas had parted company with Llanelli, but the club issued a statement denying any split.

The statement read: "It has come to the management's attention that there are wild rumours circulating of Peter Nicholas' sacking.

"We would like to reassure everyone involved with the club that this is not the case and any rumours of such have no basis in fact."

BBC

FEB-18

10 man Saints to good for Steelmen

TNS 2-0 Port Talbot

THE New Saints enhanced their Welsh Premier title hopes after extending their lead to four points with a commanding victory at Treflan.

Having lost to the Steelmen earlier in the campaign, the defending champions put the record straight with a composed performance on a heavy surface.

The only downside was the second-half dismissal of Duane Courtney just moments after the lively winger had given the Saints a two-goal cushion.

Courtney made no mistake from close range when, six minutes into the second period, he nodded home after keeper Kristian Rogers could only parry a right-wing corner from Jamie Wood.

But just nine minutes later the goalscorer reacted angrily to a challenge by Dean Johnstone, and found himself booked for an innocuous shove.

Courtney continued to argue his case and, following the linesman's intervention, was then red-carded by Swansea referee Simon Jones for aiming a gesture and foul language at the Port Talbot bench, sparking angry exchanges from both camps.

John Toner had given the Mid Wales high-fliers a fully deserved interval lead when turning to fire home from seven yards after John Leah had miscued his strike from the edge of the box following a Wood corner.

Toner, who has netted 19 league and cup goals this term, should have earlier given the league leaders a second-minute lead when glancing his header wide following Chris King's left-wing cross.

The Saints continued to carve openings with some neat movement on a sticky surface, with Courtney's low drive from 25 yards being held low down by Rogers, while Toner headed against the bar from a Courtney cross.

Port Talbot, who struggled to get a foothold in the first half, were limited largely to long- range efforts, with Johnstone blazing over early on while Chad Bond rifled over an angled 25-yard volley.

Toner's goal gave TNS the lead they deserved, while the hosts could have been further ahead with Scott Ruscoe's cross being turned past his own post by defender Matthew Rees.

King twice went close, first a low header being saved before another effort from the left- back was blocked by some desperate defence.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-17

Ground Proposals Could Spark Trouble

Clubs in all three divisions of the MacWhirter Welsh League will be asked to vote in favour of ground improvements when they meet at a special general meeting at Maesteg Park on Sunday afternoon.

And the proposals included a "lights only" First Division, with a working PA system, hard standing on all sides of the ground and fifty seats in stand - individual or bench.

And that's not all. The document, which is certain to prove controversial, is asking for a ground to be enclose by permanent boundaries on all four sides which prevent or restrict spectators from viewing the game from outside the ground.

Gwent's three clubs in the top flight do not have lights and would arguably face great difficulties meeting the demands and a lot of outfits would love fifty people watching their games let alone supplying a seat for them all!

No dates for the criteria to kick-in are included in the meticulous three-page proposals but if clubs cannot meet the demands they will face relegation.

The document does not include any form of costing but it certainly is not going to be a cheap exercise. Some clubs would be looking at a hefty five-figure bill - if not more - and some will view it rather like turkeys voting for Christmas.

Clubs will also be discussing the vexed subject of one player-one club which will come into operation totally in Wales next season, although some area associations such as Gwent are operating the directive from on high this season.

Western Mail

FEB-17

Burrows booster for Neath

TONY POOLE

FEB-17

Ponty new boys set to face Dragons

Pontypridd Town include new signings Richard Carter, Tom Billings and goalkeeper Gareth Williams in their squad for tomorrow's trip to Barry Town (2pm).

Chris Ashley, signed from Bridgend Town, is also available.

Pontypridd are hoping both Chris Summers and Nathan Hosgood will be fit as they aim to step up their chase for the League title and promotion to the Principality Welsh Premier.

Summers suffered a muscle strain during the warm-up before Pontypridd's 3-0 midweek Welsh League win against Caerleon, while Hosgood, named among the subs because he wasn't fully fit, had to start and scored.

Geza Hajgato and Dean Morris were their other scorers and Pontypridd have moved closer to Neath Athletic, standing five points behind the leaders with three games in hand.

South Wales Echo

FEB-17

Hollins and McGhee in Swans race

Former Swans boss Hollins has been out of club management since October after leaving Conference side Crawley.

McGhee, who managed Leicester in Premiership, is looking for work after his three-year reign at Brighton and Hove Albion ended in September.

Former Wales striker Dean Saunders has also expressed an interest in the job.

And Roberto Martinez could be tempted to leave Chester City to return to the club he captained to League Two promotion in 2005.

Jan Molby, who spent a year-and-a-half in charge at Swansea a decade ago, has ruled himself out of the race but suggested Joe Royle would be the best man to succeed Kenny Jackett.

Former Leicester boss Micky Adams has also emerged as a front runner, but neither he nor Royle have so far thrown their hat into the ring.

Hollins would be a familiar face at Swansea, having guided Swansea to the Division Three title in 1999-2000 before being sacked in 2001 with the club back in Division Three.

"I'm very interested. I've spoke to most of the people who are involved and that's all you can do," Hollins told BBC Wales Sport.

BBC

FEB-17

Division 2 & 3 preview

Ammanford have signed Jordan Follows from Bwlch in the run-up to their home clash with leaders Garw.

Dean Jenkins returns to the squad, and the Rice Roaders have dual-registered Richard Lewis available from Llanelli.

But Liam Preece starts another ban for a dismissal picked up in a reserve team match.

Improving Garden Village visit promotion- seeking Caldicot with a full-strength squad, but Morriston have both Leighton Connor and Paul Batcup out for the visit of Cardiff Corries. Michael Gammon is back in the squad.

Briton Ferry, who entertain Pontyclun, lose Ross Howells and Rob Cann to one-match suspensions.

West End have the same problems at home to Bettws as they would have experienced during last Saturday's postponed game at Garw.

The Townhill side are still without the suspended trio of goalkeeper Alex Davies, top-scorer Neil Phillips and midfielder Rory Smitham.

Seven Sisters have a chance to cement a mid-table place at home to AFC Porth, who visit Llansawel in a re-arranged fixture on Monday (7.30pm).

But new Llansawel manager Wyn Evans will be looking towards a winning start against Cwmbran Celtic at Cwrt Herbert.

Llansawel have Anthony Walsh missing because of work commitments, but Nigel Rees is set to resume.

Bottom-placed Cwmamman hope to kick-start their campaign at Newcastle Emlyn, with manager Mike Ellery turning to Luke Rice up front.

Michael Hodges is back, but there is a selection doubt surrounding striker Dean Rosselli.

Ystradgynlais are in action on Sunday against Cwmbran Celtic at Ynyscedwyn Road (2pm).

Ystrad, who are beginning to hit top form, are boosted by the return of top-scorer Michael Whapham from suspension.

TONY POOLE

FEB-17

Griffin primed for Newport debut

He has also played for Chippenham, Swindon, Yeovil, Woking, and Havant & Waterlooville.

BBC

FEB-16

Steelmen appoint their first Commercial Manager

Tony lives in Port Talbot and has supported the club for a number of years and both his sons play for the club. He has very strong football connections being the brother of former Wales International and current Blackburn Rovers Assistant Manager, Mark Bowen.

Tony says, "I was delighted to be asked to do the Job by the Chairman, Andrew Edwards, it is a great time to be taking up this role, with the clubs enjoying great success on the field. I hope we can match that success on the commercial side. My aim is to work closely with our current sponsors and the business community in Port Talbot. It is also very important to nurture the Junior sides in the club and foster stronger relations with their schools."

Mr Bowen added "Andrew Edwards has made this club one of the most progressive clubs in the Welsh Premiership and the aim is now to build on this success to make the club stronger in all its off-field aspects."

Andrew Edwards says, "I am delighted to have Tony on board, with his background in both Commercial and Football terms I am sure he will be a major asset to the club. These are very exciting times at Port Talbot Town and we are sure this appointment is another step in taking the club forward."

Bowen is the latest in a long line of new Commercial Manangers at Principality Welsh Premier League sides, emphasising the need for a strong commercial presence within the locality.

WELSHPREMIER.COM

FEB-16

Reds look to maintain Bluebirds domination

Nicky Palmer will line up against his old club.

Tony and Rocky

FEB-16

Crows looking for 3 in a row

Airbus were beaten 1-0 at home by the Crows in their first meeting and last season it got even better for Cwmbran, winning 3-1.

Airbus are in their third season of WPL membership, playing their first season at Conwy's Morfa Stadium before getting their ground at Broughton up to standard.

The Crows have a three-pronged advantage over their north east Wales rivals - two games in hand; a seven-point advantage and a far better goal difference.

A win for Cwmbran over Airbus who are a point ahead of bottom team Caernarfon would be a tremendous fillip for manager Sean Wharton whose side are without a goal in their last four games.

In fact, they have now gone 383 minutes without a goal, the last being scored by Kris Leek in mid-December against Llanelli when the Crows fought back to earn a 2-2 draw.

And no doubt Leek will be looking to increase his goal tally and end the Crows goal drought.

However, Cwmbran will be without defender Gareth Wysome who is not available while Kristian Hanbury has still not shaken off the affects of an ankle injury he picked up while playing in a charity match at Cwmbran Stadium.

Midfield player Simon Davies, capped by Wales and played 11 times for Manchester United in the Premiership, has signed for Airbus. Davies had been registered with Chester City, playing in their reserve team and coaching their successful youth team.

The 32-year-old Davies had previously played in the Welsh Premier League with Bangor City.

South Wales Argus

FEB-16

Aberystwyth ready for the Druids

ABERYSTWYTH Town, mourning the death of club stalwart Rhun Owens this week, turn to matters on the pitch when they visit Newi Cefn Druids tonight.

Owens, a club director and secretary for many years, passed away this week after a long battle with cancer.

With the funeral taking place tomorrow at Aberystwyth’s Bethel Chapel, the Druids agreed to bring the game forward to tonight.

“It’s been a sad time for everyone involved with the club,” said manager Brian Coyne. “In my short time here, Rhun has been very helpful to me and I know a lot of the lads were very upset at the news.

“He was very important to the club and there was a subdued mood in training this week.

“We’re grateful for Cefn Druids bringing the game forward so that we can all pay our respects on Saturday.

“We could have asked for the game to be postponed, but we felt this was the right thing to do and hopefully the players can go out and put on a good how for him.”

The Black and Greens still have injury problems with Danny Barton (ankle), Andy Evans (broken nose) and Gareth Watkin (back) all struggling.

It’s been a frustrating time for both sides since the turn of the year with a lack of action.

County Times

FEB-16

Deano keen on Swans job

WALES legend Dean Saunders is ready to jump at the chance to come home and become manager of Swansea City, following the departure of Kenny Jackett.

Saunders was one of the leading names being linked with the vacant job last night as the Swans' hunt for Jackett's successor began in earnest.

Two other names with strong Swansea connections, former boss Micky Adams and ex-skipper Roberto Martinez, were amongst the other early front-runners being linked with the post.

Former Ipswich boss Royle, Blackburn No 2 Mark Bowen and another former Swans skipper, David Penney, were also installed amongst the favourites by bookmakers.

Jackett's departure yesterday came within hours of the Western Mail reporting he had been given the dreaded vote of confidence by Swans chairman Huw Jenkins.

In an official statement, the Swans said Jackett chose to go of his own accord, citing a lack of support from fans, the Welsh media, his players and the board as the reason.

The names of Saunders and Adams have been going the rounds for weeks as possible replacements as the pressure piled on Jackett.

Saunders, who comes from Swansea, is known to be close friends with at least one of the main powerbrokers at the Liberty Stadium.

Saunders is currently out of work, having gained significant experience on the coaching staff at Premiership Newcastle.

A source close to Saunders confirmed, "From what I can gather, Dean would jump at the chance to manage his hometown club if they wanted him - provided he could be convinced by their ambition.

"He is keen to move into management, but would have to be convinced Swansea are a club on the up and up.

Paul Abbandonato

FEB-16

New Saints delighted to face Cardiff

The Bluebirds overcame Carmarthen Town 3-2 to book a meeting with the Welsh Premier champions on Tuesday, February 27 at Ninian Park.

Now TNS are planning their first trip to the capital in the competition’s 10 year history.

General manager Ian Williams commented: “This is a massive game for the club and we will go to Cardiff aiming to cause an upset.

“Cardiff City are a massive club but Carmarthen Town’s performance against them in the quarter-finals gives us added confidence.”

The Saints have only played Cardiff City once in the history of the FAW Premier Cup - losing 3-1 at home in 2003.

However Williams insisted the Saints would travel with no fear and look to build on last season’s brave display against Wrexham.

The Welsh Premier side almost pulled off a shock in last season’s semi-finals by holding Wrexham to a 3-3 draw before bowing out on penalties

Williams said: “City will be strong favourites but we showed against Wrexham that we can compete with the best in Wales.

“The fact that we came so close to putting out Wrexham last year will hopefully inspire the lads to go one better this season.

“We are hungry to test ourselves against a Coca Cola Championship club and we will not be shirking the opportunity to spring a surprise.”

The Saints are now assured £25,000 for their part in the match but victory would guarantee TNS a massive £50,000 prize money.

Williams said: “The FAW Premier Cup is a lucrative competition and a guaranteed £50,000 is a huge amount for any football club.

“The club have already received a lot of interest in the match and hopefully we can take a large following to Ninian Park on February 27.”

County Times

FEB-16

Corey's perfect start for Llanwern

RYAN Corey had a memorable debut for Llanwern in their home MacWhirter League, Division Three, victory against Abertillery Excelsiors last night.

Corey claimed Llanwern’s third goal with his first touch of the ball when he came on during the second-half, his cross from the right causing all sorts of problems for goalkeeper Kristian  Johanson, the ball squirming from his grasp at the near post.

Corey has joined promotion-chasing Llanwern from Monmouthshire Building Society Newport and District League side Llanwern Sports, leaders of Premier X.

Marcus Power gave Llanwern the perfect start with a fourth-minute goal and Steve Perszewski added a second in the 31st minute and got their fourth.

The visitors, certainly prepared to give youth a chance, had their opportunities, two good chances falling to Ryan Price and Steve Broom shortly after Llanwern went ahead. Early in the second period Price was again off target with a shot.

Laurence Owen, Llanwern manager, said: “It was a bit of a flat performance - but we did the job, three points and a clean sheet.”

South Wales Argus

FEB-15

End of an era for Bridgend Town

On Monday the bulldozers will start their work on putting a bypass through it, Asda bought the land and the work is about to progress.

Bridgend will play the remainder of their home games at Porthcawl's Locks Lane ground. But there is a snag for Bridgend, as the Locks Lane ground gives way to cricket before the end of the season, so Bridgend will have to play the outstanding home games somewhere else for April and May or have the fixtures reversed and see out their remaining home fixtures played away.

Bridgend's first home game at Locks Lane is on March 3rd when they host another relegation threatened club Ely Rangers.

Tony and Rocky

FEB-15

Veteran Burrows signs for the Steelmen

The defender could go straight into Wayne Davies' side on Saturday with a number of players either injured or ill at the moment, that would be a baptism of fire for Burrows in Port Talbot colours, as the eighth placed side travel to League leaders, TNS.

Burrows, who will be 35 next month, has played for Haverfordwest County (3 spells), Cwmbran, Briton Ferry, Inter Cardiff, Carmarthen, two spells at Aberystwyth and made 179 appearances for the Seasiders between the 2001/02 season and this year.

WELSHPREMIER.COM

FEB-15

Swans part company with Jackett

Chairman Huw Jenkins said Jackett felt he could not take any more criticism from the fans and the media.

"I was very surprised when I received a call from Kenny on Wednesday and I'm very disappointed with how things have worked out," said chairman Huw Jenkins.

"He was upset. He's thought things over and felt the criticism against him was difficult to take."

Jenkins added: "He didn't know where to go from here - whichever way he moved forward, he felt it was only a mater of time before the criticism from the supporters or the press would get on to him again.

"He felt for the sake of the club and himself that a parting of the ways was the best thing to do at this time."

The 45-year-old took over the Welsh club from Brian Flynn in April 2004.

Former Coventry boss Micky Adams, former Everton boss Joe Royle, ex-Wales striker Dean Saunders, ex-Wales defender Mark Bowen and former player Roberto Martinez mooted in some quarters as possible replacements.

BBC

FEB-15

TNS refused exclusive rights to pitches

As support grows for a new village club, a committee of local people has been formed and have now had an application for the use of the Treflan pitch agreed in principal – which could result in the Welsh champions having to pitch share.

A spokesperson for Llansantffraid Social Football Club said: “We have applied for use of Treflan and we are extremely hopeful the recreation association will support our application at their annual meeting.”

The new club wants to restore Llansantffraid’s name to the footballing map and will soon apply for membership of the Montgomeryshire League next season.

After The New Saints were refused exclusive use of the pitch until 2011, the president of the association, Mr Arwyn Roberts told the Advertizer that the facilities are available to those who apply for its use on the condition that it is to be shared by all users.

“Exclusive use by anyone goes contrary to everything the Association had worked for over many years,” he said.

“The field is not for the exclusive use of football and should be available for rugby, cricket or any other sport. It seems that The New Saints had contacted Powys County Council on the subject, but they must understand that the Association have a 99-year lease of the field and they set the rules.

“The business of having a lengthy agreement is a non-starter and it would be unlawful to give exclusive use to anyone,” Mr Roberts added.

However, Ian Williams, general manager of The New Saints, has stated that the club requires security of tenure for the facilities to ensure they satisfy Welsh Premier licensing criteria beyond 2010.

“All parties need to sit down and look at the implications of additional games on the pitch,” he said.

County Times

FEB-15

County beat competition to sign Griffin

The Exiles completed a deal to bring free agent Griffin to Spytty Park, beating off competition from Conference sides Grays Athletic and Weymouth.

Griffin, 27, was John Gorman's first signing for the Chairboys in 2005 and signs on the dotted line for the Exiles after a spell on loan at Forest Green this season.

He began his career with Swindon before joining Conference outfit Woking and then moving to Forest Green, scoring 20 goals for them in the 2004/5 season.

This alerted then Wycombe manager Gorman to his potential and he joined the ranks at Adams Park, before a loan spell was cut short at Forest Green this season and he was released from his contract in January.

The signing of Griffin - whose brother Alan plays for Chippenham Town - comes less than a week after the Exiles brought in experienced campaigner and former England B international striker Dean Holdsworth.

South Wales Argus

FEB-15

New Saints roar towards another title

TNS moved a step closer to retaining their Welsh Premier title when they hit the summit after this Latham Park whitewash extended their unbeaten league sequence to nine matches.

Ken McKenna's men now lie two points ahead of nearest challengers Rhyl with a game in hand.

Newtown went behind in the 20th minute after Jamie Wood side-footed home from close range.

And TNS moved up a gear and produced the clinical final ball to plunder three killer strikes in a devastating nine-minute spell.

Oscar Gonzalez (52), John Toner (55), his 13th of the campaign, and Chris King (61) all beat Jon Rowley in the home goal.

Western Mail

FEB-15

Jones: Caersws will be tough

Anything other than a victory would not leave their chances all at sea, but Jones says now is the time to raise the bar.

EVENING POST

FEB-14

Robins tough task against TNS

Ryan used his Saints connections to sign young 'keeper Matt Kirkham last week, but he is unlikely to hand a debut to the former TNS Reserve team captain for this match and should give current back-up Jon Rowley an opportunity. Two players who will almost certainly make their Robins debut are combative left midfielder Nicky Jones, the ex-Port Talbot man, who signed last week and defender Dan March who arrived from Welshpool - They will both be useful additions to the squad. Tony Bird played up front against Llanelli in their 7-0 defeat in the Welsh Cup and Ryan will be hopeful that he is available to partner young Marcus Sharrad who signed from Cheltenham Town. Sharrad is a quick young striker who played in the Welsh Cup, but is yet to make his League debut.

For the Saints, they have the opportunity to leapfrog longtime rivals Rhyl into pole position in the Principality Welsh Premier League and still with a game in hand. The Saints, who were knocked out of the Welsh Cup in their last outing at Porthmadog, still have a number of absentees through injury but with defender Rob Williams and midfielder Rob Williams returning to the club, Ken McKenna has more options. Carl Lamb will also be welcomed back into the fold after being cup-tied last time out but Michael Jacson was sent off in extra time in that game and he will serve his suspension. Other youngsters now unavailable are Tyson Eyo and Naru Wild who are on English Colleges duty, but last season's Player of the Year Mike Wilde will return to put pressure on Lamb and John Toner for a starting place.

WELSHPREMIER.COM

FEB-14

Pontypridd close gap on Neath

Pontypridd Town took a step closer to claiming the MacWhirter Welsh Football League title, their latest challenge was against Caerleon at home last night.

Ponty ran out comfortable winners over the Gwent side by a 3-0 score line.

Pontypridd are chasing hard behind Neath Athletic, trailing by 5 points with 3 games in hand.

Last night's match against Caerleon had been rearranged after being postponed because of bad weather and Pontypridd welcomed back club captain Dean Morris.

Chris Ashley, signed from Bridgend Town, was in Ponty's squad for the first time last night.

Defender Ashley, 28, was Bridgend club captain. He is a former Port Talbot player who can also play in central midfield.

Their unbeaten run now stretches to 12 games and goes back to the 14th of October when when they lost at home to Goytre Utd 2-1. Since then they have won 10 and drawn 2. 

Next up for Ponty is a trip to face Barry Town at Jenner Park on Saturday.

View league table

TONY

FEB-14

Time not right to bring Hartson home

EVENING POST

FEB-14

It's carry on Kenny!

EVENING POST

FEB-14

McDonald saves Cardiff's blushes

The 18-year-old midfielder headed home 30 seconds from time to force extra-time and then scored a superb solo goal to clinch victory.

Welsh Premier side Carmarthen were 2-0 up after 51 minutes when Danny Thomas added to Paul Fowler's opener.

Kevin Campbell reduced the deficit with 25 minutes to go before substitute McDonald emerged as the unlikely hero.

His first goal was a simple header into an empty net after latching on to a chip ahead from Kevin Cooper following Chris Gunter's break down the right.

But he showed superb balance and poise on a soggy pitch for his second as he rounded home goalkeeper Neil Thomas after a 20-yeard run.

Cardiff, who lost 2-1 to Carmarthen at the same stage of the competition last season, started brightly with a side made up of reserve and youth team players.

Midfielder Cooper hit the post and striker Iwan Redan came close to opening his Bluebirds account on his full debut.

But Carmarthen responded well, and after shooting into the side netting minutes earlier, Fowler put the home side ahead with an 18-yard snap-shot which found its way through a crowd of players.

Cardiff goalkeeper David Forde, another debutant, then made a terrific save to deny Nathan Cotterrall before half-time.

But the home side doubled the lead just six minutes of the second-half as Danny Thomas broke down the middle to score against his former club.

Cardiff's revival began with 25 minutes to go as Campbell poked the ball in with his head after Bradley Middleton had headed across goal from a high ball into the box.

Substitute Andrea Ferretti missed a great chance to bring Cardiff level when he shot wide, while Forde again came to Cardiff's rescue by pushing Kaid Mohamed's shot onto the post.

Carmarthen had other opportunities to wrap the game up , and those misses came back to haunt them when McDonald struck in the 90th minute and then 13 minutes into extra-time.

Carmarthen almost found an immediate reply as Cardiff went to sleep at the back, but Forde was on hand again to frustrate the home side and secure the Bluebirds' passage into the semi-finals.

BBC

FEB-14

Jones targeting young Gunners

Mark Jones is gunning for Arsenal in the FA Youth Cup.

Striker Jones, aged 18 and from Afan Lido, has scored six goals in three Cardiff City matches en route to the quarter-finals.

And the reward is a sixth round tie against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in London next Monday.

'We all knew Arsenal was the prize, but we dare not think about that until we had got past Sunderland,' said Jones.

'Now we have made it - and everybody will be up for this one.'

Hundreds of City fans are planning a trip to the Emirates to cheer on the young Bluebirds.

They have scored 12 goals in their three ties, including a 2-0 victory against a strong Sunderland team in the third round.

Cardiff manager Dave Jones described the performance against Sunderland as 'fantastic' while first team coach Terry Burton said: 'The lads have earned a big day out.

'They will go to Arsenal with confidence and, no matter what happens, the memories will be with them throughout their careers.'

Burton knows exactly how the boys will feel. He played and scored for Arsenal when they won the FA Youth Cup in 1970-71, beating Cardiff City in the final.

South Wales Echo

FEB-14

I'm off if we don't go up!

MICHAEL CHOPRA has sensationally threatened to quit Cardiff City if they fail to win promotion to the Premiership at the end of the season.

Cardiff's in-form striker, who currently leads the Championship scoring charts with 18 goals, warned the Bluebirds he is keen to make a swift return to the top-flight - with or without them.

Chopra quit home-town club Newcastle United to drop down a division when he made a £500,000 switch to Ninian Park last summer.

And while his goals have given sixth-placed City a real chance of earning elevation to the promised land of the Premiership, the Geordie frontman has expressed his intention to be there even if Dave Jones' side are not.

Asked about his prospects of returning to the top level next season, the 23-year-old revealed to Radio Five Live: 'My main aim this season is to get promoted with Cardiff.

'And hopefully I can.

'But if I don't get promoted with Cardiff, hopefully I can be in the Premiership next season with someone else.'

Chopra - who has netted six goals in his last four games - has become an instant hit with the Bluebirds fans in his first season in South Wales.

But he says he has never lost his desire to be performing on the highest stage once again.

'Once you've had a taste of Premiership football you don't really want to lose it,' he added.

South Wales Echo

FEB-13

Town looking repeat win over Cardiff

Tony

FEB-13

Llansawel release player-manager

FEB-13

Jackett brushes aside criticism

"We'll never say never to automatic promotion while there's a chance, but it's a big gap to make up and we have to start performing."

South Wales Echo

FEB-13

Cardiff ponder a defensive loan

Roger Johnson is the only dedicated, experienced centre-back who is fit and available at Ninian Park.

BBC

FEB-13

Flint slip up after midweek boost

FLINT TOWN, who went to the top of the Cymru Alliance in midweek, came down to earth with a bump when they slipped to a 2-1 defeat by Llangefni Town, writes Chris Smart.

Gerallt Jones and Marcus Orlik netted for Flint, with Kevin Leech being on target for the Anglesey team.

Ruthin Town, struggling in the lower echelons of the league, caused a surprise when they travelled to ambitious Llandudno Town and triumphed 2-1.

Liam Jones, from the penalty spot, and Elfyn Roberts were the Llandudno marksmen, while Lee Thomas converted a penalty for the seasiders.

Llanfairpwll secured a point from a 1-1 draw with Llandyrnog, who grabbed the leveller in injury time.

Daniel Jones, with the final move of the game, found the net after Kevin Roberts had given Llanfairpwll the lead wwith a 30-yard lob to end the match with honours even.

Western Mail

FEB-13

Wrexham's Carvill deal hits snag

FLINT TOWN, who went to the top of the Cymru Alliance in midweek, came down to earth with a bump when they slipped to a 2-1 defeat by Llangefni Town, writes Chris Smart.

Gerallt Jones and Marcus Orlik netted for Flint, with Kevin Leech being on target for the Anglesey team.

Ruthin Town, struggling in the lower echelons of the league, caused a surprise when they travelled to ambitious Llandudno Town and triumphed 2-1.

Liam Jones, from the penalty spot, and Elfyn Roberts were the Llandudno marksmen, while Lee Thomas converted a penalty for the seasiders.

Llanfairpwll secured a point from a 1-1 draw with Llandyrnog, who grabbed the leveller in injury time.

Daniel Jones, with the final move of the game, found the net after Kevin Roberts had given Llanfairpwll the lead wwith a 30-yard lob to end the match with honours even.

Western Mail

FEB-13

Carey makes Wrexham rallying call

South Wales Echo

FEB-12

Hopkins bags 4 as Ystrad hit Aber for 11

FEB-12

New Bangor stadium a step closer

"Every year we spend at Farrar Road the club is missing out on funds from the Welsh FA and UEFA," he added.

Daily Post

FEB-11

Platini in talks over 'big three' return

MICHEL Platini is in secret talks to re-admit Wales' three professional clubs to Europe.

The newly-elected UEFA president is being lobbied behind the scenes in a bid to see Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham given a route back into European competition.

Wales' 'big three' have been excluded from competing in the Champions League and UEFA Cup since 1995 - three years after the creation of Wales' own domestic league.

But FAW officials have already held informal discussions with Platini on the subject in the hope that a solution can be found under his new-look administration.

"Mr Platini does appear to be open to the idea," said a senior FAW source who believes that previous attempts to change the status quo have been blocked before even reaching UEFA's top brass.

"Discussions have taken place and it is hoped they will continue in the near future.

"With a new broom at the top this seems a good time to start the conversations again."

Platini is now the most powerful figure in European football after Lennart Johansson lost in a head-to-head vote last month following 16 years in the top job. One of the keys to Platini's victory was his support from the smaller nations of Eastern Europe.

They are demanding extra Champions League places at the expense of the superpower leagues of England, Spain, Germany and Italy which currently hold the monopoly.

Current UEFA rules stipulate that only teams playing within the boundaries of their national association are eligible to represent them.

South Wales Echo

FEB-11

Quins are making progress in survival fight

Grange Quins are fighting for their lives in MacWhirter Welsh League Division One.

They grafted to two draws - against Croesyceiliog 3-3 and Dinas Powys 1-1 - in three days and are just outside the relegation zone.

Ely Rangers are bottom on 13 points, Uwic have 14, while only four points cover Barry Town (16), who are third from bottom, plus Quins (17), Newport YMCA (18), Bridgend Town (19) and Pontardawe Town (20).

Player-manager Eston Chiverton is leading the Quins battle and one of the problems he faces is that his team have played more games than any of the clubs around them.

Chiverton plays a defensive role for Quins, while teenage captain Matthew Hopkins, 18, shone during the 1-1 draw against Dinas Powys, rising to head in from a free-kick.

But the player who kept Quins in the game was eccentric French goalkeeper Alain Fouanguim.

The 21-year-old speaks little English and has only just learned 'keeper' for when he wants to let his defence know he's coming off his line.

The local student made a surprise appearance at a Quins' training session and stayed to become their number one. He has outstanding reflexes and agility, specialising in coming out on top in one-on-one situations.

Paul Carro found that out when he burst clear, sidestepped the keeper and was left astonished by an awesome save.

The key now is for Chiverton to somehow draw the best out of the talent available to avoid being relegated for a second season, having plunged out of the Welsh Premier League.

Quins still have an outstanding youth system - and that shows in their first team - and are working hard to survive as a club in difficult times.

South Wales Echo

FEB-11

Tucker is enjoying mid-table security

Dinas Powys have Nicky Tucker and assistant John Herniman as their new management team in MacWhirter Welsh League Division One.

They are assisted by coaches Trevor Taylor and Gareth Morgan.

Dinas are in mid-table having won 10 of their 19 League games so far and fought out a 1-1 draw against Grange Quins at Cardiff Athletic Stadium in midweek.

New manager Tucker, who has taken over from Mike Spray, has a mixture of youth and experience in the squad.

Goalkeeper Joe Cusheri is a teenager and a product of the club's youth system, while defender Danny Kinsey, at 34, is a former Quins player who has a lot of experience.

Dinas Powys should have beaten Quins in midweek, but were denied by the outstanding work of home goalkeeper Alain Fouanguim, who made a number of excellent saves.

Phil James, a former Cwmbran Town player, fired against the bar for Dinas Powys, while Paul Carro was denied twice by the keeper when it seemed he would score.

There was, though, nothing Fouanguim could do when his defence failed to clear and Carro lobbed into goal to make it 1-1.

Then, in the closing minutes, Quins might have won when Nathan White headed wide.

Tony

FEB-11

Horror show goes on for Wrexham

Peterborough United 3 Wrexham 0.

Woeful Wrexham slumped to yet another defeat on their travels and have now gone 10 games without a win after this trip to London Road.

But it was success at last for new Posh boss Darren Ferguson, who notched his first victory since taking the job last month and saw his side end a run of 12 games without a win.

In a side showing seven changes from last weekend, Wrexham's new manager Brian Carey gave debuts to new loan signings John Ruddy and Scott Barron, while Neil Roberts and Mark Jones returned from injury.

And the Dragons were the better side in the opening 20 minutes, but failed to make the most of their chances, the best of which came 15 minutes into the game.

A defensive slip let in Lee McEvilly, who had Roberts running free, but he went on and was well-tackled by former Racecourse defender Craig Morgan.

And United went ahead in the 23rd minute when Adam Newton beat Mike Williams on the left flank. His cross took a deflection of Steve Evans’ heel and fell perfectly for Aaron Mclean to drive the ball past Ruddy.

McEvilly then saw a good effort whistle inches wide before Wrexham had to reshuffle when Shaun Pejic limped off with what appeared to be a hamstring injury.

And worse was to follow for the Dragons as the home side doubled their lead in the 53rd minute when Morgan’s long ball picked out George Boyd who outpaced Evans and flashed his shot into the far corner of the net.

Peterborough wrapped it up eight minutes from time when Newtown’s low cross was turned into his own net by Evans.

Mark Currie

FEB-11

Hold up for Dean in Essex

Braintree 2-1 Newport County. NOT even the class of former England star Dean Holdsworth could prevent County losing out in the first leg of their Essex double header.

The former Wimbledon and Bolton striker may be 38, but still showed County boss Peter Beadle he is a cut above on his debut.

But possession, nine-tenths of the law, counted for nothing as Newport were mugged for the second time this season by Braintree - 1-0 winners in Wales in a snatch-and-grab candidate for Crimewatch.

"We had no real killer instinct," said Beadle. "And we are still prone to making mistakes at the back."

When they return to Essex on Monday to take on Thurrock, he will demand an end product from his players against an improving outfit who were 5-1 winners against promotion-chasing Fisher yesterday.

"We have lost ground," said Beadle. "But I'm convinced we can put a run together and reach the play-off positions.

"The players will be back in for training on Sunday in preparation for Monday's game at Thurrock and we just have to keep up the effort."

Wales on Sunday

FEB-11

City held in Ricoh thriller

Coventry 2-2 Cardiff City

Dele Adebola scored for the first time in over two months to earn Coventry a crucial point in an entertaining 2-2 draw that dented 10-man Cardiff’s Coca-Cola Championship promotion charge at the Ricoh Arena.

Adebola, who last found the net against Preston on November 28, was on hand to head home Jay Tabb’s right wing cross from inside the six-yard box just four minutes after Glenn Loovens’ sending-off.

Loovens was booked in the first half and was shown a second yellow card in the 67th-minute for a foul on Michael Mifsud.

It looked like Cardiff, who had won their last three league matches, would continue to breathe new life into their promotion challenge when Peter Whittingham curled a superb 25-yard shot beyond Andy Marshall and into the top left-hand corner.

Michael Chopra’s penalty on the stroke of half-time had cancelled out Leon McKenzie’s early opener for Coventry.

The second half started brightly and Whittingham flashed a warning shot across Coventry’s bow in the 57th-minute before finding the net just moments later.

Mifsud and McKenzie went close before Loovens was shown the red card and the hosts set about making their numerical advantage count with gusto.

Coventry launched wave after wave of attack before they were finally rewarded with Adebola’s header.

Tony

FEB-11

Swans suffer again

Tony

FEB-10

Neath extend lead to 8 points

Neath came out 2-1 winners over the Cardiff village side, and repaid them for the 3-1 loss they occurred when the 2 sides met back in late September. Neath have now increased their lead at the top of the table to 8 points.

Neath's victory was their 3rd on the trot and they have now gone 12 games undefeated. You have to go back to October 28th for their last defeat which came at Tudor Park when Maesteg came out 2-1 winners, since then they have won 9 and drawn 3 of the last 12 games.

View league table

Tony

FEB-10

Wrexham's blow for new stadium vision

WREXHAM FC’s hopes of developing an all-seater stadium at the Racecourse ground were this week dealt a blow by the Assembly government.

Just two months ago sport and culture minister, Alun Pugh, praised the club’s 2012 Vision during a visit to the stadium.

But last night it emerged there are serious obstacles standing in the way of the scheme receiving Assembly cash.

The project would see the old Kop terrace replaced with a 5,000-seat stand making the ground – dubbed “the Millennium Stadium of the North” by Mr Pugh – a 15,500 all-seater venue.

The club’s owners, Neville Dickens and Geoff Moss, secured outline planning permission to demolish the Kop and build 277 flats on waste ground and Dickens’ garage on the corner of Crispin Lane.

But the plans don’t include funding for a new stand and Wrexham council insisted detailed planning permission would not be granted without cash in place for a new Kop seating area.

But a letter sent by the Assembly’s sports policy unit chief Sara Butlin on behalf of Mr Pugh to Wrexham council seemingly shuts the door on public funding for the new stand.

Daily Post

FEB-10

Rhyl crash out of NWC cup to Prestatyn

Rhyl's chances of making it 16 North Wales Coast cup trophies went out the door.

They were up against Cymru Alliance form side Prestatyn, and it was the underdogs who came out on top against a near full strength Rhyl side.

Prestatyn took a 1-0 half time lead, and doubled their lead soon after the restart, to win the game 2-0.

Prestatyn's goal scoring machine Steve Bowes was on the score sheet again with the 2nd goal.

Tony

FEB-10

League looking at season extension

Glyn Jones, secretary of the Welsh Autoparts Gwent County League, who is expecting a blank sheet today, said: "We are not considering an extension to the season as of yet because I can still fit games in.

"However, if we have another couple of weeks like this we will go into May.

"But the problem is clubs playing on council pitches. We have trouble with them because they tell clubs they have to be off by April 14-15 - and they don't want to budge.

"The councils make me mad because clubs can't start until September and then have to be off by mid-April.

"Clubs have already been on the telephone and I have advised them to contact their local councillors to put pressure on councils.

"But whatever happens we always get through, even if clubs have to concede ground advantage to get matches played."

South Wales Argus

FEB-10

League looking at season extension

Glyn Jones, secretary of the Welsh Autoparts Gwent County League, who is expecting a blank sheet today, said: "We are not considering an extension to the season as of yet because I can still fit games in.

"However, if we have another couple of weeks like this we will go into May.

"But the problem is clubs playing on council pitches. We have trouble with them because they tell clubs they have to be off by April 14-15 - and they don't want to budge.

"The councils make me mad because clubs can't start until September and then have to be off by mid-April.

"Clubs have already been on the telephone and I have advised them to contact their local councillors to put pressure on councils.

"But whatever happens we always get through, even if clubs have to concede ground advantage to get matches played."

South Wales Argus

FEB-10

Carey cool on Ferguson sideshow

CARETAKER Wrexham boss Brian Carey insists today's contest with Darren Ferguson's Peterborough United is about more than proving he was the right choice to manage the Red Dragons.

Carey suggested his head-to-head duel with the man he beat to the Racecourse job is little more than a sideshow to his quest to secure a first win since his appointment.

Following Carey's appointment last month, Ferguson admitted he was hurt by the Racecourse snub after spending seven years with the Dragons as their midfield linchpin.

And the former midfield playmaker will be every bit as hungry as Carey for a win as the Posh have taken only one point from nine since he took over.

Carey said, "This match was always going to come along at some stage, but we have to get beyond the personalities involved.

South Wales Echo

FEB-09

Reds in search of quick double

Pontypridd Town step up their challenge for the title tomorrow with the first of two home matches in four days.

They entertain Bridgend Town tomorrow, while Caerleon are visitors to Ynysangharad Park on Tuesday, lying five points behind leaders Neath Athletic with three games in hand.

Bridgend are smarting after crashing out of the Shamrock Travel Cup, 2-1 at Tredegar Town, and the Welsh Cup, 2-1 at Holyhead Hotspurs, in their last two matches.

They are hopeful goalkeeper Lee Idzy will be fit after injuring a knee against Holyhead in North Wales, while Ponty are also facing a possible goalkeeping problem.

Mark Poole is their number one keeper, but he is talking of retiring because of work commitments.

Grange Quins, who have drawn their last two matches, are at home to Pontardawe Town at Cardiff Athletic Stadium tomorrow, while Barry Town aim to extend their good run of late when they face Goytre United at Jenner Park.

South Wales Echo

FEB-09

County sign Dean Holdsworth

Former Wimbledon and Bolton striker Holdsworth, 38, joins on a non-contract basis after leaving Conference outfit Cambridge United recently.

Holdsworth brings a wealth of experience to Spytty Park after a 21-year career than has seen him represent Watford, Brentford, Wimbledon, Bolton, Coventry, Rushden, Havant and Waterlooville, Derby County and Weymouth. His move to Bolton was a club record £3.5m.

The signing of Holdsworth couldn't be more timely for the Exiles ahead of tomorrow's Conference South visit to Braintree (kick-off 3pm) as strikers Julian Alsop (ankle) and Craig Hughes (back) are injured and Matt Green moved to Cardiff on transfer deadline day.

Manager Beadle is pleased to have Holdsworth on board and is hopeful he will be allowed to pursue plans to sign another striker and a defender, meeting County's board this afternoon.

However, the boss is urging supporters to show more backing for the signing of Holdsworth than they did earlier in the season when he drafted in Nathan Blake, particularly as Holdsworth made the first contact with Beadle.

He explained: "We agreed a deal to sign Dean yesterday and I am delighted, the key factor in this deal for me is his massive desire to keep playing, he is 38 and doesn't need the money.

"Dean contacted me and said he'd read about Matt Green going to Cardiff, he's just relocated to Worcester and was very keen to meet with me and prove that he has the desire to carry on playing.

South Wales Argus

FEB-09

Wrexham recruit premiership pair

Northern Ireland U19 striker Mike Carvill, 18, has signed until the end of the season after being released by Premiership side Charlton last month.

And goalkeeper John Ruddy, 21, arrives from Everton on a month's loan.

If the paperwork is completed in time, both new signings will be added to the squad for Saturday's League Two trip to face Peterborough.

Earlier this week Wrexham signed defender Scott Barron on a month's loan from Ipswich Town.

BBC

FEB-09

Reds in search of quick double

Llanelli manager Peter Nicholas insists his team will adopt the right attitude as they go in search of a quick fire double over Newtown on Saturday (2.30).The Reds ended a seven-match winless streak by thumping the visitors 7-0 in a totally one-sided Welsh Cup tie last weekend.

But Nicholas insists his players will be taking nothing for granted as the Robins return to Stebonheath Park.

Llanelli are desperate for another win, especially as they lie sixth in the table.

But a repeat of last weekend's result would help their stuttering league campaign get back on track.

"It was great to get back to winning ways but we know they will be stronger this weekend as they had a few players cup-tied last week," said Nicholas.

"We are not expecting seven goals again and the players know they have to start all over again and work hard to get a result.

"We won't be over-confident or anything like that - it's a different game and the slate is wiped clean by us.

"They will be looking to make us pay for last weekend, but we have to get on with things and put a good run together to push us up the table."

The Reds welcome Neil Thomas, Nick Sinfield and Neil Thompson back from suspension while Andrew Mumford and Nicky Palmer are back in contention as they were cup-tied last week.

CHRIS BARNEY

FEB-09

Swans massive promotion hopes

Swansea city skipper Darren Pratley feels the club's destiny could be decided by the end of February.

Kenny Jackett's men were deflated by the late postponement of Tuesday's game at rock-bottom Rotherham because of a frozen Millmoor surface.

But there is no time to dwell on that with second-placed Oldham at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday.

For Swansea, that is the start of a sequence against some of their closest promotion challengers - with the visit of leaders Scunthorpe (February 20) sandwiched between visits to Doncaster (17th) and Yeovil (24th). The Rotherham game has been re- arranged for February 27.

'It's a massive month for us,' admitted £100,000 summer signing Pratley. 'It starts with Oldham and it is a big six-pointer in every sense of the word.

'They are in front of us and we need to knock them down. If we are going to clinch Championship football and avoid the play-offs, we have to beat the sides around us - the likes of Oldham, Scunthorpe, Doncaster and Yeovil, teams we play over the next couple of weeks.'

But, despite their failure to win more than two successive matches this season, Pratley said, 'There is plenty of ability and bottle in the Swansea squad.

'The club is geared up for Championship football in terms of the stadium and fan-base, now we need to go out and prove we deserve to be in a higher division.'

Swansea would reap around £3m should they exit League One come May.

But cash is no motivation to Pratley who still smarts at his lack of opportunity at Fulham.

South Wales Echo

FEB-09

City set up an FA Cup date with Gunners

Cardiff City booked an FA Youth Cup quarter-final at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium with a magnificent performance against Sunderland at Ninian Park.

Two goals from striker Mark Jones, 18, earned the Bluebirds victory against one of the most powerful teams they have faced so far this season.

Cardiff City were hampered by the Welsh insistence that both Chris Gunter and Darcy Blake had to play international under-21 football in Belfast on Tuesday and fly back for this FA Youth Cup tie on the morning of the game.

But City had clearly watched Sunderland carefully over recent weeks and put goalkeeper Martin Hunter under pressure.

Jones closed him down instantly, and forced him into a mistake after 39 minutes.

Jones, from Afan Lido, whipped the ball away from Hunter as he shaped to kick clear, was forced wide and calmly clipped an accurate shot back across goal and just inside the far post.

And then, after 75 minutes, Jones pounced when Middleton nodded down from a corner.

He turned quickly and shot low into the net from 10 yards.

'It was a fantastic team performance and it feels great to have scored twice,' said Jones.

'Now we really can think about playing Arsenal.'

This is Cardiff's best run in the FA Youth Cup since 1971 when they got to the final and played an Arsenal team which included current Bluebirds' assistant manager Terry Burton.

Arsenal won the final over two legs, but this time, at the Emirates Stadium, all will be decided on the night.

A date for the quarter-final has yet to be agreed.

South Wales Echo

FEB-09

O'Driscoll pips Jackett for managers prize

Doncaster boss Sean O'Driscoll has been named as League One's manager of the month for January.

The other award contenders were Kenny Jackett of Swansea, Millwall's Willie Donachie and Yeovil's Russell Slade.

FEB-09

League leaders a big test for Reds

Daily Post

FEB-08

TNS embroiled in pitch battle

A BATTLE for pitch rights has erupted in Llansantffraid after a rebel club’s formation in the village.

Llansantffraid Social Football Club has formed a committee and last week applied to the village’s Recreation Association for use of Treflan field.
The facilities are currently solely used by The New Saints Football Club who are keen to maintain exclusive use of the ground.
TNS general manager Ian Williams said: “The club applies annually to the recreation association for use of the ground.
“We require security of tenure for the facilities to ensure we satisfy Welsh Premier Licensing criteria beyond 2010.”
Williams added: “All parties need to sit down and look at the implications of additional games on the pitch.”
The Llansantffraid Recreation Association have confirmed applications from TNS and an independent club from the village.
Recreation Association president Arwyn Roberts said the pitch was not available to any sporting organisation exclusively.
Mr Roberts said: “Exclusive use by anyone went contrary to everything the association had worked for over many years.
“The field was not for the exclusive use of football and should be available for rugby, cricket or any other sports club.”
The recreation association hold a 99 year lease on the ground and maintain that any club wishing to use the facilities would have to apply annually.
Meanwhile Llansantffraid Social Football Club have seen their application for use of the Treflan pitch agreed in principal.
A spokesperson for the new club said: “There is growing support for the club in the village and a committee has already been formed made up of local people.
“We have also applied for use of Treflan and we are extremely hopeful the recreation association will support our application at their annual meeting.”
The spokesman for Llansantffraid Social Club added: “The new club wants to restore Llansantffraid’s name to the footballing map and will soon apply for membership of the Montgomeryshire League next season.”

County Times

FEB-08

Jackett in running for manager of the month

Evening Post

FEB-08

TNS stars return for Crows test

The Saints bowed out of the Welsh Cup with an injury ravaged squad at Porthmadog last week.

Mike Wilde joins Alfie Carter in attack following injury while Carl Lamb is available after being cup tied last weekend.

Duane Courtney and Tommy Holmes also return to boost the defence while Rob Williams and Mark Davies have been recalled from loan deals at Newtown.

General manager Ian Williams said: “This is an important week for the club in terms of our title challenge starting with Cwmbran Town this weekend.”

County Times

FEB-08

Bridgend take cup complaint to the FAW

Bridgend Town are complaining to the Football Association of Wales following incidents during their Welsh Cup tie against Holyhead Hotspurs in North Wales.

'We are making an official complaint about the conduct of some spectators,' said Bridgend manager Drewe Phillips.

'Five minutes into extra time there was a pitch invasion from a section of the crowd - about 30 to 40 teenagers. They jostled Bridgend players and spat at them.

'The spitting was going on during the game as the stand runs the length of the touchline and our substitutes had to warm up there.

'Players who where taking throw-ins were also spat at throughout the game.

'That section had been drinking throughout the game and if it wasn't for the restraint shown by Bridgend players things could have got more out of hand.

'The referee threatened to abandon the game during the pitch invasion.'

Andy Richards, from Trelanwnyd, was in charge of a match which Bridgend lost 2-1 after extra time.

South Wales Echo

FEB-08

Flint Town hit the top

Tony

FEB-08

Cardiff fret over missing Whitley

BBC

FEB-08

Jason’s despair over suspension

South Wales Echo

FEB-08

Hulse to put out strongest side for cup clash

Prestatyn, from the Cymru Alliance, have been scoring goals galore in the past few weeks with Steve Bowes the man on top of the scoring list. Rhyl have won the trophy a record 15 times and Hulse believes the competition deserves his best available side. "Football is all about winning and we at Rhyl feel that any competition we enter should be taken seriously. In the past a few senior sides have fielded weakened sides and that is not fair on the organisers." The following week Rhyl return to Welsh Premier action with third placed Welshpool the visitors to Belle Vue.

Rhyl Journal

FEB-07

Toshack praises Evans resilience

"Steve's in a difficult situation at the bottom of the league with Wrexham, but he's come into our last two games and not put a foot wrong," he said.

"He handled all the aerial stuff and has shown he can step up a level.

"I hope all the Wrexham lads will get a boost from the time with Wales because they've work to do back at the club."

Evans won his second cap in the friendly and was joined in the squad by fellow Dragons Ryan Valentine and Chris Llewellyn, while Mike Ingham came on as a second-half substitute for Northern Ireland.

BBC

FEB-07

Quins earn a point against Dinas

Cardiff side Grange Quins earned a much needed point last last night at the Lechwith with a 1-1 draw against Dinas Powys.

The point moves them up a place to 16th with Barry Town dropping to 17th. but Quins are still deep in relegation trouble having played 3 games more than all the other clubs in the bottom 5 places. Plus they also have the misfortune of having a 1 point deduction against them.

They face inconsistent Pontardawe this Saturday in a must win home game that could take them up to 15th ahead of Newport YM who are without a game this weekend.

A win would also take them level on points with Bridgend Town who have been in free fall and having considered applying for promotion to the welsh premier, could find themselves dragged into a relegation battle instead as they have managed just 4 points from their last 8 games.

View league table

Tony

FEB-07

Former Steelman Jones completes Robins move

Jones, who is a bullish midfielder and a very strong tackler, fell out of favour at the Remax Stadium in December and found it hard to get back into starting eleven with the Steelmen gaining a number of good results. Jones' disappointment at not playing regularly alerted Darren Ryan who was quick to swoop for him despite interest from Jones' local side Ton Pentre of the Welsh League, who ironically lost to Port Talbot in the Welsh Cup on Saturday.

Blaenrhondda born Jones can also play as a left-back and will be a useful addition to the Robins squad as he is still only 25 and has enjoyed a number of good seasons at Port Talbot after joining for a second spell in July 2004, after first signing for the Steelmen in 2001. In between he had spells at local rivals Afan Lido and Torquay United. He has also appeared for Neath AFC in the Welsh League.

Jones will be a perfect replacement for the void that has been caused by Mark Davies' return to TNS last week.

Welshpremier.com

FEB-07

Airbus sign former welsh International

Davies, 32, has previous Welsh Premier experience with TNS, Bangor City and Rhyl and when fully fit, has undoubted talent that could be prominent in his new sides battle against relegation. The thought of Davies and Playmaker Gareth Owen in midfield will certainly excite Wingmakers fans, who need some good news after their disappointing defeat to basement rivals Caernarfon Town on Friday evening.

Davies made eleven Premiership appearances for Manchester United and broke through to the International side whilst at Old Trafford. He then joined Luton Town for £150,000 in 1997 and after stints at Rochdale, Huddersfield and Macclesfield in the Football League, he arrived in the League of Wales with Bangor City in July 2001. After impressing at Farrar Road, which included winning the Welsh Premier Player of the Year in 2002/03, Davies signed for TNS in the summer of 2003.

Injuries limited his opportunities at TNS and he returned to Bangor City on 24th August 2004. He then signed for John Hulse's Rhyl in January 2005, but just over 12 months later he joined Chester as a coach, and then Reserve Team player.

Davies' first opportunity for Gareth Owen's side will be on Friday evening when they travel to Flint to play an in-form Connah's Quay and with Davies' experience in the side, the Wingmakers will be confident that they can gain a point.

Welshpremier.com

FEB-07

It's so easy for Citizens

Newi Cefn Druids 0-3 Bangor City

Druids' recent improvement ground to a halt at Plaskynaston last night as Bangor City ended a disappointing five-match winless run with a comfortable victory.

On a pitch that became firmer as the match wore on, both sides struggled to create chances until Ashley Stott waltzed around three home defenders to score on the stroke of half-time.

Dixie McNeil's side rarely threatened and it came as no surprise when Steve Wynn doubled the visitors' advantage with 20 minutes remaining.

And the Citizens added their third 11 minutes from time through Mark Smith, which was a carbon copy of the first goal.

Bangor move up two places to eighth with this success.

Western Mail

FEB-07

Ace Jones: We need to win every match left

MARK JONES yesterday issued a rallying cry to his Wrexham team-mates, saying: “We need to win every single game from now on.”

The Wrexham midfielder could return for Saturday’s trip to Peterborough after his comeback from injury took another leap forward when he played an hour in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Macclesfield Town.

Club captain and striker Neil Roberts, on his way back from an ankle injury, also played an hour in yesterday’s game, which the Dragons won 3-1 with two goals from forward Jamie Reed and one from winger Josh Johnson.

And Brian Carey’s side is set to be further boosted this week by two loan signings, expected to be a striker and a midfielder.

Wrexham slipped into League Two’s relegation places after last Saturday’s dismal 2-0 defeat to Wycombe at the Racecourse, but Wales international Jones said they had to put that behind them now and salvage their Football League status.

“That game’s gone now and we need to be looking at the games coming up,” said the 23-year-old. “We need to get a good run together now to make sure we get something out of this season.

“There’s lads on international duty this week, but everybody who’s back at the club is in good spirits and looking forward to the next game. We need to win every single game now and get out of the bottom two.”

Daily Post

FEB-07

Toshack takes positives from draw

"The way the defence performed is a big plus for us," said Toshack.

"It was a very good workout, in the first half we controlled things quite well but were maybe a little bit lightweight in the last third.

"We tried to improve on that in the second half but lost what we had in the first and were pushed back."

Toshack said that he had left out Ryan Giggs because of the Manchester United star's "tight hamstring".

"There's no point in risking him in this kind of game."

The Wales boss also explained his reasons for leaving out Southampton youngster Gareth Bale.

"He's played three games in six days and at 17 has a lot on his plate.

"We wanted to have a look at a few things - some things pleased us and one or two not so much."

Toshack gave a first cap to Jermaine Easter who replaced another substitute David Cotterill midway through the second half.

"It is not a reflection on David, I just wanted to change one or two things round a bit."

On Easter, the Wales boss said: "He worked away and hopefully he gets a bit of confidence from that."

BBC

FEB-07

Flynn's youngsters turn on the style

Brian Flynn saw his new-look Wales U21 side enjoy a comfortable victory against their Northern Irish counterparts in Belfast.

The platform for their success was set after just 36 seconds as Bournemouth striker Sam Vokes marked his debut with a goal.

Manchester City hitman Ched Evans then grabbed a brace as Northern Ireland, usually such gritty opponents at this level, were outplayed.

Vokes - who only realised he was eligible to play for Wales at the beginning of the season - found the target from close-range following a cross from Evans.

They extended their lead in the 11th minute when Cardiff City midfielder Joe Jacobson flighted a superb 22-yard free-kick into the corner with goalkeeper Jonathan Tuffey stranded.

Wales, however, looked dangerous every time they broke forward and went 3-0 ahead after 31 minutes.

Evans headed the ball home following a clever free-kick from Jacobson, and the Manchester City ace added his second after the break.

'I was particularly pleased with Ched Evans and Sam Vokes up front, they were a very impressive partnership on their debuts.'

Western Mail

FEB-06

City and Hungarians MTK forging closer links

Cardiff City are forging growing links with Hungarian club MTK.

The Bluebirds have had teenage centre-back Bela Balough on trial, while seven players from the Hungarian Under-17 national team have spent a week with City.

All seven are from MTK and their coach Zoltan Korpa said: 'It has been a tremendous experience for the boys and we want the relationship between the two clubs to grow.

'Both Cardiff and MTK have youth systems which are virtually the same.

'Both of us have the same philosophy and like to push on players by giving them a taste of football in higher age groups.

'Our young players benefit greatly from competing against slightly older teams.'

South Wales Echo

FEB-06

Struggling Quins face a test to rivals Dinas

New Dinas Powys manager Nicky Tucker takes his team to face Grange Quins tonight (7.45pm).

Quins - who are in Division One's bottom three after a 3-3 draw at Croesyceiliog on Sunday, Nathan White scoring a hat-trick - include Cardiff-born former Blackburn Rovers junior Omar Abdillahi in their squad.

Ton Pentre have a run of five successive home matches to fire up their challenge for the MacWhirter Welsh Football League title.

That run of seven home games in their next eight is a major boost for Ton's title chances. And they still have to play top two Neath Athletic and Pontypridd Town.

Ton Pentre went out of the Welsh Cup at Port Talbot, but can take heart from their performance.

Ton eventually lost 2-1, Port Talbot scoring twice in the last seven minutes of extra time.

Pontypridd Town gambled and won at Maesteg Park.

They were hit by injuries and a suspension for captain Dean Morris. They were so short that physio Paul Conway had to be registered just before kick-off and named among the substitutes.

Former Cardiff City striker Chris Summers agreed to start even though he wasn't fully fit - and scored after 30 seconds.

He headed Danny Street's cross powerfully past Maesteg goalkeeper Gary Wager.

Summers then limped off after seven minutes suffering from a recurrence of a calf strain, leaving Ponty with an attack led by left-backs Dan Marshall and Danny Hooper.

Ponty's win was clinched by Mike Jones, who headed in from a Geza Hajgato corner.

South Wales Echo

FEB-06

Keeper Gueret's vote of confidence

But rather than hand understudy Andy Oakes a rare chance, Jackett has given Gueret a vote of confidence ahead of a game which now takes on much greater significance.

''Willy's got my backing,'' he said. ''He has been terrific in the three years I've been here and mistakes like he made at Cheltenham have been very few and far between.

''I did leave him out for a couple of games earlier in the season because I felt his form had been up and down, but he regrouped and came back stronger.

''He's got better as the season has gone on and, while we do work very hard on his kicking, his game in the 18-yard box is very consistent.

''We have competition and these things can change, but as things stand I see Willy as the man to play.

''He is a consistent goalkeeper, a consistent man and a terrific professional and he has not let Swansea down.''

So Gueret keeps his place.

Evening Post

FEB-06

Assembly to League - drop dead

The Welsh Assembly’s review of Welsh football can only be viewed as an act of political betrayal.  An institution claiming to have been created to serve the Welsh nation has seen fit to ignore the development of its one truly national sporting league – and despite the fact that the Welsh Premier League has guaranteed links with UEFA club competitions, the Assembly’s committee is more concerned with finding avenues into Europe for clubs who already exercise that option through the English leagues.

The review must leave a bitter taste in the mouths of those who gave evidence over the past twelve months. The league and its clubs contributed wholeheartedly without demur in the fond hope that their commitment to the development of the game would be recognised and that political and financial support would be forthcoming.  We need not have wasted our time.  The report – a poorly-written and constructed affair, to be sure - FAILS to request an enhanced voice for the Welsh Premier League on the governing body’s ruling council; FAILS to offer funding from the Assembly or the Sports Council; FAILS to identify sources for additional financing through such agencies as The Football Foundation; FAILS to confirm a clear relationship between the league and the player development programme.

Contrast this timidity with the vigour with which they pursue representation for politically fashionable groups and for the interventionist Sports Council for Wales, thus avoiding the need to prioritise the needs of Welsh football. Further, their desire to facilitate the inclusion of the six ‘exiles’ in UEFA competitions fails to examine the reasons why they are not allowed to do so at present and at no time takes into account the possible impact on our league, its clubs and their players.

By League Chairman Alun Evans

FEB-06

Flynn to dig deep for new stars

Wales Under-21 manager Brian Flynn will unveil a new-look squad in Belfast tomorrow afternoon in the friendly international against Northern Ireland.

Flynn has seen seven of his previous squad promoted to John Toshack's seniors over the past year - including the likes of £10million-rated Gareth Bale - and than means Flynn has had to dig deep into the youth ranks for his new crop.

There will be 10 uncapped players on show at Glentoran's Oval ground and Flynn is confident he can keep his production line into Toshack's senior squad going strong.

Flynn said: 'We are looking for the new generation, so many of the younger lads have already made the jump into the full international set-up that I am able to give opportunities to the under-19s and under-17s for the coming campaign.'

A draw next week in Stockholm will reveal who Wales will face in the qualifying group for the Uefa Under-21 2009 tournament, with two years of competitive action ahead of them.

South Wales Echo

FEB-06

Cardiff boss calms injury fears

The young left-sided wing or full-back was replaced after 42 minutes, by McNaughton who lasted just a few minutes more before suffering his injury. Ledley will now almost certainly miss Wales' international friendly against Northern Ireland in Belfast on Tuesday night.

He is also likely to be ruled out of at least Cardiff's next Championship match, at Coventry on Saturday.

BBC

FEB-06

Defensive injuries worry Toshack

Centre-backs Danny Gabbidon and James Collins will miss Tuesday's friendly with Northern Ireland, and are doubtful for the Euro 2008 qualifiers in March.

Right-back Mark Delaney is out for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

"It's a real concern for us because Premiership players are really at a premium for us. These injuries are hitting us badly," said Toshack.

Gabbidon, who had a double hernia operation last summer and missed Wales' last match in November with a hamstring strain, has not played since early January after suffering a groin injury.

Hammers team-mate Collins has managed just eight club appearances this season and expects to be out for six weeks after also having a hernia operation.

Toshack said: "We're concerned for the pair of them because I see West Ham have signed a couple of centre-backs.

"Their progress this season has run parallel with West Ham, i.e. not very positive at all.

"They are a pair that know each other's game well and are crucial for us.

"Saying that, we had Craig Morgan against Cyprus and Steve Evans against Liechtenstein who did well and didn't put a foot wrong.

"Sometimes you can get away with a one-off game, but concentration in two games in four days against top sides becomes more difficult."

BBC

FEB-05

Martyrs' dismal run just goes on

Merthyr Tydfil 1-2 Team Bath. 'We just need one positive result,' was Merthyr Tydfil manager Paul Sugrue's reaction following a defeat at the hands of Team Bath which saw Merthyr extend their recent run of consecutive defeats in the league to four.

Most disappointing is that three of those have come at home in the past eight days and despite claims that Merthyr had been unlucky in previous home reversals against Chippenham and Halesowen, they could not find any excuses on a day when they produced probably their poorest showing this season.

'One win would restore some much needed confidence to the side and the club as a whole,' said Sugrue 'and the beauty is that we have two games a week for the next six weeks so the opportunity to turn things around are coming quickly.'

One undoubted factor in Merthyr's run of defeats has been the absence of at least half of their reliable centre-back pairing of Jamie Rewberry and Gareth Warton whilst on Saturday they were both absent for different reasons.

That has lead to Merthyr shipping goals far more than they are used to and with The Martyrs hardly the most prolific side in the Division in terms of scoring, it is not so surprising that results have started to turn against them.

However, the season is slowly developing into a relegation dog-fight as opposed to a promotion push which looked likely before Christmas and Merthyr need to halt their run of defeats quickly if they are to have any hope of re-kindling those dreams.

South Wales Echo

FEB-05

Morgan and Hudgell scoop Jan awards

The Lilywhites have been in tremendous form of late and they have gone unbeaten in January. The men from Maesydre have recorded two victories in the month, at home to Airbus UK and on the road at Llanelli, they have also drawn against Bangor City. But, it is the win at Stebonheath that really stands out as the most impressive as the Reds were previously unbeaten at home in the League this year.

Morgan would be the first to admit that it is his whole squad that are contributing equally to the success of the team but special mention must go to players who continue to impress like 'keeper Ged McGuigan and forwards Calvin Davies, Aden Shannon and Steve Rogers who continue to score the goals for the team. Welshpool currently lie third in the Principality Welsh Premier and a first venture in Europe is now a distinct possibility.

Haverfordwest's Lee has been in outstanding form the Bluebirds in recent months, but his displays throughout January make him the well deserved Principality Player of the Month. Lee was awarded two Man of the Match awards by opposing Manager's in the month and has bagged three goals, a good return for the midfielder. Hudgell struck important goals in the wins over Cwmbran and Port Talbot and also struck against Connah's Quay.

Born in Germany, Lee originally made his league debut for the Bluebirds under Jason Jones in 2000/01 season, but has now, after some fine performances in 2005/06 season made the left side of midfield his own territory, he also boasts the clubs scoring record with five in one match. Lee will be presented with his award on Friday 16th February at County's home game against Llanelli.

Sylvia Locke, branch Manager of the Haverfordwest Principality Building Society said, "Congratulations to Lee on winning this award. His tremendous performances this month have certainly helped Haverfordwest climb up the League table. Principality Building Society is proud to be associated with the Welsh Premier Football League and we at Haverfordwest are delighted with our local team's success. Principality prides itself on being at the heart of the local community, much in the same way as football and rugby clubs, up and down the country."

WPT

FEB-05

Beadle - I'm so sorry

The Exiles boss offered no excuses after his side's dismal showing and is hopeful of bringing in new players this week, although he is unlikely to have boosted his squad in time for tomorrow night's trip to Bognor Regis Town (kick-off 7.45pm).

In a brutally honest assessment of Saturday's defeat, Beadle explained: "We were absolutely dreadful in every department, our worst performance of this season and virtually our worst performance since I joined the club.

"I am embarrassed and ashamed of the way we played, you can prepare and organise as much as possible but I can't do a great deal when the players cross the line and I have told them in no uncertain terms it was unacceptable.

"I feel ashamed to put my name to a performance like that. It was my decision to play 4-5-1 and it didn't work, but the first two goals were an absolute disgrace and had nothing to do with the system, the third goal wasn't much better, I feel deeply ashamed."

Beadle admitted the loss of striker Craig Hughes, who reported a back strain on Saturday morning, couldn't have come at a worse time for the Exiles.

Hughes was a frustrated spectator, watching the game with former striker Matt Green, who transferred to Cardiff City in a deadline-day switch.

"I have had someone lined up and feel a bit disappointed we've not managed to get the deal done yet, but Craig's injury left us caught short in the striker department, although Matt Prosser was the only plus point of the game.

"I will apologise to the supporters on the players' behalf and on my behalf, but we have to pick ourselves up and put some points on the board.

"I have three prospective transfer targets, hopefully by Saturday we could definitely have some new faces, but at the moment it is all ifs, buts and maybes."

Beadle also revealed midfielder Lee Jenkins missed the defeat to Thurrock for personal reasons and doesn't know if he will be available tomorrow.

South Wales Argus

FEB-05

Season sinks to new low

A SEASON in which Wrexham have experienced more lows than highs plumbed new depths on Saturday as the Dragons crashed to a second home defeat in the space of five days and, as a result, dropped into the bottom division’s relegation zone for the first time in more than 15 years.

And if truth be told the reverse was no more than Brian Carey’s side deserved following what was their worst Racecourse performance in what has degenerated into a sorry campaign.

The result five games into the post-Denis Smith era means Carey is still waiting for that elusive first victory on his watch.

And he apologised to the club’s supporters at the conclusion of a chastening afternoon made all the more painful by the knowledge that the opposition barely had to break sweat as they strolled to three easy away points.

No one was more upset by the pitiful display than the rookie Wrexham boss, particularly since there had been encouraging signs in midweek against an in-form Stockport County outfit, and he admitted his caretaker role could come to an end sooner rather than later if the slump continues much longer.

Daily Post

FEB-05

County set to make legal move

Furious County chiefs believe that the statement released to the FA by Lewes is libellous and are talking with legal representatives.

They asked Lewes to reconsider their protest over the weekend but were informed yesterday that the Sussex club will not withdraw their complaint.

The County board are also angry over comments made about their club in the Lewes match day programme a couple of months ago, the Exiles only recently informed of the content.

They are taking legal advice over these remarks and have complained to the FA.

The Exiles have contacted the Football Association of Wales, who are now dealing with these matters and have notified them of their desire to add counter-claims to the allegations being investigated from the stormy clash on January 27.

Lewes have reported that County striker Craig Hughes racially abused their skipper Steve Robinson, but the Exiles will be informing the FAW that they feel Robinson was the aggressor and should be punished.

Robinson, who only received a yellow card, was sent off this weekend against Eastleigh.

County bosses intend to use video evidence and several eye-witness accounts collated over the weekend to support their new claims.

The only allegation of Lewes' that the Exiles don't dispute is that a County supporter spat at a Lewes player.

Director Colin Everett explained: "We accept a spitting incident took place and are trying to identify the culprit in order to ban him from the ground, it is unacceptable behaviour.

"However, we are furious that Lewes are persisting with their other allegations against us.

South Wales Argus

FEB-05

Gueret pleads with fans to keep faith

WILLY GUERET made an apology to his team-mates and a plea to those Swansea City fans fast losing faith in their team's automatic promotion credentials.

The Swansea goalkeeper held his hands up and apologised for spilling the shot that allowed chief tormentor Kayode Odejayi to cancel out Lee Trundle's 17th-minute opener five minutes before the interval.

Odejayi's leveller gave Cheltenham the impetus to go on and take all three points as Swansea old boy Paul Connor returned to haunt Kenny Jackett with a winning strike that triggered fresh despair and pessimism among the Liberty Stadium faithful.

Gueret has urged Swans fans to be more understanding of the difficulties of escaping League One, but his comments are likely to go down as well as a packet of dry crackers with supporters who would argue they are fully entitled to expect better things from this talented and expensively-assembled squad.

Western Mail

FEB-04

Summers shines on

PONTYPRIDD moved to within five points of Neath Athletic with three games in hand at the top of the first division of the Welsh League after they sent Maesteg Park slipping to their fourth defeat on the bounce yesterday.

Chris Summers fired Ponty into the lead after only 30 seconds but had to leave the field injured eight minutes into the match.

Without him, Ponty still managed to dictate and a second half header from Mike Jones gave them victory.

At the other end of the table Newport YMCA did their survival chances a power of good as they overcame Bryntirion by the only goal of the game at Spytty Stadium. Daniel Cueto got the winning goal.

Reigning champions Goytre were surprisingly held to a 1-1 home draw by ENTO Aberaman who took the lead after eight minutes through Richard Jago only to be pegged back when Luke Bowen found the net.

Inconsistent Pontardawe travelled to the struggling students of UWIC and triumphed by the only goal of the game scored midway through the second-half by Steven Cox.

Two players saw red, Pontardawe's Johnny Owen went for two bookable offences and Festuf Odigwe also had an early bath.

Although Neath lead the the first division they have played more games than almost all those below them.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-04

Garw rule the roost

GARW Athletic continue to rule the roost at the top of the second division of the Welsh league following a 3-0 success yesterday at Tredegar who fancied their chances after a shock midweek triumph in the Shamrock Cup over Bridgend Town.

But Garw, who have now scored 47 goals in their 18 matches, were far too strong.

Jodie Morris, David Truan and David Thomas found the net for the leaders.

Former champions Bettws' 3-0 success over Pontyclun mean they are very much on the fringe of the pacemakers.

Anthony Rawlings scored one in each half for Bettws and Owen Atkinson was also on target.

Cambrian and Clydach made sure that Garw don't go too far clear at the top as they won 2-1 at Penrhiwceiber to stay within sight of the top. Darren Jones scored both goals.

Pentwyn Dynamo won 2-1 at Abertillery and are now eight points clear at the top of the third division but they have played six games more than nearest rivals LLangeinor who yesterday beat Chepstow 4-0 with David Lewis bagging a hat-trick.

At the other end of the table things look bleak for Cwmaman who suffered a 12th reverse in 17 games going down 1-0 at home to Ystradgynlais after a Craig Hopkins goal.

A Greg Perrott goal was sufficient for Llantwit Fardre to win 1-0 at Newcastle Emlyn.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-04

Robins beat the Swans 

Lee Trundle set the visitors on their way, heading in after Bayo Akinfenwa flicked on Alan Tate's long throw.

But the Robins were level before the break after Swans goalkeeper Willie Gueret spilled John Finnigan's shot, allowing Kayode Odejayi to poke home.

Paul Connor completed the comeback against his former club, swivelling on the edge of the area to hit the winner

BBC

FEB-04

Brave Ton Pentre out of luck

TON Pentre left the Remax Stadium with words of praise ringing in their ears after playing the better football in this riveting encounter.

Of course, it is always easy for the victor to be magnanimous, but there was a tangible sense of relief in Port Talbot assistant manager Glan Letheren's words after the final whistle.

"Ton Pentre played well and, quite frankly, taught us a football lesson at times," he said.

"I thought that our fitness was a big factor in taking the game in extra time, but we were lucky to make it to that point."

The odds seemed stacked against the Welsh League side before the start.

Whereas Port Talbot were welcoming back two players, Dean Johnston and Dylan Blaine, from spells out with injury, Ton Pentre were two players light through Paul Evans and Ian French being cup-tied.

The home side also had a debutant on the bench in Thomas Wellington, newly signed after being released by Swansea City, and he was destined to have a big influence on the outcome.

Ton came out of the blocks at pace and threatened right from the start.

It was only in the third minute when they took the lead through Raith Plant.

However, Ton Pentre had one great chance to go 2-0 ahead when a one-two put Alan Jones in. However, Chris Rogers did brilliantly to get down quickly and turn his low shot round the post.

With 12 minutes of normal time left, Dylan Blaine crossed from the right for Martin Rose to send a glancing header against the crossbar.

It bounced down directly on to the head of Dean Johnston, who made no mistake from two yards.

Extra time was still keenly contested, but Port Talbot's Wellington made the vital strike when he controlled the ball on the edge of the area and shot sweetly just out of the reach of the despairing dive of Marty Ellacott.

With Ton Pentre pressing, a last-minute break by Lee John put Martin Rose in the clear and he made it three, giving Port Talbot a mouth-watering derby clash in the last eight against Afan Lido, who beat Ely Rangers 2-1 away.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-04

Soccer chiefs back Celtic Cup plan

WELSH football chiefs are throwing their weight behind plans to create a Celtic Cup.

The FAW has been in talks with officials from Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to explore the possibility of creating a new four nation tournament.

The move comes after it became clear that England would resist all attempts to revive the old Home Nations Championship which was last staged in 1984.

With Steve McClaren's side out of the equation, the tournament in its original guise is seen as "a dead duck" according to one senior FAW official.

However, Wales on Sunday understands that the Republic of Ireland have been approached as a potential replacement and are said to be "very keen" on the idea.

Although the plans are still in their infancy, it is envisaged that the new-look format would see the championship played over a two-year period with fixtures fitting into the existing international calendar.

Although such a plan would reduce the opportunities to play more glamorous opponents such as Brazil - Wales lost 2-0 in September - the FAW see it as a profitable venture with potentially big crowds ensuring a boost in revenue.

Discussions are also currently underway into a new European Under-23 tournament involving the likes of England, Scotland, Holland and, potentially, Wales.

The FAW has stressed however that any such tournament is not the prelude to a combined Great Britain Olympic team for 2012 which both Wales and Scotland are strenuously resisting.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-04

Wrex on a rocky road to ruin

Wrexham 0-2 Wycombe

RELEGATION came a giant step closer for Wrexham yesterday as they crashed to defeat with a performance that suggested the appetite for the fight has already disappeared.

If that seems harsh, then ask any of the 3,607 inside the Racecourse who were forced to watch the abject display served up to them.

It was as bad as anything seen this season with dreadful defending letting in Mike Williamson and Welshman Jermaine Easter to condemn Brian Carey to a third defeat out of five in charge.

The result was never in doubt from the moment Wycombe went ahead in the 24th minute in what has now become typically calamitous fashion, and Wrexham now find themselves in the drop zone for the first time this season.

To his credit, Carey tried just about everything to spark his side into life, throwing on substitutes and changing formations in a bid to get a reaction, any sort of reaction, from his players.

BBC

FEB-04

Merthyr turn cold against Team Bath

THE Martyrs turned in their poorest home performance of the season against the students of Team Bath and unsurprisingly fell to their third straight home defeat in eight days.

Looking unusually lacklustre Merthyr fell behind to a Matt Cooper goal on 15 minutes after the striker shrugged off a challenge from Merthyr defender Craig Lima.

Lima made amends on 38 minutes, bringing the home team level with a near-post header. But, a deflected shot from former Bristol City star Brian Tinnion flew past Merthyr goalkeeper Ashley Morris right on half-time to restore the visitors' lead.

In the second half Merthyr rarely looked like re-dressing the balance and in the closing stages it was only a couple of fine saves from Morris that prevented Merthyr suffering a heavier defeat.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-04

Llanelli hit Newtown for seven

THIS game had all the hallmarks of minnows being outclassed by a team from several divisions above them.

Unfortunately, Newtown are supposed to be in the same league as Llanelli.

Not yesterday they weren't.

The game was only one minute old when Jacob Mingorance made ground and set up Craig Williams, who fired home from the edge of the box.

The game became the Rhys Griffiths show.

He grabbed a first-half hat-trick, and then followed up with two more in the second half.

His first came when Gary Lloyd put Craig Williams into space, and his through-ball put Griffiths in the clear.

Number two came from a far-post header from a Richard Lewis cross, and the third, two minutes before the break, came when he chased a Lee Phillips through-ball and lobbed the keeper.

Number four came from a Craig Williams free-kick, angled precisely for Griffiths to head home, and number five was another chip, this time from a Craig Williams through- ball.

Somewhere in the middle, Mingorance clipped in a near-post cross.

Wales on Sunday

FEB-03

Richards has another shock in his sights

WELSH League giant-killers Ton Pentre have the chance to add to their top-tier scalps today, writes John Edwards.

Having beating Rhyl 1-0 in the third round of the Welsh Cup, they travel to in-form Port Talbot looking to reach the quarter-finals for the third time this decade.

Long-serving manager Kevin Richards has targeted another shock and said, "We must take advantage of what chances we create.

"Against Rhyl, we had quite a few opportunities, but only took one of them.

"I expect Port Talbot to be equally as tough as Rhyl and it's another big match for the club."

Ton are missing Paul Evans and Ian French (cup-tied), while Port Talbot hope Dean Johnston, Leigh De Vulgt and Dylan Blain are all available following injury and illness. Midfield signing Tom Wellington is included after joining from Swansea City.

Western Mail

FEB-03

Cardiff's recovery continues

Peter Whittingham's first goal for Cardiff put the home side ahead on 10 minutes as he headed in after Michael Chopra's low shot had been deflected.

Paul Parry then fired into the side netting before Chopra found the top corner with a superb 25-yard free-kick.

Barnsley improved after the break and Brian Howard and Marc Richards should have done better with far-post headers.

Cardiff full-back Kevin McNaughton was taken to hospital after a heavy fall in the first-half.

The Scotland left-back left the field on a stretcher and wearing a neck brace after landing head-first under a challenge.

McNaughton had only been on the field five minutes after replacing Joe Ledley, who had suffered a hamstring injury.

Ledley will now almost certainly miss Wales' friendly with Northern Ireland on Tuesday.

BBC

FEB-03

Injury-time Jones winner for Caernarfon

In an incredibly tense and exciting match, the Canaries gained their first win since a 1-0 away victory against Newtown on November 11th, to take all three points back along the North Wales Coast.

Canaries boss Steve O'Shaughnessy handed a debut to forward Paul Addo and former Wrexham defender Mark Harris made his first start for the club at full-back, whilst match-winner Jones returned from illness to play the vital role down the wing.

The game started brightly and the visitors took the advantage when defender Eifion Jones struck after just four minutes. They didn't manage to hold on to the lead for long though as Airbus defender Mark Allen levelled just eight minutes later. The visitors regained the advantage just before half time through striker John Rowley as the visitors took a precious lead in at the break.

Airbus Player/Manager Gareth Owen continued to rally his side on the field and after 60 minutes they again levelled through the in-form James McIntosh, who has scored three in his last four games. It looked as though the points were to be shared, which would have suited the home side, but Jones was the hero by firing the winner much to the delight of his colleagues, and especially O'Shaughnessy.

The Canaries boss hasn't enjoyed an easy ride since taking over from former Player/Manager, Waynne Phillips, but this win will certainly be the highlight of his Caernarfon career to date and he will be absolutely delighted to have gained the win. The result means that the Canaries are now just one point behind this evening's opponents with three games in hand.

Welshpremier.com

FEB-03

Swans must find promotion run

HERE we go again. Another pivotal four-day period in Swansea City's undulating season.

One that could have a major bearing on whether the club gain automatic access to the Championship or leave themselves open to a repeat of last season's play-off heartache.

Claim victories from today's contest at Cheltenham and Tuesday night's trip to Rotherham - two struggling sides they have more than enough quality to overcome - and Swansea could finally be within touching distance of the League One summit.

Slip up at Whaddon Road and Millmoor, however, and the Swans could find themselves with too much work to do to cut the gap on the top two places.

Swansea make the short trip to the Cotswolds just five points adrift of second-placed Oldham, who face play-off hopefuls Tranmere at Boundary Park this afternoon.

Amazing to think that the Swans have edged into the top six despite having failed to win more than two league games in succession this term.

Western Mail

FEB-03

Carey realistic on Wrexhams prospects

CARETAKER boss Brian Carey admits he won't get the Wrexham job on a permanent basis unless the club can shake off its relegation struggles.

The Red Dragons go into today's Racecourse fixture with Wycombe still searching for their first win under Carey, having collected just two points from a possible 12 since his appointment last month.

"If this form continues then obviously no (I won't get the job)," he said.

"I'm realistic about that and I've said from the outset I'm not blinded by the glamour of the role."

Carey insists he feels under no pressure as Wrexham's displays have been much better than recent results would indicate.

In midweek the Dragons were unlucky not to earn at least a point against Stockport, instead they were sunk by an injury-time winner after dominating much of the game.

"I'm not under any pressure. The thing, from my point of view, is that there has been a reaction from the players," he said.

"If there hadn't been a reaction I would be putting myself under a bit of pressure.

"But, because I know they have given their all, I can't ask for any more than that."

Carey will today continue to express faith in the young players who have featured during his short time in charge.

Western Mail

FEB-02

Bridgend facing long trek to Holyhead

Bridgend Town go north for a new challenge in the Welsh Cup last 16 tomorrow.

They take on Cymru Alliance club Holyhead Hotspur in North Wales and Bridgend manager Drewe Phillips says: 'We have had them watched and they are a similar team to us.

'They have a few experienced players and have a record pretty much the same as ours, having won around half of their matches.

'We have prepared well and travel overnight to make sure we are ready. It's a big test for us after a long journey, but it's one we are capable of winning.'

Phillips rested several players including Andy Mainwaring, Kirk Huggins and Stephen Healey from their 2-1 midweek Shamrock Cup defeat against Tredegar Town, aiming to ensure they can give tomorrow's tie a big effort.

MacWhirter Welsh League Bridgend have teenage goalkeeper Lee Idzey, 18, a former Swansea City and Merthyr Tydfil player, in excellent form, while they also include former Cardiff City juniors Mike Hartley and Huggins.

South Wales Echo

FEB-02

Goyt's duo back but Penny wants out

Goytre United have both defender Jeremy Chandler and striker Andrew Pearson back for tomorrow's first division showdown with ENTO Aberaman at Glenhafod Park. The pair missed Tuesday's 2-1 home victory over Maesteg Park that lifted the Port Talbot side into seventh spot.

However, midfield player Ryan Penny has slapped in a transfer request, and he watched his former club Neath's 3-0 home victory over Newport YMCA in midweek.

But Neath have yet to approach Penny, and it is believed Pontardawe might also be interested in his services.

Maesteg Park could do the championship- chasing trio of Neath, Afan Lido and Goytre a big turn if they take points off Pontypridd Town at Tudor Park.

However, the Old Parish side have lost their last three games, and still have Kieran Howells suspended.

Despite creating more goal-scoring chances, Pontardawe Town suffered a 2-0 defeat at Bryntirion on Wednesday.

They even missed a 35th-minute penalty with Kevin Bartley's effort saved by new Bryntirion recruit Ross Hooper-Nash.

During injury time, Brandon Walters gave Bryntirion the lead and he sealed victory on the back of a 65th-minute strike.

Pontardawe now move on to UWIC, with Steven Cox and Neil Simon returning along with West End recruit Dale Lambrick.

Evening Post

FEB-02

City's 7 up as transfer window closed

CARDIFF CITY signed seven new players during the January transfer window which ended at midnight.

They also have seven players out on loan.

The Bluebirds have splashed out just over £200,000 in signing goalkeeper David Forde from Derry City £100,000, Iwan Redan from Dutch club Willem II (loan for rest of season), Jason Byrne from Shelbourne (£100,000), SimoN Walton (from Charlton, loan for rest of the season), James Simmonds (from Chelsea, loan for rest of season), Peter Whittingham from Aston Villa (loan for rest of season) and Matt Green from Newport County (£10,000).

City clearly had more cash available, having bid £1.2m for Rowan Vine before he went to Birmingham City for £3m, but chairman Peter Ridsdale and manager David Jones would not be forced into paying more for players than their own valuation.

There could yet be more players coming in because next Wednesday, February 7, another spell starts when loan deals can be completed.

Cardiff could sign players from Premiership or Championship clubs.

The seven players who are out on loan are Michael Corcoran (one month, to Oxford), Gregg Coombes (one month, to Oxford), Luigi Glombard (one month, to Leicester), Jamal Easter (to Torquay), Chris Barker (rest of season, to Colchester), Nick McKoy (to Torquay United) and goalkeeper Mark Howard (to Swansea).

Malvin Kamara has also left, linking up with Coca-Cola League Port Vale.

South Wales Echo

FEB-02

Venables stays loyal to Bluebirds

CHRIS Venables has boosted Caersws’ plans for this weekend’s Welsh Cup clash at Carmarthen Town by re-affirming his loyalty.

The talented Blues midfielder this week turned down an approach from league leaders Rhyl after a similar approach from Aberystwyth Town was also rejected.

Manager Mike Evans said: “Chris has shown his loyalty by turning down Rhyl and we are delighted he has opted to remain at Caersws.”

Meanwhile striker Graham Evans is set to return for the fourth round trip to Richmond Park.

Evans has struggled through injury this season but his return to fitness is a major boost.

Graham Jones also looks set to play a part after stepping up his fitness bid after an agonising season of injury problems.

“Carmarthen have a big squad and are playing well at the moment,” said Evans. “However we will travel with confidence and give everything we have to secure a place in the next round.”

County Times

FEB-02

Welshpool bidding to re-sign Evans

County Times

FEB-02

Aber's results not reflecting form

ABERYSTWYTH Town boss Brian Coyne believes his team has not been getting the results that their performances deserve in their recent Welsh Premier League games. Aber extended their unbeaten run to two games with a notable draw at Haverford-west last Friday, but Coyne admitted that he was disappointed not to have won.

Having consolidated their mid-table position, the Aber manager is looking for his side to make the most of their games in hand in their efforts to secure qualification into the FAW Premier Cup next season. However, the squad is frustrated by another fixtureless Saturday - due to Welsh Cup games following a delayed start to the New Year, due to postponements. Coyne said: “We played very well against Haverfordwest, it was possibly our best away performance since the win at Bangor, and I was pleased for the lads.

“We totally dominated the game from start to finish, and while I was very pleased with the effort of the team, it was just a shame that we did not manage to get the three points that the lads deserved. “We conceded a silly goal from a corner, but we were in control after that, and this was against the same team that got a great result away at Port Talbot a week before. “I thought that young Geoff Kellaway summed up an excellent performance, the Haverfordwest defence just couldn’t cope with him on the night. He has earned his jersey, and will just get better and better. “I thought that Craig Jones also reflected the smashing spirit that is running through the team at the moment, he refused to come off despite a nasty eye injury that needed to be stitched up later that night.”

Coyne added: “I do not feel that our results have reflected our recent performances, we were unlucky against Welshpool, Porthmadog, Rhyl, and we should have won the game at Haverfordwest. “However, I am sure that if we keep playing consistently well, the laws of aver-ages say that the wins will come our way, because I believe we are a better side than our league position currently suggests.”

Cambrian News

FEB-02

No fear for Newtown ahead of Llanelli tie

NEWTOWN manager Darren Ryan insists his side will go into this weekend’s Welsh Cup clash at Llanelli with “no fear.”

The former cup winner added: “We have nothing to lose at Llanelli. They are strong favourites and all we have to do is enjoy our day.”

Ryan faces mounting selection problems with several key players cup tied.

TNS pair Mark Davies and Rob Williams are ruled out while Sean Butler and Dale Raven are also ineligible for the tie.

Justin Wickham remains an injury doubt while Craig Williams should return after missing last weekend’s draw with Porthmadog through illness.

Meanwhile Ryan has finally secured the services of Rob King but the former Aberystwyth Town defender is also cup tied.

County Times

FEB-02

Caersws will play on in Welsh Premier

CAERSWS Football Club have confirmed their future is now secure following the financial problems of 2006.

Long-standing chairman Garth Williams’ decision to quit left the club facing an uncertain future earlier this season.

However the club’s Welsh Premier status is now secured following a “series of revised operating procedures”.

A press statement from Caersws Football Club, issued this week, continued: “With the assistance of local businesses, supporters and the players, the future of the club in the Welsh Premier looks assured.

“The committee would like to thank all those who contributed to helping the club through its recent difficulties, and for the continued support of the local community.”

The club’s financial problems had seen several star players targeted by league rivals.

Adam Worton joined Newtown while Ross Stephens switched to league leaders Rhyl this month.

County Times

FEB-02

Rhayader FC’s big comeback

FEB-01

Rogerstone A.F.C.

"Rogerstone A.F.C. (Founded 1890) affiliated to the Gwent County FA and the Newport & District FL are holding a Player's Reunion on Friday 30th March 2007 at the Rogerstone and Bassaleg Social Club, Tregwilym Road, Rogerstone, Newport, Gwent, NP10 9DW, at 7.30pm, free entrance to all. 

It would be great to see as many ex players, managers, committee members or anyone else associated with the club in the past attend the reunion. If you require any more information please contact either Ian Collier on 01633 897887 or Alex Mayne on 01633 89443."

TONY

FEB-01

Leaders Neath pile it on

Leaders Neath Athletic consolidated top spot in the MacWhirter Welsh League first division with a 3-0 home win over Newport YMCA. The Llandarcy Park side were never in trouble against feisty YMCA, who had both John Pardue (42 minutes) and Faris Yafia (86) sent off.

Neath opened the scoring in the 17th minute when Mattie Rees was felled in the box, and Jarrod Price obliged from the spot.

It remained that way until the 48th minute when Carl Shaw scored on the end of a Stephen Evans free-kick.

Six minutes later, YMCA goalkeeper Gareth Yeoman could only parry a Jonathan Keaveny shot, and Chris Miller netted.

Champions Goytre came from a goal down to beat Maesteg Park 2-1 at Glenhafod Park.

Robbie Walters gave the Old Parish side a 40th-minute lead with a speculative 55th-minute shot from Luke Bowen evening things up.

The winner arrived 10 minutes later when Park goalkeeper Gary Wager obstructed Richard Ryan in the box, and Ryan scored from the penalty spot.

Meanwhile, Afan Lido will meet Tredegar in the Shamrock Travel Cup semi-finals after the Gwent side gained a surprise 2-1 win over visiting Bridgend in a delayed quarter-final tie.

TONY POOLE

FEB-01

Rogerstone A.F.C.

"Rogerstone A.F.C. (Founded 1890) affiliated to the Gwent County FA and the Newport & District FL are holding a Player's Reunion on Friday 30th March 2007 at the Rogerstone and Bassaleg Social Club, Tregwilym Road, Rogerstone, Newport, Gwent, NP10 9DW, at 7.30pm, free entrance to all. 

It would be great to see as many ex players, managers, committee members or anyone else associated with the club in the past attend the reunion. If you require any more information please contact either Ian Collier on 01633 897887 or Alex Mayne on 01633 89443."

TONY

FEB-01

Jones snaps up talented duo

AS the January transfer window slammed shut last night Cardiff City had brought two new players into manager Dave Jones' squad.

Teenage striker Matt Green has signed from Newport County for a nominal fee and 19-year-old midfielder Simon Walton arrived on loan at Ninian Park until the end of the season.

Bath-born Green, an England Schoolboy cap, joined County in the summer of 2005 and has scored seven times this season, despite making many of his appearances from the substitutes' bench for the Conference South side.

Jones has identified him as 'one for the future," while Green himself described his move as "a dream come true."

The 19-year-old added, "It's unbelievable, I'm still shocked now. It's my second season in men's football, so it's all come very quick for me, but I just need to make the most of it. It's a massive step, but I am willing to work really hard to prove myself."

Tough-tackling Walton, meanwhile, is set to figure straight away in first-team plans, especially with Riccy Scimeca out injured.

He made his name at Leeds where he was highly-rated, making 26 starts for the Yorkshire club.

He moved to Charlton in the summer for £500,000, where he has been unable to make the breakthrough, but has had a successful loan spell this season at Ipswich.

Jones said of him, "He can play in a number of positions and gives us good cover. We'll see him train and take things from there."

Western Mail

FEB-01

Swansea hit by Williams setback

The versatile left-sided player, 26, missed six weeks earlier this season after having surgery on his left side.

Williams is now due to have similar surgery next week on his right side.

That leaves Marcos Painter, who joined permanently from Birmingham on Wednesday, as Swansea's only recognised left-back in their squad.

Painter has impressed during a loan spell at the Liberty Stadium after arriving as cover for Williams in November

BBC

FEB-01

Contrasting weekend for big three

Les Davies is banned for one match after five bookings while Clayton Blackmore is cuptied. However, Port joint manager Viv Williams remains positive and is buoyed by a clean sheet at Newtown last Saturday.

“We’ll miss Les and Clayton obviously, but it gives other players the chance to show what they can do,” said Williams.

“We know that we can defend and have players who are capable of scoring. although we may have to score two to win, TNS are the best team in the league, although we have beat them already on their patch.”

Meanwhile, Caernarfon Town know that they cannot afford to lose their Wwelsh Premier match at Airbus tomorrow (Friday) night and manager Steve O’Shaughnessy is hoping to get clearance for a new striker.

“We know just how important this match is, a win and we are just a point adrift with three matches in hand,” he said.

“What we really need is a break, two bad decisions cost us dearly against Port Talbot. We should have Chris Jones back, who is very influential.”

Bangor City arranged a friendly at Colwyn Bay last night (Wednesday) and manager Steve Bleasdale will look at some new faces and formations.

Bleasdale rejected Rhyl claims that he wanted Andy Moran and again said skipper Paul O’Neill was not available.

“I have never enquired about Moran,” said the Bangor boss who plans a training and bonding day on Saturday before next Tuesday’s visit to NEWI Cefn Druids.

“We have got to keep switched on, and avoid the lapses that cost us the game last Saturday.”

County Times

FEB-01

Mitchell set for Wrexham farewell

Mitchell has played the full 90 minutes in each of his four games since joining League Two strugglers Wrexham.

BBC

FEB-01

City bid for Collins again

Cardiff City made a fresh bid to sign James Collins before the January transfer window slammed shut last night, writes Mark Bloom.

The former City centre-back has a groin strain at present and is due back in training in the next 10 days with West Ham.

But his injury did not stop the Bluebirds trying to bring him back to the club where he made his name.

'I was alerted by the club of Cardiff's interest and I'm flattered,' said Welsh international Collins.

'But I need to stay in and around the club and get back to action as soon as I can.

'I will always have a special place for Cardiff and I wish them the very best in their promotion push and their search for cover in that particular position.'

South Wales Echo