JAN-31

Young guns at Ely ensure a bright future

Those links are beginning to bear fruit despite Ely's struggle in Division One. They have an extremely young team competing in a tough division.

South Wales Echo

JAN-31

Nigerian stars are on their way

THE Welsh Premier league faces a Nigerian invasion, writes Chris Smart.

Former international winger Onoriode Omagufi and striker Napoleon Amaefule could well be on their way to Stebonheath Park to join Llanelli, while Caernarfon Town have signed striker Samuel Kehinde.

Omagufi played for Tatabanya and Loan Grund in Hungary, scoring twice in the Intertoto Cup, and also appeared for several Irish clubs, including Limerick.

Amaefule, aged 26, has played in both Poland and Greece.

Western Mail

JAN-31

Tredegar spring cup shock

Tredegar Town earned a shock win to qualify for the Shamrock Travel Cup semi-finals last night, beating Bridgend Town 2-1.

Goals from Richard Langley, who headed in a Sam Goulding corner after 19 minutes, and Phillip Blackmore, who rounded keeper Lee Idzey on 69 minutes, put MacWhirter Welsh League Division Two club Tredegar in command.

Leigh Pratt pulled one back from a penalty, but Bridgend bowed out after the cup clash was twice called off because of a waterlogged pitch and once because the surface was frozen.

Tredegar now play Afan Lido in the semi-finals, while Goytre United take on Bettws.

South Wales Echo

JAN-31

Bluebirds snap up Walton

CARDIFF CITY have snapped up Charlton Athletic midfielder Simon Walton on loan until the end of the season.

The tough tackling Premiership midfielder joined Charlton from Leeds United for £500,000 in the summer.

Walton, 19, was then loaned out to Ipswich for four months between August and December, making 13 appearances and scoring three goals for the Tractor Boys. Since returning from Suffolk he has struggled to break into the Addicks' first team, but has chosen a loan move to Ninian Park to get his career back on track.

icwales

JAN-31

Martyrs left to rue missed chances

Merthyr 2-3 Halesowen. Merthyr Tydfil's management team walked into the changing rooms at full-time on the back of three straight defeats wondering how they lost a game they dominated and searching to find the answers to their recent run, writes Mark Bloom.

Yes the goals conceded in this defeat to Halesowen were down to woeful defensive errors, but even accounting for that Merthyr had enough chances to have won this clash at a canter.

The real danger was visiting on-loan Walsall striker Troy Deeney who claimed a hat-trick, opening the scoring in just the fourth minute.

At half-time and after a clutch of decent chances had gone begging for the home side, Merthyr must have still been confident that they could turn things around.

And there was no surprise when Gary Shephard and Gareth Wharton did actually turn the game on its head with goals in the 70th and 72nd minute, but in this part of the world nothing is dull or straight forward.

Two minutes later Deeney hit the cross-bar and it seemed that the ball had crossed the line even though Wharton frantically scrambled it away.

But as the Halesowen players appealed, the referee amazingly ruled it out and gave a goal kick.

It seemed Merthyr had rode their luck at that stage but seven minutes from time Deeney took advantage of some hesitation and volleyed home an equaliser. And to cap a dramatic final few minutes, Merthyr's Neil Smothers was caught in possession by Deeney on the edge of the box and the striker turned and hammered home.

South Wales Echo

JAN-31

Saints' Harris switches to Welshpool

Richard only joined the Saints in June 2006 having decided to have a crack at revitalising his full-time career and was in the Saints' Champions League squad but only featured on the bench. He featured 15 times this season for TNS, starting only seven games and will be hoping to break straight into Tomi Morgan's side.

He was a summer 2003 signing for Newtown after spells as a youth with Manchester City and Shrewsbury Town, but later left Latham Park to join Guilsfield in the Cymru Alliance.

Welshpremier.com

JAN-31

Dragons pay price for missed chances

WREXHAM are still searching for that elusive first victory under new manager Brian Carey after going down to an injury-time goal from Stockport County substitute Liam Dickinson.

The striker had been on the pitch for just two minutes before popping up to loop a header over goalkeeper Mike Ingham for a knockout punch just as the home side thought they had earned a share of the spoils.

The Dragons’ line-up showed two changes from the weekend, new loan signing Robbie Garrett making his debut in midfield.

The Stoke City youngster replaced Danny Williams, who dropped into the back four to deputise for the injured Steve Evans.

And teenage winger Matty Done was preferred to Simon Spender on one flank, with Chris Llewellyn continuing in the wide midfield role he has occupied since Carey took over from Denis Smith.

The Dragons made the high-tempo start demanded by their new manager.

Done set up Marc Williams for a first-time shot that flew well wide and McEvilly’s effort suffering a similar fate from Garrett’s pass.

Daily Post

JAN-31

O’Neill not for sale says boss Bleasdale

BANGOR City captain Paul O’Neill is staying at Farrar Road, after the Welsh Premier club’s manager Steve Bleasdale rejected the latest approach from arch rivals Rhyl.

Weekend reports had indicated a likely player-swap, involving the former Macclesfield Town centre-half moving to Belle Vue in exchange for the Lilywhites’ out-of-favour striker Andy Moran.

But Bleasdale said: “Paul is not going anywhere and no one from this club is joining Rhyl.

“What has been going on, and what was put in the Press, was done just to hassle us and ruffle a few feathers. There is no deal.”

Rhyl boss John Hulse yesterday added: "We have tried to make progress but the amount Bangor are asking is far too much. The deadline for any signing is tomorrow so we will not be going down that road."

Daily Post

JAN-30

Caersws future is assured

Welshpremier.com

JAN-30

We're good enough says Jacket

Evening Post

JAN-30

Wharton chasing County winger

South Wales Argus

JAN-30

Samba time for Wrexham

Western Mail

JAN-30

Green: It’s all quiet on a move

South Wales Argus

JAN-30

Bluebirds in the chase to land Dutch hotshot

CARDIFF CITY are locked in a four-way battle to sign Dutch hotshot Cecilio Lopes as the clock ticks down to the closure of the transfer window.

Bluebirds boss Dave Jones wants to bring in up to three more players ahead of tomorrow night's deadline to help strengthen Cardiff's push for the Premiership.

As well as a defender to help cover the possible six-week absence of skipper Darren Purse, Jones wants another striker to increase competition for places up front.

And it is understood they are keen on landing 27-year-old Lopes, who has been in red-hot scoring form for Dutch second division side Dordrecht.

But City face stiff competition for his signature as Premiership strugglers Watford and Championship rivals Derby County and Barnsley are also on the trail of former PSV Eindhoven trainee Lopes.

Western Mail

JAN-30

Why I'm still keeping it dark over Knight

KENNY JACKETT has broken his silence on Leon Knight's departure - but insists it would spark a distracting war of words if he revealed the truth behind the player's exit.

Back in October Jackett promised fans he'd explain what Knight had done to warrant his controversial expulsion from the squad as the Swansea City boss admitted there was more to it than the striker simply not working hard enough.

Seven days after Knight's illfated Liberty Stadium career ended with a move to MK Dons, however, Swans fans are still in the dark about what the 24-year-old did wrong.

And, though Jackett could be accused of going back on his word, it now seems unlikely the full truth will ever emerge.

"I know I told the supporters I'd explain the reasons I took the stance I did with Leon, and maybe I will do at some stage," Jackett said.

Western Mail

JAN-30

City target new trio

CARDIFF CITY are keeping their nerve in a quest to sign three new players before the January transfer window ends at midnight on Wednesday.

Manager Dave Jones has added a central defender to his shopping list following news that skipper Darren Purse could be out for six weeks.

City have moved to bring in an experienced defender on a month's loan to cover for Purse.

They are also keen on Newport County's teenage pace ace Matt Green and want another striker to increase competition in attack.

Both chairman Peter Ridsdale and manager Dave Jones insist they will not pay inflated fees for players and say: 'We will only bring players in at the right price.'

South Wales Echo

JAN-29

Swans have Painter bid accepted

BBC

JAN-29

Wrexham sign loan pair

Garrett, 18, has been a regular in Stoke's reserve and Academy sides this season.

Ulsterman Garrett has made one first-team appearance for the Potters, turning out as a substitute against Ipswich last year.

BBC

JAN-29

Barry on course for great escape

Barry Town staged a late rally to beat Maesteg Park in MacWhirter Welsh Football League Division One.

Maesteg scored through Ian Shepherd after seven minutes and led 1-0 after 89 minutes.

But Matthew Driscoll equalised and Josh Bell fired the winner two minutes into injury time at Jenner Park.

This was a fourth win in the last six games for Barry, who have given themselves a decent chance of escaping relegation, collecting 13 points from the last 18 on offer.

Ton Pentre came from behind to beat Caerleon 4-1 and move closer to top two Neath Athletic and Pontypridd Town who were without games.

South Wales Echo

JAN-29

Chopra basks in goal trail return

BBC

JAN-29

Hulse looking to do business with City

TOP-of-the-table Rhyl manager John Hulse is stepping up his push to bring in new players.

The Belle Vue boss has offered Bangor manager Steve Bleasdale the chance to talk to former top marksman Andy Moran as part of a possible deal involving his central defender and club captain Paul O’Neill.

“When we first expressed an interest in O’Neill, Bangor mentioned two other strikers of ours they would like but were told they were not available,” explained Hulse.

“Now we have given them the opportunity to speak to Moran, and so the ball is in their court.” Moran, 27, is a former player of the year at Belle Vue and was the Welsh Premier’s leading goalscorer in 2004 with 47. He has hit 138 goals for Rhyl.

Hulse has also given seven days notice of approach for an unnamed midfield player currently with another League of Wales club and is awaiting developments.

Daily Post

JAN-29

Bay boss brings in three new faces

COLWYN Bay’s new boss Gary Finley has wasted no time bolstering his squad with three new signings set to line up against today’s visitors Chorley.

Former Aberystwyth Town manager and Southport assistant-boss Finley has landed ex-Lancaster City, Chester and Scarborough striker Mark Quayle, left-sided midfielder John Lawless – who played with Finley at Aber – and ex-Bay keeper Matt Parry, who returns from Llangefni Town.

Lawless has been with Conference North side Vauxhall Motors and his inclusion depends on his registration being finalised in time.

“These are all talented players who will add an extra dimension to the squad,” said Finley.

His move to bring back Matt Parry has been prompted by the injury to young former Wales under-16s starlet Chris Sanna, who had to be taken off with concussion in the 38th minute of the Bay’s 4-0 defeat at Goole Town last Saturday. Martin Crowder took over the keeper’s jersey but is expected to revert to his normal forward role today.

“Mark Quayle is a genuine goalscorer while I know John Lawless’ qualities from our time together at Aberystwyth,” added the Bay chief.

“This is the time now for the existing players to show what they can do and to convince me of their commitment and desire to succeed with Colwyn Bay.

“We are all in this together and it would be nice to get off to a win and make this the start of something big that can take us up the table and back in the frame for promotion. That’s the target and it starts from now.”

Not that Finley believes his dips into the transfer market are over.

“There are other players I have in mind so there could be further developments in the next week or so,” he said.

Daily Post

JAN-29

Trundle didn't expect axe

SWANS talisman Lee Trundle admitted he didn't see the FA Cup axe coming.

Trundle was surprisingly omitted for the fourth-round defeat at Ipswich as Swans boss Kenny Jackett reverted to the cautious 4-1-4-1 formation that had worked a treat at Sheffield United in the previous round.

On that occasion Trundle was suspended, but Swansea's top goalscorer had been expected to play at Portman Road after featuring in the last two league games.

"We played five in midfield in the cup before, but we never had the players to go out and play a 4-4-2," said Trundle, whose artistry has so often sparked Swansea in previous cup ties.

"That's why we did that last time. I was told on Friday that we'd be packing the midfield and I was disappointed because these are games I relish and love to play in.

"I've done all right since I've come back, in the two games I've played, and I know the goals will come."

Trundle was finally summoned from the bench after Ipswich had taken the lead through Alan Lee's 64th-minute penalty.

And he almost set up a Swansea equaliser 12 minutes from time when he broke beyond the Ipswich defence, the sliding Tommy Butler just failing to convert his square cross at the far post.

"We did well, but it's always tough to lose to a penalty," said Trundle. "But we've said all along that the league's the main thing and that's what we'll have our minds on now.

Ray Parker

JAN-29

Carmarthen appoint Bell as Community Officer

Dave has big plans for Town. He told the Carmarthen Journal,

"First of all, the club needs better links with the community. I will also be concentrating on developing real links with local schools, offering coaching sessions in term time and soccer schools in the holidays. I am also planning to raise awareness of the excellent work going on in the Carmarthen Town academy - and build on that by, hopefully, adding community academies in all the big towns around the West Wales region."

Dave is also aiming to develop Carmarthen Town Ladies, by starting girls' coaching from the age of eight, and plans to give disabled people the chance to play football. He will also be running a range of courses from the recently equipped study centre at Richmond Park, which has state-of-the-art software on 10 internet equipped computers.

"I want Carmarthen Town to really lead the way in the field of football in the community in the whole of the Welsh Premier League. It will be a big benefit to this club, to football and to our community" he added.

Town will look to build on the success of their award-winning SMART programme, initiated by first team coach Mark Aizlewood, which has enjoyed real successes and which the club are keen to continue. The programme looks to reduce social exclusion and isolation for some of the most disadvantaged members of the community.

Town Chairman Jeff Thomas said, "We are committed to the community and continue to prove the strength and depth of that commitment on a daily basis."

Welshpremier.com

JAN-28

Welsh league 2 & 3 round-up

THERE was a goalfest at Garw when the leaders of division two put bottom club AFC Llwydcoed truly to the sword with a 9-0 thrashing.

Tom Hopper was top scorer with a hat trick, Vince Wattleworth netted a brace and there was a goal apiece for David Truan, James Morris, Christian Burge and Lewis Williams.

Garw's red letter day was boosted when news came through that second placed Troed-y-Rhiw fell to a 3-0 home defeat at the hands of Bettws.

There were goals aplenty in this division as Treharris Athletic thrashed Merthyr Saints 5-1 and Ammanford beat Penrhiwceiber Rangers 4-0, with Dean Jenkins grabbing a hat-trick.

West End also netted four times at Tredegar and Cardiff Corries and Caldicot were engaged in a five goal thriller.

In all 39 goals were scored in nine games which must be the season's record.

Goals were harder to find in division three and it was a day when the form book ran true as all top five teams recorded victories.

Leaders Pentwyn disposed of bottom club Cwmaman 2-1, while second place Llanwern won 2-1 at Chepstow and third placed Llangeinor also won 'on the road', just pipping Aberbargoed Buds 1-0.

Newcastle Emlyn won 3-2 at Goytre and Cwmbran Celtic kept their promotion hopes alive by beating Abertillery 3-0.

Porthcawl's disappointing season continued as visitors Llansawel claimed a 1-0 victory.

Wales on Sunday

JAN-28

City back in play-off places

DELIGHTED Bluebirds' boss Dave Jones last night revelled in strike ace Michael Chopra's return to form - and asked for more of the same.

Chopra confirmed he's back in his stride after a barren spell by gunning in a superb hat-trick which proved the difference in a 3-2 win over Leicester.

Chopra's treble means he's now notched four in two games and long may that kind of sharp-shooting form continue, says Jones.

"Michael Chopra has just scored four goals after a torrid time," said Jones.

"Hopefully he's come through it now and he's back on track, but I thought the forward play in general was much, much better.

"I've said for some time we were due to give someone a real hiding and at 3-0 I thought it was Leicester, but all credit to them they didn't lie down."

Wales on Sunday

JAN-28

Martyrs squander chances

THE Martyrs suffered their first League defeat of the season at the hands of Chippenham but only had themselves to blame, even missing a second half penalty that would have rescued a point.

In the first 45 minutes it was the Martyrs who had the upper hand, Gareth Warton seeing a header from Kris Dimond's corner scrambled off the line and Davies hitting a 30-yard free kick just past the upright of the Chippenham net.

Having squandered early chances Merthyr paid the penalty nine minutes into the second half when Sam Allison took advantage of a poor clearance at a corner and lifted the ball from the edge of the box over everyone and into the Martyrs' net.

Merthyr were given a gilt-edged chance to draw level with 17 minutes remaining.

Davies' attempt to head a ball was met with a high boot from Chippenham's Paul Milsom and referee Simon Parish, of Cornwall, pointed to the spot.

Shephard somehow managed to miss the target by at least six yards as he scuffed his spot-kick for the second time in successive home games.

And Merthyr's fate was finally sealed when a Chris Collins effort was cleared off the goal-line and a Stiens bid was brilliantly stopped by 'keeper Snoddy.

Wales on Sunday

JAN-28

Tough going for Port Talbot

Caernarfon 1-2 Port Talbot

PORT Talbot completed the double over the Canaries but, after the 7-1 rout at their ground, found the going tough in the away return.

Caernarfon could well complain at the injustice of the scoreline because one goal was disputed, the other followed a mistake and they had a confident penalty claim rejected.

Port Talbot's double whammy came on 16 and 20 minutes.

Martin Rose finished off from five yards, although possibly offside, after a teammate had exploited a parry by Caernarfon's keeper Paul Pritchard, who had done well to intercept Dane Williams' fierce effort.

Rose then exploded an edge-of-box rocket into an unguarded home net.

Caernarfon's Leyton Maxwell swept home a 20-yards' free-kick but later attempts by teammates were repulsed by Port's Kristian Rogers.

Wales on Sunday

JAN-27

Reds make Double Swoop

The following season, he dropped down to the Hungarian fourth division with Loan Grund and scored four goals in nine appearances. He then left Hungary to join Limerick FC in the Irish 2nd division and although they finished bottom in the league standings that year, they managed to win the Irish League Cup, beating first division side Derry City after penalties in the second legged final. He then signed for Cobh Ramblers ahead of the 2003 season and was last registered with Mallow Utd. Omagufi was a surprise call up for the Nigerian side in 2003 and made his full debut in the friendly against Venezuela in London, when he played the last 45 minutes on the left wing, replacing Jay Jay Okocha.

Also joining Stebonheath and returning to the Principality Welsh Premier is former Barry Town skipper and Carmarthen Manager Andrew York. The centre back, who was with Peter Nicholas at Barry, is expected to assist with the coaching duties at Stebo and has also registered as a player. York, 38 was with Bath City at the start of the season but announced his retirement in December.

Welshpremier.com

JAN-27

Former Saint Steve earns Second Senior Call-up

Evans, whose brother Ricky plays for Bangor, gained his first cap against Liechtenstein in November, just five months after leaving the Saints to join Wrexham. Evans started in that game and impressed in a solid display, just as he did on the same ground for Ken McKenna's side in their Champions League game against Liverpool the previous season.

The second opportunity for Evans to play with the likes of Ryan Giggs, Craig Bellamy and teenage sensation Gareth Bale wasn't too unexpected given the fact that fellow Centre Backs Danny Gabbidon and James Collins are both injured, but this opportunity is another chance for Evans to impress and stake a claim for a place in the squad that will travel to Dublin in March to play at Croke Park in the Euro 2008 Qualifiers.

Welshpremier.com

JAN-26

European exile fears hanging over top clubs

A QUESTION mark hangs over the future of the Welsh Premier after yesterday’s damning report into the workings of football in Wales.

The FAW was yesterday told by the Welsh Assembly that it must modernise quickly – or face the threat of losing its status as the national governing body of the sport.

Such a move would clearly have far-reaching consequences for the development of the Welsh Premier, with the possibility that Uefa would, in future, not recognise it as a national league, therefore not allowing its top clubs to compete in European competition.

This would be a hammer blow for clubs such as Rhyl, The New Saints, Bangor City and Llanelli, who have competed in Europe in recent years – and also for the likes of Welshpool and Connah’s Quay Nomads, who aspire to playing Uefa Cup football in future years.

Another potential consequence of yesterday’s report by the Culture, Welsh Language and Sport committee, which gave the FAW a year to get its house in order before facing a further review, could be that funding could be withdrawn from the FAW Trust, which has responsibility for the game in Wales at grass-roots level.

Yesterday, TNS managing director Mike Harris said: “The FAW does need re-organising. There are some very nice people in the FAW with their hearts in the right place, but the FAW needs to be run by someone with a clear objective of how to develop football, and it needs to be run with proper business principles.

“There is definitely a need for change, but not change for change’s sake. Somebody needs to have a clear vision and have a plan for football from the top to the bottom.

Daily Post

JAN-26

Saturdays welsh league preview

Goytre United have top-scorer Richard Ryan, Ian Turner and Jonny Walkley all back for the visit of Bridgend Town in the first division tomorrow. Ryan and Turner have both completed suspensions, while Walkley is free of work commitments.
However, they coped admirably without the trio against Pontardawe in midweek, running out 2-0 home winners.
A first goal of the season from Michael Waters sent Goytre on their way, with Andrew Pearson wrapping things up with his fifth goal for the club.
Maesteg Park, who visit Barry Town, have centre-back Rhys Owen back from New Zealand.
Pontardawe, meanwhile, host Aberaman.
In the second division, West End head for Tredegar Town, without Richard Jones, Marc Otten and Rory Smitham who are banned.
To make matters worse, Anthony Wright is ruled out because of a knee injury, and Danny Kavanagh is unavailable.
However, the Townhill side are delighted Carl Mainwaring has turned down a move to first division Maesteg Park.
Ammanford will be looking to get back on track against Penrhiwceiber at the Recreation Ground, but will still be without the suspended Liam Preece and Paul Jones.
New signing Steffan Hughes has a ligament injury, while fitness tests will be run on James Murray and Jason Cousins.
However, they welcome back Dean Jenkins and dual-registered Llanelli front-man Richard Lewis, while Jamie Evans has signed from Carmarthenshire League side Camford.
Garden Village, looking to get a much-needed win at Pontyclun, are boosted by the return of four key men - Sam Brown, Chris Morgan, Rob Shannon and Lee Rastatter.
But that is countered by the loss of both Dave Evans and Ashley Stevenson, with neither available for selection.
Briton Ferry visit Caerau Ely, and will be without midfield player Dan McGrath.
The Old Road side will be looking for a return to winning ways, having lost 5-2 in midweek at Cambrian & Clydach.
The Old Road side were 3-0 down at the break and, although Rob Cann and Keith Phillips both netted during the second period, the damage had been done.
It is the turn of Morriston to visit promotion-seeking Cambrian tomorrow, and the Dingle men have ruled out Gary Taylor through ankle trouble.
However, Derek Jenkins, who covered the bench during last week's 1-0 win over Ammanford, is likely to be promoted.
In the third division, improving Ystradgynlais host Llantwit Fardre, but there are fitness doubts surrounding Jamie Williams along with brothers Carl and Huw Evans, which are offset by the return of Nicky Watkins and Craig Hopkins.

TONY POOLE

JAN-26

Gonzales to be hit for New Saints

SPANISH acquisition Oscar Suescan Gonzalez has been backed to make an impact with Welsh Premier champions TNS.

SPANISH acquisition Oscar Suescan Gonzalez has been backed to make an impact with Welsh Premier champions TNS.

The New Saints unveiled the 28-year-old striker in last week’s derby victory at Caersws.

The Basque-born former SD Amorebieta striker is included in the Saints squad that travels to Connahs Quay Nomads this weekend.

“He was recommended to us by Wrexham striker Juan Ugarte and so far Oscar has done really well,” said general manager Ian Williams.

JAN-26

Targets slip through Robins nest

NEWTOWN manager Darren Ryan has lost out on two transfer targets.

Former Shrewsbury Town youngster Marco Adaggio opted to join Welsh Premier rivals Bangor City this week despite interest from the Robins.

In a double blow Craig Moses’ loan switch from Merthyr Tydfil has been blocked following the Martyr’s financial problems.

Ryan said: “It’s disappointing because both lads could have done a good job for us.

Newtown host Porthmadog this weekend with both sides needing points to climb to safety.

“At the moment we are struggling to put our chances away but we must keep on believing and developing our game.”

Newtown have been boosted by defender Craig Williams’ decision to shun Aberystwyth Town’s advances and help the fight for league survival.

Ryan said: “Craig is an important member of the squad and has shown us great loyalty.”

Meanwhile long-term transfer target Rob King finally looks set to complete the switch from Aberystwyth Town.

“It’s no secret that we have been tailing Rob for a while and he will provide a massive boost.”

JAN-26

Neath strengthen by signing Burrows?

Burrows who is living locally in Neath joined Aberystwyth 6 years ago and took over as manager in 2004. Burrows has played 146 games in his time at Aber scoring 3 goals.

He started off his welsh premier career with Haverfordwest in the 1992-93 season and has player for 6 clubs in the welsh premier/LOW to date, and if reports are true he looks to be hoping to make it 7 with Neath.

Neath strengthened their welsh premier bid last night by moving 5 points clear at the top of the welsh league following their 2-0 home win over Grange Quins.

JAN-26

Swans handy Andy fired up for cup

TOMMY BUTLER watch out. Swansea City's original midfield hero is back ... and he aims to steal some of the FA Cup limelight his left-wing rival has been basking in.

Butler became one of the stars of the third round when he struck a devastating double to send Premiership Sheffield United out of the competition in Swansea's thrilling 3-0 giant-killing at Bramall Lane.

Despite those head-turning heroics, however, there is a real chance the Irishman could be relegated to the subs' bench when the Swans' cup adventure resumes with Saturday's fourth-round encounter at Ipswich Town.

That's because Andy Robinson, the man whose boots Butler stepped into at Sheffield, may just have lodged an irresistible claim for a first XI recall following a brief injury lay-off.

Kept out of the starting line-up by Butler, Robinson took just seven minutes to remind boss Kenny Jackett of his match-clinching ability on Tuesday night as he netted the goal that safeguarded Swansea's crucial league victory over Gillingham.

JAN-26

Touchline ban and fine for Caersws

Evans will begin his touchline ban when Bangor City visit on February 10 and for the trip to Carmarthen Town.

The punishment follows events during the Bluebirds 1-0 defeat at home to Porthmadog on November 18.

Referee Maldwyn Williams angered Evans and club supporters by sending-off Caersws trio Ross Stephens, Chris Venables and Geraint Lewis.

Lewis and Stephens were dismissed for challenges and Venables for protesting after Aberystwyth struck the winner.

The abuse levelled at Bethel-based Williams has seen Evans slapped with a two match touchline ban.

The club must also pay £500 with £250 suspended after a missile was thrown at the official from the stands.

Williams has officiated three games this seasons and in 270 minutes of football produced five red cards.

All five red cards have been in matches involving Aberystwyth Town with Porthmadog seeing two players sent-off on August 26 before Caersws suffered at the hands of Williams in November.

Evans said: “It is disappointing but we must get on with things, starting with our weekend match at Airbus

JAN-26

Seasiders plot revival

Aberystwyth Town look to lift themselves back into the top half of the Welsh Premier.

ABERYSTWYTH Town manager Brian Coyne is looking for his side to string together a run of positive results, after they returned to winning ways against Newtown last Friday. Having gone seven league and cup games without a win, Aber secured a welcome three points against Coyne’s former club, to strengthen their position in the Principality Welsh Premier.

The Seasiders will be hoping to maintain their momentum when they travel to mid-table rivals Haverfordwest this Friday, looking to reclaim a place in the top half of the league. However, the Aber manager will be taking nothing for granted against a Haverfordwest side that has won its last two matches, including a big win at high-fliers Port Talbot. Coyne said: “I was pleased our lads finally got what they deserved against Newtown, in previous games they’ve not reaped their rewards, but now hopefully they can push on.

“There will be no pressure on the players at Haverfordwest, they are enjoying their football at the moment and will go there in good spirits, and in a comfortable mid-table position. “Haverfordwest is never an easy place to go, they had a superb win at Port Talbot last Friday, but their pitch is in good condition and this will suit us in getting the ball down. “Hopefully the weather will be kind to us as we have only had a couple of games since Christmas; the lads need to get playing regularly again and they need games under their belts.”

JAN-25

Another Crow leaves the nest

The strong defender, 22 has joined lowly local side Cwm Sports FC who play in the Abacus Recruitment Services North Gwent League. 

The former Tredegar Town and RTB Ebbw Vale man was at the centre of controversy last year when he was registered for three clubs resulting in an FAW charge and subsequently a 3 points deduction in the League table. However, the Gwent side stood by the Abergavenny born man, but he has now decided to move on. This comes as a further blow for the hard-working Wharton who continues to look to the positives despite his club's dismal situation.

JAN-25

Jones could still go on Green light

Matt Green, Newport County's speedy striker, could yet be Cardiff City's fifth signing of the January transfer window, writes Terry Phillips.

The teenage pace ace is a player City manager Dave Jones believes has genuine potential and will blossom with full-time coaching.

Cardiff scouts have watched Green, 18, a number of times this season and are close to agreement with the Conference South club.

If he does make the move, Green would follow Jason Byrne (from Shelbourne), goalkeeper David Forde (Derry City), Peter Whittingham (Aston Villa) and James Simmonds (Chelsea) into Ninian Park.

Simmonds, like Green, is a player for the future.

Bristol City, Swansea City and Stoke City are among other clubs who have trailed Green for some time and Newport will demand a fee plus hefty extra cash for appearances and any sell-on.

Green, though, may be tempted stay in this part of South Wales because he has previously worked with Cardiff City head of recruitment Paul Compton, who was in charge at the Cirencester Town Academy when he emerged as a talented schoolboy.

Former England schools international Green is keen to make the step up to full-time football.

South Wales Echo

JAN-25

Finley appointed Colwyn boss

JAN-25

Cardiff take Hungarian on trial

JAN-25

Ferguson snub over Llewellyn

FORMER Wrexham star Darren Ferguson has wasted no time going back to his old club in a bid to make his first signing, writes Darren Devine.

New Peterborough player-manager Ferguson - who quit Wrexham last weekend to take up his new post - wanted to sign Dragons striker Chris Llewellyn (above).

But Wrexham boss Brian Carey said, "We have categorically turned it down.

"We are fully determined to keep all our players here for the fight ahead.

"Indeed, our concern is focused on bringing players in and not losing them."

Western Mail

JAN-25

Crowds will come back says Jackett

For the first time since the new stadium opened, the crowd dropped to below 10,000 last night as the home side finally ended their jinx against Gillingham with a 2-0 win courtesy of goals from Bayo Akinfenwa and Andy Robinson.

Tony

JAN-25

500 not out for Jones

Dave Jones today looked ahead to his 500th game as a manager against Leicester City this Saturday - and hopefully his 200th ever win.

The Cardiff City manager will pass the milestone when the Foxes visit Ninian Park having taken charge at four Football League clubs - Stockport County, Southampton, Wolves and City.

But Jones stressed the importance of his start in non-league football management at Southport, Mossley and then Morecambe.

'It was only on the last 18 months of my playing career I thought about management,' said Jones.

'I started in non-League and that was a fantastic grounding for me.

'It makes you appreciate things better when some players were getting up at 6am, worked all day and then played a match in the evening.

'It was a great education and when I look back on those days it can bring you down to earth.'

And City chairman Peter Ridsdale paid tribute to Jones.

'His experience and expertise were just what we were looking for when we needed a new manager,' said Ridsdale.

'We both want to build for the future of Cardiff City.'

South Wales Echo

JAN-25

Painter pinning hopes on transfer

Evening Post

JAN-24

Top spot still eludes Pontypridd

Had they beaten Ton Pentre last night they would have gone top on goal difference ahead of long time leaders Neath. But it ended all square in a 0-0 draw. A good result for the Lido as both teams dropped points.

But Ponty are still in driving seat as they have 2 games in hand still over Neath and just 2 points behind.

They have had an easy time in the league to date and have met very few league contenders up until the Bulldogs, so they still have to prove themselves against the best teams in the division.

Tonight Goytre have a chance to catch up on their fixtures when they entertain lowly Pontardawe. Goytre have played only 12 games so far this season the lowest of any team in division 1.

Neath have the chance to extend their lead at the top as they face Grange Quins on Thursday night and victory will see them open a 5 point gap over Pontypridd.

View league table

JAN-24

Unlucky number 7 for Llanelli

They have failed to win in their last 7 games and have to go back as far as December 2nd for their last win, which came against Caersws.

They can all but forget about winning the WPL, as they lie 12 points behind leaders Rhyl, and 10 points behind New Saints, who also have a game in hand over the Reds.

It is also starting to look like they they wont even qualify for Europe this season, as Welshpool who are in 3rd have a 7 point lead over Llanelli and they have only 14 games left to play in the league. It would be a major set back for the professional club to even fail to make a Inter Toto place which is looking increasingly likely.

They did take the lead in last nights game with club top scorer Rhys Griffiths putting the Reds ahead in the 68' but Towns top scorer was not to be out done and Kaid Mohamed got the equaliser in the 80' to add to Peter Nicholas's woes.

Tony

JAN-24

Swans back in playoff place

A goal in each half saw Swansea ease back into the top six after dominating the game against Gillingham.

Bayo Akinfenwa headed in Lee Trundle's cross on six minutes to open the scoring but despite being the better side they had to wait for the second.

On-loan goalkeeper Romain Larrieu kept Gillingham in it while Mark Bentley and Gary Mulligan both went close to equalising with headers.

But Akinfewa set up substitute Andy Robinson late on to seal the points.

JAN-24

Success story in the making for Church

There is a real success story in the making for a player in the the welsh league 3rd division.

Young Nicky Church who is goalkeeper for Cwmbran Celtic is on the verge of securing himself a place at Hereford United of league 2.

He is currently training with the Bulls, and his manager says he will be very surprised if Nicky is not offered a contract.

His manager states he has been in outstanding form all season. and if Hereford doesn't sign him up, it won't be long before another club spots his undoubted talent."

Church is a product of Cwmbran Towns youth academy and was in the under 21 team last season which won the the first and only under 21 league title.

JAN-23

Ponty target top as they take on Ton

Pontypridd Town will go top of Division One if they beat Ton Pentre at Ynysangharad Park tonight (7pm).

Ponty, 4-2 winners against Bryntirion Athletic last weekend, would go ahead on goal difference if they overcome the Rhondda Bulldogs, who could do their own title challenge the power of good if they take the points.

Current leaders Neath Athletic also have a midweek match, at home to Grange Quins on Thursday (7.15pm).

There are also two games tomorrow evening, with Goytre United entertaining Pontardawe Town (7.30pm) in Division One, and Tredegar at home to Bridgend Town in their Shamrock Travel Cup quarter-final.

The tie has been postponed twice and the winners will play Afan Lido at a neutral venue in the semis. Goytre United and Bettws clash in the other semi-final.

Ton Pentre had to work hard for their 2-1 win at Grange Quins at the weekend, but had to come from behind to take the points.

Oman fired Quins ahead from a penalty on 60 minutes with Mark Crutch and substitute Dwayne Mardenborough replying.

JAN-23

'Merthyr football could be history' - Sugrue

Merthyr Tydfil Football Club's vice-chairman and manager Paul Sugrue says the club has reached crisis point and fears for its future existence after the proposed £275m Merthyr Village project was rejected last week.

The former Manchester City midfielder had hoped the football club would move from its current ground at Penydarren Park to a new state-of-the-art stadium as part of major new development in the area.

And the immediate effect of the rejection has hit the current players hard, who took a 40 per cent cut in their wages over the weekend.

The scheme promised to bring 1,800 homes, 2,000 jobs, a sports stadium and numerous new facilities to one of the most deprived communities in the United Kingdom.

'There is a thick black cloud hanging over this club and the area after this latest set-back,' stormed Sugrue.

'One minute the club and this area is looking forward to a fresh start and a bright future, the next it has no future and nothing to look forward to. It's devastating to everybody connected with the club.

'There was a chance of a new ground, a new development in an area where it is much-needed and where the football club is one of the things that puts the town on the map.

'Now it's all doom and gloom, it's a typical valleys thing as long as it's not in Cardiff it's not worth talking about or anything north of Cardiff is nothing to get excited about.

'It's areas like this that need investing in more than anywhere else. But who cares what happens up here as long as it's out of the way - it's very sad?'

JAN-23

Swans sign Abbott from Huddersfield

"It's a fantastic stadium and a great club, and I hope I can get them where they want to be, into the Championship."