WELSH SOCCER NEWS PAGE FOR OCTOBER 2007

Oct-31

Martinez short listed for managers award

Roberto Martinez has been nominated for the League One manager of the month award for October. Martinez is in the running for his first ever gong after guiding Swansea City to five wins out of five last month, including a 5-0 thumping of then leaders Leyton Orient on their own patch and a 4-1 success at Bournemouth.

Also in the running is Dennis Wise, winner of the award in August and September, whose Leeds side won five and drew one of their six games last month.

New Carlisle boss John Ward is also short listed after winning four of his five games in October, while Brighton boss Dean Wilkins makes up the list of nominees after three wins in the month.

The winner will be announced at around 12.20pm tomorrow on Sky Sports News

Oct-31

Bluebirds on way to a Hard Day's Night

DAVE Jones will be under no illusions that it will be a Hard Day’s Night when he goes back to Liverpool this evening.

And the Bluebirds boss will be hoping his Fab Four are on top form at Anfield to help guide Cardiff to a famous Carling Cup upset.

Captain Darren Purse, home-grown midfielder Joe Ledley and strike duo Robbie Fowler and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink hold the key to an unlikely success.

It will be a special night for Jones and Fowler as they return to their home city. Jones, a staunch Evertonian, would like nothing more than to shock his Liverpool rivals.

And Fowler, who was nicknamed God by the Liverpool supporters during his time there, will be making another emotional return to the Anfield ground he graced. The bookmakers have already written City off, offering attractive odds of 11-1 for a Bluebirds victory.

But that has not stopped more than 5,600 Bluebirds fans who have the Ticket to Ride to Anfield tonight and they will be hoping to watch a little piece of history.

ICW

Oct-31

Old Gold Smash Bluebirds to reach last Eight

Carmarthen Town recorded one of their highest ever victories with an 8-1 smashing of West Wales rivals, Haverfordwest County to reach the Quarter Finals of the Loosemores Cup at Richmond Park this evening.

Although the Bluebirds did rest a few stars, they still fielded a strong team including 'keeper Lee Idzi, defenders Wayne Jones, Ryan Durham and Gareth Elliott, midfielders Neil Thomas and Jon Coates as well as strikers Nicky Woodrow and Ian Jones.

The Old Gold still managed more than a comfortable victory though, with a brace of goals from Jamal Easter (11,72) and Sasha Walters (37,60) as well as new Wales Under 23 call-up Paul Fowler (36), Nathan Cotterrall (70) and ex-Bluebird Tim Hicks (77), whilst Elliot scored an own-goal on the hour mark and Woodrow's 87th minute strike wasn't even consolation for the Pembrokeshire side.

OWP

Oct-31

Neath come away from Stebo with victory

Llanelli who had already qualified both succumbed to defeat as they went down 3-1 at home to Neath Athletic.

The Reds who gave a full debut to youngsters Kieran Hayes, Scott Deakin and Luke Chappel from the club's excellent Academy fell behind after just four minutes courtesy of an Andy Hammett strike. The scores were level just three minutes later when Mark Jones followed up last Friday's brace with the leveller.

Jarrod Price then handed the visitors the lead again just before the half-hour mark and veteran Carl Shaw extended the lead for the Eagles three minutes into stoppage time at the end of the first half.

OWP

Oct-31

Crouch set to start against City

Peter Crouch is set to start for Liverpool but Xabi Alonso, Javier Mascherano, Fernando Torres are out.

Alvaro Arbeloa returns after injury while second-choice keeper Charles Itandje is set to start and Harry Kewell could get a run-out.

Cardiff striker Robbie Fowler lines up against his former club.

Kevin McNaughton, Roger Johnson, Trevor Sinclair and Paul Parry are injury doubts and on-loan Manchester City keeper Kasper Schmeichel is ineligible.

Michael Oakes will return to the starting line-up in Schmeichel's place, with youngster Josh Magennis on the bench as David Ford is cup-tied.

BBC

Oct-31

Druids beat TNS for 2nd time this season

TNS handed full debuts to Ronnie Morgan and Ryan Marriott up front, but they were defeated for the second time this season at Plaskynaston by the Druids, this time by 2-1.

Darren Williams gave the hosts the lead one minute before the interval, but the "Rocket" Morgan equalised on 63 minutes. The match looked destined for a share of the spoils until former Saint and Rhyl legend Mark Powell popped up for his first for the club, just seven minutes from time to win it.

OWP

Oct-31

Savage suffers fresh injury blow

Blackburn's Robbie Savage has undergone knee surgery and is expected to be out of action until the middle of December.

Manager Mark Hughes has confirmed the Welsh midfielder faces between five and six weeks on the sidelines.

"It's a blow, obviously. He was playing well, part of a winning team and he's going to be out for a significant period," said Hughes.

Savage only returned at the start of the season from a broken leg which he sustained in January.

He suffered the new setback in the first half of Sunday's win at Tottenham.

The area where Savage broke his leg has proven vulnerable since his return, and Hughes hopes this latest spell on the sidelines will bring an end to that problem.

"It was a bad break. On occasions in games he was getting bangs on the site of the injury and that would stop him in his tracks," he said.

"Maybe that will resolve itself in the time he is out with his knee injury. It's the ligament and there's been a little bit of bleeding in there."

BBC

Oct-31

Trio return set to boost Wrexham

Wrexham hope to have long-term injured Ryan Valentine, Juan Ugarte and Andy Fleming back in the first team soon.

The trio will continue their recovery on Tuesday with a friendly match away against a Liverpool XI.

Ugarte and Fleming are expected to figure as substitutes, although Valentine will start at left-back.

Mark Jones was injured in the loss at Notts County, while Silvio Spann was sent off and will serve his one-match ban against Shrewsbury this Sunday.

Midfielder Jones is almost certain to miss the derby at the Racecourse Ground as he faces a scan on his back to confirm disc damage.

The injury is thought to be similar to the one suffered by Danny Williams, who will undergo an injury on Thursday.

Captain and striker Neil Roberts remains a doubt with an ankle injury, but defender Simon Spender has recovered from a clash of heads.

Matt Crowell is close to a return, but Conall Murtagh will remain sidelined for a little longer.

The Dragons' injury list could force manager Brian Carey to go in search of a new central midfield to sign.

BBC

Oct-30

Port Talbot docked a league cup point

Port Talbot have had a point deducted from their total for playing to ineligible players they now have just 2 points from their 4 games, the deduction makes no difference to their chance of qualification.

Luke Pearson and Sam Backer both youth players came on as subs in their cup game against Llanelli last month. They also have been fined £100.

Tony

Oct-30

Hackett has one eye on Welsh Cup

CONNAH’S Quay Nomads boss Jim Hackett will give his fringe players a run-out against Rhyl tonight as he keeps one eye firmly on Saturday’s Welsh Cup date with Guilsfield.

With no chance of qualifying from Group Two, Hackett said: “We haven’t given this competition the same priority as other clubs because we have a new squad here and our top concern is to stay in the Welsh Premier League. It’s not been high on our agenda for that reason and I am more focused on making sure we are at our strongest for Saturday.”

Delighted to have come away with a first win for a month in a 4-3 thriller against Caersws on Saturday, Hackett is also relieved that defender Wayne Morgan is out of hospital after being carried off after seven minutes with a blow to the head.

“He was detained overnight which was a big worry but thankfully he’s been discharged now, although clearly he won’t be involved against Rhyl,” said the boss.

“We nearly gave ourselves heart attacks before winning at Caersws, but in some games the result is more important than the performance and this was certainly the case in this one.”

Oct-30

Rhyl missing 5 ahead of tonight's cup game

Rhyl manager John Hulse will be without five players following their 4-1 league win over Newi Cefn Druids last Friday that lifted the Lilywhites back to third place in the table.

Keeper John Gann is again ruled out along with Craig Jones, James Brewerton, Jimmy Kelly and Paul O’Neill.

“We still need one point to be sure of winning the group so it is an important game,” said Hulse. “I’ll be looking to bring in some other squad players to cover for the absentees and this will be a chance for them to show themselves.

“We are not expecting an easy game and our focus will be on getting the result we need to make progress in what is an important competition.”

ICW

Oct-30

Ridsdale calms new stadium fears

Cardiff chairman Peter Ridsdale says the resignation of Mike Hall from the club's board should not signal that plans for a new stadium are in danger.

"Mike remains a director of the stadium company," Ridsdale told BBC Wales.

"I hope that will reassure everybody of our confidence that everything is going to go well with the stadium.

"He and I both still sit on that board. He stepped down from the football club board for the right reasons from a legal perspective."

Former Wales rugby captain Hall stepped down because of the dispute with financial backers Langston over £24m of loan notes.

Hall is also a director of PMG Associates, another of the club's major creditors, which might have left him facing a conflict of interest.

However, he remains part of the process that should see the club build a new state-of-the-art stadium at Leckwith, close to their current but aging Ninian Park home.

Langston's solicitors, Hextalls, claim the club's board was mismanaging its finances and misleading supporters, and said the money had to be paid immediately.

Cardiff dispute this and insist the loan is not due to be paid back until 2016.

"If Langston, or those people representing Langston, were to do the right thing and sit down and talk to us and resolve this, we wouldn't be having any of this nonsense anyway," Ridsdale added.

"On the 21st of November we expect to be in court and we expect to win.

"It is currently draining this club of cash that would otherwise be spent on the team - far too much money is going into the hands of solicitors."

BBC

Oct-30

Fowler eyeing Reds upset - Jones

Cardiff City manager Dave Jones says Robbie Fowler is only thinking about trying to beat Liverpool on Wednesday when he returns to his former club.

The striker is sure to get a rousing reception when he returns to Anfield for the fourth-round Carling Cup tie.

"He'll be totally focussed on playing and you can grasp that by him not wanting to do interviews," Jones said.

"To go back is special, but all he wants to do is get his head down and put on a performance for Cardiff."

Reds fans still fondly call Fowler by his nickname 'God', even though the 32-year-old first departed almost six years ago, sold to Leeds in November 2001.

"He's had an unbelievable career at that football club [Liverpool], brought up locally and had fantastic achievements," Jones added.

BBC

Oct-30

Swans miss out on TV cup cash

SWANSEA CITY’S ‘David and Goliath’ FA Cup tie at non-league Billericay Town has been snubbed by the television companies.

It had been expected that the first-round tie would attract the live television cameras with both clubs banking £75,000 for being screened nationwide.

But instead Sky have turned to the Hereford versus Leeds game on Friday, November 9 with the BBC opting for the Torquay taking on Yeovil on Sunday, November 11.

It is not the first time in recent seasons that Swansea, now second in League One after three straight away wins, have been passed over for live coverage. The Swans have only been televised once in the past three seasons. But despite BBC pundit Gavin Peacock hailing it “as the tie of the round” in the wake of Saturday’s draw, TV bosses appear impervious to the romance of the competition by ignoring a tie between clubs separated by 107 places on the league ladder.

“We are getting used to this,” said a Swans spokesman.

“I think everyone thought there was a really good chance that we would be televised this time.

“It’s very disappointing, especially as the likes of Hereford and Yeovil have been selected for live broadcast in the past.”

It had been thought that the TV companies might wait on the outcome of yesterday’s meeting between Billericay Town and Essex police to see whether the tie would go ahead at the Ryman League club’s tiny New Lodge home, pictured in all its glory, right.

But the decision to send the cameras elsewhere was taken before Billericay were given the all-clear to stage the tie.

ICW

Oct-30

McKenna plans to ring the changes

THE New Saints, already assured of a place in the last eight, plan to ring the changes in tonight’s Group Three clash at Newi Cefn Druids.

Ken McKenna’s side have won all three games to top the group, but will be keen to maintain their 100% record in their final group outing.

The Saints chief will use the encounter as an opportunity to field some of his squad players. It is a policy he has adopted throughout the competition, and that could mean a first appearance of the season for John Toner following injury, while strike partner Ronnie Morgan is also pressing for a start.

Defender Robbie Williams is also set to come in along with coach Gary Brabin and midfielder Barry Hogan in a bid for much needed match practice.

Alfie Carter and Tommy Holmes are both out with shoulder problems.

The tie will give players a chance to stake their claim after McKenna was far from happy with the performance in last weekend’s 3-1 win over Neath.

“It was another win, but too many lads are switching off and one of these days it’s going to cost us,” he said.

The Druids have little chance of progressing, but joint boss Wayne Phillips is looking for his side to be stronger defensively following their 4-1 reverse against Rhyl.

“At the moment, we’re making mistakes and getting punished for them,” he said.

Phillips is unlikely to figure as he continues to suffer a knee infection, while front runner Kevin Holsgrove is still suspended.

Oct-29

Former Lido golden boy makes Wales U23 squad

Wales Semi Professional Team Manager, Tony Pennock has named ten young Principality Welsh Premier League stars in his squad for the forthcoming International Challenge Trophy match against Italy. The new Tournament which is run over two seasons is specifically for Semi Professional Under 23 players (as of 1st January 2007) and Wales will face England and Finland as well as their tough first assignment against the Italians on November 14th in Varese near Milan, whose team will be made up of the best youngsters in the Serie C League.

Pennock, who is also the Port Talbot Town boss has been able to cast his eye on a number of players in the League this season as has his Assistant, Terry Boyle, who is also Tomi Morgan's Number Two at Welshpool Town. Unsurprisingly, League leaders Llanelli have two players represented in the squad with defender Stuart Jones and midfielder Craig Jones named. Craig Jones only joined the League at the start of the season from Welsh League outfit Afan Lido.

Pennock has also named two players from his own club with former Swansea City duo, Lee Surman and Chad Bond both selected. Bangor City also have two players picked with star forward Les Davies who celebrates his 23rd birthday today and winger Sion Edwards selected. The 'Truck', as he is affectionately known in football circles, is a Semi-Professional and Under 21 International and he is enjoying a great season at Bangor City, which saw him grab a hat-trick in the Loosemores Cup last week. Edwards has also been in great early form for the Citizens and like Davies, is a crowd favourite at Farrar Road.

Also selected in the midfield are Welshpool Town star Chris Venables, which is not surprising considering his outstanding start to the season, which has seen him bag nine goals from midfield since his switch from Caersws, whilst the strong running Paul Fowler of Carmarthen Town, who was only playing for Cardiff-based side Bridgend Street in the South Wales Senior League this time twelve-months ago is also named. Speedy right-winger Craig Jones of Rhyl is also picked after an impressive start to the season at Belle Vue, since his switch from Aberystwyth Town.

Making up the contingent of ten is Haverfordwest County's teenage 'keeper Lee Idzi who marks a tremendous start to the Season with his selection. The nineteen year old has played thirteen times this campaign, since replacing Lee Kendall in between the sticks at the Bridge Meadow Stadium and he has certainly impressed in his short time at the club and deserves his call-up.

Speaking of the quality of youngsters eligible for selection Pennock said, "It's been very difficult to narrow the squad down to just sixteen from all of those that we have looked at this season, because there are so many youngsters who have impressed us."

"We now look forward to meeting up and going to Italy with a very strong and experienced squad for such a young group of players" he added.

International Challenge Trophy 2007 - 2009
Italy v Wales
Municipal Stadium 'F. Ossola' in Varese
Wednesday 14th November 2007. Kick-off: 2.30pm

Goalkeepers: Lee IDZI (Haverfordwest County), Ashley MORRIS (Merthyr Tydfil)
Defenders: Stuart JONES (Llanelli AFC), Danny PARSLOW (York City), Jamie PRICE (Gloucester City), Jamie REWBURY (Merthyr Tydfil), Lee SURMAN (Port Talbot Town)
Midfielders: Sion EDWARDS (Bangor City), Craig JONES (Rhyl FC), Paul FOWLER (Carmarthen Town), Craig JONES (Llanelli AFC), Alex LAWLESS (Forest Green Rovers), Chris VENABLES (Welshpool Town)
Strikers: Les DAVIES (Bangor City), Chad BOND (Port Talbot Town), Stuart FLEETWOOD (Forest Green Rovers)

Stand By: Paul PRITCHARD (Connah's Quay Nomads), Lee BEVAN (Neath Athletic), Matthew HARRIS (Merthyr Tydfil), Aaron EDWARDS (Caersws), Ross STEPHENS (Welshpool Town), Mark PRITCHARD (Llanelli AFC), Danny THOMAS (Carmarthen Town)

OWP

Oct-29

Mixed Attendances for Family Festival of Football

The Principality Welsh Premier League's Family Festival of Football saw increases in Attendances this weekend at the majority of Grounds. A total of 2,722 people went through the League's turnstiles at the weekend's nine fixtures with an average of 302.

Llanelli's 8-0 thumping of Port Talbot Town on Friday night at Stebonheath was witnessed by the largest crowd of 514 people, whilst Bangor City's North Wales coast derby match at home to Porthmadog on Saturday attracted three short of 500. There were also good crowds on Friday night with NEWI Cefn Druids v Rhyl attracting 382, Aberystwyth Town's home defeat to Carmarthen Town was witnessed by 376 and Welshpool's 3-0 home win against Llangefni had an attendance of 289.

The other gates were relatively disappointing, as Champions TNS had 267 at their match at Park Hall against Neath Athletic, Haverfordwest County had just 168 fans witness their home defeat to Newtown, Caersws had only 137 at the Recreation Ground for their seven-goal, 4-3 defeat to Connah's Quay Nomads. However, the smallest attendance of the weekend was in Broughton, where just 92 turned up to see the struggling Wingmakers lose to Caernarfon Town, which really affected the average for the weekend.

Attendances for Family Festival of Football

Friday 26th October
Aberystwyth Town 0 - 2 Carmarthen Town - Attendance 376
Llanelli AFC 8 - 0 Port Talbot Town - Attendance 514
NEWI Cefn Druids 1- 4 Rhyl FC - Attendance 382
Welshpool Town 3 - 0 CPD Llangefni - Attendance 289

Saturday 27th October
Airbus UK Broughton 1 - 2 Caernarfon Town - Attendance 92
Bangor City 2 - 0 CPD Porthmadog - Attendance 497
Caersws FC 3 - 4 Connah's Quay Nomads - Attendance 137
Haverfordwest County 2 - 3 Newtown AFC - Attendance 168
The New Saints 3 - 1 Neath Athletic - Attendance 267

OWP

Oct-29

Aberystwyth feeling cheated

A LIVELY Friday night encounter saw determined Carmarthen gain their first ever league win at Park Avenue.

However, Aberystwyth Town were seething at the incident on which the outcome hinged.

Referee Neil Morgan awarded the visitors a 75th minute free-kick when Sasha Walters appeared to dive and then allowed Greg Coombes to strike the ball home behind his back as he moved the Aber wall.

Forced to chase the game, the home side left gaps at the back, allowing Walters to create a stoppage time second for Danny Thomas.

“The players felt cheated in the way the free-kick was gained and the goal allowed to stand,” explained Aber boss Brian Coyne.

“However, we have to put this behind us. There were a lot of positives in our performance, and with a bit more luck we may have taken something from the game.”

Oct-29

Silvio Spann so sorry after red card

A BITTERSWEET afternoon for Wrexham midfielder Silvio Spann saw the Trinidad international score his first goal for the Dragons before he was sent off in the 90th minute for a professional foul on countryman Hector Sam.

To make matters worse, Neil Mackenzie fired home the subsequent free kick to snatch a 2-1 victory for Notts County and condemn Wrexham to bottom spot in the Football League.

A distraught Spann said afterwards: “I was the last man and I had to chase Sam because if I hadn’t he may well have scored. I had to try and do something because the defence was too high up the field and we left a gap for him to exploit. It was a lack of concentration.

“I can’t argue with the red card because if I’d left him alone he would probably have scored so I had to take a gamble.

“It’s a criminal way to lose the game especially as we battered them in the second half. We should have come away with at least a point today.”

Spann, a 28th-minute substitute for the injured Mark Jones, inspired a second-half Wrexham comeback after an error by Steve Evans gifted the home side their opener.

“The first goal for your club is always the most enjoyable and I felt I might have had another but my shot hit Eifion (Williams) and the ball spun away off his heel otherwise it would have been in the back of the net.”

Oct-29

Martinez: Watch out boys

Roberto Martinez admits all eyes will be on an FA Cup giant killing after Swansea City were drawn in arguably the tie of the FA Cup first round. Swansea have been handed a trip to Isthmian League outfit Billericay Town - incredibly their 10th successive away draw in the competition stretching back to 2003-4.

The Essex outfit currently sit 107 places below Swansea in the English football pyramid, and Martinez accepts the neutrals will be rooting for the minnows.

The game, which may well attract the live television cameras, will take place on the weekend of November 9-11 depending on whether it is screened as well as police advice.

''It's a classic FA Cup tie,'' Martinez said. ''Everyone will be looking for the upset and the surprise and it will be a hard game for us. I think the weather will play a big part in the game because pitches at that level normally get affected by the rain, but that's the magic of the competition.

''I wouldn't be surprised if TV shows an interest and if they do that will be great.

''Whatever happens it will be like a final for Billericay and we'll need to be ready for that.''

Billericay's New Lodge home has a capacity of just 3,500 and it is possible that the tie will be switched to a bigger ground - although cup rules mean there is virtually no chance of the game being played at the Liberty Stadium.

If there is a change, it is more likely Swansea will face Billericay at Southend's Roots Hall, the nearest Football League ground.

Oct-29

Battling display by Martyrs

NO FA Cup glory for Merthyr this season but you only had to watch Oxford United’s veteran Manager Jim Smith to realise just how close the Martyrs came to causing an upset against the Conference National outfit.

With the score at 0-0, Merthyr lost striker Mike Jones on 42 minutes after he received two yellow cards, yet it was the home side who dominated for much of the second 45 minutes.

It was only Jordan Rhodes, a striker on loan from Championship side Ipswich, who got Oxford out of trouble, scoring with a spectacular effort on 53 minutes and a just as impressively nine minutes from time.

However, in between it was the 10 men of Merthyr who impressed and it came as no surprise when Marcus Griffiths brought the scores level following a super run and cross from Matthew Harris.

And Merthyr went close on two occasions to forcing the replay.

ICW

Oct-29

Victory stroll for County

COUNTY strolled to success in south London and moved up to third in Blue Square South as they secured their third successive away victory.

Fisher’s young and inexperienced squad always struggled to match County in an entertaining encounter and the visitors established a grip on the game with an opening goal from Charlie Griffin on 10 minutes.

They had several chances to add to their advantage before Griffin’s strike partner Craig Hughes hit a vicious effort to double the lead in the 75th minute.

County threatened to run riot when Jason Bowen crowned his 150th appearance for the Exiles by adding a third from the penalty spot after Tom Pepper handled in the 81st minute, but Fisher hit a late consolation through their pacy forward Wes Thomas four minutes from the end.

Newport manager Peter Beadle was pleased with his side’s form after the desperate midweek disappointment of their undeserved home defeat against Bath.

“It was a different sort of game from Bath, but we got the performance and the result right today. This was a good display away from home and all the players did well,” he said.

ICW

Oct-29

Bellamy doubt for Wales matches

Wales captain Craig Bellamy is an early doubt for November's Euro 2008 qualifying games with the Republic of Ireland and Germany.

The West Ham striker was brought off at half-time during Saturday's 0-0 draw with Portsmouth after suffering an abdominal strain.

Hammers manager Alan Curbishley said: "He's got this injury and it is giving him problems, we will have to sort it."

Wales face the Republic on 17 November and travel to Germany four days later.

BBC

Oct-28

McKenna doubts Saints’ desire

A NINTH straight win kept The New Saints hard on the heels of the leaders – but manager Ken McKenna questioned the desire of some of his players after almost coming unstuck against determined Neath.

The defending champions eased into a two goal lead against the league newcomers, but had to survive some anxious late moments before Scott Ruscoe’s second goal of the game finally settled the nerves.

Victory saw the defending champions remain just one point behind high flying Llanelli, but McKenna felt his side were again lacking the killer instinct.

“Too many lads are switching off at the moment, it's happened too many times this season,” he said. “We’ve got the ability, we played some really good stuff but sometimes I wonder about the desire of some of them, perhaps they’ve been with the club too long.

“Neath are a good side who are not to be underestimated, but I just feel some of our lads need to wake up to the fact that every game is going to be a battle and they need to dig deep. I want to win the league again more than anything this season, and I want them to as well.”

The Saints looked to be heading for a comfortable afternoon when Jamie Wood broke through on 11 minutes and rounded Eagles’ keeper Craig Morris before steering the ball into the back of the net.

Ruscoe doubled the lead with a 32nd minute free kick after John Leah had been fouled just outside the box.

But the Saints invited pressure in the second half as they failed to build on their earlier endeavours. They needed an excellent double save from keeper Paul Harrison.

Neath were rewarded for their efforts eight minutes from time when Jarrod Price curled a free-kick past Harrison to set-up a nervous final period. The Saints, however, secured the points two minutes from time when Wood crossed from the right byline for Ruscoe to force home his second goal of the afternoon.

ICW

Oct-28

Martinez proud after latest win

Swansea City manager Roberto Martinez has spoken of his pride after his side's latest victory.

The Swans are second in League One, thanks to a 2-1 victory at Yeovil, and they continue to impress this term.

Ferrie Bodde's 79th minute goal secured all three points, and Martinez is delighted with his side's form.

"We have worked hard to get where we are, I am very proud of this squad and to be Swansea City manager," said Martinez.

"There is a strong belief in this squad and they know what they have to do to win football games," he added.

"We put in a high work rate, and concentration and it was a complete performance."

Swansea took a 40th minute lead through striker Jason Scotland, before Yeovil's Kevin Betsy equalised.

However, Bodde grabbed all three points with 11 minutes remaining as the Swans keep up the pressure on Carlisle.

"Jason's finish was clinical, he deserved that, he has been working hard and it was a special move and a great goal," said Martinez.

"The type of football we played and the attitude of the players was excellent.

"They are a strong side and know how to create chances and hurt sides.

"But it is an excellent victory away from home."

BBC

Oct-28

Jones sure of Bluebirds revival

Cardiff City boss Dave Jones feels that changing the manager is not the solution to their current problems.

Jones' position at the club is growing increasingly unstable but he feels that him leaving is not the solution.

The Bluebirds drew 1-1 with Scunthorpe and have slipped down to 17th in the Championship table.

"Everyone is trying to do it and it doesn't work, the clubs that are the most stable are the ones with the longest serving managers," said Jones.

"Go change the manager or the chairman if you want, but sometimes you have to look behind what is going on and why it is happening," added Jones.

"People are asking me if I am under pressure. I was under pressure the minute I walked through the door.

"To try and get the club into the Premiership with no money is not easy and sometimes you have to go through bad times.

"It will take longer than people think it will do, the expectations are high because of what we have done in a short space of time.

"The players are honest and they know they need to show people that they are up for it."

BBC

Oct-28

Carey avoiding sack speculation

Wrexham manager Brian Carey is refusing to comment on speculation about his future at the club.

Carey's side are in the League Two relegation zone and are facing up to another season of struggle.

Their latest defeat came away at Notts County, losing 2-1 after Neil Mackenzie's late winner consigned them to their ninth defeat in 12 games.

"I'm not answering any more questions about my future, let's concentrate on the team and not me," said Carey.

The Wrexham manager has won just three games this season and his latest came in agonising fashion.

His side looked to have carved out a point after Silvio Spann had cancelled out Spencer Weir-Daley's opener for Notts County.

But Mackenzie blasted a free-kick into the top corner in the 90th minute, to secure all three points for the hosts.

"We came back into the game in the second half and played with a real purpose and had some good performances," said Carey.

"But it was just one of those days and we are gutted because we haven't taken the points because I felt we could have won.

"We have to deal with it and get on with it and have to create our own luck if we are to get out of this mess."

BBC

Oct-28

Newtown soar ahead of Haverfordwest Bluebirds

BLUEBIRDS manager Derek Brazil was left a frustrated and disappointed man at the end of this controversial and edgy game that saw his side slip to defeat.

At the interval the score sheet was blank but veteran goal scorer Marc Lloyd-Williams netted in the 52nd minute only for Tom Ramasut to put the home side on level terms seconds later.

However, experienced ex-Swansea City player Tommy Mutton made it 3-1 with goals in the 54th and 68th minute.

It wasn’t until the 80th minute that another controversial penalty saw Ian Jones narrow the deficit to 3-2. This result enables Newtown to leapfrog Haverfordwest in the table.

ICW

Oct-28

Nomads clinch late win over Caersws

NOMADS bagged their first league win in five outings to leave struggling Caersws languishing in the lower reaches of the table.

The visitors had twice found themselves trailing in the first half, but exploited a shaky looking defence to finally emerge victors.

The afternoon had started well enough for the Mid Wales hosts with Graham Evans giving them the perfect start when converting a third minute penalty after Sion Meredith had been fouled by keeper Paul Pritchard.

John McAllister then turned to fire home a leveller on 13 minutes, but the Bluebirds were soon back in front when Aeron Edwards lashed home after Meredith’s shot was parried.

Stewart White hit back a second time for the Nomads when powering home a 25-yarder after running at the defence, and 10 minutes after the break the visitors were in front for the first time as Chris Herbert broke through to lob keeper Andy Mulliner.

Mike Sawtell looked to have salvaged a point when his low free kick found its way into the net after substitute Mark Griffiths had been fouled.

But the Deesiders were not to be denied when Craig Jones capitalised on a mix-up a minute later.

ICW

Oct-27

Port Talbot suffer 8-0 blitz by leaders Llanelli

Last night Port Talbot suffered their biggest defeat in their welsh premier history as Llanelli tore them apart with an 8 goal blitz without reply.

Their previous biggest defeat came at the hands of Caersws in 2001 when they lost 7-1 on January 6th.

Things were looking ominous for the Steelmen as early as 9th minute when Andrew Mumford put the Reds 1-0 up. It got worse after nearly half an hour when Mumford struck again to double Llanelli's lead on 28 minutes.

It remained 2-0 at the break and Port must have thought they were in with a slim chance in the 2nd half, but 2-0 soon became 3-0 just 4 minutes after the restart when Reds top scorer Rhys Griffiths looked to have put the game out of Port's reach, just 2 minutes later Mark Pritchard made it 4-0 for the home side. On 58 minutes Llanelli were awarded a penalty and Gareth Phillips was shown a straight red card, Griffiths made no mistake from the spot and made it 5-0.

On 66 minutes ex Lido striker Mark Jones came on for Craig Williams and the youngster showed why Llanelli were so keen to sign him. he added Llanelli's 6th and 7th goals in the 78th and 84th minutes. Chad Bond became Port's 2nd player to see red in the 75th minute.

There was still time for one more goal and from who else but Griffiths, he was on hand to wrap up a 8-0 win and secure his hat-trick in the 87 minute.

Although the 8-0 win for Llanelli will be played down some what by the fact Port Talbot finished the game with 9 men, but the game was well and truly over before Port's first player was sent off as they were already leading 4-0 at the time.

Tony

Oct-27

Give me more time says Jones

CARDIFF CITY boss Dave Jones has come out fighting ahead of today’s clash with Scunthorpe, demanding more time to complete his job at Ninian Park.

The Bluebirds manager’s future has been plunged into doubt after a disappointing start to the season which sees City wallowing in 16th place in the Championship.

A succession of defeats at Ninian Park, where the Bluebirds have won just once in the league all season, makes this afternoon’s game the most vital of Jones’ two-and-a-half-year reign in the Welsh capital.

With sections of the crowd turning on Jones after Wednesday’s 3-2 defeat to Wolves, Cardiff are desperately in need of a win against newly-promoted Scunthorpe to ease pressure on the manager.

But Jones insists he is doing a good job and, using Martin Jol’s departure from Tottenham as an example, has called for stability at Ninian Park.

“Martin Jol has gone from Tottenham, some fans wanted him to go, some didn’t, will it be good for the club? Only time will tell. Bolton have done the same. They all think change is for the best,” said Jones.

“How many managers has Cardiff City had over the years and how far has the club progressed?

“All I am saying is give me and my staff the time to put it right. Two years ago we were £30m in debt with nothing to show for it, selling everything. Now we have built and we are getting stronger and stronger.

“But now because the results have not gone as well as we thought is it time to change? I don’t think so.

“You have to have a bit more patience, a bit more time, which is not a commodity in football you always get.

“But if you look back, the clubs who have given it time are usually the clubs who have turned it round because you have stability.”

Jones has presided over a year now of wretched form at the helm at Cardiff.

ICW

Oct-27

McKenna aiming to keep fine run going

THE New Saints boss Ken McKenna hopes the return to fitness of his missing strikers can further enhance his side’s Welsh Premier revival.

An eight-match winning run in the league has taken the Saints into second spot, and they’ll be out to maintain the momentum when they host newcomers Neath at Oswestry’s Park Hall today.

McKenna is rubbing his hands at the prospect of two strikers returning to duty in the near future, with John Toner and Ronnie Morgan both back in training following their injury problems.

“We’ve got a very good squad, and I’m really looking forward to getting these two back on the pitch which will give us a lot more options,” he said.

“They’re back in training and they really need games now.”

Their absence has meant that Mike Wilde has been leading the attack in recent weeks, with midfielder Jamie Wood switching to the front line as Alfie Carter continues to make a slow recovery from his shoulder injury.

Once the forwards get to full fitness, the Saints will certainly take some stopping as they bid to equal Barry Town’s record of four successive league crown.

“We’re on a good run, and we want to keep it going,” added McKenna.

ICW

Oct-27

In-form Davies can make old club pay

BANGOR City birthday boy Les Davies, who will be 23 on Monday, has a special treat coming up – playing for Wales against Italy in an Under-23 international next month.

The powerfully built striker will fly out with manager Tony Pennock’s Non-League squad – to be announced officially on Monday – for the game to be played near Milan on Wednesday, November 24.

“I am thrilled to bits about it,” said Davies. “Everything is going great at the moment, because I am playing well and enjoying my game.”

City’s hat-trick hero against Connah’s Quay Nomads in Tuesday’s Loosemores’ Cup 4-0 win will have his previous club Porthmadog in his sights today in a Welsh Premier derby at Farrar Road.

It was while he was at Porthmadog two years ago that Davies appeared for the Wales semi-pro side in the Four Nations Championship at Brighton, scoring two goals against Northern Ireland.

And Bangor’s manager Nev Powell said: “We are delighted for Les that he has been chosen to play for Wales again. He really is on fire right now and deserves this honour.”

His former boss Viv Williams, whose Porthmadog side face the Davies threat today, said: “Les is a quality player and we shall have to try to nullify his activities as best we can.”

ICW

Oct-27

Colwyn Bay give debut to ex-Everton starlet

COLWYN Bay could give a debut to new signing Stephen Wynne in today’s home Unibond Division One South clash with Belper Town (3pm).

Ex-Everton player Wynne was released by the Toffees in 2006 and joins the Bay from Marine Athletic, having also turned out for Bangor City and Lancaster since his departure from Goodison Park.

The Seagulls continue to have injury concerns with top marksman John Lawless struggling with a groin strain and striker Mark Quayle and midfielder Robbie Williams battling to regain fitness.

Bay will also be hoping skipper James Olsen has shaken off a knock which caused him to be replaced at half time at Cammell Laird on Tuesday.

Colwyn performed very well in that 2-0 defeat at Kirklands, only two goals in the last 17 minutes blotting a stirring display.

ICW

Oct-26

Bangor boss hits out at Prem transfer restrictions

BANGOR City boss Nev Powell has joined Porthmadog manager Viv Williams in slamming the Welsh Premier’s transfer restrictions.

Powell blasted the league’s transfer window as “crazy” after losing top scorer Mark Smyth to Leigh RMI.

Smyth – who made one Carling Cup appearance for Liverpool – has signed for ex-Bangor boss Steve Bleasdale at Leigh after scoring eight goals from 21 league games for City.

Powell said: “This transfer window is a disaster for clubs, with Unibond and Conference clubs able to pick off our best non-contract players – yet we can’t sign any from England. It’s crazy.”

Williams, who returned to the helm at Y Traeth after Clayton Blackmore was sacked earlier this month, said: “The biggest shock since coming back is not being able to sign anyone.

“With the transfer window closed and the one player one club rule, we have to work with what we have.”

Oct-26

Double blow for Rhyl ahead of Druids game

RHYL manager John Hulse will be without two key players as he looks to step up the Lilywhites’ spluttering title challenge at Newi Cefn Druids tonight.

James Brewerton broke down in training and is facing a cartilage operation that would keep him out for several weeks.

“The lad is heartbroken and now he will be having a scan on his problem knee,” said Hulse. “This is a massive blow on top of losing Jimmy Kelly for the next two or three weeks as he faces a small operation on his injured knee.”

Kelly has played through the pain for the last few matches, but has been forced to pull out rather than risk more serious long-term problems.

Tonight Rhyl will face three of their former regulars – long-time skipper Timmy Edwards, Mark Powell and Chris McGinn.

“It’s always a tough place to go, especially on a Friday night because Druids always raise their game and are very hard to break down,” said Hulse.

“They are an experienced well-managed side and hard to beat at home. There should be a big crowd there and our lads are up for it because they know we need to get the winning show back on the road as fast as we can.

Oct-26

Ton Pentre strengthen squad again

Cwmbran left back Gareth Mouncher has joined MacWhirter Welsh League Division One rivals Ton Pentre.

The 20-year-old made 14 Welsh Premier League appearances in 2006-07 after initially joining on loan from Newport County.

Mouncher follows the recent strengthening of the Bulldogs squad when they signed Mattie Davies. And he will now team up with former Crows keeper and club captain Marty Ellacott.

Tony

Oct-26

Cardiff boss is feeling the pressure

Cardiff manager Dave Jones admits he is feeling the pressure after his side slumped to another home defeat at the hands of Wolves on Wednesday.

The result leaves the Bluebirds in 16th place, with just three wins from their opening 12 Championship games and have lost four of their six home games.

But Jones told the BBC's Sport Wales programme: "You feel pressure but it's an enjoyable pressure - it sounds daft.

"Sometimes you've got to take the criticism and biting to get there."

Cardiff's record over the last 20 league games makes grim reading.

The Bluebirds have won three, drawn five and lost 12 since 17 March, resulting in 14 points out of a possible 60.

But Jones believes managers should be given time to build teams.

"Emotion is a big part of the game and people make decisions on emotion and that's not the right way," he said.

"The game is littered with change, change, change. If you look at clubs that have stuck with people, they are more than likely to turn it around and get it right than the ones who keep changing.

BBC

Oct-26

Cwmbran fail to lure Lewis back to Football

Cwmbran have failed to lure former Newport AFC player-coach and Ebbw Vale manager John Lewis back to football.

Lewis, who guided now-defunct Ebbw Vale into Europe and also had spells managing Merthyr Tydfil, Barry Town and Rhayader Town, turned down a request to become involved in coaching the Crows by manager Guillermo Ganet.

"It's unfortunate that I had to say no because of my work commitments," said Lewis. "Cwmbran said I could do a bit of coaching now when I'm not tied up with work, but I told them it doesn't work that way with me."

So the club are also seeking an experienced coach to assist Spanish manager Guillermo Ganet's bid to gain first-time promotion back to the top-flight Welsh Premier League.

Ganet took over in the summer following the resignation of Sean Wharton after the Crows were relegated. Under Ganet, a former La Liga midfielder with Valencia, Cwmbran have made a steady start, although only a draw from their last two outings has seen them slip from top to sixth position in the table.

SWA

Oct-26

Swans looking to break Yeovil hoodoo

Roberto Martinez hopes his free-scoring Swansea City side can keep their form going as they look to end a miserable run of visits to Yeovil on Saturday.

The Swans have lost all four trips and failed to score at Huish Park since the Somerset club were promoted to the Football League in 2003.

But Martinez is raring to go: "It's a huge challenge for us to go there and try and change all that," he said.

"It's not going to be easy, but we are ready."

Last season's 1-0 defeat was the Spaniard's first game in charge following the departure of predecessor Kenny Jackett.

And Martinez, who watched that game from the stands, says his side have made vast strides since last February.

"There have been many, many changes," he said. "There's been a lot of work on the pitch and off the pitch.

"We've changed many things and use different ways to approach things and way to play and we are going in the right direction, but we want to keep improving on a daily basis."

BBC

Oct-26

Council backing for stadium study

WELSHPOOL could be the home of a new multi-sports stadium following an historic town council meeting on Wednesday night. Welshpool Town Football Club were joined by Welshpool Rugby Club in hailing the town council’s decision to approve a feasibility study on the future make-up of Maesydre.

The decision represents a significant step forward in the battle to upgrade facilities for both town clubs.

Welshpool Town Football Club chairman Steve Hughes said: “We are delighted that the town council has taken the initiative and agreed to a feasibility study.

“It would be fantastic for Welshpool to be home to a stadium of European standard and it would be a massive boost to both football and rugby.”

With strict new UEFA criteria set to come into force in 2009 Welshpool Town desperately need to upgrade Maesydre or risk demotion from the league.

Such an eventuality would end Welshpool Town’s successful youth programme and popular schools promotions, which has seen a 20 per cent increase in attendances at Maesydre.

Hughes said: “We are pleased something is being done and I thank the council for making this decision.”

Welshpool Rugby Club chairman Frank John added: “As long as progress is being made then we are happy.”

The council agreed to investigate the possibilities of enhancing Maesydre’s facilities after an intervention from Montgomeryshire Liberal Democrat Assembly Member Mick Bates.

Mr Bates vowed to involve the Welsh Assembly Government in supporting such a scheme and hopes it will help fund the costs of a feasibility study for a 3,000 seater stadium.

Oct-26

Proctor demands Wrexham improvement

Wrexham striker Michael Proctor says the team must stand up and be counted if they are to get themselves out of trouble.

The Dragons are languishing towards the bottom of League Two ahead of Saturday's trip to Notts County who are just two points ahead of them.

And Proctor said: "All of the games coming up now are big games because of the situation we given ourselves.

"We know how big a game Notts County is and we have to get three points."

Wrexham find themselves in the bottom two again following last weekend's woeful display in the 2-0 defeat at home to Barnet.

Proctor added: "We know we are underachieving and the squad is good enough to be way, way up the league, and the bottom line is we are not doing well enough as a team.

"We've all talked and we are going to do this and do that and it's about time we started doing it.

BBC

Oct-25

Schmeichel junior on his way to Ninian

MANCHESTER City goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel is joining Cardiff City, we can reveal.

The son of Manchester United and Denmark legend Peter Schmeichel is making a loan move to Ninian Park after Sven Goran Eriksson agreed to help out the struggling Bluebirds.

He will be in the squad for the home clash against Scunthorpe on Saturday, a match City have to win following their dismal 3-2 defeat to Wolves last night.

Schmeichel’s arrival means that Irishman David Forde may be on his way for a second loan spell at Luton Town.

There is no certainty Schmeichel will go straight into the starting line-up for Cardiff this weekend with Michael Oakes in good form.

Instead it is likely Oakes will start as Schmeichel is not eligible for next Wednesday’s Carling Cup tie against Liverpool at Anfield.

Schmeichel, 20, played in Manchester City’s impressive start to the Premiership season - keeping four clean sheets in the first seven matches.

But Eriksson now prefers 6ft 3in Joe Hart – who was a Cardiff target 18-months ago while at Shrewsbury – and Schmeichel, who has just signed a new four-year contract, is being sent out on loan to gain experience.

He has had loan spells with Darlington, Bury (twice) and Falkirk in Scotland.