WELSH PREM AND WELSH LEAGUE NEWS PAGE FOR SEPTEMBER 2006

WELSH PREM AND WELSH LEAGUE NEWS PAGE FOR SEPTEMBER

SEP-30

Delve steps in for Caerleon's cup clash

Andrew Delve, former Newport County goalkeeper, makes his Caerleon debut in the home Welsh Cup tie with UWIC today, a clash between two sides from the MacWhirter Welsh League, First Division.

Delve steps in for James Cairns who is nursing a thigh strain having played three games in as many days at the weekend.

He was in the first team which lost at Afan Lido a week ago, played for the reserves the following day and the youth team on Sunday.

And also missing are defender Lee Relish (hamstring) and striker Nicky Vassallo who has a twisted knee, joining long-term injury victim Todd Quarterly while Ben Davies is serving a three-match ban following his second-half dismissal in the 3-2 defeat at Afan Lido.

Brendan Dowd, Caerleon manager, is hoping that experienced striker Robbie Howells will be available and that fellow front runner, Cwmbran’s Martin Houston, will also be available.

First Division Newport YMCA are also at home, taking on Second Division Ammanford who are below halfway with one win in five games – but YM are not without their injury worries, three strikers facing a race against the clock.

Danny Cueto has an infected toe while Sean Pearce has strained ankle ligaments and Aaron Stewart, after shaking off a hamstring injury. Mohamed Hassan has been called into the squad while Steve Edwards is available after missing out because of work and Craig James has recovered from a knee strain.

Division Three side Llanwern, after suffering their first reversal of the season at Aberbargoed Buds, face a most difficult tie at First Division Neath. Goalkeeper Chris Hart is recovering from an ankle injury which he sustained in the warm-up at Aberbargoed while Michael Aviss and Darren Poultney are still out through injury, Ivan Poncak has returned to Slovakia for a family wedding and Michael Vaux is serving the second of a three-match ban.

South Wales Argus

SEP-29

Wharton wants cup changes

CWMBRAN Town manager Sean Wharton wants the Principality Building Society Welsh Premier League to take a serious look at making the Loosemores League Cup competition into an under-23 competition.

Wharton has put forward the idea after the Under-21 League crumbled after just one season through lack of interest.

The Cwmbran boss, preparing his side for tomorrow's big Welsh Cup clash with league rivals Carmarthen, a side packed with former Crows players, said: "Now that the Under-21 League has been scuppered, the league could make it an under-23 tournament."

And Cwmbran meet Carmarthen twice in the space of four days, the two teams locking horns again next Tuesday in the league cup.

To make the league cup an under-23 competition would certainly suit Cwmbran who have so many young players on their books.

And the club will be putting forward their idea of reorganising the competition. Wharton added: "I am suggesting that the league should take a serious look at the suggestion and take our thoughts on board."

South Wales Argus

SEP-29

Nicolas urges focus for cup clash

Llanelli have been told not to underestimate the lower league challenge as they look to erase the memory of last season's Welsh Cup heartbreak. Their bid for the trophy starts at Stebonheath Park on Saturday (2.30).

The opponents? Welsh League division two side Bettws.

No problem there, you may think.

But Reds manager Peter Nicholas is far too experienced to start thinking of the draw for the next round.

Nicholas has treated the second division minnows just like any other top-tier side, insisting the Reds cannot afford to be complacent.

For sure, Llanelli have their eye on the £25,000 cup-winning prize on offer, but they aren't looking further than Saturday's clash.

On paper, Llanelli should advance quite comfortably, but there are plenty of Barclays Premiership sides with unhappy memories of David v Goliath cup ties.

Managed by former Cardiff, Exeter and Wales Under-21 international Paul Giles, Bettws sit fourth off the bottom in division two, winning just one of their opening four matches.

Nicholas, however, is taking no chances for the clash and even held a double training session on Tuesday to prepare fully.

"I have had them watched," he said. "They are a young side and very energetic.

Evening Post

SEP-29

Bryntirion motoring along under Ford

Former Cardiff City player Francis Ford has lifted Bryntirion Athletic into second place in the MacWhirter Welsh Football League table.

They are one point behind leaders Neath Athletic with 15 earned from seven matches.

Ford is back in the Bridgend area, having left Bridgend Town and become assistant manager at Barry Town.

Now he is in charge at Bryntirion, who can go top of Division One tomorrow.

They play Taffs Well at home, while leaders Neath Athletic are on Welsh Cup duty at home to Llanwern.

Western Mail

SEP-28

ENTO Aberaman boosted by ENTO cash injection

ENTO, current sponsors of MacWhirter Welsh League Division One side ENTO Aberaman Athletic AFC have increased their financial backing to the club to an estimated £25,000 for this season. The deal, one of the biggest in the Welsh pyramid system is the third year of a three year deal between ENTO and the football club.

The increased backing comes from a unique partnership forged between ENTO and three of its suppliers in Rainbow Print Wales, MCM Office Supplies and Pitch Promotions that sees all three companies providing financial and product backing including printing of the much acclaimed and award winning match day programme and various items of players clothing.

In addition, Ariam Media, sister company of ENTO, join in supporting the club by designing the match day programme and marketing materials, including commercial literature and the highly acclaimed website.

"Furthermore, this will have long term effects to the community overall".

This backing has additionally seen the recent signings of the highly experienced Kurt Nogan and the prolific Lee Thomas. Both of which aim to make their mark in Division One and help provide a strengthened front line for the club.

www.aberamanafc.co.uk

SEP-28

"Lets get ugly" says Jones

Carmarthen Town manager Mark Jones admits his side has to adopt an ugly side to their game if they are to challenge for top honours this season.

The Town boss was speaking after his side threw away a 2-0 lead against Welshpool to lose 4-2.

It was a defeat which dropped the early-season pace-setters to eighth in the Principality Welsh Premier League, with nine points from their opening six matches.

Jones, who was celebrating his birthday on Saturday, concedes his team played too much football against Welshpool, and instead need to roll their sleeves up and grind out victories.

"One way of playing football is to try and play perfect attractive football but you have to have an ugly part to your game," he said. "And we didn't have that.

"Welshpool bossed us for most of the second half and we could not deal with their direct play.

"It's okay to entertain but since the start of the season our goalkeeper has been our busiest player.

"It was always going to be hard in the second half but down to 10 men and against the wind it was very, very difficult.

"We've got to be tighter at the back and we have just got to be harder to break down.

"We have certainly missed Colin Loss in the last few games and I'm hoping that we will have him back at the weekend."

"We have to put this game behind us and focus on the cup game," added Jones.

Evening Post

SEP-28

Magnificent comeback by Canaries

CAERNARFON TOWN staged a sensational comeback at the Oval last night, running out 4-3 winners over Bangor City in the League Cup after falling three goals behind.

The win takes the Canaries to second spot in Group A but with two rounds of matches still to play any two of the four competing clubs could still qualify for the quarter-finals.

The home crowd was stunned into silence as Ashley Stott, Ricky Evans and Mel McGuiness put the visitors 3-0 up inside 28 minutes.

But Caernarfon drew level by the interval with goals from Craig Roberts, Paul Carvill and Chris Jones.

Jones bagged the winner 15 minutes from time, with a stunning 30-yard drive.

TNS, 11-0 winners over Airbus UK in the home tie, were made to work harder this time, but still ran out comfortable 3-1 winners at Broughton.

Ken McKenna's side were indebted to a brace from Michael Wilde and another goal from Richie Harris for their win which virtually seals their qualification. Ray Cardus replied.

Western Mail

SEP-27

Andy Leggs it closer to home

Llanelli's Andy Legg has today transferred to Nationwide North side Hucknall Town. The veteran defender who signed for Llanelli to provide experience to the young side for their European adventure has been a very popular and high profile addition to the squad and the Principality Welsh Premier League.

Andy made his Llanelli debut in the UEFA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round 1st Leg match away to Odense at the grand age of 40 after battling back from cancer for a second time and everybody was delighted to hear a couple of weeks ago, that he was given the all-clear following his latest cancer scare.

The six capped former Wales International, had a professional football League career that spanned over 17 years and saw him make 576 league appearances for seven different clubs (Swansea City, Cardiff City, Reading, Birmingham, Ipswich, Notts County and Peterborough), scoring 61 goals in that time. Andy won promotion with Cardiff City in 2003 in the Playoff match at the Millennium Stadium against QPR.

Born in Neath, Andy joined local League club, Swansea from Briton Ferry Athletic in 1988, and was once renowned as possessing the longest throw-in, in British football!

Legg, who lives in Nottingham with his wife and his six-year-old daughter Alicia will be a lot closer to home, which has obviously triggered the move. Hucknall are currently eighth position in their League and are managed by former Chelsea forward, Kevin Wilson and Legg will join fellow Welshman Liam Powell, a former Under 21 International from Cardiff at the club.

www.welshpremier.com

SEP-27

Maesteg waiting on cup reprieve

Maesteg Park are set to be reinstated into the Welsh Cup.The Old Parish side, who went down to a 3-1 defeat against Cardiff Corries at the Riverside on September 16, have since learnt that the Cardiff side fielded a player without international clearance.

Rhys Yates, the former Taffs Well player who got the Cardiff side's second goal, had only just returned from playing in the United States.

However, as the Football Association of Wales organising committee are not meeting until next Tuesday, the intended tie between Cwmbran Celtic and Cardiff Corries on Saturday has been called off.

If Park are thrown a lifeline, then a date will have to set up for them to travel to Cwmbran Celtic.

However, the matter does not end there for Corries as they also included Yates in league fixtures and the Shamrock Travel Cup.

In all likelihood, they will also be removed from the cup in favour of Uwic while 10 league points are set to be docked.

Evening Post

SEP-27

History to be made at Neath on Saturday

Llanwern will be involved in a history-making game when they meet Neath in a second round tie of the Welsh Cup on Saturday when the match officials will be a father and his two sons.

Steve Hames, a well-established Principality Building Society Welsh Premier League referee from Aberaman (Mid-Glamorgan) will be in the middle and taking the flags will be sons Dale and Kris who are officials in the MacWhirter Welsh League.

South Wales Argus

SEP-27

Penrhiwceiber likely to lose all league points

Second division club, Penrhiwceiber, are also likely to find themselves in hot water.

The Cynon Valley side have allegedly included a sine die player in their team this season, and a possible scenario is that all seven league points currently against their name will be removed.

Penrhiwceiber currently lie in 11th place in division 2.

Western Mail

SEP-26

Davies happy with Steelmen's start

The season has gone better than Port Talbot manager Wayne Davies could ever have hoped for since his side returned from Rhyl on the opening day with a 2-0 defeat. A more than comfortable 3-0 victory at bottom side Newi Cefn Druids has now launched the Steelmen into second spot with a game in hand over leaders The New Saints.

Davies believes his squad is stronger this season and, despite a number of enforced changes, the Victoria Road side have now chalked up four successive Welsh Premier victories.

Davies emphasised the team's growing bond: "Dyfan Pierce has had seven days notice put on him by Carmarthen. But he has told me he doesn't want to speak to them and I feel that shows how things have moved on at this club."

Western Mail

SEP-26

Local welsh league round up

Neath Athletic saw their lead at the top of the first division cut to just one point after losing 3-1 at Taffs Well. Things looked good for the Llandarcy Park side when Jonathan Keaveny gave them an early lead, but Brian Burke equalised just before the break.

The Cardiff side went on to dominate the second half and deservedly took the spoils on the back of two late goals from substitute Liam Williams.

Up into second spot went Bryntirion courtesy of a 3-0 win at Ely Rangers, thanks to goals from Gavin Thomas, Ian Gearie and Sean Cronin.

However, champions Goytre United remain handily placed after gaining a thumping 5-0 home victory over basement club Barry Town.

The Port Talbot side made it three wins from as many starts on the back of a Darren Lyons hat-trick together with a brace from Richard Ryan.

Pontardawe Town registered a third league win of the season, accounting for Grange Quins 2-0.

Darren Griffiths shot Ponty ahead during the opening half while a Richard Cleverly strike midway through the second wrapped up a deserved victory.

Maesteg Park struck early in sweeping to an emphatic 3-0 victory over Croesyceiliog at Tudor Park. The Old Parish side, who paraded new signings Chris Pridham and Andrew Pearson, went ahead through Lee O'Brien after just 20 seconds.

Paul Evans doubled the lead in the 34th minute with Gareth Davies completing the scoring.

In the second division, Garden Village seemed on course for victory when heading leaders Troedyrhiw 3-0 after 25 minutes - only to be held 3-3.

During a Village purple patch, a goal double from Rob Shannon along with an Ashley Richards strike took them clear, and it wasn't until the hour mark that the Merthyr side launched the fightback.

For a second time this season, Pontyclun made West End work hard for victory before conceding victory to the Swansea side 2-1.

Having eliminated the Ivor Park side from the Shamrock Travel Cup earlier in the month, the Pryderi boys were one up at the break through Gary Davies.

An 83rd-minute debut goal from Marc Otten, who converted a Richard Jones cross, made it 2-0 while Pontyclun responded during injury time.

Briton Ferry, who have announced former youth team manager Neil Morgan as their new boss, celebrated with a 2-0 success over Merthyr Saints.

A scrambled goal from Keith Phillips sent Ferry ahead in the 25th minute while Phillips's clincher in the 70th minute was an opportunist effort.

"I'm confident this young side can do well," said Morgan after Ferry celebrated a fourth league win of the campaign.

TONY POOLE

SEP-24

Sepp Blatters vow to welsh clubs

THE most powerful man in world football last night insisted that Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham SHOULD be allowed to represent Wales in Europe.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter gave his full backing to Welsh football's 'Big Three' in their bid to be readmitted to European competition.

Blatter branded the current rules which bar all three from representing Wales in the Champions League and Uefa Cup as "not fair".

And he has pledged to lend his full support to any renewed attempts by Wales' three premier clubs to force their way back onto the European stage.

Speaking exclusively to Wales on Sunday Blatter said: "Although as the head of FIFA I cannot directly intervene in a matter between Wales, England and UEFA, as a footballer I would support their case.

"I have a lot of sympathy for these clubs who should be able to play in the European competitions.

"The situation at the moment is something that is not fair.

"How can we find a solution? I'm not sure.

"Perhaps together with David Collins and the FAW we can try to find a solution.

"Because where there's a will there's a way."

Wales on Sunday

SEP-22

No Go for Under 21 League

The Principality Building Society Welsh Premier League Board of Directors reluctantly decided that the Under 21 League would not proceed this season. There was an initially disappointing entry and this was followed by the withdrawal of two clubs, resulting in only six clubs willing to participate. Playing one Division was considered, but the long distance travel for young players would be an unacceptable burden.

I am naturally disappointed that more clubs didn't support the Under 21 Competition, but I am convinced that it will be introduced in the longer term

The Board still support the principle of an Under 21 League and will be discussing the matter with all clubs at a Special General Meeting, which will be held to consider a number of issues during November. Principality Welsh Premier League Secretary John Deakin said, "I am naturally disappointed that more clubs didn't support the Under 21 Competition, but I am convinced that it will be introduced in the longer term and maybe as early as next season, particularly with the 'one player, one club' rule looming."

SEP-22

Port Talbot put on guard

Port Talbot Town travel to bottom club Newi Cefn Druids tomorrow with manager Wayne Davies anticipating a difficult afternoon against Dixie McNeil's side. A 3-2 FAW Premier Cup victory over Welshpool plus the recent signings of former Bangor striker Carl Lamb and Caernarfon player-manager Wayne Phillips have given the Wrexham outfit a massive boost.

It is a fact not lost on Davies. He said: ''I would never underestimate Druids especially on their own ground and we're under no illusions that this will be a difficult match for us.

''But we go there in confident mood after our big win at home to Caernarfon last week and let's hope we can reproduce performances like that on a regular basis.''

Missing from last week's line-up will be Lee John, who is attending a wedding otherwise Davies is able to field his strongest possible side.

Davies will have the added bonus of the return of Dean Johnston and Tom Hooper while long-term injury casualties Andrew Pearson and Chris Pridham continue their rehabilitation with a run-out for the reserves. Craig Hanford will also continue his recovery with a start for local side Corus.

Evening Post

SEP-22

Cwmbran confident of an upset

Cwmbran Town, without a shadow of doubt, face their toughest test of a young season when they enter the lion's den - otherwise known as The New Saints - in the Principality Building Society Welsh Premier League tomorrow (kick-off 2.30pm).

TNS were the only side not to lose at home last season and they conceded only five goals in 17 games - now that's a fortress to be reckoned with.

But they had better keep a sharp eye on striker Jody Jenkins who has returned to the fourth-placed Crows after a successive spell with Croesyceiliog.

And Jenkins has an extra reason for wanting to do well as he faces one of his former clubs.

A confident Sean Wharton - boosted by two away league wins from as many games - said: "There is no reason why we cannot win. We are going there for three points.

I know it will be a tough task but there will be a lot of people looking for our result - we might just surprise a few. And Jody in particular is certainly looking forward to the test."

South Wales Argus

SEP-22

Summers looks ready to shine against Bridgend

Pontypridd Town travel to Bridgend in search of a fifth successive victory tomorrow.

Chris Summers has fired five of their eight goals in winning two MacWhirter Welsh League games, plus beating Croesyceiliog in the Shamrock Travel Cup and Treharris in the Welsh Cup.

Tomorrow, Pontypridd play Bridgend Town at Coychurch Road aiming to move closer to the leading group.

Ponty have only played four league matches and have won three as they press for promotion to the Principality Welsh Premier League.

The latest signing for manager Ryan Nicholls is Atif Bashir from Grange Quins. Bashir, who can play in defence or midfield, has Welsh Premier experience with Afan Lido and is a former Cardiff City trainee.

South Wales Echo

SEP-21

Lloyd at the double for the Reds

Llanelli veteran Gary Lloyd scored twice at Cwmbran Stadium to earn a 3-0 away win for the impressive Reds in the Loosemores Cup, Group D as their excellent start to the season continued.

Peter Nicholas again opted to play Gareth Williams in goal for this competition, with uncan Roberts earning a rest and also gave a run out to midfielder Richard Lewis and defender Efren Fernandez. Cwmbran handed a debut to midfielder Dale Evans, signed the day before from Newport County and American Steve Loverso played after failing to gain a contract in Scotland, where he had been on trial.

The Reds took the lead through the formidable Rhys Griffiths on 17 minutes and Lloyd sealed the win on 57 minutes and added his second ten minutes later from the penalty spot, past the helpless Gareth Wesson. The incident that led to the penalty saw the Crows reduced to 10 men as referee Kerry Morgan gave Cwmbran Centre Back Nicky Ward his marching orders.

The win for the Reds all but rules out Cwmbran from qualifying and with Haverfordwest already out of the reckoning, it's a three horse race in Group D between Carmarthen, Port Talbot and Peter Nicholas' men, with two sides qualifying.

SEP-21

Cook ruled out for the season

NEWI Cefn Druids midfielder, Matthew Cook has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after it was confirmed that he has a double fracture of the leg. Cook was injured late on in Tuesday night's Premier Cup victory over Welshpool when he collided with an opponent going for a 50-50 ball.

The twenty-one year old was taken to hospital immediately when it was confirmed that he had a fractured fibula and tibia. After an operation on Wednesday morning, he was informed by the Doctor that he would be ruled out for nine months.

Crewe born Matthew lives locally and was released by Chester City after having been at Leigh RMI. He was snapped up by the Druids in June 2005. The Druids will certainly miss his excellent distribution skills and his eye for goal. The former Wales Under 19 player featured eight times for the Druids this season.

SEP-21

Llanelli's Thomas delighted to be playing again

New Llanelli striker, James Thomas, 27, made his comeback last night after more than two years out with serious knee injury. The former Swansea City striker played 46 minutes as a substitute in their 3-0 League Cup win over Cwmbran.

Thomas famously scored a hat-trick to safeguard Swansea's Football League status in 2003, but his career has since been blighted by knee problems. "I can't explain how good it is to play again," Thomas told BBC Wales Sport. "It's been a long road the last couple of years. I had an operation in February, which was the last throw of the dice and that seems to have done the trick."

"There were times I thought I would never play again, but the last operation has given me confidence and I've been training with Llanelli for the past three or four weeks and the knee has been fine. It's been more or less 100% which it hasn't been for two-and-a-half years."

After securing his place in Swansea folklore with his hat-trick against Hull in the final game of the 2002/03 season, Thomas' career went into steep decline. The following season, the goals dried up and he struggled to keep his place in the team. Then came the beginning of the chronic injury problems as he underwent two knee operations in the space of eight weeks towards the end of 2004. He made a desperate effort to prove his fitness last summer only for the injury curse to strike again to ruin his hopes of winning a new contract.

But now the former Blackburn Rovers trainee is ready to resurrect his career with Principality Welsh Premier side Llanelli and Peter Nicholas will be pleased that Thomas says he still has plenty of confidence in his own ability...But will he ever reproduce his performances of old?

"I'm not sure really. I don't want to put too much pressure on myself," said Thomas. "First and foremost I just want to get back playing again. It's going to take a good few months to get back to peek fitness. But each week that passes, I'll start to feel stronger and fitter. But what will be, will be. I really appreciate Peter Nicholas showing a bit of faith in me and give me the opportunity to come down.

SEP-20

League defender signs for New Saints

New Saints have signed defender Duane Courtney, 21, who was (previously with Championship outfit Burnley.

Courtney played with Derby County as a schoolboy, before joining Birmingham City as a trainee.

He received Telford's player of the season award in 2004/5, which drew attention from League clubs, with Burnley beating Wolverhampton Wanderers to his signature for a fee of £27,000.

Courtney is sure to steady the defence at Treflan and will be seen as the man with the unenviable job of filling the enormous boots vacated by Steve Evans, now of Wrexham.

SEP-20

Recent player transfers

Midfielder Simon Holloway has joined Rhyl from Cymru Alliance side, Holywell Town.

Midfielder Dale Evans has joined Cwmbran from nearby Newport County. He joins striker Steve Loverso, who failed to make an impression in Scotland and has re-signed for the club he played for 7 times last season, scoring twice.

Other players on the move were Atif Bashir who has signed for Pontypridd Town. Bashir was club captain at Grange Quins and can play in midfield or defence. He has had WPL experience with Afan Lido and played in the WPL with Grange last season, he was also a junior with Cardiff City.

SEP-20

New faces for Caernarfon

Managerless Caernarfon Town have today signed experienced defender Steve Yates from Morecambe. Previously he was with Halifax, for whom he signed in January 2006 on a contract until the end of the season but he was released in May of this year and joined Morecambe and featured 8 times for the club.

Yates helped Huddersfield to promotion in 2004 in the Play-offs at the Millennium Stadium, before deciding to retire at the end of the 2004/05 season. However, he returned to football and made one appearance for Scarborough in early January. Yates has also played for Tranmere, QPR and Bristol Rovers.

Meanwhile, Caernarfon have short listed two individuals to become the new Manager and will be interviewing in Monday evening and hope to announce the new Manager on Tuesday.

SEP-20

Wharton's hope for a bright future

CWMBRAN Town manager Sean Wharton believes that the future for the club is "looking good."

The Crows take on the Principality Building Society's Welsh Premier League's full-time teams Llanelli and TNS in the next four days - the former tonight at Cwmbran Stadium in the Loosemores League Cup (kick-off 7.30pm) and at TNS on Saturday in the league.

Cwmbran are fourth in the table and although the season is young, Wharton still bears the scars of last season's battle when they were beset by financial problems, player exodus and escaped relegation only when other clubs couldn't meet the criteria.

Wharton said: "What happened last season hardened me and taking on the likes of Llanelli and TNS is nothing compared with what happened to us last season. But now the future looks good."

Cwmbran's attendances are marginally higher than last season and Wharton added: "I think the word is getting round the town that we are playing good football - and, win lose or draw, we have local lads in the squad and that was one of my goals when I took over.

"It is going to be tough against Llanelli and TNS but our priority is staying up and the focus is on the league. We have two tough tests because we are facing boys whose livelihood depend on it while for my side it is a hobby.

After the game my boys go back to work - they'll probably be in the sauna or Jacuzzi."

South Wales Argus

SEP-20

Druids, Citizens and Port earn Premier Cup Victories

NEWI Cefn Druids forgot about their Principality Welsh Premier League woes to earn an excellent win in their debut in the FAW Premier Cup this evening. It was the prolific Carl Lamb, a summer signing from Bangor City, who again scored for the Ancients after they were twice behind.

Druids Manager, Dixie McNeil ordered his side to forget about their League form and reminded his side that they were playing Cup football and it proved a masterstroke. McNeil stated "I'm going to tell the players that it's a cup game, and you win cups by showing fight. We've been so unlucky so far this season, but we have to start showing that fighting attitude and determination to start getting wins." He handed a debut to former Caernarfon manager, Waynne Phillips after he signed in at Plaskynaston on Tuesday.

Ross Jeffries opened the scoring for Tomi Morgan's men against his former club but striker Mike Heverin pulled McNeil's men level a minute later. Pool then regained the advantage as Geraint Windsor headed them ahead, but the Druids showed great Second Half resilience, something that they lacked in their defeat to Cwmbran on Saturday and they again pulled level courtesy of their skipper, Aled Rowlands.

In an exciting end, it was Lamb, who scored twice on Saturday, that ended the Premier Cup dreams of Welshpool and send the Druids through on a memorable night as Plaskynaston. There was more bad news for Tomi Morgan when Jeffries was given his marching orders after pushing Druids' 'keeper, Matt Hogg.

Also in the Premier Cup, CPD Porthmadog who have also struggled for League form won a close encounter at Y Traeth by 1-0 against Aberystwyth Town. It was Wales Semi Pro International, Les Davies who scored the winner to send Porth through to the next round. The final Premier Cup match of the evening saw Caersws' chances fade as they slumped to a 3-1 defeat at Farrar Road against a classy Bangor City.

In the Loosemores Cup, Carmarthen defeated Haverfordwest in Group D, by 3-1. They led through first half Nathan Cotterrall (pen) and Kaid Mohammed goals and Danny Thomas added the third on 67 minutes. Tim Hicks' 80th minute strike was mere consolation.

SEP-18

Waynne Phillips is now a Druid

Former Caernarfon Town Manager Waynne Phillips has signed for the League's bottom club, NEWI Cefn Druids.

The former Wrexham midfielder, who is 35 years old, transferred today, having left the Canaries following their Loosemores League Cup defeat at Bangor last Tuesday.

Phillips' new club currently prop up the Principality Welsh Premier League table and Caernarfon are sat just one place and one point ahead of the Druids.

Phillips will certainly add more experience to the squad which will be welcomed by Manager Dixie McNeil and he will almost certainly help out in a coaching role as well, having already achieved a UEFA 'B' Licence.

SEP-18

Local results in the welsh cup round 1

Paul Lewis began his reign as Morriston Town manager with a deserved 3-1 win at second division rivals Cambrian & Clydach in the first round of the Welsh Cup. His arrival back at the Dingle following an 18-month stay at Garden Village followed the recent departures of Michael Ellery and Dean Beniamous.

''The club will for ever be grateful to both Michael and Dean for all their hard work, and we were delighted to be able to secure our first-choice candidate Paul Lewis,'' said Morriston general secretary Mike Rogers.

''And for the boys to go out and get a good win at Cambrian has got his reign off to a flying start.''

A 25th-minute header from Michael Chapman put the Dingle men ahead in the Rhondda, while a Michael Gammon cross was turned into goal on the hour.

And the game was all up for Cambrian once Paul Sweeny was dragged down in the box, and Chapman converted the ensuing penalty.

Lewis's old club Garden Village marched into the next round on Saturday week with a thumping 6-0 success over AFC Llwydcoed at Stafford Common.

Steve Devonald opened the scoring and a brace from Steve Evans made it 3-0 at the break, and another scoring pulse hit the Cynon Valley side on the resumption.

Straight from the restart Rob Shannon netted, and after Llwydcoed again squandered possession, Shannon got a second goal in the space a minute.

A Luke Davies own goal saw Llwydcoed hit for six and Village completed a good day by announcing the arrival of midfield ace Del James from second division rivals Garw.

Neath Athletic once more struggled at Aberaman, but the Llandarcy Park side just managed to win the day 2-1.

Having been held 2-2 at the ground in the league last month, Neath went a goal down, only for young centre-back Lee Bevan to equalise just before the break.

The winner was carved out by Cynon Valley boy Jarrod Price, whose tantalising run ended in sharp-shooting Carl Shaw knocking in a 70th-minute winner.

A late burst of scoring carried Pontardawe Town to a 4-1 success over plucky Porthcawl Town at the Recreation Ground.

The tie was goalless until a header from Gareth Griffiths put the Seasiders ahead in the 75th minute - but the lead lasted less than a minute.

Richard Cleverly and Jamie Rickard engineered an equaliser for Steve Davies, and three goals in the last 10 minutes via Stuart Hoskins, Richard Cleverly (penalty) and Chris Gardner saw Ponty home.

West End required extra-time before claiming a 4-2 victory over third division AFC Porth at Dinas Park.

A goal adrift after 20 minutes, the Pryderi Park boys levelled through yet another Anthony Wright penalty, while Neil Phillips drilled home a free-kick just before the interval.

However, Porth equalised midway through the second half, taking the tie into extra-time, and last-gasp goals from Anthony Wright and Andrew Tyrrell saw the Townhill side safely through.

Extra-time was also the order of the day as Ammanford progressed with a 4-3 penalty victory over visiting Pontyclun.

Dean Jenkins sent the Rice Roaders ahead in the 25th minute but it was 1-1 at 90 minutes and after extra-time. Penalties from Liam Preece, Adam Dart and Cerison Davies settled the issue.

However, managerless Briton Ferry bowed out 1-0 against Betws at Old Road, Nathan Hosgood hitting a 67th-minute winner.

Two games went ahead in the third division of the MacWhirter Welsh League, with Ystradgynlais twice ahead during a 2-2 outcome with Chepstow at Ynyscedwyn Road.

A second-minute goal from Ystrad's Michael Whapham was cancelled out by a Michael Davies penalty after Nicholas Maggs brought down Davies in the box.

A 35th-minute header from Whapham sent Ystrad back in front, but soon after Dan Savage equalised, and there was no scoring during the second period.

Llansawel suffered a double blow against Risca at Cwrt Herbert, losing 2-1 and having defender Stuart Williams stretchered off with a broken leg.

Sawel were 2-0 down when Williams was injured and although Rob Cann pulled a goal back, it wasn't to be.

TONY POOLE

SEP-17

Port Talbot rack up record win

PORT Talbot manager Wayne Davies was jubilant after this rout - calling it "our best performance so far this season".

In fact, striker Martin Rose hit both post and crossbar in the first 15 minutes - and then had to wait until the final 10 minutes to get on the score-sheet (twice).

Trailing to an early Lee John strike, Caernarfon defended with determination until they fell further behind to Port Talbot's best goal of the day.

Martin Rose provided the cross, and Chad Bond made the ground from midfield to score with a perfect diving header.

The margin was just two at half-time, but Bond scored his second a minute after the restart which broke Caernarfon spirits and opened the floodgates.

The goals kept coming after that, with Andy Mumford scoring a brace, in the 54th and 69th minutes, before Rose helped himself blossomed with two late goals of his own.

For Caernarfon, Lee Jones' consolation goal five minutes from time was precious little consolation for a well beaten Canaries side.

Western Mail

SEP-17

Reds hit Rhyl for six

STATISTICIANS and football anoraks will be searching their records after this shock result, looking to find the last time that a team was second in the table with a negative goal difference.

After four straight wins, the wheels came off for Rhyl with a vengeance, and none of the players will be looking forward to their next training session - or perhaps that should be "inquest".

It is tempting to point to the dismissal of striker Jamie Brewerton after 34 minutes when the score was 1-0 to the home side.

However, the visitors had already been under great pressure, finding it almost impossible to win - and retain - possession.

Llanelli gave notice of their intent when Lee Phillips sent Gary Lloyd clear and, from his cross, Cortez Belle hit the post.

They took the lead just three minutes before Brewerton departed. Craig Williams sent a right wing free kick into the area, and Rhys Griffiths escaped his marker to power a header past keeper Paul Whitfield.

Three minutes after Brewerton's departure, Llanelli doubled their lead when Belle put his compatriot, Jacob Mingorance, through. The Spaniard had just enough pace to reach the ball and toe-poke it into the net.

There were no more goals until 15 minutes into the second half, but it was still one-way traffic, with the would-be league leaders under the cosh.

Griffiths grabbed his second from another Williams cross but was denied his hat-trick when Whitfield turned his goal-bound header over the bar.

Mingorance lobbed the keeper to make it 4-0 before Griffiths got his hat-trick with a header.

Llanelli's best goal was the last, with Mingorance bursting through from just in Rhyl's half before completing his hat-trick with a fierce low shot inside a post.

Peter Nicholas' combination of local and Spanish talent is going to set plenty of problems for the rest of the Welsh Premier sides this season.

Western Mail

SEP-17

News Saints go back to the top

TNS swept back to the top of the Welsh Premier with a crushing 4-0 victory over previously unbeaten Connah's Quay Nomads at Treflan, writes John Edwards.

John Toner gave the hosts a fifth-minute lead and he doubled the Saints' advantage in the 62nd minute. Further goals came from Phil Baker and Nicky Ward.

A penalty six minutes from time from Luke Sherbon saved Aberystwyth from a rare home defeat by Haverfordwest, a magnificent contest ending 2-2 at Park Avenue.

The visitors took a 45th-minute lead through Chris O'Sullivan, Stewart Roberts (51) levelled then Tim Hicks looked to have won it for the Bluebirds until Adie Harris handled in the box.

Western Mail

SEP-16

Nicholas weary of Rhyl threat

There is an air of expectancy at Stebonheath Park as Llanelli prepare for tomorrow's visit of Welsh Premier leaders Rhyl, who put their 100 per cent record on the line.

The Reds were not in league action last weekend but beat arch rivals Carmarthen 4-3 in a Loosemores League Cup thriller on Tuesday night, which provided the ideal preparation for Peter Nicholas's men.

''It was a very good result and I was pleased with the way we performed," said Nicholas.

"But Rhyl will pose a different challenge and are not at the top by chance.

''They have won all four league games so far and we had some good battles with them last season.''

Llanelli have no injury problems, although there is a doubt over Antonio Corbisiero, who was red-carded against Carmarthen.

Meanwhile, former Swansea City striker James Thomas, recently signed by the Reds, is on the verge of making his debut for the club.

Nicholas confirmed: ''He will get a run-out at Cwmbran next Tuesday.

South Wales Echo

SEP-16

In-form Neath seek cup glory

Neath Athletic, who play Aberaman Athletic away in the Welsh Cup tomorrow, have made a big start to the new MacWhirter Welsh Football League season.

They are the only unbeaten team in Division One, stand top of the table and fired six goals in their Shamrock Travel Cup tie against Third Division AFC Goytre last weekend.

Now they travel to face fellow Division One team ENTO Aberaman, who lie fifth in the table.

This is a crucial campaign for Neath, who missed out on the Welsh League title behind Goytre United and, when the champions declined the chance of promotion, also missed out on the chance to step up.

There are 45 Welsh Cup ties in total tomorrow with Cardiff Corries facing a tough test at home to Welsh League Division One club Maesteg Park.

Dinas Powys take on fellow Division One team Bryntirion Athletic at home, while Barry Town entertain Croesyceiliog.

Barry, managed by Gavin Price, have still to score a goal this season as they battle to slowly strengthen their squad.

Price insists his team will improve steadily over the season as the club come to terms with the financial implications of their return to Jenner Park.

Taffs Well make the short trip down the M4 to Bridgend Town, while Uwic visit AFC Goytre.

Ton Pentre, who suffered a shock Shamrock Travel Cup exit last week against newly-promoted Llangeinor, the South Wales Amateur League champions last season, are at home to Merthyr Saints.

Rhondda club AFC Porth entertain West End and Ely Rangers take a trip to Troedyrhiw.

South Wales Echo

SEP-16

Nicholas weary of Rhyl threat

There is an air of expectancy at Stebonheath Park as Llanelli prepare for tomorrow's visit of Welsh Premier leaders Rhyl, who put their 100 per cent record on the line.

South Wales Echo

SEP-16

Crows in form

New-look Cwmbran Town, who have made a good start to the Principality Building Society Welsh Premier League season, look to fit in one of the missing pieces - a home win - when they take on bottom team NEWI Cefn Druids at Cwmbran Stadium tomorrow (kick-off 2.30pm).

The Crows, who have an unchanged league line-up to face the Druids, have seven points from four games, including two away wins.

But at home they need to improve, having lost the opening fixture to Rhyl, although only by the odd goal after being in front, and a goalless draw with Haverfordwest.

Even so, it is still an encouraging start for manager Sean Wharton and his management team after the dreadful time last season where they escaped the drop from the Welsh Premier by the skin of their teeth.

Wharton said: "It has been a good start to the season. The boys have responded really well and everything is going great at the moment.

"But everything bad that could have happened to us did so last season and anything that happens now has got to be better."

South Wales Argus

SEP-16

Powell's dilemma ahead on TNS game

Unbeaten Connah's Quay Nomads step into the lion's den at TNS tonight looking for a double over Ken McKenna's feared full-timers. Nomads boss Neville Powell is eyeing up the chance of his side repeating their memorable 2-1 home victory over the champions in their Loosemore's Cup Group B clash at Flint last month. We played really well in midweek to beat Newi Cefn Druids 3-0 without several of our most senior players, so making a decision on our line-up is a genuine problem," said Powell. Craig Hutchinson and Phil Molyneux both missed the Druids match along with star striker Tommy Mutton, who should return.

Former Everton youngster, Christian Seargeant made a scoring debut in midfield in midweek and he will also be in contention to make his Principality Welsh Premier League debut.

Ken McKenna's side now lie two points behind early leaders Rhyl, but a victory tonight would take them above the Seasiders for a few hours at least.

"It's going to be a difficult game as they are much improved, and they beat us in the cup with a weakened side," said McKenna. TNS go into tonight's encounter on the back of six straight league wins on home soil against the Nomads. They enjoyed an 11-0 Loosemores League Cup romp against Airbus UK in midweek and will pick from the same squad, with front runner Alfie Carter still ruled out because of a foot problem.

Daily Post

SEP-14

New Brains for FAW

Cardiff brewery company SA Brains is set to become a sponsorship partner of the Football Association of Wales, the Echo can reveal today, writes Mark Bloom.

It will complete a sporting hat-trick of Welsh sponsorship deals for Brains, which already has its name on the jerseys of the national rugby and Glamorgan cricket teams.

The SA Brains brand name is believed not to be on the Wales jersey, but the deal is seen as more of business opportunity similar to that of previous brewery sponsors Coors.

SA Brains and the FAW will officially announce the deal in the week leading up to next month's 2008 European Championship qualifying double header against Slovakia and Cyprus at the Millennium Stadium.

South Wales Echo

SEP-14

Derby ties for second round

Two derby ties stand out in the second round of the Welsh League's Shamrock Travel Cup on November 11.

League champions Goytre United host second division West End, while Briton Ferry have home advantage over neighbours Afan Lido. Neath Athletic meet Llantwit Fardre for the first time at Central Park, while Llansawel and Ystradgynlais have been paired at home against third division colleagues Cwmbran Celtic and Llangeinor respectively, and Pontardawe entertain Llanwern.

Full draw: Aberaman v Taffs Well, Abertillery v Maesteg Park, Bettws v Newcastle Emlyn, Bridgend Town v AFC Porth, Briton Ferry v Afan Lido, Caerau Ely v Treharris, Cambrian & Clydach v Cardiff Corries, Goytre United v West End, Grange Quins v Ammanford, Llansawel v Cwmbran Celtic, Llantwit Fardre v Neath Athletic, Pontardawe v Llanwern, Pontypridd v Caldicot, Porthcawl v Morriston, Tredegar v Caerleon, Ystradgynlais v Llangeinor.

Tony Poole

SEP-14

Legg given all-clear after his latest scare

Former Bluebirds hero Andy Legg has been given the all-clear following his latest cancer scare.

The 40-year-old former Cardiff City captain and Welsh international, who has undergone surgery twice, spoke of his joy after tests came back negative after a month-long wait.

He said: 'I'm safe for the next six months, and I can relax for now. The first scan is a big one, to see if there's anything there, and it was concerning that I had to have mine early.

'There were days when I didn't think about it, but it plays on your mind.

'Maybe the doctor was being cautious, but thank God it's come back normal. It's a massive relief and I'm just glad it's all over.'

South Wales Echo

SEP-13

Phillips leaves Caernarfon post

Wayne Phillips has decided to stand down as the manager of Caernarfon Town.

The former Wrexham midfielder will take charge of the Canaries for the final time in Tuesday night's Loosemore's Challenge Cup game at Bangor City.

Phillips, 35, officially took over his home-town club as player-manager in May 2004, having held the post for the final three months of that season.

The decision to step down was taken over the weekend, with Phillips' replacement yet to be confirmed.

BBC

SEP-13

Goals galore in Loosemore's cup

TNS equalled their biggest win after crushing Airbus UK 11-0 in the League Cup Group A.

There were hat-tricks for all their front men, John Toner, Michael Wilde and Nicky Ward, with Scott Ruscoe and Tommy Holmes also on target.

Also in Group B, Connah's Quay Nomads were far too good for struggling Newi Cefn Druids, who slumped 3-0.

The hosts hit through Christian Sargent, Marc Limbert and Stuart Cooke.

In Group A, Bangor achieved their first win in a 3-1 defeat of Caernarfon, Paul Roberts (2) and Ashley Stott scorers. Kenny Irons grabbed a consolation for the visitors.

Rhyl inflicted a first defeat on Porthmadog, Mark Connerley grabbing the decisive goal four minutes from time.

In Group D, there was drama at Stebonheath Park as Llanelli clinched a tense 4-3 victory over close rivals Carmarthen.

It was the visitors' first defeat in 14 games.

A Rhys Griffiths double sparked the Reds' triumph with Jason Mingorance and Craig Williams also on target.

The Carmarthen scorers were Kaid Mohamed, Tom Ramasut and Sasha Walters, while the Reds finished with 10 men, Antonio Corbisero sent off 10 minutes from time.

Port Talbot won the battle of in-form sides, beating Cwmbran 3-1 thanks to Chad Bond, Kirk Huggins and a Gareth Mouncher own goal. Sam Small scored for the Crows.

Western Mail

SEP-10

A different tale of two Goytre's

In what proved a tale of two Goytre's, the Port Talbot side scored six goals while the Monmouthshire version were hit for six.

United gained a thumping 6-0 home success over Garden Village, who had goalkeeper Stuart Lloyd sent off in the 20th minute for bringing down Richard Ryan outside the box. Dai Rimmer took over in goal with strikes from Luke Bowen and Ryan making it 2-0 at the break.

Ryan went on to complete a hat-trick while two late goals from Darren Lyons completed a satisfactory afternoon for the 2005 winners.

But third-division Goytre crashed to a 6-1 defeat against Neath Athletic at Plough Lane - Jarrod Price (two), Lee Bevan, Andy Hill, Jonathan Keaveny and Carl Shaw were all on target.

But Llandarcy Park chief Andrew Dyer was red carded, following an altercation with referee Paul Lewis.

Tony Poole

SEP-10

Ellery quits his post at the Dingle

One of the longest-serving managers on the MacWhirter Welsh League scene has stood down.

Michael Ellery and his assistant Dean Beniamous resigned as managers of second division Morriston on the weekend. A difference with the committee led to Ellery packing his bags, having helped to turnaround the fortunes of the Dingle club over the past six years.

''I couldn't live with the stance that the Morriston committee adopted, as it related to selection and I felt that was my domain,'' said Ellery.

He added: ''In the end it came down to a back me or sack me situation, and I had no alternative but to stand down.''

Ellery became the second casualty of the week on the second division circuit as earlier Paul Barrow, Richard Gay and Morrys Scott all stood down as managers at Briton Ferry.

Tony Poole

SEP-10

Ton Pentre shock exit to league newcomers

THE Shamrock Cup got underway with a major shock as league new boys Llangeinor knocked out former Welsh Premier side and ex-Welsh League champions Ton Pentre.

Llangeinor have made a flying start to life in the welsh league, by winning all five of their league games and conceding just two goals.

The Rhondda outfit went out in the first round due to goals by Dean Vokes, David Lewis and Lloyd Griffiths.

The defeat came after an Alyn Jones penalty and Steve Conaty goal had given the visitors a 2-0 lead.

SEP-10

Shamrock cup round up

High-flying Pontypridd travelled to Croesyceiliog and came away with a 2-0 victory.

Meanwhile, neighbours Llantwit Fardre pipped Aberbargoed 3-2 with two goals by Ryan Prosser and one by Geraint Owen.

A Sean Smith hat-trick helped Abertillery dispatch with Gwynfi United 4-1.

Luckless Barry travelled to Bridgend where they went down in extra-time to goals by Mike Hartley and Drew Fahaya. Barry scored through Zak Mizbar.

Goals were also abundant in the West as Ammanford thumped Chepstow Town 5-2. Nathan McNeil, Liam Preece (pen), Ceiron Davis, Luke Fayres and Adam Dart all netted for the home side.

Ystradgynlais knocked out Seven Sisters with goals by Liam Soroka and Mike Whapham, with Barry Herdman clawing one back for the Sisters.

Caerau Ely's Robert Greatex sparkled in the encounter with Cynon Valley outfit Llwydcoed - his hat-trick contributing to a 5-1 win.

Gwent side Goytre were given six of the best by Neath.

Andrew Hill and Jarrod Price got two apiece and Lee Bevan and Carl Shaw added to the total. Simon Ritter got Goytre's sole reply.

Lee Parfitt's brace helped Briton Ferryprogress at home to Cwmaman, while Goytre United smashed six past Garden Village, Richard Ryan's hat-trick putting the game beyond doubt.

Llanwern travelled to Troedyrhiw and came away with a 5-1 victory. Steve Porszewski netted twice and Troy Quarterly, Lee Pattison and Marcus Power each weighed in with a goal.

Cwmbran Celtic beat Penrhiwceiber 3-1 away. The home side started well with an Andrew Workman goal before Shane Williamson and sub Joe Carless scored twice.

Western Mail

SEP-09

Martyrs left in the dark by Premier Cup expulsion over lights

Merthyr Tydfil have been booted into touch by the organisers of the FAW Premier Cup because the floodlights don't come up to scratch.

And Martyrs boss Paul Sugrue says he is not impressed by the decision.

'They were good enough last season and the season before that,' he said.

'We are disappointed, but in the next three years we will probably be playing in a new stadium anyway.

'When we staged the FA Cup against Walsall here last season we brought extra lighting in for the Sky cameras.

'But what I can't get my head around is that the floodlights are good enough for league football, but not good enough for the FAW Cup.'

Merthyr will be replaced in the draw by Newi Cefn Druids.

Western Mail

SEP-09

Today's welsh premier Preview

Cwmbran Town visit Caernarfon today seeking to consolidate a promising start to the campaign.

A thumping 7-2 League Cup win in midweek over Haverfordwest followed a scoreless draw with the same opponents as they bid to build on a mid-table berth.

"We've had a good start and the attitude of the players has been excellent," said Cwmbran manager Sean Wharton. "But it's early days and we have to stay focused to cope with the demands of a very competitive league."

High-flying Carmarthen, who this week saw manager Mark Jones pick up the manager of the month award for August, also make the journey north to Airbus UK.

Jones has led the West Wales outfit to 12 unbeaten games and has worked wonders with a squad depleted by a loss of several key players in the close season.

"The players who have come in have settled really well and it has been a bonus to pick up where we left off last season," said Jones.

Rhyl, who have signed Wales U19 midfielder Mitchell Booth, formerly with Manchester United and Derby County, should extend their winning run to four matches at home to Porthmadog.

Champions New Saints entertain unbeaten Caersws at Treflan, while Aberystwyth will be looking to get back to winning ways at Newtown.

Western Mail

SEP-09

Last night's welsh premier round up

BANGOR CITY took over from Rhyl on goal difference at the top of the Welsh Premier after a 1-0 victory at Farrar Road over Welshpool Town.

Michael Walsh got the all important goal on the stroke of half-time to give the North Wales club the verdict, but with Rhyl, Carmarthen and TNS all in action this afternoon it could be a short stay at the head of affairs.

In the big South Wales showdown at New Bridge Meadow, Haverfordwest were left still searching for a first win of the campaign after going down 2-1 to close rivals Port Talbot.

The Steelmen went in front on 37 minutes with a disputed penalty, converted by Chad Bond, and Nicky Jones fired in a second four minutes later.

Port Talbot had Richard French red-carded but hung on for all three points, despite a late home effort from Simon Heal.

In the other game played last night, Connah's Quay Nomads were held 2-2 at bottom club Newi Cefn Druids, who picked up their first point of the season.

Western Mail

SEP-08

Port Talbot crippled with injuries

A bumper crowd is expected at the New Bridge Meadow tonight as visiting Port Talbot lock horns with Welsh Premier rivals Haverfordwest, with both sides looking to kick-start their season after indifferent starts. The Steelmen picked up their first points last time out from a tentative 2-1 victory over struggling Newtown and will be hoping for a repeat of the result on their last league visit to the ground.

Port Talbot manager Wayne Davies said: ''We won 3-1. I remember it being a close game, but on the night we took our chances better. I would definitely settle for the same scoreline this time.''

The Steelmen are beset by a crippling injury list that has deprived Davies of seven key members of his squad.

Robert Cockings, Craig Hanford, Dean Johnston, Andrew Mumford, Tom Hooper, Chris Pridham are ruled out.

The unlucky Cockings was injured in the 3-1 Loosemore's Challenge Cup defeat at Llanelli on Tuesday - his first outing of the season.

To compound the manager's problems, Hanford, who came on to replace the stricken Cockings, also picked up an