APR-24

Cut league to make it better sys Reds Chairman

Llanelli chairman Nitin Parekh has backed proposals to cut the Welsh Premier League to 10 teams.

Parekh was one of 10 top bosses to throw support behind the new plans, which will see two top divisions of 10 clubs based on licensing and ground criteria from the 2010-11 season.

Current Welsh Premier League champions Llanelli would be in the top flight due to their fine facilities and playing surface at Stebonheath Park.

LS

APR-24

Martinez’s Premier goal as Swans warn off rivals

Martinez’s astonishing start in management, winning promotion to the Championship in his first full season, has grabbed the attention of bigger clubs throughout English football.

At 34 years of age, the Spaniard is widely regarded as one of the brightest young bosses in the game after his team secured the League One title.

The Swans have acted within days of going up by agreeing terms on a new deal with Martinez, which means they have secured his services until at least 2011.

The Swans value Martinez so highly, it is believed they have made him the highest paid manager in the club’s history.

“I’m confident that, if I’m given the time, I can get this club to the Premiership,” declared Martinez.

“It would be a big mistake to just try and somehow get there quickly and then not be good enough to remain there.

“In that respect my job is to work on a daily basis towards creating a football club that will be able to get there and achieve our Premiership dream.

“For that I believe five, six or seven years to be the normal amount of time needed to be a Premiership force. But our end goal is that we can be a top 15 club in the UK.

“That is achievable because of the fan base we have got, the talented squad we have got and the people we have got on the board.”

He continued: “It’s going to be a big jump into the Championship. But we will slowly make sure we are a solid club that can remain there and that, further down the line, we are strong enough to compete at that level.

“Then we can dream of the Premiership.

ICW

APR-24

Ridsdale: Cardiff City will sell stars

The Bluebirds chairman made his candid admission despite Cardiff already banking in excess of £2m as a result of their stunning march to the FA Cup final.

Cardiff’s crown jewels Aaron Ramsey and Joe Ledley are among the Ninian Park stars being watched by every leading club scout in Britain, according to Ridsdale.

He insisted the price on City’s players had gone up radically, as a result of the team reaching their May 17 Wembley showpiece against Portsmouth.

But Ridsdale warned that despite City’s stunning cup success, they may still be forced to cash in on their most valuable assets if the right money is offered.

The Cardiff chairman spoke out after Everton boss David Moyes watched teenaged ace Ramsey and Welsh international Ledley in action at Wolves on Tuesday night.

“Every scout under the sun is watching Cardiff at the moment and every player has a value,” said Ridsdale.

“I expect people to be knocking on my door, but they can knock as much as they like. Certain players have a value and that is that.

“Every player is up for sale, that has always been the case. What has changed is that the price has just got bigger – it would take a massive cheque to prize certain players away.”

ICW

APR-24

Quadruple dream dies as Reds are pipped by Neath

Llanelli's dream of a season quadruple died at Stebonheath Park on Tuesday night as a youthful side lost an epic West Wales Senior Cup final to Neath Athletic after extra time. 

The Reds can still add the Welsh Cup and League Cup to their Welsh Premiership crown, but a Chris Pridham goal in extended play denied them this regional prize.

LS

APR-24

Brace believes Carmarthen can make huge strides next season

Deryn Brace believes Carmarthen Town can make huge strides next season.

Town's player-manager led his side to a sixth-place finish in his first campaign in charge but believes there remains plenty of room for improvement.

"The main thing is the squad knows where they went wrong and we need to use this experience to hold us in good stead," he said.

CJ

APR-24

Trophyless Swans will still party

A defiant Roberto Martinez insists Swansea City will still celebrate becoming champions after their final home game despite not having a trophy.

They face Leyton Orient on Saturday after being crowned champions last weekend after rivals Carlisle lost.

The Football League has refused to hand over the League One trophy until Leeds United's arbitration hearing over a 15-point deduction has been settled.

"We've been the leaders for a long time and are there to stay," said Martinez.

The Swans beat Orient 5-0 in their corresponding fixture earlier this season and are hoping for a similar victory in front of their own fans to sign off a fine season at the Liberty Stadium.

"We want to keep the winning feeling and that's the philosophy in the football club," added the Spanish manager.

"We can't afford to drop our standards and the players know that."

Earlier this week the Football League revealed it would not present the League One trophy to Swansea this weekend due to Leeds' ongoing arbitration process.

Should United win their battle to regain the points taken off them earlier this season then they could still be in the running for the title.

As a result, the League has been legally advised not to engage in any actions which might be misconstrued or viewed as pre-empting the arbitration process in any way.

BBC

APR-24

Croesy boss heading for the exit

CROESYCEILIOG are in the hunt for a new manager after joint boss Chris Evans confirmed he is to quit at the end of the season.

Evans has been in joint control of the Woodland Road outfit in tandem with Neil Gilmore for the past eight years, the pair having dragged the club up from grass roots Gwent football to Division One of the MacWhirter Welsh League.

Now, however, the partnership is to come to an end following Croesyceiliog's final match of the campaign - the away fixture with already-relegated Pontypridd Town on May 3.

Evans and Gilmore started together with Girlings FC, who they took through to Division One of the Gwent County League before joining Croesyceiliog - where they repeated the feat and also guided the club to its current status.

"But all good things come to and end," remarked Evans. "There's nothing sinister in me finishing, I just believe managers can get stale and that players can also get stale with managers.

"I don't know whether I shall be staying with the club. At the moment I'm also acting chairman, but I've not made my mind up yet.

"I'd like to say a big thank you to Neil (Gilmore), who has been brilliant over the years and, of course, to everyone who has supported me at the club."

Evans revealed Croesyceiliog could announce the identity of a new manager as early as next week, but stressed he didn't know if Gilmore was in the frame to take over.

"It might be Neil on his own, Neil with someone else or a new man by himself - I really am unaware of the committee's feeling," continued Evans.

"There's a lot going on off-the-field at the club with, hopefully, the installation of new floodlights and changing rooms.

"So you can see the club is attempting to progress and it'll be great now if we can finish the season off by retaining our Division One status."

SWA

APR-24

Hamm keeps Dinas in title race

Hamm’s goal, two minutes into injury time, earned Dinas Powys a 2-1 victory at Caldicot Town. Wayne Morley had put the home team ahead with Drew Fahiya equalising.

Dinas have four matches left in their quest for the championship, against Cambrian and Clydach (away), Bridgend Town (home), Pontardawe Town (home) and Cwmbran Town (home).

Goytre United won 3-0 at Croesyceiliog, while Afan Lido defeated Garw 4-0 and Aberaman Athletic won 1-0 at Caerleon.

That leaves Ton Pentre top of Division One, one point in front of Goytre and Dinas Powys.

ICW

APR-23

Porthmadog Hero Viv decides to leave Y Traeth

His departure brings an end to his nine year stint with the club as Player, Assistant Manager and Manager. Viv explained his decision to the club's official website,

"I only agreed to take the job in a caretaker role to the end of the season and though the task proved more difficult than I had imagined, we have achieved what we set out to do and have kept the club in the Welsh Premier."

There is no indication as to who will succeed Viv Williams in the Port hot-seat, but current Assistant Alan Bickerstaffe could be a potential candidate. He has been at the club for five months and has previous Welsh Premier experience with Airbus UK. He is also on the Pro Licence Course which meets UEFA and FAW Club Licensing criteria.

Viv himself is hopeful that the standard of applicant will be high but suggested that the post may go externally as he added, "Port is one of the best run clubs in the league with a broad base in the community and I will only be too happy to liaise with anyone appointed to secure a smooth transfer, enabling the new manager to settle in and get to know the players."

OWP

APR-23

It's no longer the big 3, just the big 2 now

Wrexham's 87-year stay in the Football League came to an end after going down 2-0 at promotion-chasing Hereford.

Gary Hooper broke the deadlock after hitting the Dragons on the break three minutes before half-time.

The home side doubled their lead on the hour when Wrexham's offside trap was beaten and Richard Rose crossed for Theo Robinson to fire home.

The win boosts Hereford's hopes of gaining automatic promotion to League One, but sends Wrexham down.

BBC

APR-23

City fed to the Wolves

Wolves kept their play-off hopes alive but ended Cardiff's with a convincing win at Molineux.

Andy Keogh put the home side ahead with his 11th goal of the season after eight minutes heading home Kevin Foley's cross from the right.

Sylvan Ebanks-Blake added a second just before the break and was involved in the third on 56 minutes.

He forced a save from Peter Enckelman and Michael Kightly pounced first for the rebound.

Cardiff assistant manager Terry Burton:
"In between the two boxes, we were arguably as good as Wolves and probably better, but unfortunately, it's what you do in the box that wins football matches.

"We got the ball in and around the Wolves box on many occasions but we weren't cutting enough with it. Our final pass let us down.

"In our own box, we've got to defend the balls better."

BBC

APR-23

Martinez set for new deal, but no trophy

The Western Mail understands Swans officials have been tying up negotiations behind the scenes to sign their manager on a new deal after he took them roaring into the Championship.

But the good news about Martinez, has been offset by the Football League confirming to the Swans they will NOT get their hands on the League One trophy at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday.

Martinez’s men were hoping to parade the cup around the ground after their home game with Orient. But League chiefs have contacted the club to officially state they cannot be handed the trophy, or declared champions, until the fate of Leeds United and their 15 docked points is known.

ICW

APR-23

Llandudno out of 2nd spot and promotion

The Seasiders were quick off the mark through Shaun Eardley’s fifth-minute penalty, but an injury to captain Darren Jones followed and then Flint took over, netting through Paul Williams after 11 and Andy Renshaw on 35.

APR-22

Griffiths again a target for league clubs

Speculation has been rising that Llanelli top scorer Rhys Griffiths could once again be attracting the interest of league clubs - both Swansea City and Cardiff City are names thrown into the arena. But after Saturday's decisive 3-0 defeat at The New Saints Griffiths remained cool on the subject.

''Yes, I've heard the rumours but until someone talks to me they are just rumours,'' he said.

''No one has been in contact and I'm happy at Llanelli. We still have some unfinished business to attend to.''

That business starts at Stebonheath tomorrow night in the final of the West Wales Senior Cup against holders Neath, while League and Welsh Cup finals against Rhyl and Bangor City follow on Sunday and Sunday week, both at Latham Park, Newtown.

EP

APR-22

Rhyl face Irish trip in Intertoto Cup

Welsh Premier side Rhyl have been drawn against Irish side Bohemians for next season's Intertoto Cup first round.

The Lilywhites will play the first leg in Dublin on Saturday, 21 June before the return leg at Belle Vue a week later.

"It's a good draw for us," said Rhyl boss John Hulse.

"It's the fifth consecutive year we've qualified for Europe and it's been unkind for us - it's nice to get a draw near home as we are a part-time team."

BBC

APR-22

Swans wait for answers for league trophy

The ongoing fiasco into Leeds United’s 15-point deduction continues to disrupt Swansea’s promotion celebrations.

And it now remains unclear whether Roberto Martinez’s men will get the chance to receive the trophy in front of their home fans.

Club officials have tried to contact the League and make sure the trophy is at the Liberty Stadium this weekend.

But, as has been the case after numerous calls from the Western Mail, an answer has not been forthcoming.

It’s yet another embarrassing situation to add to the long list this saga has already created for the Football League.

And yet another unnecessary distraction from the Swans’ achievement.

Results on Saturday have already guaranteed the Swans promotion, irrespective of what happens to Leeds.

But, as they deservedly celebrate winning the league as well, an unwelcome cloud still hovers over the Liberty.

Should Leeds get all their points back, there is still a possibility they could overtake Swansea.

As such, Martinez’s team need another two wins to put the matter beyond any doubt. There’s every chance the Swans will get three of those points against Leyton Orient on Saturday.

ICW

APR-22

Bluebirds boss Jones throws in play-off towel

The Bluebirds head to Wolves tonight for their game in hand, but the City boss admits his side’s chances of promotion are over following defeat at Scunthorpe on Saturday.

It was a result which saw City drop to 13th in the Championship, eight points behind sixth-placed Crystal Palace with three games remaining.

And Jones feels it is unrealistic now to hope teams above the Bluebirds would drop enough points to make promotion a reality.

But he is expecting no let-up from his players in their remaining fixtures, with the Bluebirds looking to secure their best finish since their return to the second-tier.

Cardiff need six more points to beat the total of 65 gathered when they finished 13th in their first season following promotion back in 2004 under then boss Lennie Lawrence.

ICW

APR-22

Little ready for 'another chance

Brian Little says Wrexham have 'another chance' to hold on to their Football League status as they go to high-flying Hereford on Tuesday.

The Dragons boss will keep faith with his youngsters after they helped the League Two strugglers back to winning ways on Saturday.

"It's a big night for the club," said Little.

"Everybody got a lift on Saturday. It's another chance and nobody has given up here."

Defeat will consign Wrexham to non-league football and a draw will leave them on the brink.

But a win will keep their chances of staying up alive.

"It would be great to win a couple of games in a row and would put a little bit of pressure on a couple of sides," said Little.

"We have got nothing to lose. We're playing a very good side and we will do our best to get something out of the game.

"It would be a fantastic result if we can get one."

BBC

APR-22

Heavy loss hits County's play-off hopes

The Essex side put a lethargic County to shame with a display of fluent running and movement, spearheaded by high-class display from striker David Bryant.

Bryant struck in the fourth minute, racing past a static County defence from a throw-in, and added a second on 22 minute after fatal hesitation from Ian Hillier. Fola Orilonishe headed the third in just after the hour and, even after Thurrock skipper Lee Flynn had been shown a red card for an off-the-ball incident, Matt Bodkin added to Newport’s misery with a fourth goal.

County grabbed a consolation three minutes from time when Andy’s Gurney free-kick was fumbled into the net by goalkeeper David Blackmore.

The defeat means County must beat promotion rivals Fisher in their final game on Saturday – as well as hoping Bishop’s Stortford do not win their last match by a huge margin – to reach the Blue Square South play-offs.

ICW

APR-22

Bay need 3 wins for play-offs

Boss Gary Finley believes the Seagulls must win their final three fixtures to maximise their chances of making the Division One South play-offs.

Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Gresley Rovers was a big blow to the Bay’s aspirations of finishing in the top six.

The Bay manager said yesterday: “We’ve got to win all three games – it’s in our own hands.”

He added: “Normally, if we had three home games coming up against Goole, Belper and Spalding on alternate Saturdays we’d fancy our chances of winning all three, but having those games across five days makes it much harder.”

Bay have been hampered by the early departure of skipper James Olsen, who has just finished a three-match suspension but has taken up a coaching job in America and will miss the final games.

The Seagulls’ top scorer Neil Black, who came on as a late substitute at Gresley on Saturday, might be risked from the start tonight despite the striker carrying a hamstring problem.

Defender Steve Rowland, who was on the bench on Saturday but did not take part due to a shoulder injury, faces a late fitness test.

Striker Anthony Wright is out due to work commitments while John Lawless, who played despite illness on Saturday, will be assessed today before Finley makes a decision on whether to include the midfielder.

DP

APR-21

Port Talbot chairman praises manager Tucker

It has been a traumatic campaign, both on and off the field for the Anglesey side, whose decision to change the management team twice through the season has not helped their cause.

Needing to win to have any chance of survival, the visitors rocked the Steelmen when Steven Kehoe put them ahead in the 32nd minute with a crisp left-foot drive.

But goals from Martin Rose, Matthew Rees and Liam McCreesh gave Port Talbot victory, sealed Llangefni’s fate and gave the Steelmen a fourth-place finish, their best performance after eight years in the top tier.

Joining a struggling Remax Stadium side after Tony Pennock resigned in November, manager Nicky Tucker has transformed the Steelmen.

Chairman Andrew Edwards said: “Nicky has done a fantastic job for us and we can build on the progress he has made.”

ICW

 APR-21

Goytre win again but can't close the gap

Second-placed Goytre United remain three points adrift of Ton Pentre after gaining a 3-0 home win over Caldicot in the first division. Following a goalless first half, an eighth goal of the campaign from Daniel Thomas put Goytre ahead on the hour, with two strikes from Richard Ryan wrapping things up.

This moved Ryan, who has scored 44 times this season, one goal ahead of Bryntirion's Robbie Walters.

Goytre visit Croesyceiliog on Wednesday ahead of Saturday's clash at Newport YMCA.

However, Afan Lido slid down to fifth place after surrendering an unbeaten away record in the league in losing 2-1 at Caerleon.

Goals from Luke Cueto and Chris Pearce took Caerleon clear, but they had Jamie Hillier dismissed in the 68th minute.

But Lido, who travel to relegated Garw on Wednesday, failed to score until the 92nd minute when Michael Waters struck.

Pontardawe Town crashed to a 5-0 defeat against Bridgend Town at a windswept Lock's Lane in Porthcawl.

The Exiles were two goals up at the break through Brian Showdery and Michael Parkins, with a goal brace from Leigh Pratt and a Dale Raven penalty wrapping things up.

Ponty remain nine points clear of Maesteg Park - and the relegation zone - after the Old Parish side lost 2-0 at Aberaman. Goals from Chris Summers and Dean Morris steered the fourth-placed Cynon Valley side to victory.

EP

APR-21

Caersws hoping for a reprieve

With Welsh League promotion candidates Ento Aberaman and Afan Lido struggling to make it into the top two of their division, the Bluebirds could yet be saved.

Dean Buckley settled this game when he hooked a 20-yard shot over despairing goalkeeper Andy Mulliner.

ICW

APR-21

TNS ready to hit back

This win was a far cry from the hammering they received at Stebonheath Park last month, a defeat that signalled the end of their fourth successive title bid.

“Believe me, we will come back fitter, stronger and faster next season and we will be the team to beat,” said Saints’ owner Mike Harris.

ICW

APR-21

Neath make telling point

Chris Seargeant put Bangor ahead with a skilful 23rd minute solo effort, but Lee Bevan (72) levelled to earn Neath a deserved point.

“We have finished seventh in our first season in the Welsh Premier which is very respectable,” said Neath boss Andrew Dyer.

ICW

APR-21

Swans dream came true - Martinez

Roberto Martinez says Swansea City's dream came true after clinching the League One title thanks to Carlisle's defeat by Southend.

The Swans lost 2-1 at home to Yeovil, but Carlisle needed at a least draw to keep the title challenge alive.

"We didn't get the result we wanted today but overall after 44 games we got what we wanted in terms of our dream," said Swans boss Martinez.

"Only one team can win the title and this is special."

BBC

APR-20

Steel team’s sterling effort

THE Steelmen clinched the points that secured a best-ever fourth place finish, while condemning the Anglesey outfit to bottom spot and relegation back to the Cymru Alliance.

It concluded a turbulent first season in the top flight for the North Wales club, who have gone through three managerial changes.

In contrast, Port Talbot boss Nicky Tucker has done a sterling job in guiding the Steelmen to fourth after taking over from Tony Pennock, who quit in November.

Tucker was naturally delighted to have achieved such a feat.

“It’s a massive achievement for the club to finish in the highest position in its history.

“All credit to the players who have responded magnificently,” he said.

Against the run of play, Llangefni drew first blood when Steve Kehoe netted in the 32nd minute, but their joy was short-lived as Port Talbot levelled before the break with main marksman Martin Rose on target.

That made a big difference to the course of the game and the visitors’ destiny as the home side created a hatful of second half chances, with skipper Matthew Rees setting the example when he latched onto a deflection from a corner to fire in a left foot shot.

The Steelmen drew the curtain on their most successful campaign and Llangefni’s Welsh Premier status two minutes from time as a Liam McCreesh header found the net.

WOS

APR-20

Alfie helps restore TNS pride

ALFIE Carter made his point with a first-half double as dethroned champions The New Saints turned the tables on the Welsh Premier’s top dogs.

The front runner had been placed on the transfer list by the Saints just a few days earlier but responded in style as his side cantered to victory at Park Hall.

In fact, Llanelli rarely looked like newly crowned champions as the home side earned some last-day consolation after seeing their three-year reign at the top ended by their rivals the previous week.

The encounter had been billed as a top-of-the-table decider a month ago, but with the visitors having already secured the title there was little at stake apart from pride. The Saints could at least reflect with satisfaction on their display, underlining that they will be desperate to reclaim the championship next season.

The transfer-listed Carter made his point with two well-taken first-half strikes, the first on the half hour when he turned on the edge of the box before dispatching his sweet shot inside the left post.

TNS had already carved the better openings, Mike Wilde’s header turned over the bar, while the striker also volleyed wide, and Carter also saw an effort cleared off the line.

But Carter was not to be denied his second when he was teed up by Scott Ruscoe, steering his low 15-yard shot past keeper Duncan Roberts.

Llanelli rarely threatened, Rhys Griffiths having a couple of efforts from distance, while Wyn Thomas was off target and sub Steve Evans had a shot saved in the second half.

However, it was the hosts who looked the more incisive going forward, with John Leah adding a spectacular third goal nine minutes after the break when he curled his rising 25-yarder past the despairing dive of Roberts from Ruscoe’s left-wing corner.

Having used their three substitutes, Llanelli played out the last 25 minutes with 10 men after top scorer Griffiths left the field.

And the Saints could have added to their tally but Carter was denied his hat-trick by the legs of Roberts, while John Toner and Wilde also went close.

WOS

 APR-20

Martinez unfazed by Leeds points dispute

Martinez’s Swans say they are the League One champions, even though Leeds can technically still overhaul them if they get their 15 points back.

The Swans celebrated on the Liberty Stadium pitch despite yesterday’s 2-1 home defeat to Yeovil. Carlisle’s shock loss against Southend meant Martinez’s men were definitely promoted.

Leeds could haul themselves back to within a point of the Swans, if they are awarded the 15 points docked at the start of the season. But Martinez insisted: “From the football side of things, we have earned the right to celebrate. If the Leeds decision goes against the football rules, it’s going to be a much bigger problem.

“As far as I’m concerned, Leeds are not in the race for the title.”

WOS

 APR-20

Referee shows card seven times in Neath game

AN end-of-season encounter with little at stake proved to be full of incident, as Caldicot referee Darren Adie produced the yellow card seven times.

And a couple of the offenders were lucky to escape more serious punishment.

A series of bad tackles mixed with dissent resulted in Neath players receiving five cautions, while two on Bangor’s side got into trouble.

The rival goals were scored midway in each half, Chris Seargeant for Bangor during their purple patch around 24 minutes, and Lee Bevan for Neath, when they impressed on 72.

Seargeant excelled with a mazy solo run past three defenders into a shooting position at 15 yards, before directing a confident effort beyond keeper Craig Morris.

And, while Bevan’s equaliser was different, it was quality as well, the centre-back swivelling at an angle on the left to slam an unstoppable 18-yarder.

City had provided the game’s first thrill, when Marc Limbert propelled a volley from 10 yards that would have made a super opener, but Morris reacted with a brilliant reflex save and soon after Les Davies went close with a header.

When Neath had their turn as the pace-setters, Jarrod Price, Dale Evans and Carl Shaw all went within inches but then visiting keeper Morris chopped City’s Karl Noon and escaped with a caution.

WOS

 APR-20

Little still praying for Dragons

Brian Little says no-one should completely write off Wrexham's survival chances after a crucial 1-0 win over Notts County.

The Dragons are six points from safety with three games to go but face a tough trip to promotion-hunting Hereford on Tuesday.

"We are still in there, we still might surprise everybody," said boss Little.

"It is a tall order but there is still a chance and you cannot give up on that."

And midfielder Matty Done says the win has lifted the spirits in the camp.

"Today is a massive confidence boost for all the lads and everyone involved," he said.

"We knew it wasn't going to be a thriller, but the lads who have come in have done absolutely brilliantly.

"It was a bonus to win and we will go into Tuesday full of confidence."

BBC

APR-19

Neath encouraged by first season at football’s top table

They are currently seventh, but could climb as high as fourth with a win at Bangor City tomorrow.

Neath are also in the West Wales Senior Cup final, against new Welsh Premier League champions Llanelli, at Stebonheath Park next Tuesday.

It has been an excellent first season for Neath and their manager Andy Dyer.

But they only drew 2-2 against relegation- threatened Caersws in midweek and a disappointed Dyer said: “We should have won. There was a lack of desire on our part.

“When there is no silverware or title to be won then the level of performance can drop.

“But we are at Bangor tomorrow and we know a good level of performance is needed to put us in the right frame of mind for our West Wales Senior Cup final against Llanelli next Tuesday.”

Neath won the trophy last season, while Dyer concedes it’s a tough task at Stebonheath, saying: “Llanelli are on a real high.”

A win at Bangor will put Neath ahead of their hosts, while they would also be above Carmarthen Town if they fail to beat Connah’s Quay Nomads away.

Port Talbot Town are fourth and they play at bottom club Llangefni Town. The North Walians, though, could still stay up with a win and if they achieved their aim could let Neath in for fourth spot.

ICW

APR-19

Leaders must show bulldog spirit in quest for league title

Taffs Well are the visitors and the Rhondda Bulldogs must win to keep their title hopes on track.

Second-placed Goytre United are three points behind with two games in hand – and the top two still have to meet at Glenhafod Park this season.

Goytre are at home to Caldicot Town, while Dinas Powis, in third place, are at bottom club Garw, who have conceded more than 200 goals in 30 matches this season.

Afan Lido are the only team in the leading group who can still earn promotion and they travel to Caerleon.

In Division Two, Bettws lead the way with Barry Town second and Cardiff Corries third. Bettws are at Caerau Ely, while Barry Town travel to West End and Corries entertain Llangeinor.

There are plenty of matches in midweek coming up. Cardiff Corries are at home to Grange Quins on Monday and then entertain Caerau Ely on Wednesday.

Barry go to Llanwern on Wednesday, while Bettws travel to Garden Village on Tuesday.

ICW

APR-19

Summer season not split answer to Premier woes

That is the view of Caernarfon secretary Elwyn Hughes as the debate resurfaces about how best to improve Wales’ top flight.

Plans are being forged to split the Welsh Premier into two tiers of 10 teams each after the League’s chairmen voted by 10 to four – four abstained – for the radical proposal at a meeting in Oswestry on Sunday.

Caernarfon were one of the clubs who didn’t support the idea.

“If the season was from March to November I think attendances would improve – especially in June, July and August,” said Hughes. “On summer evenings you’d have people coming in shorts and T-shirts, you’d get families coming to watch games, and tourists possibly at a loss for something to do of an evening might think ‘There’s a football match on, we could go and watch that’. It would probably improve attendances, and it all boils down to bums on seats.

“At the moment attendances are poor, and I think that’s got a lot to do with matches on a Tuesday and Wednesday night when teams like Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and United are on telly. If it’s a cold, wet night you’re not going to go and watch a Welsh Premier game, you’re going to sit in the comfort of your home and watch one of these big teams.”

Hughes said a two-tier system would not be popular with fans, saying: “It’s a Scottish system, and it’s not even very popular in Scotland.”

Newi Cefn Druids also voted against the split, with chairman Brian Mackie saying teams in the lower division would be forgotten.

Mackie said: “Teams who don’t get into the top tier will get left behind. It will end up with no promotion or relegation because of the strict licensing being brought in now, and there will be natural wastage.”

DP

APR-19

TNS bid for win over champions Llanelli

The game had been billed as a possible championship decider a few months back, but the Saints’ mixed form and an eight-match winning run from Llanelli saw the title settled last week.

However, the encounter will at least give the deposed champions a chance to make a statement before they head into their summer break.

Joint manager Mike Davies said: “It’s an unusual position for the players, who are not used to finishing second, but at least it’s a chance to end the season on a positive note.

“We want to put in a good performance for the fans who have supported the club during the season.

“It’s a good game for us to play as we look to build for next season, and we want to take positives out of it.”

The Saints cemented runners-up spot with the midweek 3-1 victory at Connah’s Quay Nomads, and a couple of young guns are again likely to be involved including Bosnian Nikola Andelic and 17-year-old John McKenna.

Forward Alfie Carter has been transfer-listed by the club while four other players, Martyn Naylor, Luke Holden, Carl Lamb and Kevin Townson, have also been released.

“It’s inevitable there are going to be changes,” said Davies.

He added: “These lads were not going to feature any more, so we thought it best to release them now so they have longer to find a new club.”

DP

APR-19

We can’t let fear get the better of us - Porthmadog

The Traeth side need to win to have a chance of staying up, and will be looking to avenge a 1-0 defeat at Belle Vue on Easter Monday.

Manager Viv Williams said: “We need the three points, obviously, and intend to adopt a positive mood and go for the win.

“At the same time, we recognise the Rhyl threat, because they are in third place, have invariably finished near the top and were champions four seasons ago.

“This is just like a cup final and we have to ensure we are up for it, keep our discipline and take our chances when they come.”

Matthew Hughes, who has hit 35 goals for the reserves in the Gwynedd League, will be promoted to the senior squad and utility man Richard Hughes will return after missing last Saturday’s 0-0 draw in Carmarthen.

Porthmadog are missing Rhys Roberts, who is banned after Saturday’s dismissal, and Richard Smart and Danny Hughes, who have work demands.

Rhyl manager John Hulse dismissed fears that his side would be soft-pedalling against Porthmadog, writes Mike McEvoy.

Anxious to allay the concerns of Porthmadog’s relegation rivals that the Lilywhites – who are guaranteed third – would be travelling simply for the ride, Hulse said: “We will be going flat out for a win.

“As far as we are concerned we will be looking for three points and we owe that total commitment to all the clubs involved and to the League.”

DP

APR-19

Swans on red alert as Jones heads for exit door

The Swans celebrated promotion with their win at Gillingham last weekend, only to be rocked by the news that the Football League will not confirm they are up while Leeds United’s fate is in the balance.

The Swans can put the controversial issue to bed by beating Yeovil at the Liberty Stadium this afternoon. Three points would mean Carlisle could not catch them, even if Leeds still could with a return of their 15 points.

But Martinez is clearly already planning for the future and will be put on alert after silky midfield man Jones said he would be leaving Wrexham at the end of the season.

The Swans, Cardiff, Burnley and Barnsley are among those said to be monitoring the player John Toshack rates highly.

Jones admits he does not know where he will end up next season, but confirmed it will not be at the Racecourse.

“I’ve been at Wrexham since I was eight and I am a fan of the club, but I just thought it was time to move on,” said Jones.

“I wanted a new challenge. My decision is made and that is it.”

Martinez will note Jones’ comments with interest and admits he is already looking at his squad to face the rigours of the Championship next season.

ICW

APR-18

Victory for Aberaman throws their hat back in the title race

Victory for ENTO Aberaman last at Pontardawe see's them throw their hat back into the title race. They beat Pontardawe 2-0 with a goal from Chris Summers in the 14th minutes, but did not make the game safe until the last minute of normal time when Dean Morris sealed the victory.

The 3 points see's them climb a place to 5th and on 56 points a point above Bryntirion and 1 point below Afan Lido. Just 2 weeks ago five clubs were battling it out for 2nd place with the Bulldogs clear out in front and looking cert.'s for another welsh league title, but their recent poor home form has seen the other 5 teams close the gap, and even Bryntirion in 6th place and 7 points off the top can not be ruled out if results go against the teams above them.

Ton Pentre threw a spanner in the works of Dinas Powys's title hope on Wednesday night with a 2-0 victory, but it is Goytre who have the games in hand to climb into top spot.

Two Gwent teams will have big a say in who wins the title, Newport YMCA, have 2 games to play against Bryntirion and one against Afan Lido and Goytre, and Newport not goal shy, they have scored 77 goals so far in the league, only Ton Pentre and Goytre have scored more. Caldicot Town may also throw a wobbler in the title race as they have to meet Goytre, Dinas Powys, ENTO Aberaman and Ton Pentre, Caldicot Town are the top welsh league club on recent form winning their last 5 games.

One game that might have a final say on the title takes place at Glenhafod Park on May 5th when Goytre host Ton Pentre, while Ton Pentre's home form of late has been poor their's nothing wrong with their away form so this game should be a cracker.

Tony

APR-18

Llanelli Chairman's title dream fulfilled

Nitin Parekh arrived at Llanelli with the dream of delivering the Welsh Premier League title. Twenty two months later he can finally give himself a huge pat on the back.

Not that he will, for Parekh is someone who deflects praise onto his colleagues.

But the Reds chairman has lived up to his word.

LS

APR-18

Martinez set to sign new contract

Swansea boss Roberto Martinez hopes to cap off last week's promotion to the Championship by winning the League One title and signing a contract extension.

The Spaniard's current deal runs out in May next year but BBC Sport Wales understands a new deal could be announced as early as next week.

"I've always been committed to Swansea City with or without a contract," said Martinez.

"They had to kick me out as a player and it will be the same as a manager."

A win against 18th-place Yeovil at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday would seal the title for the Swans.

And Martinez says that would "mean everything".

"The emotion we had after the game against Gillingham is something we have been waiting for, for 24 years and to be able to share that with the fans is something special," he said.

BBC

APR-18

Wrexham release on loan strike trio

Wrexham's end of season clear out has begun with three loan players appearing to have played their last games for the relegation-threatened club.

MK Dons striker Drewe Broughton and West Brom front man Stuart Nicholson have been told they will not feature again this season.

And Robert Duffy, who is injured, is returning to Oxford United.

"The manager has said he's going to throw in some youngsters and give others a chance," said a club official.

"They are not being sent back in disgrace or anything like that. But we have 39 players on our books.''

All three have failed to make any significant impact for Wrexham. Broughton scored two goals in 16 appearances, Nicholson failed to score in nine starts while Duffy was restricted to six substitute outings.

BBC

APR-18

Swans say promotion will see income rise by £2M

Swansea's climb to the Championship means a dramatic increase in cash coming into the club, with their share of Football League TV money jumping from £450,000 to around £1.5 million a year.

EP

APR-18

Reds star Jones faces anxious wait over scan

Former Wales international Matthew Jones will undergo a scan tomorrow which will decide whether he will be back at Llanelli next season.

The ex-Leeds United and Leicester City midfielder returned from a career-threatening injury earlier this season to turn out for his hometown club.

His surprise return from a major back injury led to Jones helping the Reds to their first Welsh Premier League title, which they sealed last week.

EP

APR-18

Bridgend teen hopes to play in historic cup final

Jonathan Brown, who is 18 today, featured in the 18-man squad to play Barnsley in the club’s historic semi-final, although he did not take the field.

But if key team-mates are injured, the young striker from Litchard could make an appearance in British football’s showpiece event.

Brown said Cardiff’s 1-0 Wembley win on April 6 was the best experience he ever had.

“We were given a police escort to the ground through all the fans. Then, before the game, the gaffer wished us all the best and told us to keep doing what we’re doing.”

So what of his “gaffer”, the miracle-working manager Dave Jones?

“He doesn’t say much but he has shown confidence in me,” said Brown.

A product of Archbishop McGrath RC Comprehensive School, Brown was signed by the Bluebirds at the age of 12 and given a two-year scholarship at 16.

But after working his way up the ranks, he is now making his mark on the first team.

Impressive performances for the academy and reserves mean he mixes with the likes of Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Robbie Fowler.

He made his first team debut away at Coventry City two months ago. And On Saturday he came off the bench to terrorise Blackpool’s defence, in front of his home crowd at Ninian Park.

ICW

APR-17

Crows to look for local talent

NEWLY-appointed director of football Gary Proctor has vowed Cwmbran Town will recruit more local players in time for the 2008-09 campaign.

Following last season's relegation from the top-flight Principality Welsh Premier League, the Crows appointed Spaniard Guillermo Ganet as their new manager.

Ganet packed his squad with a load of London-based players with the team going to the top of the MacWhirter Welsh League Division One table after a 2-0 away win over Gwent rivals Caldicot Town on October 6.

However, matters quickly turned sour from that point with Ganet eventually having to recruit a whole new bunch of London-based players.

As a result, the Crows have plunged from top to 13th place following an horrendous run.

Cwmbran moved to promote Proctor from being Ganet's assistant and stressed in a statement that the former La Liga midfielder is still in charge of team affairs. The club also said Proctor's appointment will help build unity within the club.

"The club has decided to restructure for next season and I believe we also need to get local talent back playing at this club, it's something I have emphasised to the committee," said Proctor.

Carolynn Purcell, the local businesswomen who unsuccessfully attempted to take over Cwmbran 18 months ago, has joined the club's committee.

SWA

APR-17

Cardiff earn European approval

Cardiff City look set to play in Europe next season if they win the FA Cup, BBC Sport Wales understands.

The Football Association's professional game board has approved their entry into European competition next season.

Five Premier League and Football League delegates on the professional game board also sit on that executive body.

Meanwhile, the club have also confirmed that they will not press for the Welsh national anthem to be played at Wembley before kick-off on 17 May.

On European entry, the main FA board and Uefa will have the final say next week and Uefa has already discussed the possibility of offering them a wildcard.

BBC

APR-17

WPL Relegation still to close to call

The Anglesey outfit remain bottom of the table on goal difference from Porthmadog, after a 74th-minute goal from sub Dean Buckley gave the Canaries all three points.

Caernarfon continue to have the key to the trap door as they travel to Caersws in the final round of games on Saturday.

If they win at the Recreation Ground, and either Porthmadog or Llangefni can gain maximum points against Rhyl and Port Talbot respectively, the Bluebirds' continuous membership of the Welsh Premier would be ended.

But the mid-Wales outfit only need a draw to sentence Llangefni to the drop, as they have a better goal difference than their rivals, while the Traethmen must beat Rhyl to survive.

UWP

APR-17

City's FA Cup ticket share announced

Ticket allocations for Cardiff City's FA cup final with Portsmouth next month have been announced by the club.

The club have been allocated 25,000 tickets for the 17 May Wembley clash.

Ambassadors - people who bought season tickets early for 2007/08 and have renewed already for next season - are entitled to two tickets.

Season ticket holders who bought in the current season will be entitled to one ticket each, as will ambassadors who have not renewed for next season.

Ambassadors who bought season tickets for 08/09 only will get one ticket.

The club says it has 1,500 remaining 08/09 ambassador season tickets available and these have now gone on sale on a first-come-first-served basis until Friday.

BBC

APR-17

Prestatyn blinded by the light

The Cymru Alliance champions have applied for planning to erect 250 Lux floodlights, along with improvements to stands and the installation of turnstiles in line with Welsh Premier ground grading requirements.

In their report to the Council, officers say that, despite substantial objections from local residents, the development will not be to the detriment of local amenity, but have recommended restrictions on use of the lights to 12 night games and once in every 14 day period until 16.45.

The planners say that lighting levels must not exceed the levels applied for, so Prestatyn would need further planning permission to upgrade to the forthcoming 500 Lux requirement already in use at most top flight grounds.

The club now awaits news from the league on their application for an extension to the May 1 ground grading deadline.

UWP

APR-16

Llanelli enjoy party at Stebo with 5 goal haul

Over 700 turned out at the Reds' game against Newtown as Peter Nicholas' side romped to a 5-0 victory over the hapless Robins. Prominent midfielder Andy Mumford scored the opener after 21 minutes before Rhys Griffiths struck a memorable effort on 41 minutes. The deadly striker registered his 100th goal in Llanelli colours, which was well appreciated by the home faithful and a perfect time to reach the milestone. After the break, youngster Craig Jones scored the third, whilst Griffiths managed his brace and goal 101 after 67 minutes.'

It was an even more fitting and memorable moment in the 80th minute though, when local boy Gary Lloyd, who very sadly lost his father and long-serving Llanelli stalwart Gil earlier in the season, rounded off the game by scoring the fifth and final goal. Ironically, the game was re-arranged this evening as Gil suddenly died on the morning of the originally scheduled game.

OWP

APR-16

Port Talbot have 4th place in their own hands

The club's leading scorer, Martin Rose got the opener jus before the break, but Ross Stephens cancelled that out on 55'. 

Dylan Blain restored the advantage on 64 minutes and Rose settled it with his double later on, to maintain the club's hopes of a record fourth place finish.

OWP

APR-16

TNS start clear out and release 5 players

Carter, who joined the club from AFC Telford United in August 2005, is in the middle of a two-year contract and has scored 19 goals from 50 Welsh Premier appearances over three seasons.
The 27-year-old started his career in the Football League with Walsall before playing around the non-league circuit, moving to the New Bucks Head from Halesowen Town in August 2004.

It is the second time that wing back Naylor, the brother of Celtic's Lee Naylor, has been released by TNS. In total, he has spent six seasons with the club, scoring 13 goals from 114 league appearances, but has made only seven starts this season.

A former Liverpool and Tranmere trainee, 19-year-old Holden joined the Saints on a one-year deal last summer and scored six times in 27 appearances.

Townson, who was a teenage sensation at Rochdale and won a call-up to the England Under-18s, was signed in January during an injury crisis for strikers and netted five goals from six starts, while fellow striker Lamb was formerly at Bangor and NEWI Cefn Druids but failed to claim a regular first-team place during his two seasons at TNS, which yielded 10 goals from 33 top flight appearances.

UWP

APR-16

Rhyl win the battle Coastal batch over cup finalists

Marc Lloyd Williams struck straight after the interval to level the proceedings and he also grabbed the winner on 54 minutes.

OWP

APR-16

TNS get back to winning ways

The Nomads were given hope when Ged Courtney pulled one back on 65', but Tommy Holmes wrapped things up with six minutes remaining.

OWP

APR-16

Rhyl have choice or Five for Intertoto

Wales are ranked in the un-seeded pot of the Northern European Draw and their opponents will be representing Sweden, Latvia, Lithuania, Finland or Republic of Ireland. The five teams have been identified as one of the following;

Elfsborg (Sweden)
Skonto RIga (Latvia)
Ekranas (Lithuania)
TPS Turku (Finland)
Bohemians (Ireland)

OWP

APR-15

Welsh league title race hotting up

Goytre have the leagues highest points tally away from home with 30 points from 13 games consisting of 10 wins and 3 defeats, while Caerleon's home form is poor with just 4 wins from 13 games. But victory and top spot could be short lived as Dinas Powys have the chance to go top tomorrow night if they win their home game, but they have the small problem of having to beat Ton Pentre to get top spot, so any one of 3 teams have the chance to lead the table come tomorrow night, for Lido a draw between Dinas and Ton Pentre would be the best result with both sides dropping 2 points.

Also into the mix tonight and tomorrow ENTO Aberaman and Bryntirion have the chance to close the gap on the teams above them. Tonight ENTO host Bridgend and a win for the hosts would see them move up to 53 points still 6 off the pace, ENTO must start as hot favourites to take the 3 points as Bridgend's recent form is poor with just 3 points from their last 7 games. It's a busy week for ENTO as they have 3 games in 5 days.

Bryntirion will be looking to get back to winning ways following their defeat to us on Friday night and they face Taffs Well, and victory for Bryntirion will see them level on points with Lido but they would go above us because of their better goal difference.

Tony

APR-15

Welsh Premier League backs summer football plan

Clubs voted 7-1 vote in favour of summer football, with the others abstaining, as the Welsh Premier seems certain to follow the Irish Eircom League in terms of being played outside traditional winter months.

The campaign would start around February and March and finish in October and November.

ICW

APR-15

Swansea will not try to buy success

Chairman Huw Jenkins says Swansea will not turn into big spenders and try to buy success in the Championship.

The Swans secured promotion to the Football League's second tier with a 2-1 win at Gillingham on Saturday.

But Jenkins has warned fans not to expect a flurry of expensive signings when they step up a level next season.

"Many clubs have fallen foul of spending too much money and sometimes spending too much money on the wrong players," said Jenkins.

"I think that's what makes or breaks a football club.

"Looking at the sides who do spend a lot money, a lot of them are down in the bottom half (of the table) fighting off relegation and they've continued to spend money like Leicester, Southampton and Sheffield Wednesday.

"I think there's a balanced view that there are sides who are achieving quite a lot - like Bristol City and a few of the other ones near the top - and haven't spent that much.

"Spending money on good players who can grow with the club and invest their futures in the club is a different thing.

"So many try to gamble on a quick-fix solution and we all know that in football, like in business, it takes time.

"I think there needs to be a balance, the number one priority is to have a good manager, have a stable club and get the motivation right."

BBC

APR-15

Wrexham see the end of the road

Wrexham manager Brian Little is resigned to relegation and rebuilding after the 3-0 loss at Shrewsbury.

"We've said so much so many times, but this is really the end of the talking," Little told BBC Sport Wales.

"I have to be ruthless and sort the team out, there's a huge rebuilding job and we might lose favourite faces."

Wrexham are now nine points from safety with four games left, prompting club legend Joey Jones to berate the team in the dressing room after Shrewsbury.

If the Dragons' result at home to Notts County next Saturday is bettered by Dagenham, who play at Rotherham, and Chester, who play at Wycombe, then the club will be relegated from the Football League.

BBC

APR-15

Crunch clash for Barry Town in their promotion quest

Victory for Barry in their home match against UWIC at Jenner Park plus defeat for the students at home to Treharris Athletic would almost clinch promotion.

Only a dramatic turnaround in goal difference – Barry are currently 16 goals better off – could then deny the Dragons promotion.

UWIC, who have former Barry manager and Cardiff City defender David Hughes in charge, are 12 points behind Barry Town, having lost 1-0 against their rivals at Jenner Park a few weeks ago.

Manager Gavin Chesterfield and his Barry team have led the way for much of the season, but crashed 5-1 at Treharris on Saturday.

That allowed Bettws to go top.

ICW

APR-15

It's all to play for say's Bangor boss

As well as looking to finish a respectable fourth in the Welsh Premier, Powell is also considering his team selection for next month’s Welsh Cup final with Llanelli.

Powell said: “Three points from our last two games will probably clinch it, but we want to do it straight away and not hold back until we play Neath on Saturday.

“Our season is far from over, because the players have the Welsh Cup final against Llanelli to come and are keen to make sure they figure in the line-up.”

The FAW have confirmed that the cup final, to be played on Sunday, May 4, will be at Newtown’s Latham Park, and will be televised live on S4C.

For tonight’s game City will again have a full squad having avoided any new injuries in Friday’s 1-0 win at Llangefni Town.

Powell said: “We have enjoyed good results in all of the local derbies this season, against Rhyl, Caernarfon, Porthmadog and Llangefni – and aim to maintain that record.”

Previous meetings between the two clubs this season have seen two wins for Rhyl, one for Bangor and two draws.

DP

APR-14

Clubs vote to Re-structure the League

After a lengthy discussion involving all Club Representatives, the outcome was to re-structure the League from Season 2010/11. There will be a Premier Division of ten clubs, with a second League also made up of ten teams. The season will also culminate with Play-Offs and Promotion and Relegation will ensure an exciting end to the season.

The re-structuring has been put forward as Clubs face the prospect of a Domestic Licence determining membership of the League. The criteria, which is not as stringent as the UEFA model, will be too testing for all clubs to meet and subsequently the two-tier system will allow those clubs that do not achieve the standard immediately, to develop a more long-term plan to attain the standards based on Infrastructure, Youth Development, Coach Qualifications, Financial status, Personnel and Admin.

OWP

APR-14

Reds earnt the title - Griffiths

Striker Rhys Griffiths says Llanelli's first ever Welsh Premier title is just reward for their hard work this season.

"It's fantastic for everyone connected to the club, the chairman, management, officials, fans - everyone," he said.

The New Saints' surprise 2-0 loss at Airbus UK on Friday meant the title was secure, although Griffiths went on to score in the 1-0 win at Connah's Quay.

"All the players were elated, but it was odd to win on Friday," said Rees, whose goal was his 58th of the season.

"It wasn't the moment to start celebrating and we couldn't have a drink as we had a game to prepare for, it was off to bed."

The Reds welcome Newtown to Stebonheath Park on Tuesday, where Griffiths will be looking for a goal that would be his 100th competitive strike for Llanelli.

"It would be great to score it in front of our fans," said the fireman, who earlier this season had a trial with Swiss side FC Aarau before committing to a new deal with the Reds.

"But my big aim in the last two league games is to get the two goals I need to reach 40 for the season in the Welsh Premier."

BBC

APR-14

TNS vow to reclaim title

Needing to win to keep their faint hopes alive, the Saints were gunned down by first-half goals from James McIntosh and Danny Desormeaux, handing leaders Llanelli their first league crown.

TNS joint boss Mike Davies said: “We’ve now got to look to get it right for next season,” he said. “The club will be discussing how many contracted players we’ll have for next season but whatever we decide, we will be well equipped to challenge for the title.”

DP

APR-14

Darren Thomas wins WPL player of the month

His striking power has revitalised the club's fight against relegation and he will be keen to maintain his form in the last week of the season and pull Cefni clear of the drop in their remaining two games. The highlights of the month for the hot-shot were two fine hat-tricks in terrible conditions against Port Talbot and then in the mud versus Neath Athletic at Cae Bob Parry, whilst he also bagged an impressive brace against Aberystwyth Town.

Darren Bach, as he is affectionately known at the club, may be one of the youngsters in the team, but he is arguably one of the most talented as well, as he frightens opposition defenders as he runs at them with close control, which has been the catalyst for his excellent scoring streak.

OWP

APR-14

Llanelli boss wins Manager of the month

The Reds started the month in emphatic style with a 4-0 win over main Title contenders TNS, which put the club in the driving seat for this year's Top Honours. They then won a potentially difficult game at Port Talbot by 1-0 to extend their lead at the top. The next game saw the Reds come from two goals behind to beat Haverfordwest County 4-2 and they beat Porthmadog at Y Traeth by the same score on Easter Saturday. They continued their outstanding form with a double-win at Park Avenue to finish the month in style after a 2-1 League win over Aberystwyth and a 5-2 Welsh Cup Semi Final triumph over Rhyl.

OWP

APR-14

Little promises summer clear out at Wrexham

When he emerged from the New Meadow dressing room the ex-Dragons, Liverpool and Wales defender was still seething over the embarrassing and toothless performance that all but condemned the Racecourse club to relegation from the Football League.

And, having been confirmed on Friday in his job for a further two years, Little promised to be ruthless in dismantling the current squad and rebuilding during the summer.

“Today we looked for the players to do their talking on the pitch, but it was very poor,” said the Dragons boss.

“We’ve been running out of words in the dressing room after the game because it’s no longer about words but about actions.

“Joey Jones is a great hero and great friend of mind. He was not very complimentary to the players.

“He had to say them and I’m delighted he did because it was true. It’s a sad, bad day because we are virtually down now and the players didn’t do themselves justice either as individuals or collectively.”

It was as savage an indictment as Little has delivered since his arrival at the Racecourse last November.

ICW

APR-13

Ton Pentre lead the way for league title

Mike Jones got the all-important goal for the Rhondda Bulldogs, but second-placed Dinas Powys continued to put pressure on the leaders with a 3-0 home victory over struggling Pontypridd.

David Rooks got a brace and Drew Fahiya put the victory beyond doubt.

Caerleon travelled to Aberaman and defeated ENTO 2-1, Chris Pearce and Lewis Andrews netting for the Gwent-based side, with Dean Morris scoring for ENTO.

It was another difficult day for relegated Garw, who conceded eleven goals at title-chasing Goytre United. Richard Ryan also got a hat-trick, with a brace each for Daniel Thomas, Darren Lyons, Chris Parfitt, John Meacock and Michael Chambers also getting on the score sheet.

Croesyceiliog added to Maesteg Park’s difficulties with a 3-1 victory, Ricky Coff netting a brace and Nicky McGrath getting the other.

Callum McCullum scored for Park.

Welsh Cup semi-finalists Newport YMCA thumped Bridgend 5-1. A Danny Cueto hat-trick, a Gareth Lynch penalty and a John Pardue strike doing the damage.

Bettws continue to prosper at the top of Division Two after a 3-1 victory at Pontyclun. Darren Robinson opened the scoring, with Jamie Morris following with a brace.

Andrew Morris snatched a consolation for Pontyclun, while second-placed Barry were shock victims of lowly Treharris Athletic.

The Jenner Park outfit were unceremoniously hammered 5-1, Craig Howells netting a brace, with Ian Batton, Jamie Rees and Kevin Bounds from the penalty spot piling on the agony.

 APR-13

Swans overjoyed by promotion win

Swansea's players expressed their joy after the 2-1 win at Gillingham took them to the league's second tier for the first time in 24 years.

"It's a privilege to lead the team, to go one down then win - well, we're going to enjoy ourselves after that," said captain-for-the-day Alan Tate.

"It's brilliant for the fans, the city, everyone - the town will be buzzing."

Two-goal hero Guillem Bauza added: "This is the best feeling I've ever had, it's all for the fans."

The win saw the Swans set a club record of 86 points, beating the 85 of John Hollins' 1999-2000 side.

They are seven points clear of second-placed Carlisle with three to play, and could clinch the League One title next Saturday.

"It's unbelievable," said Swans midfielder Leon Britton. "In the second half we fended off wave after wave of attacks from Gillingham.

"The supporters have been brilliant all season and they were again this time, they deserve this.

"Now we just want to get on and prove ourselves in the Championship."

BBC

 APR-13

Cardiff keep play-off hopes alive

Cardiff kept alive their play-off hopes and kept Blackpool in the danger area.

Stephen McPhail opened the scoring with a stunning 25-yard strike from Aaron Ramsey's lay-off, Stephen McPhee and Ian Evatt wasting chances to equalise.

Tony Capaldi set up Ramsey, but when he miscued Trevor Sinclair struck the second confidently from 10 yards.

Peter Whittingham controlled Ramsey's pass well to get the third from 18 yards before Andy Morrell's consolation header off Paul Dickov's cross.

FA Cup finalists Cardiff are now unbeaten in 10 league and cup games, while the Tangerines have no wins in their last eight Championship matches.

BBC

 APR-13

Nomads make victory difficult for Llanelli

Airbus took all the pressure off Peter Nicholas’s men with that unexpected 2-0 win over Llanelli’s only remaining rivals The New Saints to allow the Reds a virtual lap of honour at the Deeside Stadium.

But the Nomads, out to avenge a 4-0 defeat in their December meeting at Stebonheath Park, were not prepared to roll over and counted themselves unlucky not to have pulled off a notable scalping to equal that of neighbouring Airbus.

Nomads showed they had learned a few lessons from that previous experience by dropping an iron curtain that left Llanelli struggling for chances.

Relaxed at having averted the threat of relegation, composed Nomads held the champions in check throughout a deadlocked first half and were unlucky to see a fine effort by Jed Courtney thud against the woodwork on 15 minutes. Nomads keeper Paul Pritchard hardly had a shot of note to save as his team more than held their own, with Mark Cadwallader only inches wide with a fierce drive from 20 yards.

Nomads manager Jim Hackett had flagged up the threat of Rhys Griffiths before the game and his fears that he could be their undoing proved only too prophetic. Just before the hour mark Griffiths produced the game’s only goal.

A Llanelli freekick was headed clear but only as far as Griffiths lurking near the edge of the box and before anyone could get in a tackle the Llanelli hero had steered a shot beyond the reach of Pritchard.

Manager Nicholas, who had watched TNS’s fateful crash the night before, was delighted to become the first manager to produce a championship winning side with two different clubs.

“It’s good it’s all settled and we don’t have to go to the wire,” he smiled. “Full credit to the players and staff and with three games to go, we can start to enjoy ourselves.”

ICW

 APR-13

Lilywhites rule roost over Steelmen

The Lilywhites broke the deadlock in the 18th minute when Chris Sharp scored with a beautifully angled shot across keeper Josh Payne into the far corner.

Sharp was on target again after 29 minutes when he turned neatly in the box and netted with his right foot from 15 yards.

A superbly worked third goal on 36 minutes saw Mark Connolly control keeper Lee Kendall’s long kick with his chest on the right, cross low into the area where Marc Lloyd Williams laid the ball off smartly, and Craig Garside lashed in left-footed.

Sharp’s sublime chip clipped the bar and Chris Roberts struck the woodwork twice before Rhyl made it 4-0 on the hour, when Lloyd Williams beat Payne with a deft chip from an acute angle.

Connolly’s free-kick hit the crossbar, but in the 76th minute fabulous play from Sharp saw him cross from the by-line and Lloyd Williams volleyed in from two yards.

ICW

  APR-13

Great escape for Caernarfon

Left-winger James Thomas was the early sharp-shooter, who converted the 10-yards’ gift, created by John Rowley as the visiting defence were caught napping.

On a heavy pitch, both teams found it impossible to produce their normal flowing play but Caernarfon adapted much better and had other chances to secure a comfortable lead. Rowley steered an effort into the side netting from close range, Bobby Jones forced keeper Dave Jones to save down at a post and Thomas swept a 15-yarder off target.

Aberystwyth, whose Robert Evans blazed a 25-yarder wide, hoped centre-back Aneurin Thomas would deliver in set piece situations but he miscued with three close-range headers.

During added time, Caernarfon should have doubled their authority but Phil Doran, after beating three opponents, fired against Aberystwyth’s Matthew Roberts on the goal line.

ICW

  APR-13

Porthmadog battle for a point against Town

But it was a point sufficient to lift the relegation-haunted visitors off the bottom of the table, Llangefni the new occupants on goal difference.

The only real incidents of the first half was first the sending off of Porthmadog central defender Rhys Roberts for a second yellow card offence.

Then, minutes later Jamal Easter went close, hitting the bar with a fine shot. The second half saw no improvement to the end-of-season fare on offer as both sides continued to struggle to make headway.

Striker Tim Hicks was denied by Richard Harvey in the Porthmadog goal and Danny Thomas was ruled offside after netting. Late on Kris Thomas hit the post for the home side but the gallant ten-man visitors held out to earn a share of the points.

ICW

APR-12

Llanelli are Champions without kicking a ball

Llanelli have been crowned Champions without kicking a ball this evening after TNS slipped to a 2-0 defeat against Airbus UK Broughton. The Saints guaranteed themselves the Runners-Up spot in midweek, and despite Assistant Manager Mike Davies hinting that some of the club's youngsters would feature, the Saints named their strongest possible side.

However, the Saints' professionals who are all playing for their futures at Park Hall were give a rude awakening when striker James McIntosh gave the hosts a surprise lead after twenty minutes. The Wingmakers then doubled their advantage on the stroke of Half-Time, when midfielder Danny Desormeaux scored passed Paul Harrison in the Saints goal.

Andy Cale brought teenage midfielder John McKenna and striker Alfie Carter on at the break for Chris King and Paul Henry, but there were no further goals, which means that Peter Nicholas' side have won their first ever Championship with three games to spare. TNS have just two games remaining but trail the newly crowned Champions by seven points. Llanelli make the long trip north in the morning to face Connah's Quay Nomads, safe in the knowledge that they will be bringing the Principality Welsh Premier League trophy back with them, no matter what the result at the Deeside Stadium.

 APR-12

Clubs meet tomorrow over 10-team league

The 18 clubs will get together for the first time to debate the radical shake-up that is being proposed by Welsh Premier chief John Deakin.

Clubs are being asked at the special meeting in Oswestry to agree a formula which will see eight teams lose their places in the top flight next season.

The plan is for a Premier Division of 10 sides and a Second Division of a further 10.

Teams will play each other four times a season, based upon the model used up in Scotland.

Deakin has suggested the move to counter a plan which has been debated by the FA of Wales to bring reserve teams from Cardiff City, Swansea City and Wrexham into the league.

Deakin accepts the league has levelled out and major change is needed to improve its perception amongst the public and crowd levels.

Even though many teams will lose their top flight status, the majority of Welsh Premier sides are believed to be in favour of the change being suggested.

ICW

 APR-12

Dream of promotion is on for Llandudno

The Seasiders, who visit Guilsfield today, could be promoted if new Cymru Alliance champions Prestatyn Town are refused entry to the Welsh Premier because of shortcomings at their Bastion Gardens ground.

Llandudno must finish as runners-up to be offered promotion – going into their last four games they are second on 55 points, followed by Bala Town with 54 and Holyhead Hotspur at 51.

Joint manager James Cornish said: “These will be four cup finals for us, because we know that, if we can win them all – two at home and two away – promotion could be offered to us.

“Our ground at Maesdu Park has been passed as conforming to all that the Welsh Premier require and, even though some people might say it is a back-door entry, we would go for it.”

APR-12

Bangor the victors in north Wales clash

It was a mixed evening for Llangefni, who were delighted to break their League record attendance as 701 people attended Cae Bob Parry to watch their key match by close rivals Bangor City. However, they were beaten 1-0, which adds more pressure on the seventeenth placed team in their fight for survival.

The Islanders were beaten by a solitary Peter Hoy goal, who has now scored twice in his last two outings. After a goal-less first period, the tall defender broke the deadlock on the hour and it was enough to seal all three points, as the Citizens leapfrogged Neath Athletic, Port Talbot Town and Carmarthen Town into fourth place.

The two matches between the sides in the League this year, have proved to be exciting encounters and have been watched by over 1,300 people.

APR-12

Little signs new Wrexham contract

Brian Little has signed a new two-year deal to remain as Wrexham manager.

The Dragons are facing relegation from League Two and are seven points from safety with five games remaining.

But whether Wrexham avoid the drop to the Conference or not this season, Little has vowed to turn around the fortunes of the north Wales club.

"My job now is to really resurrect things on the field, irrespective what division we are in next year," Little told the club website.

"We still have a number of games in which to save ourselves.

"It is important from everybody's point of view to get some stability back here."

The 54-year-old former Aston Villa, Leicester and Tranmere boss took over at the Racecourse Ground in November, tasked with saving Wrexham from the drop.

Little's initial contract ran until the end of this season, but chairman Neville Dickens and his fellow directors have continued to show faith in their manager despite disappointing defeats.

"I would like to think there are some happy supporters on hearing this news, but I accept that some will be disappointed with results over the last three months," Little added.

"What I would say is that our current plight is something that has gone for the last three years and it is something we have tried hard to put right in a short space of time.

"To those supporters who might be a little critical of myself, I would say 'look, judge me on the team I put together next season'.

 APR-12

Rhyl looking to finish in style

Hulse is upbeat despite losing 1-0 to The New Saints on Tuesday to lose out on a last chance of nicking runners-up spot.

“It was a disappointment because I felt we did enough to merit a draw,” he said. “Instead we were punished for one silly lapse of concentration and it cost us the game. That’s a lesson we have to learn in matches like this, which are very tight and demand total focus.”

Hulse is proud, though, of the third-placed Lilywhites’ achievement in qualifying for Europe for the fifth year in a row.

They will play in the InterToto Cup in the summer, and Hulse said: “We’ve done it off our own backs and no-one can dispute that fact.”

APR-12

Four Nations' plan faces delay

Plans for a Four Nations tournament involving Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales and Republic of Ireland have been put back because of fixture congestion.

Fixtures already in place for the next two years mean the competition will not be able to become part of the football calendar until 2011.

However, plans to play Four Nations matches in February and May in future seasons were given the go-ahead.

Representatives from England did not feature in the latest discussions.

The 'Celtic Cup' style tournament was initially set to begin in 2009 but with the 2010 World Cup qualifiers already in place, there was little prospect of the tournament beginning until 2011 for practical reasons.

The tournament would be held in one country on a rotational tournament-by-tournament basis with two games being played on match-days.

It was also agreed that the respective international team managers would have a meaningful competition in which to assess players.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown has already said he would welcome the revival of home internationals to ease the pain of Euro 2008 misery for the four home nations.

 APR-11

Board confirm no Premier cup next season

BBC Wales formally advised the Board of Directors in late January that they were not prepared to continue with their financial support beyond the current season. Consequently, the Board contacted all of the possible other broadcasters to ascertain any interest that they might have in the competition.

Competition Secretary, Malcolm Stammers said,

"There was some initial interest from two broadcasters, although this soon narrowed to one, and these discussions have been on-going now for sometime. But regrettably it has not been possible to bring them to a satisfactory conclusion that would guarantee the competition's future."

He added, "At last week's Board meeting, it was agreed that I should make contact with all the shareholders (and potential shareholders) and advise them of the current situation, which is that there will not be a competition in season 2008/09 so that all are aware for planning purposes with regard to next season.

The Board agreed, as it has done so far, to continue to 'leave no stone unturned', in trying to secure the competition's future, but as it stands there will be no competition in season 2008/09.

The announcement may not mean the end of the Competition entirely though as Mr. Stammers continued,

"The Board agreed, as it has done so far, to continue to 'leave no stone unturned', in trying to secure the competition's future, but as it stands there will be no competition in season 2008/09.

"The Board will meet again in early summer to ascertain whether the situation has changed at all and until that time I will be making the usual arrangements for the conclusion of the financial year and the calling of the Annual General Meeting.

"The Board felt that shareholders and possible participating clubs needed to be made aware of the situation prior the end of the current season.

OWP

 APR-11

Newtown to host Welsh cup final

The kick-off time for the match between Llanelli and Bangor City has yet to be confirmed as the Football Association of Wales are awaiting confirmation from the Broadcasters, who will be screening the match Live on S4/C.

The Final will be the 121st in the long history of the competition and Llanelli have never won the Title. Bangor City on the other hand have been crowned Champions on five occasions, having last won the Cup in 2000 as the beat Cwmbran Town 1-0.

Newtown last hosted the Final in 2003/04 season, when Rhyl beat Total Network Solutions 1-0 after extra time.

OWP

 APR-11

Bangor won't be taking it easy on rivals Llangefni

The hosts are upbeat because their league survival campaign looks more hopeful, having moved off the basement, while City are eagerly anticipating a Welsh Cup final appearance.

And both team bosses have declared they will target the three points on offer., for different causes.

Llangefni’s director of football, Gus Williams, said: "We have three games to play and need as many points as possible to move away from the relegation zone completely.

"While we will set out to win this game if we can, it is more of a must-not-lose situation for us.

"Having had another excellent training session the lads are on a high and with a bumper crowd, 98% supporting Llangefni, it should be a great night with hopefully a great result."

Bangor’s manager Nev Powell said: "Although we are down in seventh place at the moment, it is possible we could finish fourth and want perhaps seven or more points from the three games left.

"We are as desperate to win this game as Llangefni are and, disregarding local sentiment about their fight to survive, this is just another league game for us.

ICW

 APR-11

Cup finalists break season ticket record

Cardiff City look poised to shatter their season ticket sales record after reaching the FA Cup final.

The club told fans they could guarantee themselves an FA Cup final ticket by buying a season ticket for next term.

Since then sales have gone through the roof, with an extra 2,000 fans buying tickets for 2008-09, adding to the 8,000 existing season ticket holders.

A spokesman said the club had probably already gone through the 10,000 barrier of season tickets sold.

The Bluebirds, who in 1927 became the only non-English club to have lifted the cup, hope to return the trophy to Wales when they face Portsmouth at Wembley on 17 May.

More than 33,000 City fans saw the 1-0 semi-final victory over Barnsley, but only 25,000 tickets will be made available to the Bluebirds for the final.

 APR-11

Fight still on to be Gwent's best

Now a fourth success in six could prove to be the catalyst for them to steer away from the three-strong drop zone, which has already claimed basement outfit Garw Athletic.

One-from-the-bottom Pontypridd Town are almost certain to follow them to Division Two next season, leaving Maesteg, Croesyceiliog and Pontardawe Town to fight it out.

Croesyceiliog are virtually at full strength - with only flu victim Ross Bristow unavailable - and they welcome back leading goalscorer Jody Jenkins, who missed Wednesday's 2-1 home win over local rivals Cwmbran Town because of work commitments.

A Croesyceiliog win would leave them nine points clear of Maesteg, who have a couple of matches in hand. After tomorrow, Croesyceiliog will have six games remaining and Maesteg eight.

Newport YMCA's epic Welsh Cup journey came to an end against Bangor Coty last Saturday and they now return to the task of trying to become Gwent's best WL side.

They are currently seventh position, one place and three points better off than Caerleon, who have a match in hand with both club's having the same goal difference.

YMCA are without top scorer Lewis Simmers (hamstring) for the home encounter against 12th-placed Bridgend Town and also out are Alex Stewart (knee) and Alex Jenkins (knee), although Gareth Lynch (calf) should make it.

Caerleon, who moved up to eighth following an 8-1 home winners over Garw on Wednesday, visit ENTO Aberaman Athletic, who are sixth, with central defender Josh Collins and wide midfielder Luke Cueto both returning from two-game suspensions.

Tenth-placed Caldicot Town are without a game while Cwmbran, who slipped from top to 13th position after taking only 12 points from the last 57 on offer, could be minus Raney Duncan if his suspension for being sent off at Croesyceiliog on Wednesday comes through in time.

SWA

 APR-11

UEFA green light for Newtown's Latham Park

However Preece is disappointed that more Welsh Premier clubs have failed to invest in stadium improvements despite UEFA and the Welsh Premier’s warning that clubs must improve facilities.

Currently only Rhyl and Carmarthen Town have stadiums capable of hosting European ties while TNS and Llanelli plan to follow suit during the summer.

 APR-11

Swans plan early night even if they are promoted

"We will have our food us usual between 6.30 and 7pm and by 8pm every player should be in his room," the Swansea manager explained.

"They all know the importance of getting the right rest, particularly in a three-game week, so I won't have to tell them.

"They'll be in their rooms relaxing, probably borrowing some of Leon Britton's DVDs.

"As for me, the night before a game is a perfect time to sit down with my staff for a few hours and plan things.

"We'll follow the Doncaster game, certainly, but we'll be having a meeting as usual.

"If Swindon were to win, we will be together with the people we've been working with for 10 months so that would be nice.

"But the only difference really would be that we'd go to sleep with a little smile on our faces and not sweating about something."

EP

 APR-10

Prestatyn are champs but promotion is unlikely

Getting planning permission for floodlights. However, we’ve been approached about the possibility of them using portable floodlights (this approach was not from a senior club official). I’ll be taking it to the board of directors in the next week or so.

I feel sorry for them, they’ve done so well on the pitch and deserve to go up, but for a club to operate in the Welsh Premier they simply must have floodlights.

Prestatyn did ask if they could ground share with Connah’s Quay but we refused that. It is not the best playing surface in the world and it might have been different if Connah’s Quay owned the ground but they don’t, it belongs to Deeside College who didn’t see ground sharing as ideal.

If Prestatyn cannot be promoted the Cymru Alliance runners-up could go up in their place.

DP

 APR-10

Bluebirds settle for a point

Ipswich fought back for a draw against FA Cup finalists Cardiff for a result that hurts both sides' play-off hopes.

Good work by Joe Ledley then superb trickery from Aaron Ramsey set up the opener, Ramsey sliding the ball across the goal for a Gavin Rae tap in.

A deflected Alan Quinn shot set up the Jordan Rhodes equaliser, Cardiff stopping for offside but a rebound from one of their players sending Rhodes in.

Danny Haynes had an injury time goal disallowed as Glenn Loovens was fouled.

Cardiff manager Dave Jones:
"I can't give my players enough credit after the week they've had, they were dead on their feet and showed so much character.

"It's been a difficult week for us, I'm sick of being on the bus.

"We'll assess the play-off situation after Saturday's game. We definitely need a win, but above all I need to get my squad into a rest period, they're running on reserves right now."

BBC

APR-10

Williams in Reds SOS

Llanelli are calling on fourth-choice keeper Gareth Williams to answer an SOS as they look to clinch the Welsh Premier League title at Connah's Quay Nomads on Saturday. In a dramatic turn of events, Reds boss Peter Nicholas saw both Ryan Harrison and rookie Ryan Lewis injured during last week's victory over Airbus.

Harrison suffered a haematoma to his thigh and is undergoing treatment, but looks like being ruled out for up to four weeks.

Lewis, who replaced Harrison following his injury, jarred his knee and could face three weeks out.

LS

APR-10

Brace dishes out message to his troops

Carmarthen Town manager Deryn Brace insists he will reiterate a message he has been using all season to motivate his side for their final two league games of the season.

"Play every game like it's your last because one day it will be."

Town entertain bottom club Porthmadog on Saturday before travelling to Connah's Quay Nomads seven days later.

CJ

APR-10

Lloyd looks to find future Reds stars

Llanelli have unveiled hometown product Gary Lloyd as the man to unearth Reds stars of the future. The left-back has been rewarded with a community officer role within the club which will see him interact with the town's young footballers.

Lloyd's role will be to preach the Reds gospel to youngsters and look to identify future players.

And the 36-year-old has wasted no time as he has just held his first event - an Easter soccer school.

LS

APR-9

TNS keep slim title hopes alive

Leaders Llanelli would have been crowned with the title if reigning champions TNS had lost at Belle Vue but John Toner's eighth goal of the season ensured the championship race will go on to the weekend.

Saints striker Toner was picked out by John Leah as Rhyl were left to rue Chris Sharp's first-half misses.

Llanelli lead TNS by seven points and should Peter Nicholas' men win at Connah's Quay on Saturday, it would secure their first Welsh Premier title.

BBC

APR-9

Llanelli set for Euro boost

It all depends on whether a new stand can be erected in time.

The Welsh Premier League champions-elect have revealed plans to build a new uncovered 310-seater stand which would be sufficient to satisfy Uefa.

It would take the seating capacity to 1007, just past the minimum requirement for Europe’s governing body.

Uefa want there to be 3,000 seats available, but they have waived that rule for Welsh clubs until the 2011-2012 season.

The plans have been made possible by a grant of £42,000 from the Football Association of Wales with the remainder of the money being paid by Carmarthenshire County Council and Llanelli Town Council.

ICW

 APR-9

Swans take a point in top table clash

APR-9

Crunch meeting for the Welsh Premier clubs

CT

APR-9

Wrexham on verge of relegation after another defeat

MK Dons are on the verge of League Two promotion thanks to a crushing 4-1 win over Wrexham who stand on the brink of relegation from the Football League.

Danny Swailes and Aaron Wilbraham put the Dons into an early lead.

Neil Roberts dragged Wrexham back in the game with a 59th minute penalty after he was fouled by Carl Regan.

Sean O'Hanlon's headed in Lewington's cross to confirmed victory for the leaders before Wilbraham's second made the result more emphatic.

BBC

APR-9

WPL clubs to appeal against Licensing Decisions

FAW Club Licensing Officer Andrew Howard said,

"Although all of our clubs were denied a Licence at the first Instance which does not look good for anybody involved, I'm confident that at least six will appeal against that decision and I see no reason why those clubs can not rectify the minor non-conformities in time to be granted a UEFA Licence in May."

"The clubs are undergoing a new Licensing Manual for the first time and it's a learning curve for them and it's also been a learning curve for the Football Association of Wales as Licensors. The UEFA Criteria is very stringent and is evidently aimed at the massive Professional clubs that turnover hundreds of millions of pounds per year. "

"To ask smaller clubs like ours to meet the same regulations, when the majority of clubs administration are generally volunteers is very hard. Praise must be given to those clubs that narrowly missed out by minor technicalities, but fortunately they do have the rights to appeal and then a further seven weeks to get their houses in order."

The UEFA Licence is a pre-requisite for participation in Europe, so for Llanelli, TNS and Rhyl who have already qualified on sporting merit and probably Bangor City, it is essential for them to appeal successfully in order to participate in the summer but there is good news for those clubs as Mr. Howard continued,

OWP

APR-9

FA U-turn opens way for Cardiff City

Soho Square chiefs said the matter was being discussed at the highest level as a matter of urgency after Dave Jones’ Bluebirds threw the cat amongst the pigeons by reaching the FA Cup final.

The FA bigwigs did a complete U-turn from their stance of just six weeks ago, when they had insisted Welsh clubs could NOT represent England in Europe.

Back then, an FA spokesman categorically stated: “Cardiff City are not eligible for an English place. If they did win the FA Cup it would make no difference whatsoever.”

By yesterday, the FA’s stance on the whole matter had softened dramatically as a result of mounting pressure being put on them because of Cardiff’s semi-final triumph over Barnsley.

This time the FA spokesman said: “Following Sunday’s game, the FA has been discussing the issue of Cardiff City entering the Uefa Cup next season should they win the FA Cup.

“We will also continue to discuss this with the FA of Wales and Uefa. At this stage we have not ruled out Cardiff being entered into Europe via the FA Cup should they win it.

“Further conversations need to take place, but we would expect to have final clarification on this before the end of the month – certainly well before the final takes place on May 17.”

ICW

APR-9

Hackett want's to stay at Nomads next season

JIM Hackett has revealed his desire to stay at Connah’s Quay Nomads next season.

The manager, who on Tuesday saw his side earn a vital point in the 0-0 derby draw with Airbus UK Broughton, said he wants to build for the future at Deeside Stadium.

This season – Nomads’ first under a new manager since Nev Powell ended his 14-year association with the club – has been one of significant change and has seen Nomads go from a side flirting with the top six to one battling relegation.

But Hackett believes he is building a new foundation and wants the chance to continue that work next season.

“The club has not discussed with myself or the team any of their plans for next season yet,” said Hackett.

“I would like to stay here, the players we have would like to stay here so, whenever the club is ready, we can talk. But we are still not mathematically safe so let’s get this season out of the way first.”

Hackett originally set a target of 30 points for safety. Nomads have now reached that figure and Hackett is confident that will be enough to stay up.

“Historically 30 is enough for safety in the Welsh Premier,” he said.

“Now we are there we want to score as many points as possible and enjoy the rest of the campaign.

“In the last week we have to play Llanelli, a rearranged game against TNS and we end with Carmarthen. We want to be able to relax and enjoy those matches.”

In order to do that Nomads need a few more points and a win against struggling Porthmadog would be perfect.

“They are more in the mire than we are,” said Hackett. “If you offered any of the teams below us our position they would snatch it from you.

“I am confident we can beat Porthmadog and set up a stress-free end to the season.”

DP

APR-8

Dyer happy at hitting targets

“I’m absolutely delighted. The lads have grown in stature as the season has progressed and we have set a firm platform for the future,” he said.

“The worst we can now finish is eighth and we are even in with a shout of fourth place if we win our final two matches.”

The match was a personal triumph for Matthew Rees, who celebrated his 21st birthday with a brace, his second goal a stunning solo effort.

Stuart Roberts struck back in the 76th minute to no avail and the Seasiders continue to blow hot and cold as this was their third defeat on the trot.

ICW

APR-8

Things look bleak for Porthmadog

And those two matches could not be tougher as they travel to Carmarthen next week and host Rhyl on the final day of the season.

Remarkably, Viv Williams’ side have not won at home in 16 starts, a record the manager describes as “just unbelievable.”

He added: “After the match I told my players they need to have a good look at themselves.

ICW

APR-8

Clubs Await UEFA Licensing Decision

The meeting, which starts at 10.30 in the FAW Offices in Cardiff, will be attended by eight Independent Advisors who will listen to the eighteen applications, put forward by FAW Officials. This is the first season that the Version 2 of the UEFA Manual will be assessed, which places even further and more stringent demands on the clubs to achieve the Licence.

Last season a record breaking twelve clubs were Licensed, but with the more stringent criteria, it is expected that there will be fewer this year - Particularly as the Team Manager requires either a Pro Licence or five years experience in the League, which immediately rules out several clubs. Another new criteria is the Player Medicals, where all players in the First Team have to undergo and Echocardiogram, ECG and General Medical Assessment, which incurs a tremendous amount of expense and administration.

Club Licensing is now in its fifth season, and has certainly seen a vast improvement to standards in the League. Clubs are assessed on their Infrastructure, Youth Development, Player Medicals, Legal Statutes, Personnel, Administration and Finance. Failure to meet the criteria today, will mean that clubs have the rights to appeal against the decision in May.

OWP

APR-8

Uefa may let Cardiff City fly flag in Europe

Under the current rules, the Bluebirds will not be nominated to play in the Uefa Cup because they are a Welsh club playing in an English league.

But after City booked a final date with Portsmouth on May 17 with a 1-0 win over Barnsley, Uefa spokesman William Gaillard threw the club an European life.

“We understand there was an agreement from the beginning when Cardiff joined the English league that if they gained a European place, they would not represent the English Football Association,” he said.

“We understand this agreement, but at the same time we feel from a sporting point of view, Cardiff deserve to play in the Uefa Cup.

“Our president has asked the executive committee to look at the possibility of a wild card if Cardiff win the final.”

No decision will be made before the final, so City would not know their fate before facing Portsmouth.

President Michel Platini has already promised to intervene to help City if they win the FA Cup, and Gaillard confirmed there is already a lot of sympathy within Uefa for Dave Jones’ side.

“From our point of view, it would be sad if they win the FA Cup and cannot compete in Europe,” he said.

ICW

APR-8

Double boost for Swans ahead of Carlisle clash 

Swansea City flew north to Carlisle today buoyed by a double boost from the treatment room.

Marcos Painter and Paul Anderson have both been declared fit after hamstring problems and were on the plane bound for Cumbria.

Left-back Painter has played just once in six weeks thanks to his injury, while flying winger Anderson has not appeared in the league since late January.

EP

APR-8

Barry Town plan for the Welsh Premier

Top of the table Barry Town are preparing to return to the Welsh Premier after a major reorganisation of Welsh football looks set to get the green light in the next couple of weeks.

New UEFA regulations come into force in the season after next (2009-10) requiring all Premier clubs to meet certain criteria regarding stadiums, seating, media provision, youth development and other facilities. 

At present, only six clubs in Wales’ top flight league are reported to meet these new standards. However, Barry Town’s stadium, facilities and expanding youth development put the club among the best in Welsh football. 

Stuart Lovering, Chairman of Barry Town, has confirmed that, if possible, he would apply for the Town to immediately join the new Welsh Premier, which is looking to split into two divisions of 10 teams. Barry Town are currently top of Division Two, on the brink of promotion to Division One. The Club has also massively expanded its youth development and invested heavily in its hospitality facilities.

“I would hope that Barry Town would be invited to join the top Premier from the beginning, wherever we finish in Division One next season (provided we are promoted this year!). Other clubs just spend money on their teams but I have invested over £60,000 on improving the club for the medium to long term benefit.

“I would like to think that the reorganisation of the Premier will be bold and brave and that the difficult decisions are also taken to ensure the best for the Premier in the medium to long term. The reorganisation must not be fudged and I hope that the smaller clubs understand and accept that the time is right for change in the best interests of Welsh football. The FAW, Councils, Trust bodies and Clubs in turn should plan for a roll out of financial investment in quality stadiums and FIFA 2 pitches.

“Representatives of the top clubs and possible new top clubs must meet soon with the FAW to start planning the reorganisation, marketing and TV interests so that we have a clear vision of what we want to achieve and how we are going to go about it step by step.”

welsh league website

APR-8

Beaten Ton hang on to top

William Davies scored the goal that kept Goytre in with a chance of more silverware.

Dinas Powys lost the opportunity of going to the top when they went down 1-0 at Pontardawe. Andrew Stokes got the winner and Dinas finished with only 10 men after the dismissal of Geza Hajgato.

Bryntirion Athletic were beaten 2-0 at Maesteg Park on a day of surprises, Daniel Nash bagging both goals, while Taffs Wells won 3-2 at Croesyceiliog and Bridgend Town battled to a 2-2 draw against Ento Aberaman.

Christian Burge swooped for a hat-trick for Bettws as they overwhelmed Caerau Ely and kept alive their second division championship hopes.

At the other end of the table, Briton Ferry are in deep trouble after being beaten 4-2 by fellow strugglers Treharris Athletic, who stormed into a 3-1 lead at Old Road at the break to virtually clinch the points.

Pentwyn Dynamo are favourites for the third division crown after a 1-0 success against fellow promotion hopefuls Newcastle Emlyn, Phil Light firing home the winner.

Goals by Dean Taylor and Martin Houston gave Goytre a 2-0 win in Gwent against Porthcawl.

ICW

APR-7

Ledley eager for final challenge

Cardiff goal-hero Joe Ledley set his sights on lifting the FA Cup on 17 May after his strike saw off Barnsley in Sunday's semi-final at Wembley.

The 21-year-old Wales midfielder's ninth-minute strike, a fine volley, booked a showdown against Portsmouth.

"It's brilliant, I thought everyone played really well and we can go into the final with confidence and try to win it," Ledley said.

"I thought we deserved the win and it's great for the fans as well."

Ledley gave the Bluebirds the perfect start when a half-clearance fell to him on the edge of the Tykes area.

A sweet connection with his left foot saw the ball loop over Barnsley goalkeeper Luke Steele and nestle in the back of the net.

"It was a difficult ball coming down but I just hit it and hoped for the best, the luck was in," said Ledley.

"The fans are buzzing and to come back here for the final at this great stadium, it's good for the fans and it's good for the players.

"After the goal, Barnsley came at us first half, but I thought we got at them pretty well in the second half and deserved the win."

Kayode Odejayi should have put Barnsley level when put through one-on-one with Cardiff keeper Peter Enckelman and Ledley admits his heart was in his mouth.

"I thought he was going to bury it, but it was a relief to see it go wide and that's our luck," Ledley added.

BBC

 APR-7

Martinez rallies frustrated Swans

Manager Roberto Martinez challenged his Swansea players to seal promotion at title rivals Carlisle after their shock home loss to Bournemouth on Saturday.

Swansea had led through Andy Robinson until injury time, before an incredible Cherries fight-back saw the relegation candidates score two quickfire goals.

"We need to regroup and bounce back on Tuesday and make sure we get rid of all the frustration," Martinez said.

"Football can be a cruel game sometimes and we didn't get what we deserved."

Swansea seemed set to celebrate promotion to the Championship, controlling the game after going ahead and hearing the news they wanted from Huddersfield that promotion rivals Doncaster were losing.

But that situation all changed in a breathless end to the afternoon's football.

First 10-man Doncaster grabbing a late equaliser in Yorkshire, before Bournemouth boosted their League One survival hopes as Joe Partington and Jo Kuffour scored at the Liberty Stadium in quick succession.

Extra angst for the Swans was the performance of Cherries goalkeeper David Forde, on loan from the Swans' Welsh city rivals Cardiff.

"Their 'keeper kept them in the game," Martinez said.

"For 90 minutes we looked like the only team that was going to win, but towards the end Bournemouth had a few breaks that went their way.

"To get nothing out of the games is a big blow, because the performance deserved more than that."

BBC

APR-7

Prestatyn are the champs

But hosts Llanfairpwll stretched the league’s runaway leaders all the way, before bowing to a 3-2 defeat in a rousing encounter.

Prestatyn notched the win that meant so much thanks to Ian Griffiths, who scored from 10 yards past home keeper Ben Heald on 77 minutes, after taking a Ross Hannan pass.

Quick off the mark, Prestatyn had bombarded the hosts in the early stages and gained their expected goal on 15 minutes from Jon Fisher-Cook.

Llanfairpwll hit back with a double whammy as Kevin Roberts and Richard Owen netted 60 seconds apart, after 22 and 23 minutes, only for Prestatyn to level with Griffiths’ penalty on 62 – and the same striker followed up with the winner.

Llandudno Town, looking good for the runners-up award, brushed past Gresford Athletic 2-0, the marksmen being Chris Hogg on 35 minutes and Bryn Jenkins on 45.

But a Seasiders’ penalty award late on, taken by Neil Coverley after Hogg had been fouled, was saved by Gresford’s Gareth Rowlands.

The clash between the fourth and fifth-placed rivals, Holyhead Hotspur and Flint Town, ended all square at 1-1, after goals by the hosts’ Barry Jones on 47 minutes and the visitors’ Sean Beck on 80.

The Mynydd Isa versus Penrhyncoch game was a drab affair but the performance rather than the result pleased manager Gareth Thomas.

“Our displays in recent matches have been woeful but we did better today despite dropping two points,” he said. “Poor defending let in Anthony Hartnell but Stuart Wood rescued a late point from the penalty spot.”

Buckley Town shared four goals and the points with Glantraeth. Alan Dawson broke the deadlock for the hosts but Glantraeth netted a goal each side of the interval through Chris Saxon and a fine solo goal from Osian Pritchard. Robbie Williams hit back for Buckley.

ICW

 APR-7

Win puts County in sight of play off place

COUNTY stepped up their challenge for a play-off place, ending Bromley’s interest in the process, with an exciting victory at Newport Stadium.

It took just over 60 seconds for County to go in front with a neat move resulting in Richard Evans crossing from the left for Andy Gurney to power home a header.

But Bromley caused plenty of problems for the County central defenders and their Welsh under-21 international Gareth A Williams equalised on 18 minutes with a well taken goal.

Charlie Griffin fired County in front with his 19th goal of the season, following excellent work from Jason Bowen on the right and with the wind at their backs County had very much the better of things after the break.

Evans was close to stretching the lead on the hour but Bromley’s other Gareth Williams, their goalkeeper, made a spectacular save.

But Gurney crowned an excellent midfield display with his second goal on 73 minutes following good work from Evans and Julian Alsop.

ICW

APR-6

Big shocks heat up Welsh League

The Port Talbot-based club clinched a crucial 1-0 victory at table-topping Ton Pentre, who seem to be wilting under the pressure as the title race hots up.

A William Davies strike was enough to give Goytre maximum points and move them to within three points of the Rhondda Bulldogs, but with three games in hand.

Dinas Powis crashed 1-0 at Pontardawe, bringing a four game winning streak to an untimely end.

Andrew Stokes and Geza Hajgato were on target and Dinas failed to recover.

Bryntirion Athletic were the other major casualties, going down 2-0 at struggling Maesteg Park, thanks to two-goal hero Daniel Nash.

Taffs Well won 3-2 at Croesyceiliog, while Cwmbran Town’s fixture with Garw was called off after a serious road accident held up their journey.

Bettws increased the pressure on Division Two leaders Barry Town after their 3-0 defeat of Ely Rangers.

The Bettws star was Christian Burge, who thumped home a hat-trick.

Barry slumped to a surprise single goal defeat at lowly Llangeinor, who eased their relegation fears in the process.

The big showdown between Cardiff Corries and UWIC ended 1-1, Corries managing an own goal and Duncan Colley scoring for the students.

Briton Ferry continue to struggle at the bottom, going down 4-2 at home to Treharris Athletic.

Division Three leaders Pentwyn Dynamos remain in pole position after Phil Light fired home the winner in the big showdown with fellow title contenders Newcastle Emlyn.

Penrhiwceiber Rangers went down 2-1 at Risca United while Cwmaman Institute thumped Abertillery Excelsiors 6-1.

Morriston were defeated 3-1 at Llantwit Fardre, while Porthcawl’s good run stalled in a 2-0 defeat at Goytre.

WOS

 APR-6

Bangor so happy at being European Citizens

BANGOR are back on the European stage after booking their Welsh Cup final ticket with a battling victory at Newtown’s Latham Park.

Goals either side of half time from Peter Hoy and Ashley Stott put the Welsh Premier men on course, Sion Edwards then making it three before substitute Danny Cueto headed a reply for the Newport side.

Bangor, however, were made to work hard for victory against their strong Welsh League opponents before gradually taking the sting out of their challenge.

And, with their final opponents Llanelli also having effectively qualified for Europe, it means that the Citizens will once again fly their flag in the Uefa Cup, much to the delight of chairman Gwyn Pierce Owen.

“It is very satisfying as a club to be back in Europe, and we’re looking forward to going out for the draw in Switzerland,” he said.

“I felt we deserved it, we played well as a team and wore them down in the end. But Newport gave us a real game. It needed our keeper to keep us in it with a couple of good saves.”

Newport, an aerial threat throughout, had shocked three Welsh Premier sides earlier in the cup, and could take plenty of credit from their display.

They proved a handful early on, although Bangor went closest to scoring when Lee Webber’s header was well turned away by keeper Gareth Wesson at full stretch.

The Gwent men sounded a warning moments later as Bangor keeper Paul Smith produced an excellent stop to deny a well struck effort from the advancing Aaron Stewart, while also turning Steve Edwards’ shot round the post.

But the Citizens drew first blood three minutes before half time as Marc Limbert’s free kick from the left of the box was only partially cleared. The ball cannoned about in the goalmouth before Hoy poked in from six yards.

Sion Edwards, returning from injury, then went close to a second when striking the bar at full stretch from Limbert’s inviting right- wing cross.

However, the Welsh Premier side were not to be denied a crucial second goal seven minutes after the break when Stott broke through into the box after shrugging off the defence on the right before steering his low shot past the diving Wesson and inside the far post.

Edwards gave his side some breathing space on 65 minutes when rounding the defence on the left before drilling his low shot into the net via the far upright.

The Newport men refused to surrender, with John Pardue forcing Smith to parry a thunderous strike but the Citizens thought they had a fourth only to see a scrambled effort ruled out.

Substitute Cueto gave the the Welsh League side a glimmer of hope when heading home three minutes from time from a Craig Ford free kick, but Bangor held firm.

APR-6

Aberystwyth under-Neath

MATTHEW Rees twice punished defensive errors to gain the spoils for Neath in a disappointing end-of-season encounter.

Rees was left in acres of space to provide the visitors with a first minute lead. Seemingly expecting a quick response, they immediately set out their defensive stall to successfully frustrate a woefully out of sorts Aber.

The Seasiders briefly rose above mediocrity just before the break, with Robert Evans hitting a post and Gavin Cadwallader forcing a save from Craig Morris. But they were pegged back further when Rees robbed a hesitant Luke Sherbon before firing home a 56th-minute second for the visitors.

Neath looked comfortable until Aber suddenly came to life again 15 minutes from time. Youngster Robert Evans ended a fine run down the left by allowing substitute Stuart Roberts to reduce the deficit.

At last some urgency crept into Aber’s display but Neath held onto the advantage.

WOS

APR-6

Reds need penalty to see off Airbus challenge

THE leaders struggled against Airbus, and it took a penalty to get the three points.

In fact, it was not until 20 minutes from the end that they forced the visiting keeper to make a save. That came when Llanelli’s best player on the day, 21-year-old Craig Jones, hit a fine first-time volley from 20 yards.

There was action at the Llanelli end, but that centred on the turnover of goalkeepers. Ryan Harrison lasted 15 minutes, before being injured in a collision with Airbus’ James McIntosh.

In turn his replacement, Ryan Lewis, lasted just over 10 minutes before departing with a twisted knee.

Gary Lloyd was forced to go in goal and did well, although his defence worked hard to shield him from too many shots. The closest effort came from Airbus’ best player Gareth Owen, who hit the bar with a fine effort from the edge of the box.

The game was decided when Craig Jones set up his namesake Mark, who was fouled before he could shoot. Andy Mumford scored from the spot.

WOS

APR-6

TNS hit Bluebirds for six

TNS hit their visitors for six, make high-flying Llanelli wait before being able to celebrate the league crown.

John Toner led the way with a hat-trick as the Saints turned on the style which, with the title now looking remote, at least kept them on course for a runners-up spot.

The hosts started brightly, with Toner grabbing his first after just four minutes and Jamie Wood doubling the lead after 16.

Toner then increased the advantage with his second after Bluebirds keeper Lee Idzi failed to hold John Leah’s 25-yard shot.

Haverfordwest pulled one back through Luke Bowen but thoughts of a fightback were short- lived as Michael Wilde converted Wood’s cross.

Another Idzi error saw Wilde slot in goal number five before Jack Christopher grabbed another for the visitors.

But Toner had the last word five minutes from time with his hat-trick.

APR-6

Martinez rallies frustrated Swans

Manager Roberto Martinez challenged his Swansea players to seal promotion at title rivals Carlisle after their shock home loss to Bournemouth on Saturday.

Swansea had led through Andy Robinson until injury time, before an incredible Cherries fight-back saw the relegation candidates score two quick fire goals.

"We need to regroup and bounce back on Tuesday and make sure we get rid of all the frustration," Martinez said.

"Football can be a cruel game sometimes and we didn't get what we deserved."

Swansea seemed set to celebrate promotion to the Championship, controlling the game after going ahead and hearing the news they wanted from Huddersfield that promotion rivals Doncaster were losing.

But that situation all changed in a breathless end to the afternoon's football.

First 10-man Doncaster grabbing a late equaliser in Yorkshire, before Bournemouth boosted their League One survival hopes as Joe Partington and Jo Kuffour scored at the Liberty Stadium in quick succession.

Extra angst for the Swans was the performance of Cherries goalkeeper David Forde, on loan from the Swans' Welsh city rivals Cardiff.

"Their 'keeper kept them in the game," Martinez said.

"For 90 minutes we looked like the only team that was going to win, but towards the end Bournemouth had a few breaks that went their way.

"To get nothing out of the games is a big blow, because the performance deserved more than that."

BBC

APR-6

Little rages at Wrexham blunders

Wrexham boss Brian Little warned his players that if they continue to make mistakes then they could consign League Two's bottom club to relegation.

A defensive mix-up allowed Macclesfield to take the lead on Saturday before Steve Evans' equaliser, although the Dragons really needed all three points.

"We've got loads of quantity and we're lacking in quality," Little said.

"The quantity is work-rate, commitment, effort, but we make loads of mistakes which is where the quality comes in."

Wrexham are seven points adrift of safety with just six matches remaining this season.

"Ultimately it's quality that's costing us, is costing us every week and it was another poor goal we conceded," Little added.

BBC

APR-5

YM hope for Sommers day

YM travel to Latham Park, Newtown, again for the 2.30pm kick-off after the game was postponed last Saturday due to a waterlogged pitch.

The hugely influential Sommers, who scored in the famous victory over Welshpool in the quarter-final at Mendalgief Road, was doubtful for today's game after suffering a hamstring strain in Tuesday night's league win over Pontypridd.

But after undergoing treatment all week it looks as if he will play lead the line in the biggest game in YM's history.

"It's looking good, hopefully I'll be OK," said Sommers.

"I felt a twinge on Tuesday night and came off as a precaution with this weekend in mind.

"But I've done my utmost to be fit and even if I'm not 100% I want to play because it's such a massive game," he added.

"We're all looking forward to it. Last weekend was frustrating but there was nothing we could do about it and we've just got to get on with it and do the business."

SWA

 APR-5

Bluebirds target ‘once in a lifetime’ chance

And for the 23-year-old the FA Cup semi-final with Barnsley will be the most important game of his career so far.

“We are really looking forward to it. We can’t wait to be honest. It has to be the biggest occasion of my career,” said Whittingham.

“It is massive and we just really want to do well. I think all the lads realise this could be a once in a lifetime opportunity for us.”

In the quarter-finals at Middlesbrough, Whittingham put in an excellent performance grabbing a stunning opening strike for Cardiff.

But he is prepared to rough it tomorrow if necessary.

“I thought I did well at Middlesbrough and I got the goal. They wanted to pass it around and so do we,” added Whittingham. “But we can scrap. Our defence is doing well and keeping clean sheets.

“If I can get one like I did last round then all well and good, but anyone getting a goal would be very good news for us.”

ICW

APR-5

Swansea fined after Havant brawl

Swansea City have been fined £2,000 for failing to control their players during the FA Cup third-round match against Havant and Waterlooville.

Both clubs were reprimanded for a brawl in the 1-1 draw on 5 January, sparked by Havant player Brett Poate's poor tackle on Swansea's Andrea Orlandi.

Poate and Swansea defender Alan Tate were sent off at the Liberty Stadium.

While the Football Association of Wales has found Swansea guilty, the English FA has yet to decide Havant's fate.

BBC

 APR-5

Port Talbot see off Carmarthen at the Remax

Nicky Tucker recalled the experienced Kristian Rogers in goal at youngster Josh Payne's expense, whilst Wales Under 23 Semi Pro International, Lee Surman was only a sub, as Carl Evans started at the back for the victors.

Carmarthen Town welcomed back Nicky Palmer from a six-month injury lay-off when the midfielder came on as a second-half sub.

OWP

 APR-5

Welshpool the victors in Mid-Wales derby

The hosts took the lead at Maesydre after the League's Player of the Month for February Ross Stephens scored in the first half, but Karl Seliaerts equalised on 73', before sub Rogers grabbed the winner eleven minutes after coming on to the field.

OWP

 APR-5

Five star Druids crush struggling Caernarfon

The Ancients took the lead as early as the sixth minute when ex-Welshpool player Dan Barnett struck, but the lead was short-lived as Peter Doran scored a tremendous goal to draw the sides' level. The third goal of the evening came in the thirteenth minute as veteran Karl Connolly scored and when Chris McGinn made it 3-1 after just 19 minutes, the writing was on the wall for Steve O'Shaughnessy's men.

Midfielder Osian Jones made it 4-1 after the break on 66 minutes, whilst McGinn grabbed his brace on 82' to cap a fine night for himself and the Druids, who have now reached 35 points and overtaken Newtown in the Table in twelfth place.

OWP

APR-4

We'll claim fantastic four says Corbisiero

Antonio Corbisiero has backed Llanelli to land four pieces of silverware  though he may not play a part in the final run-in. The midfielder was injured during Sunday's Welsh Cup semi-final victory over Rhyl after spraining his ankle following an attempt on goal.

Corbisiero is facing a race against time to return in as Llanelli look to win the Welsh Premier League, Welsh Cup, League Cup and West Wales Senior Cup.

But it looks doubtful he will be back for what will be the last game of the campaign  the Welsh Cup final on May 4 against either Bangor City or Newport YMCA.

EP

 APR-4

Jones looking to clinch his final dream

His only involvement in the Wembley showpiece to date remains as a member of the Everton veterans’ side which took on Manchester United in the pre match build up to the 1995 final.

The closest the 51 year old has come was in 1977 as part of the Toffees team which suffered an agonising 30 semi-final replay defeat to Merseyside rivals Liverpool.

But now all that stands between Jones, left, and a fairytale final against either West Brom or Portsmouth are another Coca-Cola Championship side – one nine places below them in the league – and the Bluebirds boss revealed he would love to put the record straight.

He said, “As a player, I have played in semi-finals, in the FA Cup I lost one to Liverpool.

“In other competitions I have got through, but in the FA Cup I have got to quarterfinals and semi-finals but never been to an FA Cup final which was a bit disappointing.

“I have played at Wembley on cup final day for Everton veterans against Manchester United veterans so I got a little taste that way.

“This is the furthest I’ve got and hopefully I can go one step further.”

ICW

 APR-4

Aberystwyth target top six

The Aber boss was able to take plenty of positives from their narrow home defeat to title favourites Llanelli last Tuesday, and is looking for a determined display this week. “We were disappointed that we did not get anything from the Llanelli game, we matched them all over the pitch, and deserved something, but it has been a funny couple of weeks. “After losing against Llangefni, I thought that this result was very encouraging, and their celebrations at the end probably showed that they had seen us as a major hurdle to overcome. “I have no complaints about the outcome of the Llangefni game, we did not play as well as we have done, but on the day they took their chances, and put away some great goals. “Llangefni did not look a bottom of the table side, and as they showed against Neath last weekend, and against Port Talbot before us, they can be a force on their own ground.” 

The Seasiders will look to bounce back against seventh placed Neath, who stand four points above them in the table, in what is a key fixture if Aber are to start making up ground. They travel to face mid table Caernarfon Town the following Saturday, before they end their season with their final match, against Coyne’s former club Newtown at Park Avenue. Coyne said: “I believe that if we can get three wins, albeit from three difficult matches, we can still finish in the top six, and this is where we really should be aiming to finish.

AT

 APR-4

Caernarfon and Porthmadog are under pressure

ONE of the tensest relegation battles in Welsh Premier League history comes to a head this weekend.

Bottom club Porthmadog simply must end their dismal winless home record and defeat Connah’s Quay Nomads at Y Traeth on Saturday to keep their survival hopes alive.

And Caernarfon Town know a good result at perennial strugglers NEWI Cefn Druids on Friday evening will do wonders for their safety prospects.

Meanwhile in mid-Wales a real six-pointer takes place on Saturday when second-from-bottom Caersws entertain the team immediately below them, resurgent Llangefni Town.

“I can’t remember it ever being as tight as this at the bottom,” said Porthmadog manager Viv Williams pictured above right.

“Usually one team has already been relegated by now. It’s uncanny how it’s all worked out this weekend with the bottom six up against each other.

“We need to win on Saturday – it’s that simple. If we don’t we really are in trouble, but while there’s still hope there we’ll go for it. There’ll still be six points to fight for even if we don’t win on Saturday; we won’t give up unless it becomes mathematically impossible to stay up.

ICW

APR-4

Swans close on promotion dream

Roberto Martinez says Swansea City fans can start dreaming of promotion to the Championship as Bournemouth head to the Liberty Stadium on Saturday.

A win for the Swans and a defeat for Doncaster at Huddersfield will ensure second flight football for the first time in 24 years.

But boss Martinez insists those dreams will firmly remain with the faithful.

"I think it would be a big mistake for us to play the occasion, but the fans should start dreaming," he said.

Swansea's promotion hopes were boosted by Doncaster's 10 home loss to Leeds on Tuesday, putting the finishing line in sight.

But Martinez has been reluctant to talk about the promotion instead concentrating on the team performance.

He added: "We are in a great position but we have achieved nothing.

"To be fair, from out point of view, it's another league game and we need to keep the level of performance and make sure we focus on the game.

"We will follow how Doncaster are doing but I don't expect them to lose against Huddersfield.

"Our focus and concentration goes to the points that are available at the Liberty Stadium."

And Martinez insists it will be struggling Bournemouth who will be the favourites to win after picking up three wins in their last four as they look to avoid relegation.

EP

APR-3

Carmarthen Town's European dream is over - but boss Deryn Brace is demanding fourth place as a consolation.

The Old Gold boss saw his side's chance of a potential spot in the Intertoto Cup go up in smoke on Sunday as Llanelli dumped third-placed Rhyl out of the Welsh Cup.

Brace had hoped Rhyl would win the cup, meaning Carmarthen would sneak into the Intertoto Cup because of their success.

CJ

APR-3

Striker Paul Parry remains Cardiff's biggest injury concern ahead of the FA Cup semi-final clash against Barnsley.

The Wales international had a scan on Wednesday after injuring a hamstring in the previous night's Championship 0-0 draw against West Bromwich Albion.

Fellow striker Steve Thompson picked up a similar injury and boss Dave Jones says a decision on their fitness will be left as late as possible.

"At the moment it's not a worry because we're not back until Friday," he said.

"Then we'll get them up and running and see how everybody feels.

"You want everyone to be fit going into a big game - or any game - we need it because we're not carrying the biggest squad anyway."

Jones will have his fingers crossed that his striking options are not limited any further, as Warren Feeney is cup-tied and Robbie Fowler remains on the long-term injury list.

BBC

APR-3

The Eagles are chasing a top five finish in their first season in the Welsh Premiership but the 4-2 defeat against relegation-threatened Llangefni has hampered their chances.

“It was a great opportunity for us to go fifth and we let ourselves down,” said Dyer.

“We should never have conceded four goals and our defending was unacceptable.

“At the end of the day Llangefni are bottom of the league and we should not be losing these matches. It was disappointing and I don’t know if complacency set in or what.

“They are fighting for survival and their need to stay up was obviously more than our need to get the three points. It is now up to us to put things right against Aberystwyth this Saturday.

“We have picked up 49 points so far this season but our target has been to get 52 points and we have three games left to get them.”

ICW

APR-3

"Our fate is in our own hands now and we now have a great chance of staying in the Principality Welsh Premier," said Owen following Saturday's 4-2 victory over Neath Athletic.

"We had been seeking salvation six weeks ago and the answer was under our noses all the time.

"Gus has come in and the players are fitter, have more confidence and are better organised."

Town have put eleven goals past three clubs challenging for a top four finish in recent weeks, while Neath had put together four straight wins.
Meanwhile, Owen reflected on lost points at Newi Cefn Druids and against Welshpool.

"We have been creating chances all season, and would have beaten Cefn Druids and Welshpool with steadier finishing," he added.

"Now we are putting a higher ratio away and the results are coming, hopefully that will continue at Caersws on Saturday, which is a massive game for us.

"We still have to play in Caernarfon, and something from each of these matches should see us okay, at the end of the day we have to stay one point ahead of Porthmadog."

NWC

 APR-3

Swans keep new seals secret for time being

Swansea City have agreed new deals with at least half of their out-of-contract stars - but won't say who stays until the end of the season. Andy Robinson, Alan Tate, Tom Butler and Dennis Lawrence are among the frontline players whose current terms expire this summer.

Also due to become free agents are Kristian O'Leary, Kevin Austin, Guillem Bauza, Owain Tudur Jones, David Knight, Shaun MacDonald, Steve Watt and youngster Scott Evans.

Garry Monk completes the 13-strong list, although Swansea's club captain is automatically entitled to an extension having made more than 25 appearances this term.

EP

 APR-3

Dickens believes in Wrexham's slim chance

Wrexham FC chairman Neville Dickens said he believes there is still a "slim chance" the club can avoid relegation from the Football League.

However, the club's owner admitted it was now "extremely hard" for Wrexham to stay out of the Blue Square Premier.

He hopes work on a housing and retail development at the Racecourse will go ahead, and that the Welsh Assembly Government backs plans for a new stand.

Whatever happens, he wants manager Brian Little to stay at the club.

With Wrexham eight points adrift at the bottom of the table with just seven games left, it looks increasingly likely that the club will lose its Football League status for the first time in 87 years.

However, Mr Dickens said: "We have to face what's ahead of us and do everything we can.

"It's going to be extremely hard, but it's not impossible.

"But if we do go down, I'm very hopeful that we can bounce back within one season."

Mr Dickens, who flew abroad for a business trip on Wednesday, said he had every confidence in manager Brian Little.

He said he wanted the former Aston Villa and Tranmere Rovers boss, who only joined in November, to remain even if the club were relegated.

Mr Dickens added: "He's a good man, very experienced and very committed."

BBC

APR-2

Second-placed Carlisle had hoped to close the gap on Roberto Martinez’s side but failed to make the most of home advantage against Nottingham Forest.

Forest themselves moved up to fourth with a 2-0 victory, defender Lee Chambers heading home from a free-kick on 76 minutes and Garath McCleary sealing victory for the visitors in injury time.

Third-placed Doncaster also failed to make any impression on the high-flying Swans’ lead at the top.

Leeds United moved to within a point of the play-off places with a 1-0 victory at Doncaster, Alan Sheehan scoring the only goal after 20 minutes.

At the other end of the table, Luton look doomed to relegation after going down 2-1 at Gillingham.

Simeon Jackson scored twice in 12 minutes in the second half after Sam Parkin (19) had given the visitors the lead.

Gillingham remain in the relegation places but are now just one point behind Crewe in 20th.

ICW

APR-2

Cardiff fought out a stalemate with fellow FA Cup semi-finalists West Brom.

The Bluebirds created the first chance of the game when Paul Parry sent Steve Thompson clear but he blazed over.

Albion responded well and Glenn Loovens cleared Zoltan Gera's shot off the line before Ishmael Miller hit the angle with a fierce shot on the turn.

Only Carl Hoefkens' last-ditch block stopped Gavin Rae scoring for Cardiff but Roman Bednar missed a golden chance to give West Brom victory late on.

• Cardiff City boss Dave Jones
"Both sets of players came out with a lot of credit. There was no quarter given from both sides.

"We both had a right good go at each other - there was good football and a lot of endeavour and commitment from both teams. I enjoyed the game."

• West Brom manager Tony Mowbray:
"Numerically I thought we had a lot more chances than Cardiff.

"I thought it was a decent game and I think they probably had the best chance of the night - but we'll take that.

"We came here for three points. On the overall balance, I thought we deserved all three. But we'll take 0-0 and move on."

BBC

APR-2

Wrexham manager Brian Little has admitted the club faces a "massive, massive hill" if it is to avoid relegation from the Football League.

The Dragons lost 2-1 at fellow strugglers Mansfield on Tuesday and face another troubled club, Macclesfield, at home on Saturday.

Little said: "There's a massive, massive hill ahead of us now. Massive. But what do you do?

"You don't run or hide. We must roll our sleeves up and win on Saturday."

Wrexham are rooted to the bottom of the table, eight points adrift of third-from-bottom Notts County with seven games remaining.

Little said: "We'll take it from there. But we all know where we sit.

"We all know what people up and down the country will say. We've got to try our best to prove them wrong, but whether we can or not remains to be seen.

"I said most people up and down the country would predict we'd go down if we lost this game and I accept that's what they will think.

"But it's the same message I've said from day one. We'll try and we're trying very hard.

"I've never said anything else. We don't do it any other way. We're very committed, but we do really cause our own problems.

BBC

 APR-2

Pay up or shut up says TNS Chairman

Surveys are being carried out amongst those who attend games to see if the majority want a greater inclusion of Oswestry in the name and Harris says that anyone who wants to influence the decisions must first attend the matches. 

He says that, if the majority wants it, the title could be changed and a greater Oswestry representation placed on the shirts to reflect the recent move to Park Hall. "Oswestry Town has always been there since the merger of the two clubs," said Harris. "We do want the goodwill of the whole of the community and what I will be looking for the community to do is to come and show support at the gate. 

"That will give them a greater voice in how the football club is run. We take our fans very seriously and how we define fans is someone who supports the club."

Saints-alive.co.uk

 APR-2

City defender Smith signs up for County

Left-back Smith, a Wales Under-19 international, joins on loan until the end of the season with a view to a permanent deal.

The 20-year old second-year professional, born and bred in Newport, has seen his dream of breaking through at Cardiff hampered by a knee ligament injury.

Despite handing him a first team squad number (29) and telling the press that he was a future first team player, Bluebirds boss Dave Jones has now informed Smith his future lies elsewhere.

The youngster opted to have a two-week trial with Swansea City, but despite impressing with the Swans, they're keeping their options open until the summer.

It allowed Beadle to swoop and the boss was thrilled to bring in a long-term target.

He explained: "Matt is a super young player, no doubt a future football league player.

SWA

 APR-2

Crucial match for Cefni and Caersws

IT would be the understatement of the century to say this Saturday’s relegation crunch clash at the Recreation Ground is a six-pointer.

Caersws, who are second from bottom of the Welsh Premier, ended a dismal run of seven successive league defeats at the weekend when they earned a 1-1 draw at Welshpool.

Meanwhile, Llangefni, one off the basement, are bang in form having taken nine points out of a possible 15 from their last five starts. Town have not won away since New Year’s Day, however, a 4-2 verdict at Porthmadog.

Neither side can afford to lose, but Cefni have the luxury of a game in hand over their mid-Wales rivals.

Back in November, Caersws snatched a 1-0 success at Talwrn Road courtesy of a Sion Meredith goal, but resurgent Llangefni are more than capable of exacting revenge on Saturday.

ICW

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Airbus have never beaten the north Wales coast side in four attempts on home soil but James McIntosh had a good opportunity late on to break their duck only to head wide when well placed.

The first half saw lots of endeavour but little creativity, but the home side were the dominant force after the break and the best chances fell in their favour.

However, they failed to convert any and it could have been costly as visitors’ midfielder Craig Jones nearly punished them, but his goal-bound effort was tipped over the bar by Chris Doran.

ICW

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Adverse weather over the winter has left some clubs in the league's three divisions with up to a third of their fixtures left to play.

Even with the decision, several teams face the prospect of playing two or three games each week to fulfil their fixtures.

This extension only applies to fixtures postponed on and from Saturday, March 29.

Fixtures postponed prior to this date must still be re-arranged before Saturday, May 10.

ICW

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The Baggies are up to fourth place in the Championship after a dramatic 4-3 win over Colchester United last Saturday, and have their sights firmly set on automatic promotion.

But Dave Jones insists a game with so much at stake in league terms – and with Wembley awaiting both sides at the weekend – is the ideal way to warm up for the FA Cup semi-finals.

“This is the perfect game for us,” said the Bluebirds boss. “Both us and West Brom are fighting for something.

“If we were in the situation where we couldn’t go up, then it becomes a totally different mentality and approach to the game.

“But because of where both teams are and what’s up for grabs, you’ve got to go for it.

“(West Brom manager) Tony Mowbray will be feeling the same as me, only I’m sure he’s got more options open to him with a bigger squad.”

While West Brom’s form has been patchy of late, City’s unbeaten six-game run has taken them to within two wins of the play-offs.

ICW

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Martinez’s men take a well-earned breather from the League One promotion race tonight as chasing pair Carlisle and Doncaster face tough tests against Nottingham Forest and Leeds respectively.

Indeed, if Doncaster were to lose tonight and at Huddersfield in another Yorkshire derby on Saturday, then Swansea would secure promotion by beating relegation-haunted Bournemouth at home the same afternoon.

Martinez, however, is not contemplating that scenario, instead focusing on the club’s record haul of 85 points achieved by John Hollins’ Third Division title-winners in 1999-2000.

Swansea are just one win away from equalling that mark, but the free-flowing, slick football under Martinez, right, is in stark contrast to that of Hollins’ functional champions. Built on solid defence and Roger Freestone’s clean-sheet record, Swansea took the title having scored just 51 goals in 46 games.

Compare that to the current team’s tally of 73 in 40 games (41 having come away from home) and there is no contest about who comes out on top in the entertainment stakes.

“It’s a cliche that there’s not any good football played in the lower leagues of the British game,” said Martinez. “I’ve never believed that because there’s a lot of talent here and players don’t have to play percentage football and look to hit a big targetman.

“I want my teams to score goals and when you look at our record, especially away from home, we have added an extra dimension. I believe what we’ve done is the right way and I think our crowd have appreciated the football we have played this season.

“We’ve had some golden years at this club and that’s the football I believe the fans want to see.”

ICW

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Hackett has a full-strength squad on call and is expected to make changes to the side which lost 1-0 to Port Talbot.

“We beat Airbus 1-0 at our place early in the season in what was a very competitive local derby so we know we are in for another severe test there,” said Hackett.

Airbus UK will be looking to get their top-10 bid back on track after their 4-0 defeat at Haverfordwest County, writes John Bridgwater. Before that loss Airbus had been unbeaten in five games.

Darren Wright (hernia) and Adam Hunter (ankle) are out for the rest of the season.

Discussions between Nomads and with Prestatyn Town about sharing the Deeside Stadium next season have fallen through as Kelsterton College authorities are not prepared to risk excessive use of their ground.

DP

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Wrexham boss Brian Little has admitted that the loser of Tuesday's Mansfield versus Wrexham game is unlikely to avoid relegation from League Two.

The Dragons are one point behind Mansfield at the foot of the table, with Notts County a further seven points clear in the safety zone.

"We have to be honest enough to accept the consensus of opinion that the loser is likely to go down," said Little.

"But there can't be a greater incentive than that and we're capable of a win."

Wrexham have a game in hand over Mansfield and between two and three extra games over their other relegation rivals, and on Saturday the Dragons host fellow strugglers Macclesfield.

"If we can win on Tuesday it will give us an incredible boost for Macclesfield," Little told BBC Sport Wales.

"We've knows for a few weeks that we need to win two in a row to catch the teams above us, if we can't do that then the writing is on the wall.

"We're not giving up. Our motto is to do whatever it takes to avoid the drop.

BBC

 APR-1

Merthyr seek atonement

The Martyrs were beaten 2-1 at home by bottom-of-the-table Cheshunt in the BGB League Premier Division and striker Craig Steins admits the team owe manager Garry Shephard one.

“We were simply not at the races for that game and it has to rank as one of the worst performance of the season,” he said.

“We had done well recently, just losing once in seven matches, but we let ourselves down and need to make up some ground.”

ICW