JAN-31

Welsh Premier League leaders Llanelli have criticised some local football clubs for letting them down on a recent initiative.The Reds have sent out special discounted tickets to every Carmarthenshire League club in the area in an attempt to attract more support to Stebonheath Park.

With each club receiving 18 tickets allowing them to enter the ground at half-price, Llanelli were hoping their success on the field would be backed up by support off it.

But they have seen some clubs opting not to get behind them, and in one incident, handing over their tickets to Llanelli's rival fans.

LS

JAN-31

Deryn Brace hopes Carmarthen's recent mini-revival has seen the club turn the corner as they bid to earn European qualification for the fourth consecutive season. The Old Gold player-manager saw his side fall behind in the race for the third-placed Intertoto Cup spot following a tough Christmas period, but seven points from the last nine has kept Town in the race.

And Brace is delighted with the way his team have dug out victories recently.

"We had a tough time over Christmas, especially with back-to-back games against Llanelli," said Brace.

CJ

JAN-31

The Steelmen have an unenviable disciplinary record this season, with Lee Surman and Liam McCreesh alone picking up 21 bookings between them.

Speaking at a fan forum at the club last week, Tucker said: “Our discipline this season has been shocking and it’s simply not acceptable, but hopefully it will get better.

“Some bookings you can understand, but it’s the really needless ones that are annoying.

“You can understood when players get booked for hard tackles but players kicking balls away or mouthing off to the referee is not on.

“It’s hard enough to win games with 11 men let alone 10. For the game against Newi Cefn Druids there are two players who should be available but aren’t.”

ICW

JAN-31

“I’ve heard that we could be the most successful newly promoted side in the Welsh Premier, but I’m not sure how true that is.

“As I said at the start of the season, we targeted a top 10 finish and we look well on course for that, and survival is no longer an issue.

“To finish anywhere above that would probably be punching a little above our own weight.”

Dyer said his players had performed a dramatic turnaround in the second half of the season as they adapted to the demands of the top flight.

“In the latter half of the season we have really seen the boys progress, and we’ve come away with good results against Rhyl, Carmarthen, Llanelli and now Caernarfon. To come away with points has been very, very pleasing.

“It’s important that we don’t let ourselves down and try and maintain our form for the remainder of the season.”

ICW

JAN-31

The former Colwyn Bay midfielder was sacked after just four games in charge of Llangefni yesterday.

His right-hand man Phil Boersma, the former Liverpool player who has worked as an assistant to Graeme Souness as Reds coach and also at Southampton, will also leave the Anglesey club.

Cefni chief executive Owen said: “The board and the directors felt too many of the local lads were leaving us and we didn’t want that to happen.

“Too many players were being brought in from outside from the Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy catchment area.”

He added: “I’ve got a lot of time for Alex. He’s a great bloke and I’ve no doubt he’ll make an excellent manager for somebody one day.

“We can only wish him all the best for the future.”

Kevan, who took over after Adie Jones was sacked last month, said he was “perplexed” by the decision.

“I can’t work out just why,” said Kevan. “What I have done is exactly what I said I’d do when I was first appointed.

“It seems as though word had got around that I was about to fill the team with 11 Liverpool lads, which was not the case.

“A couple of lads left and it seemed to prompt a chain reaction, then internal politics seems to have taken over. I thought that I had joined an ambitious club – we still had 10 matches to beat relegation and it’s a bit too early to throw in the towel.”

Chris Evans, Richard Hughes and Sion Parry have left Llangefni in the past few days.

BBC

JAN-31

As the January transfer window slams shut at midnight fears had been raised the financially-troubled Bluebirds might need to cash in on the likes of Joe Ledley, Paul Parry and teenager Aaron Ramsey.

But a bullish Ridsdale has ruled out any departures even if “big money” offers are received today.

The City supremo told the Western Mail he’d had enquiries about three players during the last week, but rebuffed them all with the Cardiff board now wanting to see how far the current squad can take them this season.

Ridsdale refused to elaborate on which players had been targeted, but Ledley, who grabbed his seventh and eighth goals of the season in City’s impressive 3-1 defeat of QPR on Tuesday, is attracting interest.

Everton are still said to be circling and Paul Parry, also on the scoresheet against Rangers, has also aroused speculation.

Previously Ridsdale had conceded any Cardiff player might be sold if the right offer came in, but with Cardiff facing Wolves in the fifth round of the FA Cup soon and just one point off the play-off places, the chairman is now adamant no one will depart.

ICW

JAN-31

The 32-year-old, who recently had an unsuccessful loan spell with Norwich, has slipped down the pecking order at The Hawthorns this season.

Hartson joined the Baggies in June 2006 but, despite scoring twice on his debut, struggled with fitness and form.

The much-travelled 49-times capped former Wales international scored six goals in 24 appearances for Albion.

Hartson has not started a senior game for Albion since Feburary, but his last goal in a Baggies shirt actually came in a pre-season friendly at Histon in July.

BBC

JAN-31

Moran – one of the Welsh Premier’s most successful strikers – left the Lilywhites earlier this week after just over six years with the club, during which time he scored 99 goals from 148 league games.

The 28-year-old marked his debut for new club Fleetwood with a second-half goal as the Unibond Premier Division side lost 3-2 at home to Gateshead on Tuesday.

DP

JAN-31

"We won't go overboard but we have the belief that it's in our armoury to not only keep the gap but build it," the midfielder told BBC Sport Wales.

"We showed why we're top at Forest, we were in control and deserved the win.

"As leaders everyone is going to raise their games against us, but we'll be up to match it, we have the team spirit."

The Swans are now unbeaten in 12 matches, and in their last two games have taken four points away at promotion rivals Forest and Doncaster.

But they are troubled by an injury to Paul Anderson, who limped off after collapsing away from any action early in the clash at the City Ground on Tuesday.

"He felt his thigh, it's a soft tissue injury which obviously causes a lot of problems to a sprinter like Paul," manager Roberto Martinez told BBC Sport Wales.

"We will assess it this week. He's not a player who comes off a football pitch for no reason."

BBC

JAN-30

Hicks is hero in cup drama

JAN-30

Camilleri confident Pontypridd can avoid drop

JAN-30

An awful back pass from the visitors gave Paul Parry the chance to lay on the opener for Ledley with a fine feed.

Aaron Ramsey, making his full league debut, then found Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink who delivered the pass for Ledley to stroke in his second.

More weak defending saw Hasselbaink set up Paul Parry for a well-taken third, before Hogan Ephraim's late consolation slipped under an injured Michael Oakes.

The Bluebirds are now just one point off the Championship play-offs, having extended their unbeaten run to nine games.

BBC

JAN-30

In the other semi Final at Belle Vue, Rhyl and Bangor went in at the break, goalless, but drew 1.1. Dave Cameron partnered Lee Hunt up-front, whilst former Bangor captain, Paul O'Neil was only named on the bench. Nev Powell made 1 change with skipper Marc Limbert returning after suspension, and Craig Hutchinson dropped to the bench.

OWP

JAN-30

Carl Baker's low cross was bundled in by Wayne Curtis in the first attack.

Danny Adams fouled Stuart Nicholson for Danny Sonner to equalise, but after the break Neil Roberts turned into his own net from Matty Blinkhorn's back-heel.

David Antell fouled Drewe Broughton for Mike Proctor to power in the equaliser, Richard Hope's late red card after a second yellow not affecting the result.

Wrexham are undefeated in three games, but have slipped to five points from the League Two safety zone.

BBC

JAN-30

The home side had the better of the first half, with Swans keeper Dorus De Vries making four fine saves.

But Swans midfielder Andy Robinson also had a number of good chances, Paul Smith denying him in the Forest goal.

Grant Holt and Matt Thornhill were kept at bay by De Vries in the second half, a draw the fair result at the death.

Swansea's unbeaten run now stretches to 12 games, while Forest have lost just once at the City Ground this season.

The Swans will be troubled by an early injury to Paul Anderson, who limped off after collapsing away from any action.

BBC

JAN-30

Lee Croft set up Evans, on loan from Manchester City, to score his fourth goal of the season from 18 yards.

Southampton missed a host of chances, with Grzegorz Rasiak and Rudi Skacel both being denied by the woodwork.

But Stern John wasted their best opportunity with 20 minutes left, when he missed a penalty after Norwich's Gary Doherty had handled.

BBC

JAN-30

Chester say they are considering the bid for the-28-year-old who joined for a second time from Tranmere Rovers last summer.

If a deal is completed, Ellison would become Wrexham manager Brian Little's 12th signing of the January transfer window.

Ellison, who has also played for Hull and Stockport, has scored eight times in 26 League two starts this season.

Chester owner Stephen Vaughan said: "We will consider the offer, but if the financial valuation doesn't meet ours and more importantly, if the manager doesn't want the player to move on, then the deal won't go through."

BBC

JAN-29

Moran has experienced mixed fortunes during his time at Belle Vue.
In 2003/04 his 47 goals inspired the club to the Welsh Premier League, Welsh Cup and League Cup treble, but at the end of the campaign it was revealed he had traces of the illegal substance nandrolone in his system following a random test during that season.
Moran was stripped of his Welsh Premier League Player of the Season title and served an eight-month ban, but remained at the club and continued to contribute a steady flow of goals.
His departure comes hot on the heels of prolific strike partner Lee Hunt's transfer request.

Lilywhites online

JAN-29

Being paired with Championship rivals was always on the cards with eight second-tier teams in the last 16, so you could forgive Wolves boss Mick McCarthy for his under whelming response to a trip to Ninian Park on the weekend of February 16-17.

“It’s not a sexy draw I’m afraid,” said the former Republic of Ireland boss whose Wolves side won 3-2 at Cardiff in the league back in October.

“But we’ve got a chance now. We’ve beaten Cardiff once at their place this season and I’d sooner be going there than to Liverpool.

“We have more chance of progressing than if we had been drawn to travel to Anfield.”

Drawing Wolves, of course, means Bluebirds boss Dave Jones comes up against one of his former employers, while current City No 1 Michael Oakes made nearly 200 league appearances for the Molineux men between 1999 and 2007.

“I think if you are going to play someone in your own division it’s important to get a home draw,” said Jones, whose side has seen off non-league Chasetown and League Two Hereford to reach the fifth round for the first time in 14 years.

“So from that respect I think it is as good as it could be.

“From a financial point of view when you get to this stage any game will be a sell-out.”

“But it will be a tough one because we know them and they know us inside out.”

A win for Cardiff would put them in the quarter-final for the first time since 1927 when they went on to lift the trophy after beating Arsenal 1-0 in the final.

ICW

JAN-29

The former Rochdale marksman joins from Northwich Victoria, and Saints manager Ken McKenna hopes he will relish the chance to impress.

“Kevin’s a really good player with a fantastic pedigree,” he said. “He scored loads of goals for Rochdale, and a lot of big clubs were interested in him, but he has lost his way a bit since.

“But it’s a chance for him to come to us to get his desire back and show what a good player he is.”

The arrival of the 24-year-old, who has netted 29 Football League goals, comes with strike duo Michael Wilde and Ronnie Morgan both long-term injury victims.

For tonight’s encounter, the Saints are hopeful that Martyn Naylor, Jamie Wood and Tommy Holmes could feature but Chris King and Stephen Beck are still doubtful.

DP

JAN-29

The Dragons boss has brought in 11 new faces in the January transfer window in a bid to stave off relegation and he hopes they can go on a run of form.

"I think we've found a new lease of life," said Little.

"But results will dictate how people feel and the last two results have made people feel a lot better."

Morecambe, who came up to the Football League via the Conference play-offs last summer, find themselves three points outside the League Two play-offs.

And Little wants his side to be able to play some of the same attractive football as their hosts.

"They play good football, we will always want to play good football," he said.

"I watched Morecambe myself this season and I was very impressed with them as a footballing side.

"They have formed themselves to be a major force in this division."

BBC

JAN-29

It's now 550 minutes since manager Guillermo Ganet's team managed to find the back of the net, a fact which doesn't bode well for the most difficult task of all on Saturday - a home game against leaders Goytre United.

Only on one occasion, when new recruit Benjamin Bristow saw his point-blank header tipped over by former Crow goalkeeper Gary Wager, did Cwmbran look likely to score and they would have lost this particular encounter had the home side not struck the crossbar shortly afterwards.

The result means Cwmbran, table-toppers themselves on October 7, have slipped down to eighth position, and if the three clubs below them - Afan Lido Caerleon and Bridgend Town - win only one of their many games in hand, then they'll drop even further to 11th of 18.

SWA

JAN-29

With the return leg at Stebonheath Park in two weeks, the Black and Greens will be anxious to ensure they keep their hopes alive by gaining some reward this evening.

However, it promises to be tough semi-final with Llanelli on a rich vein of goalscoring form having won their last six Welsh Premier matches to move top of the table.

By contrast, Aber’s form has been mixed, having lost five of their last seven with last weekend’s narrow 1-0 loss at Bangor City seeing them slip to ninth spot.

But they can take heart from their successes against the Llanelli full-timers, who they defeated in past seasons in the league and league cup.

Midfielder Gavin Cadwallader could come into the frame after getting another game under his belt for the reserves following a knee injury.

Meanwhile, Aberystwyth’s reserves will also be in action when they visit Newtown in the Central Wales Floodlit Cup tonight.

DP

JAN-29

But, as Cardiff chairman Peter Ridsdale continues to juggle with a monstrous debt at Ninian Park, Bluebirds boss Dave Jones insists that having one of the richest men in the world involved in your club does not guarantee success.

Queens Park Rangers are City’s visitors tonight with the west London club in the middle of a multi-million pound revolution.

Rangers were bought by a consortium which includes Formula One moguls Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone and the family of the fifth richest man in the world, Lakshmi Mittal.

Indian steel magnet Mittal is reportedly worth £50bn and the family’s interests will be looked after by his son-in-law Amit Bhatia, who helped buy 20 per cent of the club last month.

Spending money on the likes of Fitz Hall (Wigan) and former City target Rowan Vine (Birmingham) has helped lift QPR from the bottom of the Championship with five wins in their last 12 games.

Total spending from the start of the season is nearly at £4m and fans will be hoping to see further investment in the side as they look to get back into the Premiership.

But Jones insists there is no certainty they will be able to propel themselves out of the Championship immediately, with so many quality teams looking to climb out of the division.

ICW

JAN-29

The Spaniard hopes his team will extend their lead to 14 points but he is refusing to take anything for granted.

"When you play the likes of Leeds and Forest, form means nothing," he said.

"It's whoever adapts better in the 90 minutes that will get the good result and we need to make sure that we're ready for it."

Swansea are 11 points clear at the top of League One after a rousing 4-0 win at promotion hopefuls Doncaster on Friday.

Forest left the Liberty Stadium in August with a point after holding the Swans to a 0-0 draw despite being under pressure for most of the game.

But Martinez is expecting the former European champions to come out on the attack.

"They are a fantastic group of players," he said.

"They've got individualities that can win a football game with a little bit of magic and we have to be very, very careful.

"The form situation goes out of the window when you're playing such a big occasion, but we are really looking forward to it."

BBC

JAN-28

Manager Peter Nicholas was delighted with the efforts of his players, who had fluffed their lines on Wednesday night, allowing a 3-1 lead over Neath to be swallowed up late in the match and fluff three points.

"I'm very pleased with the performance and the result on a very difficult pitch," he said.

"This was an important game for us to win and it's nice to be top of the league, although there's a long way to go as we still have 11 games to play.

"This time last year we were well adrift of The New Saints but at least we are giving Ken (McKenna) a fright this time."

Nicholas added: "We are scoring lots of goals at present but we could have had even more today as we missed some other good chances that we created."

Llanelli now turn their thoughts to tomorrow night's Loosemores League Cup semi-final first leg tie at Aberystwyth.

EP

JAN-28

NLD

JAN-28

Wales boss John Toshack will have to do without Collins when he names his squad today for the friendly international with Norway on February 6.

Collins, 24, damaged knee ligaments in a West Ham reserve game on Wednesday.

But Bellamy and Danny Gabbidon each came through the match unscathed and should be picked in Toshack’s squad for the game against the Norwegians at Wrexham.

Bellamy was playing his first match in three months after an abdominal injury and is in contention for a return to West Ham’s squad for Wednesday's Premiership clash with his old club Liverpool.

Gabbidon was continuing his recovery after picking up another groin injury in December.

West Ham assistant manager Mervyn Day said, “Players always target the earliest game possible, so we have got to look at it properly and see whether Craig is actually fit enough to play any part against Liverpool.

“Certainly he is training well, but Craig has only literally played 87 minutes in a reserve match since the injury first struck ... so realistically it is going to be a big ask for him to be involved.

ICW

JAN-28

Boss Little has signed 11 new players in January, seven of which played in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Bradford.

"The new signings have done so well to fit into the team so quickly, it can often take time for them to fit in," said Saturday goal-scorer Roberts.

"You can see the difference in out performances. We're a lot more organised - that's the biggest factor."

BBC

JAN-28

It is the first time Cardiff have reached this stage of the competition since they lost out to Luton 2-1 back in February 1994.

“Financially it would be nice to have a Premiership club, but I have not really got a preference,” said Jones.

“I am not too bothered really. I have always believed if you are going to do anything in this competition then you are going to have to beat whoever is put in front of you. I am just happy to be through to the next round.”

ICW

JAN-28

The Swans stretched their lead at the top of League One on Friday night after a superb victory over fellow promotion candidates Doncaster.

But having passed that promotion test, Roberto Martinez’s men face another examination of their title credentials with a trip to bookies’ favourites Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.

Yet midfielder Britton says the confidence in the Swansea camp has seen the side stop caring who still stands in their way of their Championship aims.

The 25-year-old said: “A lot of people had talked about Doncaster being a big test for us and now we have got to go straight into another big game against rivals for promotion.

“But we’re not thinking about other teams or who we have to face.

“We are all just concentrating on ourselves, doing things the right way and playing the way we can because we know that’s what has got us to where we are at the moment.

ICW

JAN-28

Remarkably, the name Rhys Griffiths did not appear on the scoresheet as he sat this one out with a niggling groin injury.

Desperate Caersws defending throughout enabled the Reds to breeze to victory, Craig Williams and newcomer Stephen Evans both bagging a brace, the other coming from Mark Jones.

“It’s nice to be top, but there’s still 11 games to go yet,” said Llanelli manager Peter Nicholas. “The lads performed well on a very difficult surface. This time last year we were well adrift of TNS points-wise, but we hope to give Kenny (McKenna) a fright this time.”

ICW

JAN-28

After last weekend’s shock victory over MK Dons Little suggested his team’s 1-1 draw with an in-form Bradford outfit is further evidence the Dragons can survive.

“Three weeks ago that’s the sort of game we might have lost. A comparison might be the Brentford game where we scored first, but, after conceding a goal in the second half, were then 3-1 down within 10 minutes.

ICW

JAN-28

Deadly striker Richard Ryan netted the first goal and Steve Conaty added the second just before the interval.

This success stretched Goytre’s lead to three points over Ton Pentre who were surprisingly held to a goalless draw by Caerleon.

Meanwhile Afan Lido edged to a 2-1 victory over Pontardawe, the seasiders’ scorers being Shaun Best and Ian Jones, while Vinny Wattleworth scored for the Llynfi Valley side.

Maesteg Park and Cwmbran ended goalless at Tudor Park and Bridgend Town added to the woes of bottom club Garw with a 3-0 victory.

Newport YMCA beat Taffs Well 3-1 with a brace by Lewis Summers and one by John Pardue. Jamie Roberts netted for Taffs Well.

Bryntirion Athletic saw off struggling Pontypridd Town, while striker Chris Summers Rikki Evans scored for ENTO Aberamanin a 2-1 win over Croesyceiliog.

A Richard Taylor brace was enough to give Cambrian and Clydach maximum points against Caldicot Town.

Revitalised Division Two table-toppers Barry travelled to Old Road and beat Briton Ferry 5-2.

A David Lewis penalty wasn’t sufficient to give Llangeinor victory against Ely Rangers.

Llangeinor’s neighbours Bettws pipped Ammanford 3-2, while it was goals galore at Garden Village, where the home side beat Cardiff Corries 5-3.

In the Third Division high-flying Newcastle Emlyn beat Cwmamman Utd 3-2. But this fine victory wasn’t enough though for Emlyn to go top of the table as Pentwyn Dynamo continued their winning ways with a 1-0 win at home to struggling Morriston.

Merthyr Saints hit Abertillery for six.

Ryan Buckman and Jason Hatch made it maximum points for sixth placed Penrhiwceiber away at Goytre.

The Porthcawl-Llantwit Fardre game was abandoned after 10 minutes due to a serious leg injury.

WOS

JAN-27

PORT TALBOT picked up where they left off last week with the scalp of The New Saints, with a hard-earned 1-0 victory over NEWI Cefn Druids at Plaskynaston.

The only goal of the game was after just 11 minutes from a well-rehearsed corner routine, and Lee John’s flag-kick was powerfully headed past Chris Mullock by Martin Rose.

The visitors deserved their interval lead but in the second half it was Cefn who were much the better side. However, despite their territorial advantage, they failed to turn chances into goals.

They almost squared the match late on, but a fierce free-kick by Mike Thompson was denied by the upright.

On the counter-attack, Rose missed two good chances for Port Talbot to put the result to rest, but he was denied by Mullock.

WOS

JAN-27

CARMARTHEN’S late winner was a bitter pill for Gareth Owen’s Airbus to swallow.

The North Wales side had done enough to get all three points, as they made canny use of Owen’s distribution skills, not to mention his inch-perfect free kicks.

Perhaps the home side scored too early and eased off after Jamal Easter used his pace to great effect in racing on to a Paul Fowler pass to finish clinically.

After that, it was Neil Thomas in the Carmarthen goal who was by far the busier.

He saved well from Paul Hallows and Owen, but could only stand and watch when Danny Desmoreaux hit the bar.

It was all Airbus deserved when they equalised from the penalty spot, but the home side came on strong in the last 10 minutes, and Fowler scored in the 90th minute.

Late in the game, Hallows, of Airbus, and Sacha Walters, of Carmarthen, both received red cards.

WOS

JAN-27

Chairman Peter Ridsdale has told the Bluebirds boss he will not see anything of the £2.5m the club has raised in the last month.

And that means Jones can forget about any last-minute spending before the January transfer window slams shut on Thursday.

The Cardiff manager could have been forgiven for thinking the money generated from the sale of Chris Gunter (£2m) and Steve MacLean (£500,000) could be used to try to attract new faces for a promotion push.

But Ridsdale insisted: “Dave will not see a penny of that because of the ongoing cost of the court case and because of the uncertainty created just before Christmas.

“My job is to ensure the club is viable and above board, and at this stage I needed to raise money to underpin the club’s finance.

“So as we stand now, there will be no transfer fees out.”

Ridsdale admits that could change should an irresistible offer come in for one of their stars to boost the budget – although there are no signs City are set to sell any of their big names..

And he added: “I won’t say we won’t bring anybody in because there’s always opportunities and bargains to be had, and we’re used to wheeling and dealing.

“But will we be paying money out in transfer fees? No.”

Still, Ridsdale is adamant that should not be a problem for his manager after the recent revival in fortunes.

And in a veiled swipe at Cardiff’s big-spending Championship rivals, the chairman insists Jones’ squad is big enough and good enough to keep up their current form.

WOS

JAN-27

As a result of Caernarfon’s largesse, the sighs of relief from the home fans were audible, as Neath really did not play well. This was despite taking the lead after only three minutes, when Chris Pridham nodded home a scrappy goal.

Caernarfon’s reply was much classier. Paul Addo picked up the ball on the edge of the box to hit a top corner screamer.

They scored another good one to take the lead in the second half, when Peter Doran raced up from full back and fired home.

Neath finally got going with 20 minutes left and in injury time Andrew Hill headed home from a corner. Neath fans could not believe their luck when, almost from the restart, the ball fell to Pridham, and his deflected shot found the net.

WOS

JAN-27

COUNTY’S surge towards the top of Blue Square South gathered momentum yesterday with a hard-fought victory at basement boys Sutton.

Peter Beadle kept faith with the same side who demolished mid-table Cambridge on Wednesday, but on a very poor playing surface this clash in the London suburbs was always likely to prove more difficult.

Chances were few at either end but the game was settled by a moment of madness from Sutton’s new signing Karim Lel-Salahi in the 42nd minute.

The central defender, signed on loan from Eastleigh earlier in the week, needlessly handled a ball played into the box and Jason Bowen showed his usual expertise from 12 yards to send ’keeper Phil Wilson the wrong way.

The second half was disrupted by frequent use of the whistle from referee Karl Berry, much of which was unnecessary but it was County who looked much the better footballing side.

Beadle said “We showed character, grit and determination.

“This was as good a result as we will get all season.”

WOS

JAN-26

Ferrie Bodde drilled a super free-kick into the bottom corner on 28 minutes to open the scoring.

The midfielder's pin-point pass then found Jason Scotland, whose cross gave Bauza a simple tap-in on 52 minutes.

Stephen Roberts was sent off six minutes later when he hauled down Bauza before Scotland scored a late penalty and Febian Brandy stuck at the death.

Substitute Brandy, on loan from Manchester United, finished off a flowing move which epitomised Swansea's stylish performance.

BBC

JAN-26

"Having played Liverpool ourselves, we're fully aware of the excitement that comes with drawing them," said TNS official Mike Harris.

"It's a once in a lifetime experience for clubs like ours to play in front of the Kop."

TNS drew Liverpool in the 2005 Champions League, with world attention focusing on the Welsh champions.

"The recognition that we have received from playing Liverpool has given us a great reputation all over the world," Harris added.

"We have supporters in far flung corners of the globe and people everywhere now know of TNS and our European history."

The Saints currently top the Welsh Premier, and are looking to qualify for the Champions League yet again.

"We'll be rooting for Havant & Waterlooville at Liverpool and have sent a personal message of good luck to all the players and management from one minnow to another," Harris said.

BBC

JAN-26

The Reds fluffed their lines on Wednesday when they had to settle for a point in a 3-3 thriller against Neath leaving them a point adrift of Ken McKenna’s team.

Today’s visit to Caersws. a venue where they achieved 3-0 and 4-1 wins on their last two visits, presents Peter Nicholas’ men with a second bite of the cherry.

Stephen Evans, recently signed from Crawley Town, came on as a second-half substitute against the Eagles, but could be in line for his first start, while Lee Phillips is hoping to be fit for consideration. Stuart Jones has been ruled out.

Rhyl can reduce the points deficit on Saints to eight

with victory at Haverfordwest, but they face a rejuvenated Bluebirds who have turned the corner following a barren autumn to post 14 points from seven matches.

Danny Thomas misses Carmarthen Town’s home clash with Newtown. but play maker Nathan Cotterrall returns.

“The lads have shown real character in bouncing back from a bad spell, but Newtown has had some decent results lately so we will have to be at our best,” said Old Gold boss Deryn Brace.

Bangor City could be in fourth spot tonight if Rhyl come unstuck in Pembrokeshire, but they face a testing afternoon against Aberystwyth Town at Farrar Road.

Swansea City manager Roberto Martinez has recommended on-loan Port Talbot frontmen Chad Bond and Kerry Morgan to his home-town Spanish club.

“It’s a big loss to us,” said Port Talbot manager Nick Tucker, who hopes to have two new signings in place for the home match with Newi Cefn Druids.

Neath manager Andrew Dyer hopes to have sealed the signature of former Swansea left wing Daniel Lancey for the visit for Caernarfon Town to Llandarcy Park plus goalkeeper Alex Davies from Swansea side West End.

Welshpool need three points at Porthmadog to keep their European hopes alive, while Llangefni Town also need victory against visitors Newtown as they fight for their top-flight status.

ICW

JAN-26

Manager Viv Williams said: “We are perfectly capable of gaining the result we need but have to battle right from the start and keep going right to the end.”

The Port boss watched the opposition in action in a 1-0 defeat at Bangor City last weekend and was impressed.

He said: “Welshpool are a very disciplined and organised side, who gave Bangor a tough game.

“We will have to match that commitment and it will be a case of grafting.”

Porthmadog pair Danny Hughes and striker Carl Owen return from injury and recent signing Mark Thomas plays in midfield.

DP

JAN-26

The league management committee have deducted three points from Seven Sisters’ total for failing to play a fixture on Boxing Day.

That is good news for Seven Sisters’ fellow strugglers Abertillery Excelsiors, Monmouth Town and Aberbargoed Buds.

Seven Sisters were unable to raise a team for the home festive game against Newcastle Emlyn.

The Dulais Valley team were also fined £250 for the offence.

JAN-26

The arrivals mean Little has brought 10 new faces to the Racecourse in January in a bid to preserve the Dragons’ status in the Football League.

He said, “We’re at a point now where we would be limited if we tried doing anything else.

“We’ve had several offers for our younger players to go out on loan and we’ll probably look more on that side of things because we owe it to them to try to keep them improving.”

Little believes MK Dons’ striker Broughton and Oxford United forward Duffy, who are both over 6ft, can provide the Dragons with an aerial option they’ve been lacking.

The 29-year-old Broughton has featured 18 times for the League Two leaders this season, but managed only one goal, while Duffy, 24, has clocked up six strikes in 21 appearances for the Blue Square Premier side.

Little said, “They’re two bigger centre forwards because we feel we need a variation up there.

“Rob hasn’t really been tried at this level, whereas Drewe has been around the block.

“It gives us the option of having a big man up front to change the pattern of play.”

ICW

JAN-26

Kevan said: “We could get something from any games against those teams outside the top four, who are a bit special – TNS, Llanelli, Rhyl and Bangor.

“Take them out of the picture and there are all sorts of opportunities to pick up points, including against mid-table Newtown.”

When Llangefni, then with Adrian Jones in charge, visited Latham Park in September, the result was a narrow 2-1 defeat – “and the team are playing a great deal better now,” said Kevan.

“Against Caernarfon on Wednesday, in that abandoned derby, we created the better chances from skilful play, even though the conditions were dreadful, and that has given us confidence.”

The 14 players on duty at The Oval will report to Talwrn Road are boosted by fit-again centre-back Craig Hoggs.

But forward Chris Evans has left for Newtown and could make his debut against his former team-mates.

Newtown's problems show no signs of abating, writes John Bridgwater.

Having lost striker Craig Moses for up to eight weeks with damaged knee ligaments, the Robins' resources have been further depleted with Damien Daniels picking up an injury while out running.

The left-back faces a long spell on the sidelines.

DP

JAN-25

The midfielder played for the Steelmen during pre-season and scored with a superb strike in a friendly victory over Caldicot Town but then manager Tony Pennock decided not to sign the youngster, who moved to Welsh League UWIC before switching to Cwmbran later in the season.

UWP

JAN-25

Released from the Liberty Stadium at the end of last season, 19-year-old Lancey joined Port Talbot Town following a trial with Carmarthen Town and has made two full Welsh Premier appearances plus seven from the bench for the Steelmen.

UWP

JAN-25

Once again Spanish boss Guillermo Ganet has delved deep into his extensive catalogue of London-based players born overseas as he tries to inject life into the Crows' ailing bid for first-time promotion back to the top-flight Principality Welsh Premier League.

The club has announced that Ganet has this week brought in: l Benjamin Bristow, a 23-year-old born in Ghana whose last club was Remnet FC.

Ese Oduko, who hails from Nigeria and is a 25-year-old who has joined from Croydon Athletic. Ivory Coast-product Sosthene Guei, 24 who links up with the Crows from Enfield. Raney Duncan, a 27-year-old Jamaican, previously with Crawley Town. London-born Leon Clarke, 24, who previously appeared with Battersea Ironsides in the English capital.

The five newcomers arrive hard on the heels of:  Ohmar Pike, a 17-year-old from Jamaica previously with London League outfit Cuitural l Uwa Ogbodu, a 29-year-old from Nigeria who arrives via Conference South side Basingstoke Town l England-born Oliver Collins, aged 25 who has experience with Ryman League Division One outfit Moseley l Frenchman Tidiany Kone, a 25-year-old brought in from French League club Lilas FC l Michael Makasi, a 21-year-old English-born player who has appeared in the MacWhirter Welsh League with student side UWIC.

Ganet took over in pre-season and brought a whole bunch of players from his London-based academy to train and play alongside a handful of locals.

However since, the Crows have effectively lost an entire team with Rasul Abdul, Azeez Akinbolu, Roland Duo, Mark McGibbon, Moses Molongo, Gareth Mouncher, Jean-Black Ngody, Christopher Omuta, Shola Oyinloye, Ohene Quinhare, and Gareth Williams all departing.

All 10 newcomers are available for selection for Saturday's away game against relegation-threatened Maesteg Park Athletic, a match the Crows must win if they are to be re-considered as genuine promotion contenders.

SWA

JAN-25

There's only a week left until the January transfer window slams shut and apart from the loan arrival of Febian Brandy, there has been little movement at the Liberty Stadium.

The first rule Roberto must employ when looking at any potential new player is, is the player coming in better than what he's already got?

There are players not getting into Premiership and Championship first teams that would jump at the chance of playing for a team that's top of the league.

EP

JAN-25

The club is already on a collision course with the Welsh League authorities regarding its temporary tenancy at Lock's Lane, where it was given permission for this season only.

"If Bridgend have a separate ground on Lock's Lane there is nothing preventing them from playing there from September, but at the moment they are sharing match officials' rooms," says league secretary Ken Tucker.

"We have allowed it for this season but thought they would want to move back to play in Bridgend."
Bridgend have already spent a one-off £30,000 from Asda to upgrade facilities at Porthcawl and hopes the council will now allow it to dip into the £2m which has been ring-fenced for a new ground.

UWP

JAN-25

No, it’s not the former Liverpool and England idol, who is now with Cardiff City, but a front-runner of the same name from Cardiff side Bridgend Street.

Fowler has been brought to Tudor Park on the recommendation of Maesteg defender Dave Blackwell.

He is set to link up with recent acquisition Ohene Na Quinhare in a two-pronged attack, and Maesteg chief Dave Elliott and scout Gareth Darks hope to bring in more new men during the January sales.

Na Quinhare is set to play against the club he has recently quit – Cwmbran Town – this Saturday.

ICW

JAN-25

Nicky Tucker said he was surprised the proposals – put forward by former Welsh FA secretary Alun Evans – were even deemed worthy of consideration by the game’s governing body.

As part of Mr Evans’ strategic plan for 2007-12, Swansea, Cardiff and Wrexham would continue to compete in the English leagues, but would also field second-string sides in the Welsh Premier, giving them a chance of European qualification.

Tucker said: “It was Alun Evans’ idea and he’s had some crazy ones over the years. I’m surprised they have even looked into it.

“I’m against it – it’s a no-go. I don’t think it would add anything to the Welsh Premier because I don’t think people would buy into the idea of watching their reserves.

“We have a yearly game against Swansea City’s first team and it attracts a good crowd but I don’t think people would want to watch their reserves week in, week out.

“If it was their first team then that would be a different matter – but that’s just not going to happen.”

Two weekends ago Tucker’s side was beaten by the only goal at Airbus and the former Dinas Powys boss said the league’s organisers could have learned a lot from watching that game.

He said: “Maybe instead of worrying about reserve teams, the league should worry about its facilities, its pitches and its stands.

“Against Airbus we played on a surface that was no more than a park’s pitch. It was all about who could kick the ball the furthest.”

The implications of the strategic plan are expected to be discussed by the FAW this week.

ICW

JAN-25

Bond arrives at the club, which plays in the fourth level of the Spanish football league, with his former Steelmen colleague and fellow-striker Kerry Morgan. Bond was on-loan from Swansea to Port Talbot Town and consequently, it is their decision for the attacking pair to spend six months with the Spanish outfit rather than continue their current loan spells at the Re/Max Stadium.

Bond signed for Port Talbot when former Manager Kenny Jackett released him from his hometown club in 2006, but the appointment of Martinez who played with Bond at the Vetch Field saw the young striker re-sign for the club and return to Port Talbot Town on-loan. Morgan was also loaned out from the Swans to Port Talbot during the opening half of the season and made a huge impact despite struggling with a long term injury sustained against Carmarthen Town in the FAW Premier Cup.

Moving in the other direction however is young Swansea City striker Matthew Wright who will now join Port Talbot Town on-loan from the Swans in place of Chad Bond. A tall and powerful striker, Wright signed for the club after being released by Plymouth Argyle.

OWP

JAN-24

It didn't go to plan for the Reds as Neath took an early lead when Richard French put the visitors ahead in the 4th minute.

The league top scorer Rhys Griffiths drew Llanelli level on 25 minutes notching his 31st league goal of the season, and 2 minutes before half time Andrew Mumford put the home team ahead scoring from a free kick.

Two minutes after the re-start Llanelli looked to have sealed all three points when they went 3-1 up when Chris Holloway extended their lead. On 75 minutes Sean Cronin gave the visitors a glimmer of hope and on 83 minutes Andy Hill completed a memorable fightback for newly promoted Neath.

There was one sour note for battling Neath, they had David Burrows sent off in the 93rd minute for a 2nd yellow card.

Tony

JAN-24

John McKenna, a defender with The New Saints youth academy, has already spent a year with the club, who are still monitoring his progress.

"I spent a year or so at Ipswich, which was really valuable," McKenna told BBC Radio Shropshire after playing for the English Colleges international side.

"I'm still working hard to get myself a pro contract with a professional club."

McKenna played in the Colleges' 3-3 draw with Australia in his home town Oswestry and now he's preparing for a trip to Italy.

"We're off to Italy for a series of games," the 17 year old added. "We're due to play Latvia, Romania, and the host side Lazio.

"It's all come pretty quickly since I was selected for the squad in December and it's obviously a good way to show English scouts what I can do."

BBC

JAN-24

He is to fly out for their home and away qualifiers against St Lucia during February and March.

Cook, 35, plays for Grange Quins in the MacWhirter Welsh Football League Division Two, while he coaches part-time with the Cardiff City youth academy.

He was previously coach of the Cardiff City Ladies team at Ninian Park.

The Turks and Caicos team play the home leg at their new national stadium on Wednesday, February 6, with the return in St Lucia on March 26.

Centre-forward Gavin Glinton, who plays alongside David Beckham for LA Galaxy, is the star player for Turks and Caicos, while his younger brother Dwayne plays in American A League football.

Cook qualified to play for the Islands through four-year residency from 1999 to 2003.

He played in World Cup qualifiers against Haiti four years ago.

Cook has a background in semi-professional football.

He’s equally at home in midfield or defence, playing for Maidenhead United, Hampton and Richmond, Ware and Hitchin Town.

ICW

JAN-24

The 21-year-old has rebuilt his career this season and is currently the top scorer in senior football in England.

Rovers boss Jim Harvey's influence is one of the reasons which helped Fleetwood reach his decision.

"When many thought my career had ended he had faith in me," said Fleetwood. "I love the way he has the lads playing and that helps tremendously."

Fleetwood's prowess in front of goal saw him score 30 goals in all competitions before the turn of the year and he attracted a lot of interest from other clubs, including Gillingham and Cheltenham.

His decision means Forest Green miss out on the £200,000 fee agreed with Crewe, but the Blue Square Premier club has welcomed his decision to stay.

"Neither the Board or myself would ever stand in the way of any player progressing up the football ladder," said delighted manager Jim Harvey.

"On this occasion we may have missed out on a massive windfall. It shows how genuine Stuart is and knowing the lad as I do, I know his word is his bond."

Fleetwood has now insisted he will stay with Forest Green until the end of the season, regardless of any offers which come in for him before the January transfer window closes.

"I can honestly state that even if any other clubs come in with a late bid before the transfer window closes, I am not interested," said Fleetwood.

"The summer may be a different matter but I owe a debt of gratitude to the gaffer and I am committed with my team mates to making this the best ever season that the club have experienced in their history."

BBC

JAN-24

HEARTBROKEN Rhyl fans have swamped club websites pleading with leading goalscorer Lee Hunt to stay at Belle Vue.

The Lilywhites were rocked this week when Hunt, 26, put in a transfer request. The striker wrote to club officials saying he wants to quit the Welsh Premier as he feels he gets a raw deal from referees.

Since the news was exclusively revealed on the Visitor’s Rhyl FC web-blog Lilywhites Online, concerned supporters have flooded the site, and the message board on thelilywhites.co.uk appealing to Hunt to reconsider.

Hunt, who joined the Lilywhites during their quadruple-winning 2003/04 season, has been the first team’s leading marksman for the past three campaigns, but he has also encountered regular problems with discipline. This season he has been sent off twice and received six yellow cards.

Rhyl manager John Hulse, while admitting the player’s fiery temperament can sometimes be his own worst enemy, has also complained in the past he feels Hunt is targeted by refs in the WPL.

DP

JAN-24

ANGLESEY football star Wayne Hennessey has landed a two-year extension on his contract at Championship giants Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Welsh international goalkeeper Hennessey only signed a revised contract at the beginning of the current campaign, but reported interest from other clubs has encouraged Wolves to give him another two years which ties him to the club until 2012.

“Wayne has done very well,” manager Mick McCarthy told the club’s website. “And this is a just reward for his progress.

“We showed faith in Wayne in the summer when Matt Murray was injured and the suggestion was that we had no keeper. He has repaid that faith and I’m delighted he’s signed this new deal.”

Hennessey, who hails from Beaumaris, has progressed through Wolves’ youth system after being signed upon his release from previous club Manchester City.

DP

JAN-24

But Ridsdale declared he is desperate to hang on to every single one of the Bluebirds star players who have helped to get the club’s promotion push back on track in recent months.

Wales international Joe Ledley and Welsh under-21 youngster Aaron Ramsey are the most sought-after players at the club, although Championship sides have been chasing Paul Parry and Tony Capaldi.

City have already lost promising right-back Chris Gunter to Tottenham Hotspur after he sealed a £3m move to the north London club in December

Ridsdale said, “It is getting towards the end of January and, in my experience, a lot of things can happen in the last few days ... so watch this space. There may be players coming in and some going out, you never know.

“Obviously we are very happy with the squad we have got at the moment, but, if there is an option to strengthen the squad, then we will have a look at it.

“We are hoping to hang on to our best players, we want those who are in the starting XI at the moment to be there come the start of February, when the window shuts.”

ICW

JAN-24

National press reports suggest that current manager George Burley was offered the Scotland job last night which would leave the Saints post vacant.

But Ridsdale insisted Jones was going nowhere with the in-form Bluebirds just four points off the play-offs.

“Our position is absolutely clear,” said Ridsdale. “We stuck by him when we were going through difficult times and we fully expect him to be Cardiff manager when Southampton appoint a new boss.

“We are building something special at this club and both Dave and myself have a job to finish.”

When asked whether there were transfers in or out of the club with the deadline looming on January 31, Ridsdale’s reply was: “Absolutely nothing either way.”

ICW

JAN-23

Butler struck with an angled drive and the Swans dominated as Crewe keeper Ben Williams saved from Guillem Bauza, Andy Robinson, Ferrie Bodde and Garry Monk.

Anderson scored the crucial second, finishing off a sweeping move with a right-foot strike from 12 yards.

Tom Pope scored a consolation for Crewe in injury-time but the Swans held on for a vital three points.

BBC

JAN-23

Welshpool Town were unlucky in the Premier Cup match when the lost out to Cardiff City courtesy of an 85th minute free-kick from Jon Brown. 

The Lilywhites did have the ball in the back of the Bluebirds' net twice in the first half, but both efforts were ruled out for offside. 

Former Barry Town 'keeper David Forde also had to pull off the save of the evening to deny the Welsh Premier side an equaliser in the dying seconds in front of over 700 at Maesydre.

OWP

JAN-23

The in-form Citizens raced to a 5-0 Half-Time lead, which would have stunned new Druids' striker Karl Connolly was was making his debut for the club.

The red-hot Stott, who was unlucky not to score a hat-trick on Saturday against Welshpool when he was denied countless times by Ged McGuigan, ensured that lightning wouldn't strike twice as he put the visitors into a ninth minute lead. He doubled the advantage on seventeen minutes and the game was safe just before the half-hour when midfielder Chris Seargeant made it three. Stott then completed his hat-trick on 33 minutes, before strike partner Les Davies ensured that he joined in the fun seven minutes later by firing passed young 'keeper Chris Mullock.

The second-half brought some cheer to the home fans, but Geraint Lewis' 52nd minute was simply consolation. Bangor also had the last laugh as Stott bagged his fourth on 66 minutes, which was his eighteenth of the season.

OWP

JAN-23

The clubs, stadium developers PMG and construction company Laing O'Rourke say work is on course for games to be played in the build-up to the campaign.

"It's bang on course," Bluebirds chairman Peter Ridsdale told BBC Sport.

"There was a lot of uncertainty before Christmas and that was disappointing, but this is a new beginning for Cardiff City and Cardiff Blues."

There had been fears the court action taken against the Bluebirds by the Langston Corporation might derail the project.

The two sides are due to meet in court again in March, but there is growing optimism that a deal may be done to avoid that.

"I've always said I don't believe that would be in anybody's interest," Ridsdale told BBC Sport Wales.

"I don't believe we will get to court in March. I believe that sense will prevail."

The clubs also announced the launch of their new 2,250 seat members club and corporate hospitality facilities called the "Premier Club".

BBC

JAN-23

The hosts trailed by a solitary Graham Evans strike at the interval courtesy of a 27th minute penalty, but a stern talking from Manager Brian Coyne must have been the tonic for the Seasiders as they responded immediately after the break. 

Striker Andy Evans scored his third goal in two games on 46 minutes, proving that he can be the ideal replacement for Jamie Reed and the winner came courtesy of Geraint Passmore's 61st minute winner.

OWP

JAN-23

After a goal-less first period, former Port Talbot Town striker Luke Bowen broke the deadlock after 53 minutes for the hosts, and the lead was doubled when midfielder Neil Thomas struck a 69th minute effort - A collectors item for the talented former Llanelli playmaker.

Deryn Brace had called upon sub Jamal Easter shortly before and he proved to the be the Man of the Match for the Old Gold by scoring twice in the 27 minutes he was on the field for Danny Thomas.

The ex-Wales Under 19 striker scored twice in as many minutes on 79 and 80 minutes, which gained a valuable point for Deryn Brace's side. County striker Jack Christopher was dismissed, which spoilt the Bluebirds evening even more.

OWP

JAN-23

The ex-Northern Ireland Under-21 international will be joined at the Bloods by Levi Mackin and Racecourse boss Brian Little says: "I just feel that playing at a decent standard will be good for them both - they are both on the fringes and will get more experience playing at Droylsden.

"They are better off going for regular first team football, and we can take advantage of that if they are needed here. It keeps them sharp if and when we need them, and it will be good experience for them."

UWP

JAN-23

The Somalian-born striker arrives at the New Bridge Meadow from Welsh League outfit Bridgend Town, having previously played for Barry Town and, on loan, at Newport County.

The 19-year-old was a school friend at Cardiff's Fitzalan High School with Scott Hillman, one of the crop of youngsters chosen from thousands to train for six weeks at Chelsea's academy on the Sky TV reality show Football Icon.

Ahmed went to the Manchester United youth set-up as a 15-year-old, but struggled to get a game and moved on to Rovers.

UWP

JAN-22

The Maesydre pitch has been waterlogged and the match postponed twice before, but it has passed a pitch inspection this morning, so it looks like the Principality Welsh Premier side will finally get their chance to host Dave Jones' side. The Bluebirds, who have come unstuck in this competition against Welsh Premier opposition before, have named a very young squad, with the exception of club captain Darren Purse and winger Kevin Cooper, whilst the only other two players with First Team experience are teenage striker Matt Green, formerly of Newport County, and midfield sensation Aaron Ramsey. The seventeen-year old has already been valued at £1m and played for the Wales Under 21 team that beat France last year.

Welshpool Town will be allowed to play the suspended Brett Jefferies as the Premier Cup has a different disciplinary system to the League, whilst Dave Cunnah, Geraint Windsor and Ross Stephens will also all be available for the hosts.

OWP

JAN-22

Earnshaw was signed by Billy Davies for a record fee of £3.5m in the summer.

But the 26-year-old Welsh international striker has started just three matches - only two in the Premier League.

"Rob has to look at himself and ask why he's not in the team. It's not just me, he wasn't in the team with Billy either," Jewell told BBC Radio Derby.

Robert Earnshaw needs to ask more from himself Paul Jewell

"Robert Earnshaw has got a lot of ability but I think he needs to look at himself and start putting a bit more of a shift in because he should be knocking on the door to get in the team.

"Robert Earnshaw's played at West Brom, Norwich and Derby so he has all the attributes but I think, and I've said this to him, he needs to ask more from himself."

BBC

JAN-22

The ex-Bluebirds and Hereford frontman is on the verge of joining League One strugglers Crewe Alexandra, who visit top-of-the table Swansea at the Liberty Stadium this evening.

Fleetwood  has caught the eye of a number of league clubs this year after netting 26 goals for Blue Square Conference side Forest Green.

With a fee of around £175,000 agreed between the two clubs, Fleetwood will now open talks with the Railwaymen in an attempt to finalise personal terms. But he is unlikely to be registered in time to play against the Swans.

Crewe manager Steve Holland said last night, “We are pleased that our bid has been accepted by Forest Green and that we have taken a step closer to trying to bring Stuart into the club.

“We appreciate that we have a long way to go but we now have permission to talk to him and convince him that a move to Crewe will only benefit his career.

“If we can bring him in then he will be a necessary improvement to the team.

ICW

JAN-22

The 21-year-old is a full-time pro, whose CV lists spells at Liverpool, Tranmere Rovers, Prescot Cables, Bamber Bridge and Marine.

City manager Nev Powell said: “If everything is sorted and the signing is confirmed, the lad will join our squad at Druids.”

Powell indicated a couple of weeks ago that he was targeting two January window signings, the first of which was goalkeeper Andy Price.

He added: “Both players would be eligible for our campaigns in the Welsh Cup and Loosemores Cup, as well as the league, where we are aiming to make one of the European positions if we can.”

Midfielder Chris Seargeant has reported fit after an ankle problem, while Mike Walsh will also look for the manager’s nod after a one-match ban kept him out of the 1-0 win over Welshpool Town, as Bangor consolidated fourth place.

DP

JAN-22

The 19-year-old striker is currently on loan at Norwich, from Premiership side Manchester City, until February 26.

But Evans could be recalled by Manchester City on February 6 and Cardiff, who had Blues goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel on loan earlier this season, could tempt Sven-Goran Eriksson to farm his young striker out for the rest of the season.

Evans signed a one-month loan deal at Norwich earlier this season after impressing against the Canaries for his parent club in the Carling Cup.

He then returned for a second spell and in all, has scored three goals in 11 games for Cardiff’s Championship rivals.

“I want to keep all my on loan players, including Ched. They have all been fantastic,” Norwich boss Glenn Roeder said earlier this season.

But Cardiff could now throw a spanner in the works with Bluebirds boss Dave Jones keen to strengthen his attack following the departures of Jason Byrne and Steve MacLean and long-term injuries to Robbie Fowler, Matt Green and Warren Feeney.

ICW

JAN-22

The 17-year-old local Quay lad would have missed last Saturday’s home date with Haverfordwest as he was on representative duty for Wales under-18s.

Versatile Mark Cadwallader could come back into contention, while defender Alan Glover has recovered from a thigh strain and Gary Pinch’s one-match ban has ended.

Hackett said: “This is another extremely important match because if we can come away with three points it would put us level on points with Airbus and be a significant move away from danger, so we’ll be going flat out.”

Airbus UK Broughton will hope to continue their push towards safety tonight, writes John Bridgwater.

Airbus beat Port Talbot 1-0 in their last run out and will be aiming to continue.

Boss Gareth Owen said: “We were looking for a reaction after the Bangor game and we got it.

“It was backs to the walls for the last 20 minutes, but we dug in and battled and to keep a clean sheet was very pleasing.”

Defender Mark Allen and midfielder Alan Hooley are both suspended, which could see Gareth Sudlow and newcomer Matty Woodward filling in.

DP

JAN-22

The Ancients have brought in former Welshpool left winger Mike Thompson, while ex-Wrexham winger Karl Connolly has also joined from Prescot Cables.

Joint boss Waynne Phillips is hoping that a couple of fresh faces can help his side find some consistency, and is backing both the newcomers to make their mark.

“Karl’s about 37 now, but looks the same as he did 20 years ago,” he said.

“He may be a bit slower, but has a good footballing brain and will be a big boost for us.”

The Ancients are still without Lee Jones because of a thigh injury, while Mike Heverin is also still missing.

DP

JAN-21

It is understood the 26-year-old striker has written to club officials saying he wants to quit the Welsh Premier League as he feels he gets a raw deal from referees.

Hunt, who joined the Lilywhites during their quadruple-winning 2003/04 season, has been the first team's leading marksman for the past three campaigns, but he has also encountered regular problems with discipline. This season he has been sent off twice and received six yellow cards.
Rhyl manager John Hulse, while admitting the player's fiery temperament can sometimes be his own worst enemy, has also complained in the past he feels Hunt is targetted by referees in the Welsh Premier.

Confirming the striker has requested a move to an English pyramid club, Hulse added,

"He verbally asked me for a transfer last Tuesday; I refused it, so he's come back with a written request.

"This will now go before the board and will then be circulated to clubs in England. If I had my own way Lee Hunt would be going nowhere, no-one wants him to leave."

Hunt has netted 71 Welsh Premier League goals in 116 appearances for the Lilies and his overall tally in competitive games stands at an impressive 106 from 150 starts.

Although he has had trials at Football League clubs Accrington Stanley and Chester City, and there was a possibility at one stage he might join The New Saints, Hunt is now in his fifth season at Belle Vue and is worshipped by Lilywhites supporters.

Hunt scored the club's second goal against Caernarfon Town on Saturday with a well-placed header from a Stuart Graves corner.

OWP

JAN-21

Second division promotion candidates West End are on the verge of losing striker Jonathan Keaveny to Bridgend Town.

The former Swansea City striker, who has also taken in spells with Goytre United, Carmarthen Town and Neath Athletic, was chased by the Exiles earlier in the season.

But a second attempt to obtain the signature of Keaveny is expected to reach fruition this week.

Bridgend are also being linked with former Carmarthen Town defender Haydn Fleming, who went to Taffs Well but has not played this season.

Exiting Bridgend's temporary base in Porthcawl last week were Dave Truan, who has switched to Llangeinor, and Rhys Jones (Barry Town).

EP

JAN-21

Peace has finally broken out between Europe’s elite clubs and the sport’s governing bodies – safeguarding the future of our national team in the process.

But FAW chiefs are also hailing a move to give Wales a voice among the game’s powerbrokers.

It could mean the likes of The New Saints or Llanelli will be rubbing shoulders with Real Madrid and AC Milan in soccer’s corridors of power.

After years of rows, both Uefa and Fifa have signed a letter of intent with the G14 group of clubs, which will bring an end to the court action that threatened the future of the international game.

The clubs had been backing Belgium side Charleroi and French outfit Lyon in legal action against Fifa, where they claimed compensation for players injured while on international duty.

If they had won the case it would have set a precedent that could have forced Wales to pay to play Premier League stars like captain Craig Bellamy.

But now a compromise has been reached that should see an end to the threat that FAW general secretary David Collins predicted would bankrupt the world game.

Furthermore, G14 have agreed to disband and reform as the European Clubs Association – with representatives from Wales on board.

ICW

JAN-21

And the Bluebirds boss insists he would like to see Fowler stay and prove it beyond this summer.

Jones could not hide his disappointment at the news last week that the striker would be out for two months at very best – and the rest of the season at worst.

And immediately there were questions whether the 32-year-old would ever play for Cardiff – or any other club – again.

But, after sitting down with the ex-England goalscorer, Jones is convinced Fowler is hungry enough to return.

“We all feel for him because he’s a super guy, a super pro and tremendous player,” said Jones, who signed Fowler on a free last June on a one-year deal with an option on a second.

“He’s very frustrated but we’ve had a word because he’s like any player and he’ll get down.

“But if I know Robbie, he’s still got hunger and desire, even after achieving what he has in his career.

“People need to know the person. I do and that’s never a question that’s even entered my head or his head I would think.

“He’s got a long road ahead of him but if it was down to me I’d keep him. He’s a quality player and we want to keep all of our quality players.”

Jones has insisted now is not the time to discuss Fowler’s future in depth as the lengthy lay-off prompted some to call for Cardiff to cut their losses on the high-profile poacher.

He joins long-term absentees Ricci Scimeca, Trevor Sinclair and Warren Feeney on the sidelines after managing just 13 starts and six goals this term.

But Jones has no doubt that the ex-Anfield hero can still offer City plenty if he can battle back.

ICW

JAN-21

Neil Roberts strike ensured the win keeps their hopes of survival alive.

"It was a great result for us, we worked very, very hard, and got a break at the right time," said Little.

"It was a quality goal because there were so many people in there the only option was a chip and more often than not, it would miss the target."

Six of Little's nine new faces started the game against the runaway leaders as he aims to turn around the club's fortunes.

"We are still searching for the right blend, but obviously results are the most important thing at the moment," he said.

"We were at the point where we couldn't sit on the fence anymore, we were waiting for January.

"Even the lads that are here might benefit from the new people and might bring the best out of them."

BBC

JAN-21

UWP

JAN-21

If the Swans fans felt let down by last Wednesday’s FA Cup shocker at Havant & Waterlooville, which denied them a fourth-round trip to Liverpool, they certainly didn’t show it.

From the very first minute of their impressive 2-0 win over Port Vale, Roberto Martinez’s men were made fully aware of the supporters’ appreciation as any bitterness was left behind at the turnstiles.

Britton was easily one of Swansea’s best players on view and he was duly rewarded with raucous cheers of “Leon, Leon, Leon” every time he touched the ball.

“The fans were brilliant for us,” he said. “After what happened on Wednesday, it would have been easy for them to not give us so much support.

“But they were great again and the players responded to it. They have really got behind us this season.

“We know Havant was a big disappointment for them because it’s not every day you get to go and watch your team at Anfield.

“But it’s the same for the players because a lot of us haven’t had a chance to play at an arena like that.

“We wanted to put things right on Saturday and make sure everybody had something to cheer about after that disappointment.

ICW

JAN-21

But any hope of taking points off a high-flying Halesowen went with the dismissal of Martyrs keeper Ashley Morris, red-carded after half an hour for handling outside the box.

After an encouraging start for the visitors, Morris’ moment of madness saw him race out and palm the ball away from striker Dean Brennan.

Andrew Thomas took over between the sticks and he managed to keep the home side at bay until seconds before the interval when Shane Paul beat Ross Porter and his low cross was turned in by Zema Abbey.

Darren Griffiths’ shot flew inches wide for the visitors. But the game ended as a contest on 65 minutes when Brennan met another Paul cross to volley home.

And, with 14 minutes left, the 10 men conceded a third, Brennan converting a carbon copy of the second goal.

ICW

JAN-20

The visitors lost at the same venue last season as the Steelmen again rose to the challenge to turn the form book on its head.

The Welsh Premier Champions and current leaders were hot favourites going into the game, boasting a magnificent record of 18 wins and a draw from their previous 19 league matches.

In contrast, the Steelmen have been frustratingly inconsistent, a feature that manager Nicky Tucker and his coaching team have been working hard to remedy.

The result concluded a week of mixed fortunes for Tucker and his rival Ken McKenna, who had been named manager of the month in December for his side’s invincible exploits.

In contrast, Tucker was recuperating after undergoing surgery for a hernia complaint that caused him to sit out training as his right-hand team plotted the downfall of the aristocrats of the domestic scene.

The conditions of driving rain and a slippery surface conspired to work in Port Talbot’s favour as they set about unsettling the Saints and gained parity in terms of possession and territory without creating too many clear-cut scoring opportunities.

But the Steelmen had a great chance on 34 minutes when debutant Paul Evans, the former Afan Lido skipper, hit a post only for Saints Alfie Carter to respond with a similar outcome.

The visitors must have sensed it was not going to be their day when defender Chris King and keeper Paul Harrison conspired to hand the Steelmen the vital breakthrough.

The pair failed to clear the danger as a mix-up led to John being gifted a simple tap-in.

Although Saints responded with purpose, they failed to unhinge a steadfast home defence.

To add to the champions’ woes, King was stretchered off soon after the goal went in, following a collision with a post.

The visitors’ misery was complete when substitute Gary Brabin was sent off in injury time following a reckless challenge.

WOS

JAN-20

In a game full of incident, Newtown had to contend with having keeper Ian Havard sent off after just three minutes. Havard saw red for bringing down Danny Thomas on the edge of the box, pressing left back Damien Daniels into emergency duty between the posts.

Daniels did well, especially after Newtown had gone ahead against the run of play, home keeper Neil Thomas misjudging a corner for Craig Moses to chest the ball home after 12 minutes.

But Moses was taken to hospital in the second half after suffering a twisted knee in a tackle.

Before that, Gregg Coombes grabbed a Carmarthen equaliser after Nathan Cotterrall and Paul Keddle had combined to set up a cross, which he converted with a neat header.

The winner came after a Tim Hicks shot had hit a post, Danny Thomas the first to react and thump home the decisive goal.

WOS

JAN-20

Cardiff's Paul Parry fired into the top corner after just 30 seconds and poked in a shot to put the visitors 2-0 up.

Roman Bednar hit back for the Baggies after heading in a Jonathan Greening cross only for Joe Ledley's drilled strike to extend Cardiff's lead.

But Martin Albrechtsen then headed in for the Baggies, who equalised when the ball deflected off Bluebirds defender Roger Johnson into his own net.

"But I don't think many teams will come here, take the game to West Brom and give them a lesson at times.

"It was a great game. When we go forward we have a lot of power and pace and we gave Albion a bit of a fright."

BBC

JAN-20

Ferrie Bodde grabbed the first goal on 28 minutes after Tom Butler cut inside and set up the Dutchman.

Chris Herd had the chance to level for Vale but he sent his free header over the bar.

And Darren Pratley doubled the Swans lead straight after the break firing into the bottom corner.

BBC

JAN-20

Neil Roberts broke the deadlock after 71 minutes of a tight encounter with a clever 20-yard strike to give the new-look Dragons hope of survival.

He pounced after keeper Willy Gueret could only punch a corner clear, giving himself time to lift the ball over everyone and into an empty net.

MK Dons piled on the pressure but could not find an equaliser.

BBC

JAN-20

With 55 minutes gone, battling opponents Welshpool were prised apart for the only time by Peter Hoy hurling the ball towards the goalmouth, where Webber out-jumped his markers from five yards.

Otherwise, this action-packed Farrar Road slog was shaded by Bangor without their being able to get the better of Ged McGuigan in Welshpool’s goal.

The keeper pulled off a late double block to fend away a free-kick from Sion Edwards and the follow-up drive by Ashley Stott, but luck was on his side, when Mel McGuiness miscued near the line.

Welshpool’s hopeful moments included Steve Rogers skipping past three defenders in City’s box, only to drag his effort into the side netting.

Rogers was also denied at close range, when Bangor’s Paul Smith rushed off his line to execute a vital block, but Bangor finished stronger as they looked for more reward.

WOS

JAN-20

Scottish international MacLean joined City for nothing when he made the switch from Sheffield Wednesday, where he was out of contract last summer, but yesterday he became the Home Park club’s most expensive acquisition.

Plymouth manager Paul Sturrock has given the City striker a three-and-a-half year contract after working with MacLean at Hillsborough.

“It hasn’t worked out for me in Cardiff and I wonder whether the gaffer (Dave Jones) never fancied me,” admitted MacLean.

“I want regular first-team football, but I seemed to be getting 10 minutes here and there off the substitutes bench.

“What can I do in that time?

“But I have absolutely no problem with Cardiff and wish them all the best for the rest of the season.

“My focus is now on playing for Plymouth on a regular basis.

“When Paul Sturrock came in for me it was an easy decision,” added MacLean, who first heard about a possible move on Thursday.

“I had a good time under Paul at Sheffield Wednesday and scored goals.”

ICW

JAN-19

Liam McCreesh and Gareth Phillips, the Steelmen's squad was strong enough to gain the victory. After a goal-less first period, the deadlock was broken after 73 minutes when Wales Semi Pro International Lee John scored the decisive goal for the hosts. 

Ex Lido legend Paul Evans made his first start for Port Talbot today and played the full match.

JAN-19

The 37-year-old former Wrexham, Swansea and Queen's Park Rangers frontman signed for The Ancients from hometown club Prescot Cables, where he had been plying his trade since leaving The Swans where he scored 114 goals under boss Brian Flynn

Connolly, 37, has received international clearance and would have been available to make his debut tomorrow at Caersws had the match gone ahead. Instead he is likely, together with fellow January signing Mike Thompson, to make his bow in Tuesday's match against Bangor City at Plaskynaston Lane.

Joint player-manager Lee Jones said, "We're delighted to have Karl on board.

"He is experienced and, although some people might say 'he's old', you can't substitute quality. Take a look at Andy Legg - he's 42 and still turning it on for Llanelli week-in, week-out.

"He keeps himself fit - there's not an ounce of fat on him - which is what you need at this level.

"Hopefully he will be a good addition to the squad for us."

Jones refused to rule out another signing before the window closes.

DP

JAN-19

ICW

JAN-19

The former Llanelli and Dinas Powys boss had a hernia operation on Monday, which forced him to miss training this week

"These are the games you look forward to, be it players, coaching staff or supporters,'' said Tucker.

"They have proved to be the most consistent side in the league over the last three or four years and have set the standard to which all clubs aspire," said Tucker.

"But they are not unbeatable and we must go in with a positive attitude. On the day, if we perform as a team we can do well."

Tucker has moved to bolster his defence, with skipper Matthew Rees sidelined for the next few weeks. He is also recovering from minor surgery.

He has signed experienced centre-half Paul Evans as cover from neighbours Afan Lido.

Port Talbot will also be without the injured Gareth Phillips, while Liam McCreesh starts a two-match suspension.

EP

JAN-19

EP

JAN-19

ICW

JAN-19

The Welshman left his job as Real Sociedad boss on Wednesday just minutes after Newcastle announced Keegan was joining them.

Coleman accepts the timing of his own announcement was bound to fuel the speculation about him joining up with Keegan in a young and old St James’ Park partnership.

Coleman was Keegan’s captain at Fulham and the two men have a huge regard for one another.

But Coleman said, “While some people thought, because of the timing, I was off to Newcastle to join up with Kevin again, the reality is that it is a non-starter.

“Newcastle are a fantastic club and Kevin is a man I respect and have a huge regard for.

“But the truth is I would be a very poor No2... and I know that! I wouldn't entertain that sort of role after five years of being a No 1, first with Fulham, then with Real Sociedad.

“I’m sure Kevin will do an excellent job at Newcastle and he will have his own ideas about who he wants to bring in as his backroom staff.

“I wish him the very best in the role ... and, in due course, I will be looking for a manager’s position of my own.

ICW

JAN-19

Fowler, 32, flew to America recently expecting to have minor surgery to cure a long-standing problem.

But medical staff had to perform a 'micro-fracture' of the hip bone after discovering a more serious condition.

"He's going to be on crutches for about eight weeks and they'll assess it and see how it goes," said boss Dave Jones.

But despite the news, Jones could not say if Fowler would be out for the rest of the season.

"I hope not," he said. "It's a long way to go, but there is a timescale because they had to do a micro-fracture to let the bone bleed and that's as far as my medical expertise goes.

"I would imagine if they had done something like that, it's a bit more serious than we were hoping."

Fowler, who was sent for surgery after an ankle injury last month ruled him out for two weeks, signed a one-year contract with Cardiff in July.

The Bluebirds do have an option for another year, and talks are expected to take place over the next few weeks over his future at Ninian Park.

BBC

JAN-18

Bailey, 21, has played in Wales before with Newport County in the 2005/06 season after he was with his hometown club Reading from schoolboy level to a professional contract, but he was released after Steve Coppell replaced Alan Pardew as manager. He then had brief spells at Colchester, Darlington and Forest Green Rovers before joining Newport in March 2006, but at the end of that year, he played in the Caribbean along with a stint at York City.

The striker has been trying to impress Nicholas and his assistant Paul Wanless since the opening of the transfer window, with a view to sealing a move to South Wales, and the Reds boss is keen to snap him up.

"Regarding Nathan, we are having a look at him. I've been quite impressed and hopefully we will get something sorted in the next few days"

Whether Bailey signs or not, Nicholas doesn't anticipate any further signings arriving this month as he plans his final assault on a first ever Welsh Premier Title for Llanelli.

LS

JAN-18

The Citizens boss last week told a Daily Post web chat – the first of its kind involving a Welsh Premier manager – that he wanted to make the club full-time like current champions The New Saints and challengers Llanelli.

And Powell, who has taken Bangor from mid-table mediocrity to fourth place and the race for Europe since taking over in the summer, said: says as long as he keeps getting the club’s backing he wants to stay there long-term to help it achieve its ambitions.

The manager said: "It has been discussed by (Bangor president) Gwyn Pierce Owen and Ken Jones, the chairman, that when we move to the new stadium there’s a possibility we could go full-time. It’s the way forward if we’re going to emulate the likes of The New Saints and Llanelli.

"The two teams that are full-time, you can see a mile off that they’re well above the rest. On the day you might have a chance of beating them, but over 34, 36 games those two teams are always going to be on top.

"If we do go full-time we’ll do it gradually," he added. "We’ll get some YTS lads in and we’ll go out into the schools doing some coaching. It would be great if we could invite all the school kids from Bangor, Gwynedd and the surrounding area, get them down to the ground and have a soccer school.

"We’ve got a great academy at Bangor and if we can develop that there’s no reason why in five or 10 years’ time we can’t have a full squad of home-based players who are all full-time.

DP

JAN-18

MACWHIRTER Welsh League promotion hopefuls Cwmbran Town have moved to fill some of the gaps created by a whole host of recent departures by snapping up no less than five new recruits, writes Terry Daley.

During the past few weeks, the Crows have lost Moses Molongo, Christopher Omuta, Shola Oyin-loye, Jean-Black Ngody, Azeez Akinbolu, Mark McGibbon, Raful Abdul, striker Ohene Quinhare and Roland Duo.

Now Spanish manager Guillermo Ganet, who this week brought former coach Gary Proctor to the club as his assistant, has swooped to bring in: * Ohmar Pike, a 17-year-old from Jamaica previously with London League outfit Cuitural * Uwa Ogbodu, a 29-year-old from Nigeria who arrives via Conference South side Basingstoke Town * England-born Oliver Collins, aged 25, who played for Ryman League Division One outfit Moseley * Frenchman Tidiany Kone, a 25-year-old brought in from French League club Lilas FC * Michael Makasi, a 21-year-old English-born player who has appeared in the MacWhirter Welsh League with student side UWIC.

All five go straight into Ganet's squad for Saturday's away game against third-placed Dinas Powys, who like Cwmbran have applied to promotion to the top-flight Welsh Premier League.

After maintaining the leadership of Division One following a 2-0 win over Gwent rivals Caldicot Town on October 7, the Crows have slipped down to sixth position following an horrendous run of picking up only nine points from the last 30 on offer.

They've not scored in their last five league games and have gone 460 minutes without managing a goal.

Cwmbran Town striker Martin Houston is to train with Division Three side Goytre following talks with Division One rivals Croesyceiliog.

Both clubs put in seven days notice of approach for the Scotsman, who would link up again with former Cwmbran manager Sean Wharton if he were to join Goytre.

SWA

JAN-18

Nicholson, 20, returned to the Baggies last month after ending an unsuccessful loan spell at League Two Shrewsbury Town because of "personal" reasons.

"My contract at West Brom runs out in the summer and I feel I have something to prove," he told the Daily Post.

"If I can help Wrexham out then that benefits both of us."

Nicholson, a former England Under-19 international, scored just one goal for Shrewsbury in 16 appearances after joining at the start of the season.

He hit six goals for Bristol Rovers in their League Two promotion success last season.

West Brom gave him his senior debut in an FA Cup tie against Reading two years ago and Nicholson has gone on to make another seven appearance for the Hawthorns club, scoring twice.

Wrexham have the worst scoring record in League Two, having found the net just 15 goals in 24 games, with only six of those coming at home.

BBC

JAN-18

The Western Mail understands no firm deal has yet been brokered, but it is thought the case, which has threatened the very existence of the club, will be settled ahead of a High Court hearing currently set for March.

If the club can agree a repayment structure with the Swiss-based company, it would ease the financial pressures which have been dogging the Bluebirds and lessen the threat of administration hanging over City since legal proceedings began back in August.

During that time the club has been forced to pay out hundreds of thousands of pounds in legal fees to fight their side of the case with the postponement of previous court dates only exacerbating the problem.

An end to the action by Langston, who are demanding immediate repayment of £24m in loan-notes plus interest taken out when Sam Hammam owned the club, would see an upturn in the off-field fortunes of the Bluebirds to match the on-field resurgence led by manager Dave Jones.

Chairman Peter Ridsdale has told the Western Mail he is optimistic an agreement will now be reached without the need for a High Court hearing.

“I am very hopeful we will be able to come to agreement with Langston over this issue sooner rather than later,” said Ridsdale.

“That would hopefully be before the next court date currently set for March. It has always been our aim to do that.”

“I have not personally had any meetings with anyone from Langston, but our aim is to sort out the situation for the benefit of Cardiff City as soon as we possibly can.”

ICW

JAN-18

The nineteen-year old has also played for Presteigne and was part of the Swansea Academy with fellow Welsh Premier players, Kerry Morgan and Daniel Lancey of Port Talbot and Nicky Holland and Ashley Johns of Llanelli.

OWP

JAN-18

Davies also went on loan last season with a very brief spell at Newtown, which lasted just 29 days, playing three matches for the Robins. He answered an SOS call by Ken McKenna when the Saints underwent an injury crisis prior to their Welsh Cup match at Porthmadog on February 3rd - Ironically, Mark's last game for Newtown was against Porthmadog on the previous Saturday.

Mark is a former Rochdale youth player, who joined TNS on 27th August 2004 and he became the first youngster from TNS's successful Scholarship Scheme to be offered a full-time professional contract in June 2006 after establishing himself in both the Scholarship and Reserve sides.

OWP

JAN-18

If injuries and knocks to several of Roberto Martinez’s squad wasn’t enough, the Swans also lost out on a bumper pay-day after their shock exit.

Missing out on the glamour fourth-round tie against Liverpool appears to have cost the League One outfit a cool £500,000 in gate receipts and prize money.

The Swans supporters had also been allocated 6,000 tickets for their trip to Anfield next weekend – but will now have to head to Keepmoat Stadium for a tricky league trip to Doncaster instead.

“There’s still a huge feeling of frustration and disappointment after all the hopes we had,” admitted Swans chief Martinez.

“You don’t get many better opportunities to get to Anfield in the FA Cup fourth round. The boys felt they let the fans down. We weren’t ourselves in the way we defended and that was going to affect our rhythm going forward.

“We have to bounce back to winning ways and make sure this doesn’t cause too much distraction. I’m sure that won’t happen.”

JAN-17

The Manchester-born youngster, 18, has progressed through the club's ranks and became a regular in the reserves last season.

Swansea boss Roberto Martinez is looking for a new striker after ruling out signing Cardiff's Warren Feeney on a permanent basis.

The Swans have also been linked to Blackpool striker Keigan Parker.

BBC

JAN-17

Ridsdale and manager Dave Jones were at Edgar Street on Wednesday to watch Hereford's 1-0 win over Tranmere in their third round replay.

"We saw enough to understand that whoever we played it would be a tough tie away from home," he said.

"We hope the game is a week on Saturday as scheduled, but Hereford are staging the tie, so it's up to the police."

He added: "I don't see why the match would be that high security because our supporters have been magnificent recently and certainly at Chasetown is was a carnival atmosphere."

BBC

JAN-17

Garry Monk's headed own goal put the Blue Square South side a goal up before a Jamie Collins bundled effort and Rocky Baptiste's tap-in made it 3-0.

Swansea replied with a Guillem Bauza strike before the break, and then Leon Britton saw his penalty saved.

Jason Scotland cut the deficit to one, but Tom Jordan's header sealed victory.

Crowd congestion at the compact Westleigh Park stadium caused a slight delay in the kick-off, and a few of the fans were still making their way through the turnstiles when Havant - three divisions below their opponents - took a shock lead.

Mo Harkin collected a short corner on the right wing, and delivered a wicked in-swinging cross towards Swansea's front post.

Monk dived forward under pressure from home striker Richard Pacquette, but the centre-back only managed to head the ball into his own net.

Swansea almost found an immediate response as striker Bauza sent a deft chip over advancing Havant goalkeeper Kevin Scriven just wide of the post.

Scriven then produced a fine save to push Andy Robinson's low drive - which took a slight deflection off Bauza - for a corner.

Swansea's superior class began to tell as they pushed the home side back to the edge of their penalty area, but indecisive defending and poor goalkeeping allowed Havant to double their lead on 25 minutes.

Left-back Marcus Painter gave away a needless corner and, after a poor clearing punch from goalkeeper Dorus De Vries, Collins' shot through a crowded area found its way into the Swansea net.

The home side, a massive 83 places below League One leaders Swansea in the English pyramid, were in dreamland 13 minutes later when Baptise put them 3-0 up.

Again, the Swansea defence looked under little pressure but Pacquette's miss-hit low shot from outside the area found its way to the far post and Baptiste sneaked around the back to tap the ball home.

The three-goal advantage lasted about a minute as Bauza's fierce 20-yard drive, aided by a slight deflection, nestled into the Havant net.

There was still time for yet more drama in a remarkable first-half as Swansea wasted two golden opportunities to score.

Midfielder Britton was the biggest culprit when his poor penalty, awarded after a foul on Bauza, was comfortably saved by Scriven.

And then defender Dennis Lawrence's downward header from just six yards bounced over the crossbar.

Havant were themselves guilty of wastefulness in the opening seconds of the second half as Pacquette, left unmarked inside Swansea's six-yard box, hit his shot straight at De Vries.

The miss took even greater significance just two minutes later when Swansea closed the deficit to 3-2.

Robinson, whose mazy runs were a constant threat, delivered a pin-point cross which Bauza volleyed against the post, but Scotland was perfectly placed to tap the ball home.

A Swansea equaliser looked inevitable as they continued to dominate possession, but their defensive frailties were again exposed as Havant scored their fourth on 65 minutes.

Brett Poate sent a regulation cross into the centre of Swansea's penalty area but substitute Jordan, son of former Scotland striker Joe, beat his marker to glance a header off the back of his head into the bottom corner.

Jordan almost sealed the win moments later when his looping header came down the wrong side of the crossbar.

The constant entertainment continued as Swansea then hit the woodwork twice in six minutes, substitute Tom Butler denied by the post from a tight angle before Britton's left-footed effort rebounded off the bar to safety.

Robinson then hit the post in stoppage time, and that proved to be the final threat as Havant held on to record a dramatic and famous FA Cup victory.

BBC

JAN-17

"It is with much sadness that we leave a great club," said Coleman.

"Things have changed with the arrival of Badiola as there were two distinct ways of looking at the club and it's operations."

Badiola had hoped former Wales international Coleman would stay in charge of the club, and the pair met to discuss the future last week.

Having asked for a few days to consider his position, Coleman last Thursday announced he would be staying at Sociedad for "as long as the club need me" after receiving the backing of both his players and Badiola.

But the 37-year-old appears to have had a change of heart and announced to a press conference that he was stepping down as coach.

Coleman had originally offered to step down following the resignation of president Maria de la Pena in November, but he was persuaded to stay by the Sociedad board.

De la Pena played an influential role in bringing the former Fulham boss to San Sebastian last July on a three-year contract after the club lost their first division status for the first time in 40 years.

BBC

JAN-17

"We have some crucial matches coming up, and a number of players on four bookings," explains Powell.

"I spoke to Tranmere this week and am confident that Mike will be allowed to stay.

"It was pointless signing a striker from the Welsh Premier who would be ineligible for the League Cup semis and the Welsh Cup, while Andy has not been playing but training regularly at Warrington Town."

NWC

JAN-17

The Northern Ireland international is back at Ninian Park recovering from an ankle injury sustained at the end of his four-month loan spell with Swansea.

Feeney still has two and a half years left on his Cardiff contract.

"It seems as though it's going to be very, very difficult to agree something over Warren," Martinez said.

However, Martinez told the Swansea website that while any permanent move for Feeney had been shelved for the moment, it could be revitalised for next season.

Feeney scored six goals in 13 games on loan for the Swans between September and December.

"We will be looking at the next transfer window in the summer for that one, so we'll see what develops," Martinez said.

BBC

JAN-17

NLD

JAN-17

Persistent knee and hamstring problems have limited the Basque striker to a handful of substitute appearances over the last two seasons.

Despite undergoing several operations, 27-year-old Ugarte has failed to regain full fitness and has now asked for his Wrexham contract to be cancelled.

"It's sad that he has decided to move on," said manager Brian Little.

"He's a really nice guy who has had a tough period. I myself had to retire from football at a similar age to him.

"I know he has had a load of injury issues, but I would like to wish well and hope that it all works out for him.

"Juan will always be welcome back here at any time and we all look forward to seeing him again at some time in the future."

BBC

JAN-16

The Crows have had a poor run of results amid rumours that all is not well at the Gwent club.

Now Rasul Abdul has left to rejoin Pontypridd Town, while Ohene Quinhare has returned to Maesteg Park.

A third player, Richard Duo, has left Wales and signed for Kent League Erith Town.

The other player to move is Mark McGibbon, who has joined Principality Welsh Premier League club Port Talbot Town.

Meanwhile, Cwmbran Town's Scottish born striker Martin Houston is the target of Division One rivals Croesyceiliog and Goytre of Division Three.

Both clubs have placed seven days notice of approach for Houston, who joined the Crows. 

JAN-16

Carmarthen Town will dip into the transfer market in order to halt their alarming six-match winless streak.

The Welsh Cup holders saw their torrid run continue last weekend with a 2-1 defeat at lowly Caernarfon, which saw the Richmond Park side lose ground on the clubs chasing a European spot.

Manager Deryn Brace has already snapped up the likes of ex-captain Rhodri Jones, Paul Keddle and Phil Cattlin, but he revealed he would be entering the transfer market again in order to bolster his squad.

CJ

JAN-16

Whitley featured for the Dragons in 11 games towards the end of the last campaign during a loan spell and played a leading role in keeping the club in League Two.

“I really enjoyed being back at Wrexham last season and I was delighted that it eventually turned out well for the club,” said the 28year-old

“The people here showed their faith in me, so I would be more than happy to come back and help out once again.”

ICW

JAN-16

ALTHOUGH disappointed his team’s 13-match unbeaten run in the Welsh Premier came to an end at leaders and champions TNS on Saturday, Bangor manager Neville Powell sees this weekend’s home meeting with Welshpool Town as the ideal opportunity to start another winning streak.

City still remain fourth in the WPL after a weekend where results elsewhere went in their favour.

“Rhyl only drew, Carmarthen lost, Port Talbot lost and Welshpool didn’t play, so things are much the same,” said Powell.

“The Welshpool game is a real six-pointer as if we win it we’ll be six points ahead of them.”

Midfielder Mike Walsh will miss the Farrar Road clash through a one-match suspension but otherwise Bangor should be close to full strength.

Powell received another great boost last week when free-scoring young striker Ashley Stott signed a deal that will keep him at City next season. Fellow front man Les Davies agreed the same terms the previous week.

“People talk about bringing in players in the transfer window, but keeping the ones you’ve got is just as important,” Powell stressed, adding he is still on the hunt for another forward to strengthen the squad.

BAS

JAN-16

A draw will take Caerleon above Newport YMCA in eighth position on goal difference, while a win would also see them leapfrog over seventh-placed Cwmbran Town.

However, manager Bren-don Dowd will again be minus attacking midfielder Luke Cueto, who misses the clash while serving the second of a three match suspension.

"It's a difficult task for us because Cambrian and Clydach are a good side, although we are also in good form," said Dowd.

The boss missed his side's 2-1 win at Bridgend on Saturday because he was in north Wales on a spying mission, running the rule over future Welsh Cup fourth round opponents GAP Queens Park of the Cymru Alliance.

SWA

JAN-16

The 48-year-old had a spell coaching with the Crows in the 2001-02 season and the management team of the late Tony Wilcox and former Wales defender Mark Aizlewood before he went on take charge of Welsh Premier League outfits Rhayader Town and Llanelli.

Proctor has joined Cwmbran in time to stand alongside Ganet in the dug-out for Saturday's MacWhirter Welsh League Division One match at Dinas Powys.

"Working with such a great guy as Tony (Wilcox) and of course Mark Aizlewood was a very good learning curve for me," said Cardiff-based Proctor.

"Now I'm working alongside Guillermo (Ganet) and I'm really looking forward to the challenge of trying to get the club back to where it belongs - the Welsh Premier League.

Cwmbran secretary Ian Greaney said the club went for Proctor because he fits the bill of knowing local players for possible recruitment.

SWA

JAN-16

BBC Wales Sport understands Cardiff have made an inquiry about signing the Wales international on loan.

But the Bluebirds were not given any encouragement by the Premier League strugglers, who would appear to favour selling Earnshaw to another club.

"Joining Cardiff hasn't crossed my mind and nothing has been said to me about it," Earnshaw told BBC Wales Sport.

Earnshaw, who left Cardiff in 2004 after seven years at Ninian Park, has started just two games for Derby this season following his £3.5m summer move from Norwich City.

He accepts some clubs could be interested in securing his services during the January transfer window, but remains determined to force himself into the reckoning at Derby.

"I still feel like a new singing because I've only played two games - and one of them was on the right wing," said Earnshaw, who has been out with a calf problem.

"So it's been a little bit difficult and I feel I've just got here and I'm waiting to play.

"It is hard and I don't know what's going to happen but I want to do well for Derby.

BBC

JAN-16

But South Wales Police would need a week’s notice of the tie being played in Cardiff because the tie is a first team fixture. The quarter-final has now been postponed twice and it is difficult to see when it can be fitted in.

City are without a match next midweek, but Welshpool play Port Talbot Town in the Principality Welsh Premier League.

The second FAW Premier Cup tie scheduled last night, Carmarthen Town v The New Saints, was also postponed.

The Premier Cup board are keen to stage the semi-finals before the end of January, but that now seems highly unlikely. The winners of the Welshpool v Cardiff tie will face Newport County, while Carmarthen or holders TNS take on Llanelli.

ICW

JAN-15

The month began with a surprising 0-0 draw against a battling Airbus side but Ken's side soon found their scoring boots and three wins on the trot against NEWI Cefn Druids, Aberystwyth Town and Welshpool Town maintained their title defence.

McKenna has already steered the club to three runners-up spots in the Welsh Premier before finally lifting three successive titles in 2004-05, 2005-06 and 2006-07, as well as adding FAW Premier Cup, Welsh Cup and Loosemores Challenge Cup successes and is going all out to bag the championship again this term.

OWP

JAN-15

Connah's Quay Nomads boss Jim Hackett completed the signing of Chester-born striker Wes Kilgannon just before the start of the 2007/08 season. Kilgannon had worked under Hackett before, whilst the pair were at Chester City Youth. Nomads Secretary Bobby Hunter was full of praise

"A deserving award for the lad who has worked hard over the last few weeks during our injury crisis and has now adapted well to the WPL in whatever position he has been asked to play."

OWP

JAN-15

EP

JAN-15

Wrexham looking to Swans for help

Wrexham are hoping Swansea City can help them avoid dropping out of the Football League. The Dragons are bottom of League Two and six points away from safety, with manager Brian Little desperate to bolster his squad.

The former Aston Villa boss said his struggling side is in urgent need of an injection of players if they are to avoid slipping into the Conference.

Swansea were in the same situation during the 2002-03 season where a last-day victory over Hull saved the club from dropping into football's abyss.

Little, who saw his side humiliated last week after losing to Welsh Premier League outfit Llanelli in the FAW Premier Cup, has revealed he is hoping Swansea boss Roberto Martinez will help his cause.

Midfielder Matty Collins, who arrived at the Liberty Stadium this summer from Fulham, has already spent time on loan at Wrexham and Little is hopeful of more arriving.

"What we need now is some faces," said Little. "We have worked on it and we know we need lads in there to help the current squad.

"We give away the worst goals I have seen in the 37 years I have been in the business. We are trying our best and we are getting better, but we are nowhere near good enough yet.

"We have to look everywhere and anywhere. We have spoken to Swansea in the past and we continue to speak to them. We have been on the phone to them and we know that Swansea will help us as much as they can.

Little added: "We need to bring in players who have been in this situation before and might be able to turn things around.

"Swansea are really keen to help us and hopefully we can find someone there that can do a job here."

EP

JAN-15

NLD

JAN-15

Back in November, Jones himself was facing the sack at Ninian Park following a year of poor results, but, after the backing of the Bluebirds’ board, he has turned things round and now insists patience is needed in the pro game.

“When you are not winning, those that keep their heads are the ones who will come out on top,” said Jones.

“There was a lot said and now a lot of people in this football club want to prove people wrong. Time and patience is not a commodity people want to give you.

“You have only got to look at Sam Allardyce at Newcastle, it is crazy. You cannot build a football club in a short space of time. How long do you give somebody?

“We have sold people, but the expectation is still that you have got to be beating everybody and winning the league.

“There has been a lot of building here and to throw all that away just because results are not going with you to start with is wrong.

“If that were the case, Sir Alex Ferguson would not still be at Manchester United. It is a slow process.”

ICW

JAN-15

The Cardiff City midfielder informed Toshack he wanted to take a break from international duty for personal reasons after earning his 11th cap when coming on as a substitute for Ryan Giggs in the 3-0 home Euro 2008 Championship qualifier win against San Marino at the Millennium Stadium in March, 2007.

Now, however, the in-form ex-Hereford United ace could be named in Toshack's squad at the end of the month for the friendly clash against Norway at Wrexham next month.

"I don't expect to be named in the squad for the Norway game," said a modest Parry. "But if the call comes again soon, I'll be ready for it. At the moment I'm feeling very refreshed and I'm up for wearing the Welsh shirt once more."

After spending six seasons with then-non-league Hereford, Parry burst onto the professional scene after joining Cardiff in early January, 2004.

Within weeks he'd made his international debut in a 4-0 friendly victory over Scotland at the Millennium Stadium following a series of highly-impressive displays for the Bluebirds.

Parry, 27, has scored 16 goals in 184 league and cup appearances for the club and has been the subject of transfer speculation regarding Cardiff's Championship rivals Ipswich Town and Leicester City.

But after being linked with a £750,000 move to another Championship side, Norwich City, Parry this week declared he has no intention of leaving the capital club.

"I'm not going anywhere," said Parry, who has 18 months remaining on his current Cardiff contract. "I'm happy with my form at City and enjoy living here, so there is no reason for me to go anywhere else."

ICW

JAN-15

Bauza, known as ‘Bussy’ at the club, endured a difficult start to life in South Wales.

But, having rediscovered his form and confidence in recent weeks, he has been rewarded with consecutive league starts for the first time in his Swansea career.

It seems to be paying dividends and, with Johnstone’s Paint and FA Cup goals already in the bag, he broke his League One duck with a well-taken goal at Luton.

EP

JAN-14

The Dutchman's goal earned victory over Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, moving the Bluebirds to within two points of the play-off promotion places.

"We are getting confidence, especially players like Stephen McPhail, Gavin Rae, Joe Ledley," Hasselbaink said.

"While they are playing well, we up front are getting the nice bits and bobs off it and it's just great."

Cardiff stuttered at the start of the season, displaying an inability to hold onto leads that at one point had them hovering nervously above the relegation zone.

But a run of five games unbeaten in the league - only dropping points in a draw at Watford - has seen Dave Jones' side soar up the table.

"People are playing well in the team at the moment and it's going for us," Hasselbaink added

"In the beginning we played some good football, but we didn't defend well as a team.

"At the moment we are, we're working very hard for each other.

"We don't have someone who has scored 15 or 16 goals but everybody is scoring, we are more a team."

BBC

JAN-14

The Swans are still nursing the bruises from last week’s Battle of Waterlooville, where Alan Tate and Brett Poate were red-carded as non-leaguers Havant attempted to rough up Roberto Martinez’s men.

But on Wednesday they travel to Westleigh Park – where skipper Garry Monk has already experienced the Waterloovile ‘welcome’.

He said: “I played there in pre-season for Southampton and I think it is fair to say it wasn’t pretty.

“It probably had a bit of an added edge to it because it’s kind of a local derby, so you had that hostility.

“But it’s not going to be nice for us either, if that trip is anything to go by.

“The ground is in the middle of a council estate and I have to say I was lucky being a centre-back and in the middle of the pitch because every time the lads took a throw in they were being spat on, or having their shirts pulled by supporters; it was ridiculous.

“Then I remember being on the halfway line with the ball in their area and for some reason I turned around and saw our keeper Scott Bevan’s towel was being set on fire.

“He’d put it in the net like most keepers do and it was about to go up in flames!”

Swansea are still seething at the way last week’s third-round tie turned ugly, a mass brawl following Poate’s challenge on Andrea Orlandi seeing Darryl Duffy having his eye gouged and both clubs fined for failing to control their players.

ICW

JAN-14

"I think it's a torn hamstring," Jones said. "I was running and I just felt it snap and I went down.

"I'm not really sure how long I'll be out, we'll just have to see in the next couple of days."

Wrexham physio Mel Pejic will assess the injury on Monday, but Jones is likely to be out for four to six weeks.

Jones, 24, suffered a back injury earlier in the season and has needed a series of surgeries on persistent knee injuries over his career.

The defeat at Grimsby leaves Wrexham still anchored to the foot of League Two, six points from safety.

BBC

JAN-14

AIRBUS UK clinched a thoroughly deserved 1-0 victory over visiting Port Talbot, and they set their stall out straight from the start with Kristian Rogers in the Steelmakers’ goal pulling off a point-blank save from Darren Wright.

Rogers had to be alert moments later to deny Danny Desormeaux with a good chance to break the deadlock, and the same player missed a golden opportunity soon after.

The breakthrough came in the 33rd minute and Desormeaux was the creator, carving out a chance for Paul Hallows, who had his initial shot blocked but made no mistake at the second attempt.

A Gareth Caughter cross found Hallows unmarked just prior to the break, but this time his effort was poor.

The visitors came more into their own in the second half with Martin Rose in particular looking threatening.

The Wingmakers were content to sit on their lead but had a late scare when Chad Bond and sub Sam Baker had to be denied by last-ditch tackles by John Davies.

ICW

JAN-14

Ian Griffiths, the former Liverpool junior, was the architect behind the success, notching up a hat-trick.

Steve Bowes, Steve Harris and Mike Parker completed the debacle.

GAP Queen Park showed what a class outfit they are, flooring Glantraeth 5-1.

Kevin Breeze was the jewel in the GAP crown, adding his hat-trick to Colin Quirk and Ashley Wilson’s efforts.

The visitors bagged a consolation goal through John Peris Jones on 20 minutes.

Bala Town had their game with Buckley wiped out due to the weather, meaning the Lakesiders – who were title favourites in August – now trail the leaders by a massive 25 points.

Gresford Athletic flopped badly again, sinking 4-1 to Holyhead Hotspur.

Hotspur’s tally could have been even higher had it not been for the fine skills of Gareth Rowland in goal.

Mike and Tom Edwards netted a goal apiece in each half for the visitors to take the spoils and, although Ian Mathias and Max Peate offered some hope, it was Mike Pugh who snatched a late consolation goal.

Mike Edwards had plenty to celebrate, being presented with the Player of the Month award for December.

A ten-goal spectacular between Llandyrnog United and Lex ended in an unlikely 5-5 draw, although the home team only just made it with two late strikes.

A penalty by Mike Jones on 90 minutes and a point-saver by Chris Williams in stoppage time were Llandyrnog’s face savers, after earlier goals from Jon Slater, Neil Davies and Antony Marshall.

Lex’s Dave Greenway did enough to finish on the winning side, notching up four goals.

Gary Penlington added the other.

Llandudno Town’s title hopes are still alive as they kept their second place by winning 3-0 at Penrhyncoch.

Chris Hogg, Jodie Hamilton and Lee Thomas were the trio to put their names on the scoresheet.

ICW

JAN-14

RHYL may be higher up the league table, and they did have the lion’s share of possession, but it was the home side who finished the game disappointed as good chances went begging.

The first half was more even, and Neath took the lead with a scrappy goal from Richard French, who looked to have lost his chance when he failed to connect with a volley.

However, a fly-hacked clearance hit French, and the ball rebounded into the net.

That much-travelled goal-grabber, Marc Lloyd-Williams, was making his debut for Rhyl, but he was closely policed by Sean Cronin, and never had a clear sight of goal.

Rhyl increased the pressure and they equalised in the 79th minute when a header rebounded from the woodwork for Paul O’Neill to shoot home. However, in the final 10 minutes, it was Neath who took hold of the game.

Matthew Rees was put through one-on-one against the keeper, but could not score. There was more frustration soon after, when Andy Hill shot over the bar.

ICW

JAN-14

LLANGEFNI’S best hope was that the home side would be a little flat after their mid-week dramas against Wrexham.

But it didn’t work out that way, as a highly-motivated Llanelli were on the attack right from the start.

In fact, the visitors’ best player was their keeper, Farai Jackson, who made three excellent saves in the opening 20 minutes.

It was only a matter of time, however, and Llanelli went ahead when Rhys Griffiths headed home from a Craig Jones cross.

Jones was involved again, 13 minutes later, when he was up in the box and deflected a cross towards Mark Jones, who headed firmly home.

Two minutes into the second half and another header hit the back of the net – this time Rhys Griffiths from a Gary Lloyd cross.

Three minutes later Llanelli scored again, as Rhys Griffiths’ shot could only be parried by Jackson, leaving Mark Jones with a simple tap-in.

Finally, Jackson made his only mistake when Mark Jones shot from the edge of the box, and the ball squirmed through his fingers.

ICW

JAN-14

DERYN BRACE’S Carmarthen failed to extend their record of three consecutive wins over Caernarfon at The Oval, when they finished second best.

In a storming finish, Carmarthen might well have salvaged something but they had been exposed regularly during the first hour, when they could so easily have been six goals down.

Caernarfon, struggling to climb clear of the relegation danger zone, scored twice, had two other goal-bound efforts cleared off the line and wasted a couple of glaring openings.

Steve O’Shaughnessy’s hosts began to put right a bleak sequence of seven appearances without a win, when Paul Addo hit their first goal on nine minutes, slamming a left-angled 20-yarder past keeper Mike Poole.

John Rowley delivered the second goal from a similar situation on 36 minutes after latching on to another creation by livewire James Thomas.

It was a reply goal from sub Danny Thomas on 75 minutes, following Nathan Cotterall’s low cross from the left, that sparked Carmarthen’s late revival bid, which led to heavy pressure but nothing else.

ICW

JAN-13

Reports suggested football bosses were ready to rubber stamp a plan to provide Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham a route back into European football by entering reserve teams in the Welsh Premier.

But not only have the FAW played down the leak as nothing more than one of many ideas of modernising the Welsh game, Wales on Sunday has discovered European football’s governing body will block any such moves.

A spokesman for Uefa said: “It’s highly unlikely this proposal will be accepted and there are major provisions which don’t allow this.

“Uefa has strict rules regarding teams fielding two separate sides in different leagues. There also can be no overlap with teams registering players in different competitions.”

Uefa have referred to Article 51 of their statute, that insists clubs cannot field teams in separate leagues, even if they are a second string.

It had been claimed new Uefa chief Michel Platini’s wish to encourage the development of the “lesser” footballing nations, would aid the plan’s cause.

But even if Uefa could be persuaded to give the move the go-ahead, they would then need to convince Fifa.

The Uefa spokesman revealed: “Even if Uefa agreed to such a bold request, the clubs involved would have to gain approval from Fifa before fielding two combinations. It’s very unlikely.”

ICW

JAN-13

The Magpies life president and former chairman told BBC 5 Live's Sportsweek that Martinez might be an outside bet.

"Do you go for a big name, like the (Guus) Hiddinks, or do you try and find someone who can give us the football we had under (Kevin) Keegan," Hall said.

"There's the Swansea manager, Martinez, who seems to be turning them around."

Swansea are flying high in League One this season, three points clear of Nottingham Forest at the top of the table and with a game in hand.

The south Wales club maintained their momentum on Saturday by overcoming a spirited Luton, beating the financially stricken club 3-1 at Kenilworth Road.

Swansea had their own brush with liquidation in 2002 and Martinez has every sympathy with the Hatters' plight.

"It's a sad situation, a club like Luton Town with a huge history, to be in this situation and I think we all feel for them," Martinez said.

"We hope they will turn the corner very quickly and they will have a bright future."

BBC

JAN-13

Within four minutes Peter Whittingham fired in a shot that had Owls goalkeeper Lee Grant sprawling.

Stephen McPhail also peppered Grant's goal, while defender Roger Johnson hit the post from Whittingham's corner.

Hasselbaink then latched on to Gavin Rae's through-ball before firing home, although Ronnie Wallwork and Deon Burton almost grabbed Owls equalisers.

BBC

JAN-13

The Swans were in charge when Keith Keane turned Andy Robinson's shot into his own net and Guillem Bauza scored after a fine, flowing five-man move.

Veteran striker Paul Furlong pulled one back for the hosts with his first touch after coming on as a substitute.

But Jason Scotland's rasping 20-yard drive eight minutes from time sealed the win for the League One leaders.

BBC

JAN-13

Wrexham started promisingly and new signing Paul Hall made an instant impression with a snap-shot that keeper Phil Barnes somehow kept out.

Grimsby's Nick Hegarty and Paul Bolland then both wasted fine scoring chances.

But the breakthrough came when a long ball from Tom Newey dropped behind the defence and North raced in to lob advancing Dragons keeper Gavin Ward.

BBC

JAN-12

WELSH PREMIER bosses have echoed Peter Ridsdale’s call for urgent talks with FAW bigwigs over plans for a radical shake-up of their league.

The FAW’s proposal to ask sides from Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham to enter the Welsh Premier next season, and thus qualify for Europe, has sent shock waves around the game.

Cardiff chairman Ridsdale (below) says he needs to meet FAW chiefs to thrash out the nuts and bolts of the plan.

And Welsh Premier officials have asked their secretary John Deakin to obtain as much detail as possible from his own FAW boss David Collins.

Under the restructuring proposal, five Welsh Premier teams would lose their places in a new 16-club league.

The Welsh Premier clubs were, as expected, up in arms after attending a meeting in Mid Wales yesterday to voice their opposition to the proposal.

An official statement from the clubs read, “The recent newspaper reports that the FAW were to permit reserve teams from Cardiff City, Swansea City and Wrexham to join the Welsh Premier in 2008-09 were discussed at meeting of the league’s board of directors.

“The board were informed that this proposal was presented to the FAW board at a meeting prior to Christmas as part of a FAW strategy paper, but there had to date been no further discussion on the matter.

“The Welsh Premier board therefore decided that it would be inappropriate to make any definitive comment regarding this matter until further information is available.

“The board did, however, instruct the league secretary to write to the FAW to seek consultation on those aspects of the FAW strategy paper appertaining to the league.

“There will not be any further comment until the situation is clarified.”

ICW

JAN-12

The visitors are unbeaten in 13 league matches. while the hosts are on a remarkable run that has yielded 52 points out of the last possible 54.

It promises to be one of the clashes of the season with both sides having beaten their opponents in the two games between the sides earlier in the campaign.

“TNS are a tremendous challenge for any side, but we beat them 2-1 in the League Cup and the lads are playing with great confidence at present,” said Citizens’ boss Neville Powell.

Saints’ manager Ken McKenna has concerns. “It promises to be another difficult game for us, especially as we have a few players out at the moment, but the ones who have stepped in have done brilliantly,” he said.

ICW

JAN-12

John Hulse’s side are at Llandarcy Park where Neath Athletic manager Andrew Dyer has major problems due to injuries and illness.

Three players, including recent capture Clayton Blackmore, are out, while five others are doubtful or very doubtful.

Llanelli, fresh from their historic 4-2 FAW Premier Cup quarter-final victory over Wrexham, should maintain their title aspirations at the expense of strugglers Llangefni Town, although manager Peter Nicholas will be mindful of the shock home defeat by lowly Porthmadog in November.

Caernarfon’s desperate home form – no wins in the last nine matches – will again be tested by Carmarthen, although the Old Gold's have hit a trough recently, with five winless games.

Mark McGibbon returns from suspension for Port Talbot for the visit to Airbus UK, while improving Haverfordwest should add to their three-match unbeaten run when they host Porthmadog.

Aberystwyth seek to end a depressing sequence of four successive losses when they travel to Newi Cefn Druids and, in the remaining match, Newtown host Connah’s Quay Nomads.

ICW

JAN-12

Caerphilly-born Evans, 27, has been limited to just half-a-dozen Blue Square Premier appearances this season.

"He was keen to play regularly and was presented with a great opportunity to continue his career at home," said Crawley assistant boss Paul Raynor.

Evans, a trainee with Crystal Palace, had spells at Swansea, Brentford, Woking before joining Crawley.

BBC

JAN-12

As the likes of Wolves, QPR and even lowly Colchester splash the cash in this month’s transfer window, Bluebirds boss Dave Jones can do little more than look on enviously.

With the club mired in a financial malaise there is little room for Jones to manoeuvre and, with buying anyone currently out of the question, the Bluebirds boss is trying do his best in the loan market.

Ahead of today’s clash with Sheffield Wednesday at Ninian Park, Finnish goalkeeper Peter Enckelman has been brought into the Cardiff squad until the end of the season with Jones admitting any other captures may be few and far between.

But, despite his admitted frustrations, Jones is not convinced throwing money at the situation is necessarily the best way to reach the Premiership anyway.

“Every football manager is going to get frustrated about a lack of funds,” said Jones.

“But that is the situation I am in, there is no good going on about it or moaning about it.

“It is a disadvantage to anyone not to have money, if you have got it, you can go out and get the players you want.

“We can’t do that so we have to go another route and maybe that route requires a bit more patience than people would like.

“I would like it all to happen in one fell swoop, but that is not going to happen unless someone comes in with a massive amount of money and says, ‘There you are, go out and buy who you want.’

“We have to go out and look for loans and maybe someone will help us out. I’m enquiring, but it all comes down to finances.

“Even if we sell someone, we have got to find someone to come in so it is just juggling the balls at the minute.

ICW

JAN-12

Walsall forward Paul Hall has teamed up again with manager Brian Little, who previously signed him for Tranmere Rovers in March 2004.

The 35-year-old joins until the end of the season on a free transfer.

And another former Walsall player, midfielder Danny Sonner, 35, has signed a month-to-month contract after impressing on a trial this week.

Both players should be available to play at Grimsby on Saturday.

"The message to everybody is that we are trying to change things around, trying to brighten things up, try to bring in fresh faces, bring a group of people together who want to win football matches," said manager Brian Little.

"We are close to one or two other things as well but that couldn't be done in time."

Meanwhile, the club has allowed two of their youngsters to join Blue Square North side Tamworth on a month's loan.

Central defender Gareth Evans and striker Jamie Reed, both 20, will make their debuts against Blyth Spartans in the FA Trophy second round on Saturday.

Evans has already had a spell on loan at Northwich Victoria this season and Reed has turned out for Welsh Premier side Aberystwyth.

BBC

JAN-11

FAW to face a backlash over Exiles

WELSH Premier secretary John Deakin is ready for a backlash from clubs over proposals to allow the “big three” into the league.

The league’s 18 clubs will discuss the idea outlined in an FAW report to allow Wrexham, Cardiff and Swansea to compete for the Welsh Premier’s European places.

The move could see five clubs relegated from the league as FAW chiefs look to slash the number of clubs from 18 to 16.

The likes of Rhyl, Bangor City, The New Saints and Llanelli would also face stiff competition as they target Wales’ Champions League and Uefa Cup qualification spots.

Ahead of today’s Welsh Premier board meeting, Deakin said: “Before I make any sort of definite statement I would want to see the proposal and speak to the league’s board of directors.

“But there is a major concern from the existing member clubs.

“If the league is to be streamlined to 16 clubs, and three clubs come in and you promote two, then who knows how many are relegated? The clubs halfway down the table are going to begin sweating.”

Newi Cefn Druids manager Waynne Phillips said he was concerned about the idea.

The former Wales under-21 and Wrexham midfielder said: “The idea’s good, but what I disagree with is the number of clubs who might be going out of the league.

“It would be difficult to swallow if teams who rely on being in the league found themselves in the bottom five and got relegated as a result,” he added.

DP

JAN-11

Wales announce World Cup fixtures

Wales will play two of their weaker 2010 World Cup qualifying group rivals at home in their first three matches.

The fixtures meeting was held on Thursday in Frankfurt and Wales begin against Azerbaijan on 6 September.

Four days later John Toshack's men travel to face Russia, one of the more powerful teams in Group Four.

Wales' next two games in October see them at home to Liechtenstein, followed by a tough trip away to face group favourites Germany.

Finland come to Wales on 28 March 2009, followed by Germany on 1 April before Wales go to Azerbaijan on 6 June.

Russia are the visitors on 9 September and Wales finish their campaign next October in Finland and Liechtenstein.

FAW secretary David Collins said he was happy with the fixtures, which do not take up friendly dates.

"The major points we wanted, we were able to get," he said.

"We have the two top seeds and the two bottom seeds in the first two months of the championship.

"All of our dates are on competitive dates.

"And by agreeing to play in Azerbaijan on Saturday, 6 June, the match itself will not kick-off before 20:00 local time, so we've been able to ensure playing in the relatively cooler part of the day."

BBC

JAN-11

Masterplan 'a wonderful idea,' says Martinez

SWANSEA CITY boss Roberto Martinez has welcomed the FAW’s new Champions League masterplan with open arms.

The man who has taken the Swans to the verge of the Championship reckons the idea of getting sides from our Football League big three into the Welsh Premier is the best thing that could happen to the game here.

Martinez even declared giving Wales’ best youngsters the chance to be groomed at that level of football could one day make Wales a genuine force in European football. Martinez reacted with a mix of surprise, amazement and excitement when first told of the planned radical reforms by the Western Mail.

As far as the Spaniard is concerned, Wales have nothing to lose and everything to gain by moving to the new system. Since his first day as a manager, Martinez has been a strong supporter of permitting Swansea, Cardiff and Wrexham to field B teams in the Welsh Premier.

But he maintains such a move stretches far beyond the Swans’ own self-interests. Martinez reckons the new system could lead to a watershed in Welsh football that would see the nation finally qualify for a major championship.

“Generally, this is the best thing that could happen to Welsh football,” enthused Martinez.

“If the proposals go ahead, it will be one of the turning points in the history of football in this country." I'm very surprised it has got this far. Since the day I signed here as manager, I’ve been fighting for this.

“We are fortunate in Wales because we have the Welsh Premier league and we should use it.

“This will permit us to create the sort of competitive footballers that can produce results three or four years down the line and turn Wales into a European force in football.”

ICW

JAN-11

Cardiff snap up keeper Enckelman

Cardiff City have signed Blackburn goalkeeper Peter Enckelman on loan.

The 30-year-old Finland international will remain at Ninian Park for the rest of the season.

He joined Blackburn from Aston Villa four years ago for £150,000, but has made just two Premier League starts for Mark Hughes' club.

Enckelman has been brought in to replace Kasper Schmeichel, who has returned to Manchester City after a successful loan spell.

BBC

JAN-11

All Gwent Final in prospect

THE last-four draw for the Nathaniel League Cup final has thrown up the possibility of an all-Gwent affair in the end-of-season final,

Caerleon have been paired with Dinas Powys or Goytre United while in the other half of the draw, the winners of Saturday's rearranged Croesyceiliog v Llanwern tie will face Bryntirion Athletic.

All six survivors play in Division One of the MacWhirter Welsh League and both semi-final matches will be played on a March date and at a venue yet to announced.

Whoever Caerleon eventually play will prove to be tough opponents.

Dinas Powys are third in the table while Port Talbot-based Goytre United currently lead the pack and both clubs have applied for promotion to the top-flight Welsh Premier League.

"Semi finals are always difficult games no matter who you play and I'm sure this one will prove to be just that," said Caerleon boss Brendan Dowd, whose team is eighth but with games in hand over all the teams above them.

"I'm not particularly bothered who we play, although I was a bit glad to avoid Bryntirion because a bit of a bogey side for us at the moment.

"But there's an awful lot of football to be played before we get around to the semis and we're currently busy trying to put dates to the outstanding league matches which have built up."

SWA

JAN-11

Blues boost ahead of Pool clash

CT

JAN-11

Keddle goes back over the bridge

EP

JAN-11

Thomas tunes in to Port’s survival struggle

VIV Williams has delivered Porthmadog a boost in their battle against relegation by signing Caernarfon Town midfielder Mark Thomas.

The Port manager is hopeful the 29-year-old, who has also played for Bangor City and Rhayader Town in the Welsh Premier, can help revive the fortunes of the Traeth outfit who remain deep in relegation trouble after a 10th successive home defeat at the weekend.

“I’ve been looking at one or two other players, but unfortunately they are on contract,” said Williams.

“I’ll assess things over the next week or so before deciding whether to go for anyone else. It’s not easy to entice people when you are battling against relegation, but I’ve got players here who will battle.

“I’m still confident we’ll get out of trouble, but we’re cutting it fine. It won’t be about pretty football for the rest of the season – we’re in a scrap and we need wins.”

DP

JAN-10

Llanelli put out Dragons fire

Holloway first headed home Griffiths' cross and then sealed the win after pouncing on a loose ball after Wrexham failed to clear Andrew Mumford's header.

BBC

JAN-10

Swans & Havant charged over brawl

The Welsh FA have charged Swansea with the same offence.

BBC

JAN-10

Llangefni link up with Wrexham

DP

JAN-10

Alnwick spurns Cardiff for Foxes

JAN-10

Aber boss remains positive

AT

JAN-10

Ex Crow Wigg calls it a day

SWA

JAN-10

Savage delighted after Derby move

ICW

JAN-10

Gunter settles into life with London giants

ICW

JAN-9

Griffiths: We are confident of cup upset

Goal machine Rhys Griffiths admits Llanelli have a great chance to upset Wrexham when the pair meet in the FAW Premier Cup tonight (7pm). All attention switches to Stebonheath Park as the League Two strugglers meet the Welsh Premier League title-chasers and the fact that the game is being televised live suggests broadcasters sniff a shock.

And Griffiths, who has already notched 28 league goals this season, is determined to fire the Reds into the competition's semi-final.

Along with that carrot dangling in front of him, Griffiths can also show Wrexham what they are missing out on.

EP

JAN-9

FAW reveals bold new Euro plan for Exiles

The stunning proposal, which would end the controversial European exile of our “big three” league clubs, is being recommended as the way forward in a secret report currently under review by the FA of Wales.

If the move is rubber-stamped, it could mean Dave Jones’ Bluebirds or Roberto Martinez’s Swans lining up against Europe’s elite sides like Barcelona, AC Milan and Bayern Munich as early as next year.

Welsh youngsters Aaron Ramsey (Cardiff) and Joe Allen (Swansea) would be rubbing shoulders with the cream of world football such as Ronaldinho, Kaka and Ruud van Nistelrooy.

An official 16-page document called FAW Strategic Plan 2007-2012 calls for the dramatic shake-up. It states Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham must be permitted to field teams, which would in effect be second-string XIs, in the Welsh Premier league from August onwards.

The Welsh big guns would be eligible to go for Champions League and Uefa Cup places in 2009 as a result of finishing in the top places in the table.

If the professional clubs get into Europe, they would inevitably field their first-choice teams.

The FAW are adamant the big three’s positions in the Coca Cola League would not be affected.

The stunning move echoes a plan first hatched at the start of the millennium by former Cardiff chief Sam Hammam, who wanted to take over Cwmbran to qualify his Bluebirds for the Champions League that way.

The FAW threw out Hammam’s idea at the time after meeting fierce resistance from Welsh Premier clubs, who argued reserve sides could not play in their competition.

However, the official strategic report being discussed by the FAW recommends a U-turn in time for the start of the 2008-09 season.

The report states a change in power at Uefa, where Michel Platini has taken over from Gerard Aigner as the main man, presents a favourable window of opportunity for the Big Three which “must be seized” by the FAW.

Platini is keen to end the European exile which has been unfairly imposed upon Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham, whereas Aigner was seen as indifferent to the ban.

The document was discussed by the FAW’s 14-man board of directors before Christ-mas and will be debated further tomorrow.

An FAW official who attended the pre-Christmas meeting confirmed, “We discussed the whole document put before us and asked lots of questions about it.

“A number of things were in the strategic plan, but the one that stood out most was this issue about Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham having teams in the Welsh Premier.

“There is a view that, for the good of Welsh football, this chance to get the three of them back into Europe needs to be taken.”

Welsh Premier clubs will be up in arms at the proposal of losing their European spots to the big three.

Five of them would have to drop out of the league to accommodate Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham in a streamlined 16-team competition which would be more competitive.

Intriguingly, the masterplan has been drawn up by former FAW secretary Alun Evans, who has always been the fiercest backer of the league.

ICW

JAN-9

More good news for rampant Bangor

GREAT news for Bangor City fans – goal-getter Les Davies has already committed himself to the Farrar Road club for next season and strike partner Ashley Stott is expected to do likewise this week.

Manager Nev Powell announced the good tidings after another successful weekend which saw City stretch their unbeaten league run to 13 matches with a 5-0 thrashing of Airbus.

Davies and Stott netted another two apiece to take their combined total to 32 goals in all competitions this term.

"Les has agreed to sign a contract to stay with us next season and I’m hoping Ashley will do the same," said Powell.

"It shows how far we’ve come as a club that players like these with such bright futures want to commit themselves to us."

Mel McGinness, a highly promising 17- year-old midfielder who has played for Ynys Môn and Welsh Colleges, is another who has put pen to paper to stay with the Citizens.

DP

JAN-9

Swans see off Brighton

Darryl Duffy grabbed the game's only goal after nine minutes, wrong-footing keeper Michel Kuipers with his header from Angel Rangel's defelected cross.

Guillem Bauza then missed a chance to extend Swansea's lead from three yards.

The visitors rallied after the break and the best chance fell to Alex Revell who saw his 30-yard strike saved.

BBC

JAN-9

Ridsdale's cautious welcome over FAW Euro plan

Ridsdale emphasised his No 1 priority was to ensure the Bluebirds’ Football League status would not be affected by also playing a team in the Welsh Premiership.

He also highlighted what he saw as perhaps the biggest stumbling block.

UEFA according to Ridsdale, are not keen on players being registered to play in two different leagues.

Cardiff would have to be given the go-ahead, he pointed out, to use their entire first-team squad in the Coca Cola Championship as well as the Welsh Premier.

In that way, the Bluebirds would be able to field their strongest side in the UEFA Champions League, should they win the Welsh Premier.

“I’m not against this idea, although I must emphasise it has come as something of a shock because no-one has spoken to me about it yet,” said Ridsdale.

“What I will say is that clearly there would have to be a lot of talking, and a number of obstacles that need to be overcome, before we could agree to such a plan.

“I can’t give a completely considered view of it because I haven’t been told by anyone at the FAW about the detail.

“Clearly, though, because of the politics involved, it is something that needs an awful lot of debate. I’m more than happy to enter those discussions.

“We would need assurances from the authorities that our Football League status would not be affected in any way whatsoever.

“It’s very well people in Wales saying it won’t be, but what’s to stop someone in the English set-up saying a few years down the line that we play in the Welsh Premier League, so they don’t want us any more.

“We need a cast-iron guarantee that our place in the English League will remain okay, but this will form part of the discussions we are more than happy to participate in.”

ICW

JAN-9

Purse bids could temp City's skipper

Championship rivals Charlton, Colchester and Southampton are all tracking the out-of-favour Bluebirds skipper, who has not started a game for over five weeks.

Purse, 31 next month, has been restricted to only a handful of substitute appearances since the 2-0 home league defeat to Charlton on December 4.

In that time, Glenn Loovens and Roger Johnson have established themselves as the No 1 centre-back partnership at Ninian Park and City have steadily climbed the Championship table.

With Loovens and Johnson outstanding as a partnership, City have won six times in eight games with their only defeat coming in controversial circumstances at Bristol City.

Purse’s commitment to the Cardiff cause has never been in doubt as he has shrugged off interest in the past from Charlton, Sheffield United, Watford and Wigan to stay at Ninian Park and produce wholehearted performances.

But the veteran campaigner may now feel that the time is right to move on with first-team opportunities at Cardiff seemingly limited.

Ambitious Charlton would also offer him a return to his native London and Addicks boss Alan Pardew is keen to buy during the window and revive the club’s promotion challenge after winning only once in six games since their Ninian victory.

If Purse were to leave, then City would seek to bolster an area where their cover is threadbare.

Bluebirds boss Dave Jones wants to keep his small squad in tact with City now only three points off the play-off places.

ICW

JAN-8

Stern rest ahead for TNS

Manager Ken McKenna admits his side have plenty to do, despite having already won 3-0 at Carmarthen in the Welsh Premier earlier in the season.

“We played well there that day,” he said. “But this is another game and it’s going to be tough as they are well coached and well organised.

“But our lads have been superb this season, with some of their best performances coming away from home.

“The Premier Cup is a brilliant competition to be involved in and it would be fantastic if we can get through to play either Llanelli or Wrexham in the semi-final.”

Steven Beck and Jamie Wood are still injured, with the pair joining long-term absentee forwards Mike Wilde and Ronnie Morgan on the sidelines.

McKenna’s men are unbeaten in their last 18 league games.

DP

JAN-8

Blackburn accept Savage bid

Rams manager Paul Jewell told BBC Radio Derby: "Robbie is massively keen to come. Hopefully he will be at the training ground later on Tuesday.

"This club lacks a bit of devilment and Robbie will bring that to the club.

"But he can also play a bit and he will have a positive effect on the team and the fans. He is keen to do well."

Asked whether the Pride Park faithful will take to Savage, after reports that some fans had voiced a protest against him joining the club, Jewell said he felt their opinion would change.

"I hated Robbie Savage when he played against me," Jewell admitted.

"He is one of those characters you despise when he is playing for the opposition but you love when he is on your team.

"I know there is a little bit of history between Robbie and the Derby fans, but that is the same for him and every club - that is part of his nature.

BBC

JAN-8

Martinez eye's Wembley trip

Booking a place in the southern area final will leave the Swans just two games away from the big arch.

And Martinez does not want the prospect of an FA Cup tie at Liverpool to distract his players on Tuesady night.

"We've played a lot of games in the Johnstone's Paint already and now it's another great challenge," he said.

"Liverpool is a draw all Swansea City fans will be looking forward to, but at the moment, we've got too many things in front of us to lose concentration starting on Tuesday.

"Brighton have already played here and shown how good they are.

"They have a fantastic mixture of experience and young talent in the ranks and they will want to come here and get out of the disappointment they had in the FA Cup (losing 2-1 to Mansfield).

"It will be a difficult task, but it's one we are looking forward to because we are only a couple of steps away from a dream finish."

Swansea will be without suspended pair Ferrie Bode and Alan Tate, but Angel Rangel could return after his one match ban.

Defender Marcos Painter will have a late fitness test on his ankle injury.

BBC

JAN-8

Three on trial at Wrexham

Left-back Stephen Cooke, 24, played under manager Brian Little during his time in charge of Aston Villa and has since been released by Bournemouth.

Former Northern Ireland midfielder Danny Sonner, 35, was at Port Vale where new coach Martin Foyle managed.

And midfielder Tommy Taylor, 22, has played for Viking Stavanger in Norway.

"We have brought in three lads who are out of contract and looking to work," said Little.

"On top of looking for other players who are contracted, it's important for us to bring people in and out of the dressing room so people are on their toes.

"We are doing lots of things behind the scenes and we'll continue to do that.

"We want to bring some players in. We've may a little headway in one or two areas, but I'm not sure everything is clear yet, but I'd like to think we'll have some news very shortly."

Little also confirmed that he expects to see players make way during January's transfer window as Wrexham look to take themselves away from the bottom of the Football League.

"It's fair to say I've had calls about one or two of our players, I keep reminding people that is the case, but we'll see," said Little.

"Sending someone out on loan might do them the world of good, we don't especially want to lose players at the moment."

JAN-7

Griffiths is Reds hat-trick hero

But they were made to work hard for the points after the home side had fought back from two goals down to level at 2-2.

Griffiths fired the visitors ahead from the penalty spot after three minutes,and beat the offside trap for the second.

But a blunder by Llanelli keeper Ryan Harrison saw his clearance balloon off Darren Williams and into the net.

Chris McGinn equalised on the hour, but Chris Holloway's header restored the Reds’ lead, and Waynne Phillips and Griffiths completed the scoring.

ICW

JAN-7

Feeder league's round up

IN the top clash of the day in Division One, Ton Pentre boosted their title prospects and dealt a huge blow to Cwmbran Town’s hopes of a quick return to the Welsh Premier with a thumping 4-0 victory.

There was only one side in it as Andy Hughes, Neil Price, Mattie Davies and Jonathan Kift all netted to move Ton to within a point of leaders Goytre United with a game in hand.

Cymru Alliance

ON a day of regional cup action, only one game was played in the Huws Gray Cymru Alliance and title favourites Prestatyn Town increased their lead at the top of the table to 15 points over Llandudno Town after a 3-1 home win against Llanfair PG.

Ian Griffiths netted the first two Town goals and Steve Bowes made it 3-0 on the stroke of half-time..

Ian Burgess grabbed a consolation goal for PG.

JAN-7

Caerleon are through to semis

Division One outfit Caerleon progressed to the semi-finals of the Nathaniel League Cup thanks to a 3-1 success at Swansea-based West End, of Division Two.

Injuries and unavailability forced manager Brendan Dowd to name skipper and midfielder Martyn Philips as a substitute, but saw his team settle well before going ahead through striker Chris Pearce on 20 minutes.

However, before the interval, it all went wrong, with Caerleon having attacking midfielder Luke Cueto sent off and then seeing their promotion-seeking hosts equalise.

But goals after the break by Phillips, who later went off with a hamstring pull, and Simon Truman earned the visitors their passage through.

"This was always going to be a tricky test and that's how it turned out," said Dowd. "The pitch got a bit boggy in the second half, but we coped well enough and deserved to go through."

It could well turn out to be an all-Gwent Cup final if Caerleon avoid being paired with the winners of the Croesyceiliog v Llanwern quarter-final.

SWA

JAN-7

Steve Evans out for Wales big qualifiers

Evans, recalled to the Dragons side for his first League Two start of the season against Hereford United on Saturday, lasted just 17 minutes before limping off with what is feared to be a recurrence of the ankle ligament damage he suffered during the pre-season build-up.

Racecourse boss Brian Carey was not optimistic about Evans' chances of travelling to join John Toshack's squad later today, although the player will have an x-ray before a final decision is made.

“Steve went over on his ankle again and has the same injury he picked up at Newtown in July," said Carey.

"The Hereford player landed on him when he went over on it and so we’ll have to see how he is, but I think it’s very unlikely he will report for duty with the Wales squad."

Evans was one of three Dragons players named in the national squad, along with Mark Jones and Chris Lewellyn for Saturday's Millennium Stadium clash against Germany, which is followed by an away game in Slovakia on Wednesday week.

Youngsters Mike Williams, Neil Taylor and Michael Carvill are also on international duty with the Wales and Northern Ireland under-21 squads respectively.

DP

JAN-7

Martyrs earn point in thriller

The Martyrs fell behind to Rob Miller’s penalty on 29 minutes after goalkeeper Ashley Morris had brought down Andrew Phillips.

Phillips put Bedford two goals up practically straight from the restart but a reshuffle saw Merthyr introduce another striker in Marcus Griffiths on the hour and within a few minutes Merthyr had pulled a goal back through Matthew Harris.

Michael Lyons restored the home side’s two-goal cushion, but Steins hit back within two minutes and with nine minutes remaining the same player got Merthyr level.

JAN-7

Bangor City keeper joins Weymouth

Rushden & Diamonds striker Michael Malcolm, 22, and Bangor City keeper David Roberts, 19, have both joined the Terras on non-contract terms.

Meanwhile, Grays left-back Adam Gross, 21, has arrived on a month's loan.

But striker Jefferson Louis, 28, has left by mutual consent after a bust-up with Tindall, and non-contract defender Callum Hart, 22, has been released.

Gross made his debut in Saturday's 4-1 defeat at Ebbsfleet, while Malcolm came on at half-time and Roberts was an unused substitute.

The Terras have taken just one point from their last seven league fixtures and have slipped to 19th place in the Blue Square Premier table.

BBC

JAN-7

Whittingham praises Ramsey class

Ramsey, just turned 17, helped create Whittingham's equaliser after their non-League hosts had taken the lead.

Then the midfielder gave Cardiff the lead with a brave header in what was his FA Cup debut.

"Aaron's a frightening prospect, you can understand why there's so many clubs after him," Whittingham said.

"He just looks so comfortable on the ball and obviously for him to get his goal was massive for him."

Ramsey has just signed his first professional contract with the Bluebirds and is eager to secure a place in the first team after his debut.

"That's probably the best start you can get, making your debut and scoring a goal," Ramsey said.

"Every time I play football I enjoy it, I play with a smile on my face and it was the same against Chasetown.

"We came to do a job and that's what we did, we won the game.

"It's been a big week, what with signing my first professional contract as well, it hasn't quite all sunk in yet but I'll look back in a few weeks and realise how big it was."

BBC

JAN-6

Port Talbot win nipped in the bud

NICK Tucker, who is making his mark at Port Talbot since his recent appointment, has been around a while so this type of game was no surprise to him.

His team was dominant throughout – even during a first half when they ended up trailing to a Jack Christopher goal. Then, when they did get ahead, they threw away the win with a late defensive error.

Who would be a manager? Tucker remained philosophical and was not interested in picking out which attacker had wasted the most chances.

If Haverfordwest’s equaliser was annoying, then their first was not good from a defensive point of view. From a free kick out near the corner flag, the home defenders were out-muscled on the far post by Jack Christopher, who headed firmly home.

The home side came back after the interval and, at last, managed to finish a move – and a good one it was too.

Kyle Shepherd picked up the ball in midfield and waltzed past two defenders, before cutting it back to the waiting Chad Bond, who drilled home the equaliser.

With 11 minutes to go, there was little dispute from Haverfordwest when Port Talbot were awarded a penalty. Martin Rose stepped forward and seemed to have secured the win.

However, things went wrong when the visitors launched a long ball down field.

It should have been dealt with, but Lee Hudgell nipped in to grab an equaliser, just two minutes from time.

Port Talbot's attempt to increase attendances by reducing prices, didn't cut it with locals, just 166 were at the South Wales derby, a gate even below their average of 174.

JAN-6

Neath let it slip at the death

Neath have proved competitive since their promotion, and so it was again.

They took the lead on the half-hour mark when Paul Fowler was blown up for handball. Andy Hill is pretty reliable as a goal-scorer, but Mark Poole made a fine parry.

However, Steve Pockett was the most alert, and forced home the rebound.

It had been a first half with few real chances, and it continued that way after the interval, with both defences snuffing out attacks before they could threaten.

However, if any side looked like adding to their goal tally, it was Neath, and Poole had to be sharp in goal to keep out a Carl Shaw effort.

Finally, the home side did carve out a chance, but Sacha Walters drove over the bar when a loose ball came his way.

It seemed as if Neath were going home with all three points, but then, from the best move of the game, Danny Thomas was there to drive the ball past Morris, the opposing keeper, after a series of first-time passes opened up Neath and Carmarthen grabbed a precious point.

ICW

JAN-6

Havent hold Swans in fiery clash

Jason Scotland, Leon Britton and Darren Pratley all saw shots hit the crossbar for the luckless hosts.

Swansea led on 74 minutes when Andy Robinson struck a 30-yard free-kick but Rocky Baptiste drilled in an equaliser.

In between, Havant's Brett Poate saw red for a lunge on Andrea Orlandi, with Swansea's Alan Tate also sent off for his part in the melee that followed.

Swansea started confidently against their opponents from the Blue Square South and Scotland saw his fourth-minute shot clip the top of the Hawks bar.

Britton also crashed a shot against the Havant bar soon afterwards, goalkeeper Kevin Scriven gratefully gathering as the ball rebounded into his midriff.

Havant were living on scraps but the willing Alfie Potter made it his mission to make life difficult for the Swansea defence.

Swansea continued to threaten after half-time, with Robinson forcing Scriven into a fine finger-tip save to turn a free-kick over the bar.

Robinson was again close with a curling shot as he turned inside off the left wing and caressed the ball just wide of the far post.

The Havant bar shivered again as Pratley smacked a shot off the underside of the woodwork.

Robinson at last broke Havant's resistance with a sublime free-kick, hit right-footed from 30 yards, that spun into the top left corner of the visitors' goal.

Both sides had tackled with conviction but Poate's two-footed lunge on Orlandi crossed the line and deservedly earned a straight red card in the 79th minute.

The incident sparked an angry clash between both sets of players.

Once the dust settled, Swansea defender Tate also got his marching orders, with Kevin Austin and Havant's Shaun Wilkinson seeing yellow for their part in the tussle.

The drama was not over as Baptiste drilled an 87th-minute equaliser into the far corner, seizing the ball as Austin and Orlandi got in a tangle from a lofted ball to the right.

The replay at Westleigh Park will be played on Wednesday, 16 January.

BBC

JAN-6

Dave Jones admits, I feared the worst

But the Bluebirds boss insisted it was more to do with the way his side were playing than the threat of an almighty FA Cup shock.

Jones said he was always confident City would book themselves a place in the fourth round despite the heroic effort by the Midland League minnows.

Jones said: “We were sloppy and gave them a goal but I can’t take anything away from them – it was their day.

“We needed a shake-up because we had been a little bit lazy and lethargic and one or two needed to realise we were in a cup game – although it might have been a bit to do with the way Chasetown were playing themselves.

“I’m not going to lie and say I wasn’t concerned because I was concerned with the way we were playing, but I knew once we pulled our fingers out we would be fine.

“Once we equalised and got control of the game it was always going to be a case of ‘how many?’ and I think you could see that Aaron Ramsey is going to be a real player.”

Jones admitted Cardiff were keen to keep tradition alive by staging the game at Chasetown; “This is what the romance of the FA Cup is all about and why it is the best competition in the world.

“That’s why there has been so much attention on it, because people are looking for a fairytale, but we’ve been the party poopers.

“But we have been honoured to be a part of Chasetown’s history. Their players were magnificent and they’ve taken just about taken everything they could away from our dressing room, shirts, boots, the lot!”

Robbie Fowler will have a hip operation in America this week while Ricci Scimeca has flown to Dubai to aid his recovery.

ICW

JAN-6

TNS tighten their hold on the top

Goals in each half from Duane Courtney and Martyn Naylor helped the defending champions stretch their unbeaten run in the league to 18 games, which in turn put the pressure on second placed Llanelli to prevail in their clash at Newi Cefn.

The Saints dominated throughout in the heavy conditions but were met by a resilient Caersws side, who were eager to turn in a improved performance after being crushed 6-0 earlier in the campaign.

Despite dominating possession the visitors struggled to find a way through before making the breakthrough on 32 minutes, when Courtney fired home low from the edge of the box, after a Naylor corner was only half cleared.

The visitors, themselves limited to few opportunities, got back on terms eight minutes into the second period when Sion Meredith was brought down by John Leah and Graham Evans put away the penalty.

It was the first league goal that TNS had conceded since early November, but hopes of surprising the league leaders faded as the Bluebirds fell behind again just four minutes later when Naylor headed home Chris King’s left wing cross with the defence exposed.

The Saints could have made the scoreline more emphatic after that with John Toner striking the post and bringing a fine save from keeper Andy Mulliner, while Luke Holden fired an angled effort narrowly past the upright.

TNS had also enjoyed the better of the first half but failed to capitalise on what chances came along in the testing conditions.

Caersws, apart from the penalty, had few other efforts of note on goal but could take heart from their committed showing.

ICW

JAN-6

Chris Coleman staying quiet on his future

Badiola, who was voted in as the new Sociedad chief on Thursday night, pledged during the lead-up to the election to bring in a number of new players to try to help the club regain their Primera Liga status.

However, that could cause an irreparable rift with Coleman, with the Welshman admitting before Christmas that he would find it impossible to continue if the new president – whoever it was – drafted in new signings over his head.

Badiola also revealed prior to his election that he has lined up former Sociedad coach Javier Irureta to take over if Coleman opted not to continue.

Coleman refused to comment on the situation and insisted his thoughts were focused only on tomorrow’s league match with Salamanca.

“Before we start I want to say congratulations to Inaki Badiola on becoming the new president,” said Coleman.

“I am sure you all have a lot of questions for me, but, please, I will speak with Inaki on Monday, after the Salamanca game.

“So I am only interested in the Salamanca game. I have told the players to concentrate on this game, it’s a big game. I don’t want to speak about anything else.”

ICW

JAN-5

TNS wary of potential Caersws banana skin

CT

JAN-5

Chase chief dreams of cup upset

The British Gas Business Division One Midlands side are the lowest ranked side to ever reach the third round after shocking Coca-Cola League One Port Vale with an 89th-minute winner in their replay.

They now face an even more daunting task against a Bluebirds side six divisions above them in the Championship and who have won five of their last seven games.

However, that will not stop Blakemore dreaming of his side making even bigger headlines.

“I have been watching the FA Cup since I was a little kid,” he told PA Sport. “There’s a magic about it. I remember watching Hereford beating Newcastle when Ronnie Radford scored that goal.

“I think ’crikey, I wonder in years to come whether people will remember Chasetown doing the same thing’.

“I still look at the third round draw and I’m pinching myself that we are in it.

“I did not sleep a wink the night we beat Port Vale, all I could think was we are in the third round of the FA Cup!”

The club were only recently given the green light for the tie to be played at their Scholars Ground with Staffordshire police keen to see it moved to a bigger venue.

And with temporary seating now in place behind each goal to boost the capacity to the 2,000 mark, Blakemore is keen to make home advantage count.

“It makes me smile when people call it a stadium,” he added. “The club have to try and make everything work in our favour.

“Whatever we do I’m sure it won’t be to the standard that Cardiff are used to.”

ICW

JAN-5

Martinez confident of Swans focus

The Swans overcame another non-League side, Horsham, in the second round, but only after being taken to a replay.

"It's a no-win situation for us because everyone is hoping for an upset.

"We need be professional and play as well as we can, and be ready for the occasion. FA Cup football is magic, it's special," said Martinez.

Swansea were given a huge shock against Horsham in their second-round replay at the Liberty Stadium last month when the Ryman League side twice took the lead.

But the gulf in class between the two sides eventually showed as Swansea emerged as comfortable 6-2 winners.

Blue Square South division side Havant & Waterlooville booked their place in the third round with a stunning 1-0 win at League Two side Notts County.

They can boast a number of players with Football League experience, including former Swansea City centre back Neil Sharp, who spent just under two years at the south Wales club.

BBC

JAN-5

Cheltenham up bid for Welsh striker Fleetwood

The Robins made an offer of £100,000 for the 21-year-old in November but it was turned down.

Cheltenham chairman Paul Baker told BBC Radio Gloucestershire: "We made an improved six figure offer but we've put a seven day notice on it.

"If the player is not going to come or the club's not interested in selling then we have to move on," he added.

There is a lot of interest in Fleetwood, who has netted 30 goals in all competitions this season, from a number of clubs, with Gillingham the latest to table an offer in excess of £100,000.

But Cheltenham manager Keith Downing is keen that the club do not get caught up in a bidding war.

"What's important is that we don't get involved in an auction," he said.

"I sat there (at Forest Green Rovers' recent match at Kidderminster) with about eight other scouts and, no disrespect to Cheltenham, some of them were from much bigger clubs.

"So we have to be careful but we are interested in him. He's been terrific for Forest Green Rovers and he's a local lad so it would be silly not to be interested in him."

BBC

JAN-5

Ryan after maximum points at Traeth

The Robins have welcomed back Justin Wickham who has been unattached since leaving Caersws without making a single appearance.

The 32-year-old winger returns to Latham Park for a third stint having previously made 314 appearances for the Robins.

“It’s great to welcome Justin back to the club,” said Ryan. “He is a committed player and everyone knows what we can expect.”

Meanwhile Ryan insisted there would be comings and goings in January having already entered the race to sign Port Talbot Town midfielder Dylan Blain.

“I played with Dylan at Haverfordwest County and he would be a great asset in the middle of the park or in defence.”

Ex-Caersws midfielder Graham Jones is also mulling over a move back to Mid Wales after Ryan expressed an interest in the 27-year-old who made 163 appearances in six years with local rivals Caersws.

CT

JAN-5

Gwent 4 chase cup glory

And there could be two more local clubs in the last-four draw if Caerleon can win at Swansea-based West End and Tredegar Town are able to see off visiting Bryntirion Athletic.

Llanwern were Gwent's last winners of the cup in 2001-02, when they defeated Gwynfi United in the final at Neath, but they must bridge a section gap if they are to get past Division One side Croesyceiliog.

The home side will be minus injured trio Daniel Clare, Josh Higgins and Callum Miles plus unavailable top scorer Jody Jenkins while the visitors will also be disadvantaged by the loss of their leading goal-getter, Steve Perszewski, and holidaying left winger Matthew Currie - but they welcome back Greg Taylor, Gareth Wysome and Steve Stinton from injury.

Full-strength Tredegar must fill the same gap against a Bryntirion side managed by former Cwmbran Town striker Francis Ford while Caerleon will try to use it to their advantage at Division Two club West End, where midfielder and skipper Martyn Phillips will be out with a hamstring strain.

SWA

JAN-5

Swans sell Craney

Swansea City have sold midfielder Ian Craney back to Accrington Stanley.

The Scouser departs in an £85,000 deal - meaning a substantial loss on the man Kenny Jackett brought to Wales for £150,000 14 months ago.

Craney has spent the last three months on loan in League Two with Accrington after an unhappy stint at the Liberty Stadium, where he failed to score in 27 league appearances.

EP

JAN-4

Two players exit Bridge Meadow

Two players make their exit from Haverfordwest, one the subject of a transfer, the other surplus to the clubs requirements.

Carmarthen Town manager Deryn Brace has succeeded in bringing Phil Caitlin to Carmarthen Town, Caitlin has joined his former Haverfordwest manager following a successful seven day notice on the player. Caitlin had spent the first few seasons with the Bluebirds as a fringe player, but had since made himself a regular first team player.

Caitlin could make his Carmarthen Town debut against Port Talbot this Saturday. Caitlin had spent 5 seasons at Haverfordwest.

Also leaving Haverfordwest is long serving defender Wayne Jones, but there is no news at present of Jones joining another club and has simply been released by manager Derek Brazil.

Tony

JAN-4

Foyle joins Wrexham's management

"I would like to thank Steve, Brian and Jenni for their efforts on behalf of the club and wish them well for their future careers."

BBC

JAN-4

Ridsdale vows to keep Ledley

Toffees coach David Moyes is set to offer £3.5m to tempt the in-form Welsh international to Goodison Park during the January transfer window.

But Cardiff chairman Peter Ridsdale last night said he had received no fresh offers for the 20-year-old and gave his clearest indication yet the Bluebirds intend to fight to hold on to Ledley.

But Moyes yesterday agreed a £1.5m fee to sign Plymouth’s 17-year-old central defender Dan Gosling and Ledley is said to be next on his shopping list as the Merseyside club look to break into the top-four places in the Premiership.

Cardiff have confirmed they have already turned down one offer for Ledley, believed to have been from Wolves, and Charlton are also said to be interested.

Cardiff manager Dave Jones dismissed a move to another Championship club as “a sidestep”, but an approach from Everton could prove a completely different prospect.

Although it is believed Cardiff would hold out for more than the £3.5m currently being touted.

But, in what could turn out to be a game of transfer window brinksmanship, Ridsdale has told the Western Mail he is virtually convinced Ledley will be at the club when the transfer window closes next month.

Indeed a bullish Ridsdale insists it his highly likely none of Cardiff’s first-team operators will be leaving the club despite offers aleady being received for two.

This paper understands two firm bids have been made for Paul Parry, whilst an initial enquiry has been made about the availability of Tony Capaldi.

Ridsdale last night said no official offer had been received from Everton for Ledley or from any team in the top flight and that the club are not actively looking to offload the midfielder.

ICW

JAN-4

Bangor boss has high hopes for 2008

Third spot and a place in Europe is certainly not beyond Bangor in the new year, but Powell is keeping his feet on the ground.

“Bangor finished ninth in the league last year and were nowhere near good enough in the cups,” he stressed.

“This season we’re doing a lot better in the league and cups so we’ve got plenty to go for.

“My first aim is to do better than ninth in the league; it’s looking good at the moment but I’m not soft enough to think that things can’t change quickly if a few results go against you.

“It’s a case of taking each game as it comes and hopefully we’ll be in a position to win something towards the end of the season.

“We haven’t been beaten in the league since the end of September and the mood in the camp is very positive.”

This Saturday Bangor are home to an Airbus UK side hovering just below mid-table and capable of troubling the best on their day.

HAM

JAN-4

Martinez backs Bodde to adapt

Bodde was sent off for the second time as a Swansea player in last weekend’s 3-2 league defeat of Leeds and must now serve a five-game ban, having also picked up five cautions in 17 games since his summer move from Den Haag.

The 26-year-old arrived with the tag of the ‘Dutch Roy Keane,’ but Martinez believes it is his different football education in Holland rather than his reputation which has left him at the mercy of referees in this country.

“I understand the situation because I’ve played on the continent and know how you are brought up as a player,” said the Spaniard, who was yesterday named League One manager of the month for December – the second time he has won the award this season.

“Ferrie was trying to protect himself in that incident because the Leeds player went to ground and sometimes on the continent that’s not allowed.

“’But the rules in British football are completely different. People are allowed to go to ground here and Ferrie has to understand that, it has to be part of his education in football.

“He needs to understand in British football that you are allowed to tackle and you are allowed to go to ground.

“He has to be a bit quicker to react and get away from the area, but he will learn to do so.

ICW

JAN-4

3 Clubs do battle for Craney's signature

Three clubs are battling to sign Swansea City midfielder Ian Craney - but the hunt for a new striker continues for Roberto Martinez.

Craney has just arrived back from his loan stint with Accrington Stanley and will immediately sit down with Martinez to discuss his future.

League Two rivals Stanley and Peterbrough, who have previously had a bid rejected for Craney, are battling it out with another club, who have remained a secret.

EP

JAN-4

Sunderland fail to get Savage

The 33-year-old has fallen out of favour with Hughes this season and has been left out of the Rovers side for the last three matches.

Hughes told BBC Radio 5 Live: "At the moment the valuation we have placed on Robbie hasn't been met.

"Whether Sunderland meet that or other clubs, who have expressed an interest, meet it, we'll have to wait and see."

Former Wales international Savage, who joined Rovers from Birmingham in 2005, is competing with Steven Reid, Aaron Mokoena and Tugay for one of two midfield berths.

"Robbie wants to play week-in week-out and I can't guarantee that," Hughes added.

"If a situation arises that I feel will benefit us and Robbie is comfortable with that decision and wants to do it, we'll look at it. But no-one is forcing Robbie Savage out of the club. He knows that.

"It's well documented Sunderland have expressed an interest, although up to now they have not met our valuation of Robbie.

"They may well do that in the next couple of days and then we will make a decision, although other clubs have expressed an interest so it is not cut and dried at the moment."

BBC

JAN-3

Carmarthen chase cash bonanza

Carmarthen Town face two huge matches in the next seven days that could shape their season.

First up is the Welsh Premier League clash with this season's surprise package Neath Athletic.

Andrew Dyer's side arrive at Richmond Park hoping to avenge a 2-1 defeat at Llandarcy Park back in August.

CJ