MAR-31

New Prem league would hold no fears for Haverfordwest

Haverfordwest County Chairman, Rob Summons, revealed that the club has proposals in place to ensure that the  club will be able to  qualify for the proposed  restructured  Premier League.

"I cannot go into too much detail," he said, "as nothing is definite yet; but if things do go to plan then we will have no problem meeting the stadium criteria that is being talked about. Discussions are underway with the local council regarding ground development, and the necessary funding is in place."

County all ready have one of the best grounds in the Premier League. The floodlights meet the requirements, and the pitch is easily the best natural surface in the Welsh Premier League. Derek Brazil's young squad has the ability to finish in the top six, and with the news that most of the current squad have committed to remain with the club next season, Haverfordwest County's qualification for the new Welsh Premier League is not in doubt.

Hwest website

 MAR-31

Martinez hails 'ugly' Swansea

Roberto Martinez hailed Swansea City's championship-winning character for their hard-fought win at Hartlepool.

Martinez wants his stylish Swans to entertain with sexy football but concedes the ugly side of his League One leaders will secure promotion.

"Playing pretty football on lovely pitches is not enough if a team is to be successful," admits boss Martinez.

"Winning ugly wins you championships and we showed a gritty battling quality in poor conditions at Hartlepool."

Swansea lead second-place Carlisle by seven points but as the top two win automatic promotion to the Championship, Martinez's men crucially are ten points clear of third-placed Doncaster with six games remaining.

"I'm delighted with the win at Hartlepool," said Martinez.

"Getting 82 points before the end of March is a fantastic achievement but we have not won anything yet.

"The boys worked hard in poor conditions and showed great spirit and fortitude.

"That attitude is our platform."

BBC

MAR-31

Griffiths hat-trick sinks Rhyl

Once again the hero for the Reds was striker Rhys Griffiths, who took his goals tally for the season to 52 – his stunning second-half hat-trick totally transforming the tie after Rhyl had made a real fight of the first period.

When Lee Hunt levelled the scores at 1-1 a minute from the break, there was every possibility of a close encounter.

But Griffiths’ brilliant volley 60 seconds into the second period was the signal for Peter Nicholas’ side to take control, and they never looked seriously threatened after that.

Griffiths said, “It was nice to get three, but the most important thing is we are through to the final.

“We have had disappointments in the last two years at this stage, but we’re happy to have got the right result this time.”

Llanelli boss Nicholas said, “Rhys has a great knack of being in the right place at the right time. I’m delighted for him.

“This will be our third final of the season and we are also top of the league, but we have big tests ahead and we have not won anything yet.

“I don’t mind who we meet in the final, although I am a Newport boy and we could meet Newport YMCA. But if it is Bangor, then so be it.

“Other than the league title, which is our priority, this is the most important competition in our calendar. It’s one we would dearly love to win.”

ICW

 MAR-31

Darren hits hat-trick and a lifeline for Llangefni

A HAT-TRICK by Darren Thomas followed by a Steve Kehoe wonder goal from 40 yards earned Llangefni Town a vital result to provide their relegation escape bid with a huge boost.

Gus Williams’ Anglesey youngsters, who notched their first back-to-back wins of a traumatic campaign, have clambered off the basement after months in trouble.

Fellow league newcomers Neath Athletic, looking good in seventh place, had hoped for a better outcome, when Matthew Rees gave them a fourth-minute lead.

Teenager Thomas’ key role in Llangefni’s response began on 14 minutes when he took an Ywain Gwynedd pass to fire the equaliser from 15 yards.

That partnership clicked again three minutes later, following Kevin Lloyd’s cut inside from the right wing for Thomas to fire past keeper Craig Morris from close range.

Neath were back on terms just past the half hour through Sean Cronin, who punished a rebound following a free kick, and then the visitors bombarded Llangefni’s defence, with Andy Hill hitting a post.

The second half belonged almost totally to Llangefni, who followed up near misses by Paul Roberts and Craig Hogg by regaining the lead with Thomas’ hat-trick strike from close range on 81 minutes.

The battling Anglesey lads kept the best until last because, with 90 minutes played, Kehoe pounced on a Morris clearance to hoist a glorious long-range fourth goal that completed the rout.

ICW

 MAR-31

Lifeline goal for Caersws

CAERSWS gave themselves a relegation lifeline after earning a precious derby point, courtesy of an own-goal from their former midfielder Ross Stephens.

Having lost their previous seven outings, prospects looked bleak for the Bluebirds after falling behind to Calvin Davies’ 65th-minute opener at a rain-drenched Maesydre.

But they earned parity just a minute later when Andy Davies crossed from the left, the ball floating over keeper Danny Jones before bouncing into his own goal off the unfortunate Stephens.

A point was no less than Caersws deserved following a wholehearted display that keeps them just a point clear of the relegation zone.

Sodden conditions and gusting wind made the going tough, but the visitors started brightly with Mark Davies spurning a golden chance when firing over, while at the other end Colin Reynolds cleared off the line from Calvin Davies.

Caersws should have gone ahead but Graham Evans’ 28th-minute penalty was saved low down by keeper Jones after Neil Mitchell had been pushed by defender Brett Jefferies.

That miss appeared costly when Calvin Davies converted following an incisive run by Kyle Jacobs, but the visitors hit back for a point that could prove crucial come the end of season.

Pool finished strongly, and almost snatched the points in injury time when substitute Dave Cunnah’s 20-yard strike was turned on to the woodwork by goalkeeper Andy Mulliner.

ICW

 MAR-31

Sven's boost for teenager Evans

The Welsh Under-21 striker is on loan at Norwich City but boss Eriksson has ruled out selling Evans permanently.

And the 19-year-old revealed he hopes to be offered a new contract when he returns to Eastlands.

"We do not have any plans to sell him," said Eriksson. "My plan is to take him back for pre-season, look at him then decide. That will be his big chance."

John Toshack believes Evans has the potential to be the long-term strike-partner to Wales captain Craig Bellamy.

Wales boss Toshack has been impressed by Evans' form for the under-21s as the rookie striker has fired seven goals in four internationals, including a stunning hat-trick in a 4-2 victory over France.

Evans' goals have guided young Wales to the verge of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship finals as they need three points from their final Group 10 games to qualify for the play-offs.

BBC

 MAR-31

Martinez factor made me join Swans - Williams

The newly-capped Wales defender was in popular demand before opting for life at the Liberty Stadium.

Williams turned down Championship football to join the Swans and his deadline-day loan deal was a major coup for Martinez and the club.

The fact arch-rivals Cardiff were also interested in the 23-year-old makes the deal even sweeter for the Swansea fans.

The player himself was quick to play down the decision to turn down the Bluebirds, focusing instead on his desire to play under Martinez.

“The manager was a massive pull in my decision to come to Swansea,” he explained.

“All the reports I got back about him were brilliant and I just wanted to get down here.

“The club likes to play a brand of football that I enjoy and it’s just a massive club that’s doing well at the minute.

“Both Cardiff and Swansea are massive clubs. But, for one reason or another, I ended up in Swansea which I’m happy about. There’s been talk of this move for ages now. But I just tried to get on with my football at Stockport and, as it happens, I’ve been able to join Swansea.”

With the Swans seven points clear at the top of League One, Williams admits the timing of his move was impeccable.

And, while it is only a loan deal for now with a possible £350,000 deal to be completed in the summer, he will undoubtedly be hoping to join the club in the Championship next season.

ICW

 MAR-31

Speed look to management role

But the 38-year-old has also been told he can carry on playing with Sheffield United at the same time.

Speed, touted as a future Wales boss, signed for the Blades in January on the understanding he would take up player-coach duties under then manager Bryan Robson.

Robson’s Bramall Lane exit put doubts on that move – but now replacement Kevin Blackwell has promised Speed he will be part of his dug-out team in the new campaign.

“I see a role for Gary on and off the field,” Blackwell said, after calls to trim the wage bill at the Championship side had threatened Speed’s future in Yorkshire. “I’m looking to change the coaching department around and I’ll need some help with the first team. I can’t do both jobs.

“And I think Gary can be useful to us. I’m always happy to impart my knowledge to other people and he’s a deep thinker.”

ICW

MAR-30

Llanelli ease past Rhyl and march on to the final

Prolific marksman Rhys Griffiths' hat-trick inspired The Reds into the final as they bid for their first Welsh Cup triumph.

Griffiths' phenomenal 49-goal tally this season has fired Llanelli into two cup finals and ten points clear of TNS at the summit of the Welsh Premier.

Llanelli, who face Rhyl in next month's Welsh League Cup final, were beaten Welsh Cup semi-finalists in the previous two seasons but Griffiths' goals guided them into this year's showpiece with his second-half treble.

Antonio Corbisiero gave Llanelli an early lead but the former Swansea City striker was injured in the process and had to be stretchered off.

Lee Hunt equalised for Rhyl on the stroke of half-time but Griffiths' 20-yard stunner and a cool Mark Pritchard strike eased Llanelli back into the lead at Aberystwyth's Park Avenue.

Hunt capitalised on a Llanelli defensive howler to drag Rhyl back in contention but within 90 seconds Griffiths has restored Llanelli's two-goal cushion.

The Reds striker converted a penalty after Pritchard was hauled down by Rhyl goalkeeper Lee Kendall before Griffiths completed the rout with arguably his easiest goal of the season as he tapped Chris Holloway's cross into an empty net from three yards.

Llanelli will now face either Bangor City or Welsh League giant-killers Newport YMCA in the final.

BBC

MAR-29

Rhyl aim to end Reds hoodoo in Euro quest

JOHN HULSE wants to make it ninth time lucky against Llanelli in tomorrow’s televised Welsh Cup semi-final at Aberystwyth.

The Lilywhites have endured six defeats and two draws in their last eight encounters against the full-timers.

Rhyl boss Hulse said: “This is the biggest cup we can win in the country we play in and we want to bring it back to Belle Vue. It carries a place in the Uefa Cup and we will be holding nothing back.”

Rhyl are targeting their third Welsh Cup triumph in five seasons with victories in 2004 and 2006 , and their fifth in all.

“Llanelli are top of the table and having a very good season but this is a neutral venue and all our matches against them have been really close,” said the Rhyl manager.

The tight results may not have dropped third-placed Rhyl’s way, but having already clinched European action for the fifth consecutive year, confidence is high.

Hulse said: “We’ve had a tremendous last few weeks with four wins and a draw, taking maximum points over Easter to claim a ticket into the Inter-Toto Cup and extend our outstanding record in qualifying for Europe.

“I must thank all my staff and players for what they have achieved, as well as the board and management and all our loyal supporters.

“It’s been a great team effort on and off the field – and we’re not finished yet.”

MAR-29

YMCA ready for biggest ever game

JUNIOR Borg may not have followed his dad into the world of boxing but he'll be doing his best to knock-out Bangor City in the Welsh Cup semi-final today (kick-off 2.30pm).

Borg and his Newport YMCA team-mates travelled to Newtown in mid-Wales yesterday for the biggest game of their careers and they'll be cheered on by two coach loads of family members and supporters who set off this morning.

Among those heading north will be Junior's dad Tony Borg, former prize fighter and owner of the St Joseph's gym in Newport where his son trains regularly.

"I'm there all the time working out with the boys," said the speedy winger.

"I'm good friends with Matthew Edmonds who has a big fight next week and we all have a laugh there.

"My dad might have wanted me to be a boxer but it was always football for me," he added.

"And, to be fair, he knew how hard a career boxing is so he always supported me in my football and it'll be great to have him there."

Speaking from the very noisy team coach yesterday afternoon, Borg was in confident mood and insisted the whole team was looking forward to the big game.

"We're all really enjoying the build-up," he said.

"Travelling up the night before the game and staying in a hotel is a whole new ball game for the lads and it gives us a taste of what the professionals do.

"We're used to sitting at home and watching TV the night before a game so this preparation should set us up well because it's the biggest game we've ever played in."

And, having beaten Carmarthen, Llangefni and Welshpool already in their remarkable cup run, Borg believes the MacWhirter Welsh League Division One side have every chance of claiming another Premier League scalp.

"We're not worried about Bangor, we'll just enjoy it because this is our cup final and hopefully we'll win and then we'll have another cup final to look forward to," he said.

YM manager Mark Coldrick revealed that striker Lewis Sommers is fit to play after overcoming a hamstring strain and midfielder Alex Jenkins has also passed a fitness test and will play in place of the unlucky Alex Stewart who suffered a serious knee injury in Tuesday's defeat at Goytre.

ICW

MAR-29

Cefni victory can stir up relegation battle

LLANGEFNI Town host Neath Athletic today needing almost all of the 15 points available to them for the rest of the season to avoid relegation.

Just eight months after both clubs were promoted, Neath have done well and look comfortable in seventh place, while Llangefni are rock-bottom.

But there could be a timely upturn in the Anglesey club’s fortunes, judging by their 3-0 demolition of Aberystwyth Town last weekend.

Another three points today, from what would be their first back-to-back league wins, would prompt a reassessment of the survival odds of several clubs.

Llangefni have 20 points , Porthmadog 22 and Caersws 23, with Caernarfon Town on 27.

The Talwrn Road club’s director of football Gus Williams said: “We have a fighting chance of escaping relegation and, with five games left, it is in our hands now.

“This will be a test of the lads’ strength of character and we know they are up to the challenge.”

A full injury-free squad will be on stand-by for Llangefni.

MAR-29

Harrison blow for Reds quest for the final

MAR-29

We’re not doomed insists Dragons ace Llewellyn

WALES cap Chris Llewellyn insists the Wrexham players are refusing to accept they are doomed to drop into the Conference.

Today’s League Two contest with Barnet marks the beginning of a week that could go a long way to determining where the Dragons start the next campaign.

On Monday, they face second-bottom Mansfield at Field Mill before next weekend’s meeting with Macclesfield, opponents also fighting for their League Two lives.

Llewellyn said, “The situation doesn’t look the best, but all the lads are keeping positive.

“We’ve got nine games, including three this week, against the teams around us, so we’ll probably be in a better situation to judge what we’re going to do after that.”

However, with the Dragons seven points shy of safety, Llewellyn admits the task ahead is grim, but he does not accept it’s hopeless.

Brian Little’s team have two games in hand on third-bottom Notts County and three on Macclesfield, who are eight points above them in the League Two table.

MAR-29

Coleman keen to send Eastwood to Coventry

FORMER Wales star Chris Coleman plans to end Freddy Eastwood’s Wolves misery with a £2m summer bid for the out-of-favour striker.

Eastwood sparkled for Wales in midweek, his double in a 2-0 friendly win over Luxembourg making it four goals in seven appearances for his country.

But Eastwood has not started a game for Wolves since Boxing Day and will again be on the bench at Charlton today.

Now Coventry boss Coleman plans to target Eastwood, 24, in the summer after his 11th hour move to sign the striker on loan was thwarted by Wolves boss Mick McCarthy.

“Coventry asked to take Freddy on loan and I considered it,” admitted McCarthy, the former Republic of Ireland manager.

“But he has done well for us in the last two games as a substitute, so I changed my mind and decided he is staying here.

“It is my prerogative. It is not the first time that I have changed my mind and it won’t be the last either.”

Coventry striker Kevin Kyle is currently on loan at Wolves and it is understood that Coleman will offer the Scot as a makeweight in a summer move for Eastwood.

MAR-29

Caersws looking to halt 7 match losing run

Caersws bid to halt a seven-match losing run as they head for Powys rivals Welshpool looking to avoid getting sucked into the mire, writes John Bridgwater.

Their latest woe was a 2-1 midweek home defeat against Newi Cefn Druids, and they realistically need to win at least two of their remaining four games to give themselves a chance of staying afloat.

“We’ve just got to get on with it and look to get a good result at Welshpool,” said manager Dave Taylor, who has a full squad apart from defender Steve Towers.

Welshpool’s Chris Venables could be included to face his old club after missing six weeks with an ankle problem.

Richie Harris is also back from suspension, but defender John Keegan is out for the rest of the season.

“We’ve got four home games left, and we’ll try to get as many points as we can,” said Welshpool manager Tomi Morgan.

MAR-29

Owain Tudur Jones relieved to win first cap

The ex-Bangor City man, 23, won his first Wales squad call-up in May 2006.

But since then he has been sidelined by a serious knee injury then ankle problems, and he has yet to make a full Swansea appearance this season.

"It's a big relief to get that first cap, now I've got to concentrate, work hard and keep going," said Jones.

"I felt that there was some sloppiness in my play. It's going to take a lot more game time to get my sharpness and hopefully I can find that by the end of the season."

Former Wales and Everton captain Kevin Ratcliffe was delighted to see Jones back in action.

"It was great to see him after his many injury problems," Ratcliffe told BBC Sport Wales.

"He looked rusty and really needs a pre-season and game time, but he seems to have bulked up in the gym and that will serve him well as he progresses to higher levels.

"Craig Bellamy filled out that way when he was at Newcastle. He benefited from that, and Jones will need the power if he makes it to the Championship with Swansea next season."

MAR-28

Not only has the progress made by Eircom league sides on the field greatly surpassed that of our domestic clubs in European competitions, but now the money available to both leagues in getting even bigger, and the money on offer to our Irish counterparts seems a million miles away from our welsh premier clubs.

At the launch of the new Eircom League season it was announced by the FAI that the 22 League of Ireland clubs will receive €2million (£1.6m) in direct contributions and subsidies.

Overall prize money for the Premier Division, First Division and League Cup competitions has risen 18 per cent from last season with the Premier Division winners set to receive €250,000 (£200,000) for winning the 2008 title.

With €260,000 also on offer for qualifying for the Champions League, €20,000 for making the Setanta Sports Cup and a €15,000 grant available towards a club promotion officer it means the winners of this season's Premier Division will earn a record €545,000 (£468,000) and can expect more from their share of television revenues.

Speaking at the launch of the 2008 season the Chairman of the FAI National League Executive Committee, said: 'The FAI's total investment in the Eircom League of Ireland this season will be €5million and €2million of that sum will go directly to the clubs in the form of prize-money, television payments, European participation grants, contributions to Club Promotions Officers and subsidies in relation to insurance and certain match day costs.

'Other money will be spent on a marketing campaign which will focus on radio and television while the intangible benefits of the FAI's involvement include the administration of the League by Director Fran Gavin and his team, club licensing and access to FAI personnel for advice and help in areas such as facilities, marketing, sponsorship, communications and legal matters.'

Must have welsh premier league chairman wishing their clubs were in the Eircom league.

Tony

MAR-28

The 23-year-old club captain, who made his debut for Wales in their friendly in Luxembourg on Wednesday, has been tracked by the Swans for 14 months.

His form with the League Two promotion chasers has attracted interest from Championship clubs including Cardiff.

"I'm delighted to be able to sign a player with such potential as Ashley," said Swansea manager Roberto Martinez.

"It is a huge bonus that he is a huge centre-half with international recognition.

"We had a few injuries in our back line and we have an important five weeks until the end of the season.

"It is important that the boys have got extra cover and Ashley is the player we wanted."

Williams' senior career began at Hednesford Town when he was released by West Brom at the age of 16.

BBC

MAR-28

Goal king Rhys Griffiths has revealed a league and cup double is the minimum target as Llanelli close in on the club's first major piece of silverware. The Reds are just six points away from bringing the Welsh Premier League title back to Stebonheath Park for the first time in their 112-year history.

Tuesday night's 2-1 victory over Aberystwyth - the Reds' first victory at Park Avenue in all competitions - moved Peter Nicholas's side 10 points clear of champions The New Saints.

LS

MAR-28

Taylor said he is not setting his players a points target as they bid to secure their place in the division and is taking each game as it comes.

“There’s no target,” he said, “we just need to make sure we have more points than the bottom two.”

Welshpool Town boss Tomi Morgan said he is preparing his side for a tough encounter.

“It will be a difficult game as usual,” he said, “they are desperate for points so it will be a real tough game.”

CT

MAR-28

Williams, 32, scored the only goal in the Dragon’s 1-0 win over Bury at Gigg Lane in December, but immediately pulled up with a hamstring strain that has seen him sidelined since.

The Bangor-born striker has been battling to recover from the blow, but after four months on the injury table has finally decided to hang up his boots and retire from the game.

"I’m glad that I scored for Wrexham," said Williams. "And I really hope that the goal and the three points help Wrexham stay up. But I knew as soon as I’d scored the goal that something was wrong with my hamstring."

And Williams also believes his decision to retire is in the best interests of the club as well as his family, who stayed in Hartlepool.

DP

MAR-28

Forde initially joined the Cherries on a week's emergency loan earlier this month.

But his stay was extended and Cardiff have now allowed the 28-year-old to remain on the south coast.

The Cherries are 22nd in League Two 12 points off safety but were docked 10 points for entering administration.

BBC

MAR-27

Eastwood guns down Luxembourg

Eastwood, who is out of favour at Wolves, scored his third and fourth goals from seven international caps.

But he said: "I'm delighted to get a start again and another good performance away from home.

"I've been knocking on the door (at Wolves) to get back into the side and hopefully I'm not far away."

He added: "Once we got the first goal we looked comfortable, to be fair.

"I don't think they looked like scoring and it was a case of how many we were going to get.

"The conditions were difficult because they sat back so deep and it was difficult to break them down.

"More or less every game I'm starting I'm getting more experience, and hopefully when the big games come up I'll be involved.

"Every goal I score at international and club level is a good achievement and hopefully I will score more."

BBC

MAR-27

Carmarthen boss roots for Rhyl

Deryn Brace briefly donned Llanelli colours at the turn of the Millennium, but on Sunday he will be hoping Rhyl dump his old club out of the Welsh Cup to boost Carmarthen's European hopes.

The Town boss has seen his club's push for third in the Welsh Premier League falter as the season heads into the final furlong, and their only hope rests on the outcome of the Welsh Cup.

That sees third-placed Rhyl tackle Llanelli in Aberystwyth on Sunday, and Carmarthen's hopes rely on the Lilywhites.

CJ

MAR-27

Hulse has his eye on 2nd spot

MONDAY’S narrow victory over Porthmadog secured Rhyl a place in next season’s Inter-Toto Cup – and it could get even better according to Lilywhites manager John Hulse.

Three wins in seven days have taken the third-placed Lilies to within three points of The New Saints in second, although the reigning champions do have a game in hand.

Before last Tuesday’s win at Newtown, Hulse conceded that runners-up spot was beyond his team, but events since have brought a change of mind.

“I did say before the Newtown game three wins would probably secure us third place, but I didn’t anticipate TNS dropping points at Newtown on Saturday,” he said.

“It’s back on now – we’ve definitely got a chance of qualifying for the UEFA Cup either through the league or by winning the Welsh Cup.

“TNS have still got to come here, and they’ve got to play Llanelli, but whatever happens between now and the end of the season we’re in Europe for a fifth season in a row so the pressure’s off.”

DP

MAR-27

Llangefni in with a fighting chance to beat drop

COULD the great escape be on for Llangefni?

The Anglesey aces produced their best performance of the season on Saturday to trounce an in-form Aberystwyth side and put themselves within touching distance of safety.

Although Cefni are still bottom, they are now just two points behind Porthmadog with a game in hand and three in arrears of Caersws.

So good were the islanders on the day that they could, with a bit more luck, have won by five or six goals.

But three points is all that matters at the business end of the season and, with Porthmadog and Caersws losing, Cefni have a ray of light at the end of a stormy campaign.

DP

MAR-27

Swan's trio on way back for final run in

A Triple injury boost could end Swansea City's activity ahead of today's loan transfer deadline. The League One leaders have been handed a huge lift with captain Garry Monk and Paul Anderson expected to be available for the home clash with Bournemouth on April 5.

And Marcos Painter could be ready for the top-of-the-table trip to Carlisle three days later.

Monk has been suffering from a back problem while Anderson has managed just 60 seconds' action since late January because of a hamstring strain.

EP

MAR-27

Little vows to stick with Wrexham

The Racecourse side are bottom of the Football League, seven points adrift of safety with nine games to go.

And Little told the BBC's Sport Wales programme: "The club has to be prepared for whatever the outcome.

"But we are going to fight to the very end and that's the most important thing."

Little was appointed in November, replacing manager Brian Carey after three wins and 10 defeats from their opening 14 games left them next-to-bottom with just 10 points.

In Little's time, the club have picked up 23 points from 23 games but now find themselves at the foot of the table.

Despite their predicament, the former Aston Villa manager believes the Dragons still have a chance of staying in the Football League for the second successive year.

"We've been bottom of the table for such a long time now and the fact that we've not been tailed off is testament to the attitude of the players," he said.

"I think a lot of people up and down the country might still predict Wrexham for relegation, but we feel here that we've shown a fair amount of stick-ability and we're still within a very good chance and we won't give up.

"We have to survive in the hope that we can be competitive next season."

Little admits talks have taken place at boardroom level over the club's future should they go down, but insists they will not be made public.

"There has to be a plan," he said. "You can't wait until the last game of the season and suddenly say 'we've got to start thinking about this'.

BBC

MAR-27

Canaries will play Llangefni at the Oval in crunch game

The announcement was made without consultation with the League, who would not allow the match to be reversed due to the importance of the match within the relegation battle. Fellow-strugglers Porthmadog and Caersws both voiced concerns at the switch as 'Gefni would have an extra home game in the run-in.

Llangefni are currently bottom of the League, but only three points from safety and enjoyed a tremendous 3-0 win over Aberystwyth Town last weekend so they are still hoping that they can make a great escape. The Canaries are not mathematically safe themselves either, so by the time of the match in mid-April, it could be a vital game for both clubs concerned.

OWP

MAR-27

Dragons striker Eifion Williams quits game

The 32-year-old Welshman – who joined the Dragons last summer after spending five years at Hartlepool – is retiring and returning to his family in the north east of England.

Williams, who made his name at Barry Town in the Welsh Premier league before stepping up to the Football League at Torquay, made 15 league and cup appearances for the Dragons, scoring once in his final game – a 1-0 win at Bury in December.

In all, he made over 325 appearances for Torquay, Hartlepool and Wrexham and scored 75 goals.

“I have picked up one or two injuries and things haven’t gone to plan,” he said. “But it is one of those decisions where I have put the family first and the travelling has not helped.

“I have had a chat with Brian Little and we agreed it was best for both parties that we go our separate ways.

“I’m 33 this year and it just didn’t feel right sitting here, picking up my money and not contributing. I won’t be returning to league football. I’m looking to get a job outside the game.

“My family said they liked Hartlepool, having lived there for five years, so it is one of those decisions, where the kids are happy in school and it’s right.”

ICW

MAR-26

Llanelli move closer to 1st league title

Llanelli can almost smell the polish on the league trophy as they move 10 points clear of TNS following last night's 2-1 away victory over Aberystwyth. Llanelli need just 2 more wins and can afford to lose one of their last 4 games and still be crowned league champions for the very first time to deprive TNS achieving the milestone of 4 consecutive league titles.

But Llanelli didn't get the start they wanted and fell behind to Aberystwyth in the 18th minute from  Tiago da Silva goal (his 1st for the club) Mark Pritchard drew the Reds level on 40 minutes, and the 3 points were secure on 70 minutes with the winner coming from Antonio Corbisiero, the win see's Llanelli stretch their unbeaten run to 17 games. The league title could be in Llanelli's hands before their final game of the season which is against TNS at Park Hall.

View league table

Tony

MAR-26

Goytre's win over YMCA moves them into 2nd spot

In the night's other division game, ENTO Aberaman missed the opportunity to move in 3rd place as they were beaten 3-1 against Caldicot Town at Jubilee Way, but they do have the chance to move into 3rd spot if the can do the double over Lido this Saturday, ENTO were the last team to inflict a defeat on Lido when they won 4-1 at the Marston.

View League table

Tony

MAR-26

Druids inflict more misery on Caersws in relegation battle

Caersws failed to put daylight between themselves and Porthmadog in the relegation places last night at the Recreation Ground when they lost to Newi Cefn Druids. While games are running out for Porthmadog, Caersws still only have a 1 point lead over over their relegation rivals and 3 points last night could have seen them finish out of the bottom two places come the end of the season, but Druids had different ideas and won the game 2-1.

Caersws took the lead in the 66th minute when Colin Reynolds put the home team ahead, and things were looking good for the Bluebirds until tragedy struck in the 80th minute when Druids equalised with a goal from Mike Thompson, and it got even worse in injury time as 1 point turned to no points for Caersws when Chris McGinn scored the winner for Newi Cefn Druids. But their was some joy for both Porthmadog and Caersws in the form of a 2-1 win for Goytre Utd in the welsh league which see's them move into 2nd place in the table.

View league table

Tony

MAR-26

Trundle legend made it almost impossible for Scotland

Scotland’s agent Mike Berry stirred up a hornets’ nest last week by suggesting Swansea fans had not shown enough warmth to the free-scoring Trinidad and Tobago striker.

Berry even wondered why the Liberty faithful had not created a familiar terrace chant for Swansea’s top scorer.

But, after watching Scotland spare Swansea blushes with his 27th and 28th goals of the season in the 2-2 draw with Bristol Rovers on Monday, Martinez pinpointed the reason why the £25,000 summer snip from St Johnstone has failed to become a Liberty folk hero.

“Perhaps they haven’t sung his name because he’s trying to fill someone’s boots who, let’s be realistic about this, is someone the fans regarded as a legend here,” said Martinez, right.

“We all know whose boots he had to fill and that’s nearly an impossible job.

“So the fans have taken a little bit longer than it would with another player to make their final judgment.

“But I always speak with the fans and they have always got great things to say about Jason.

“It’s just a matter of time before he gets the recognition he deserves.”

ICW

MAR-26

Morgan's contract ended by TNS

The striker scored 180 goals in four seasons at Cammell Lairds before joining TNS at the start of the season.

But Morgan, known as 'The Rocket', has scored only once in a handful of appearances this campaign.

BBC

MAR-26

Rookie duo awaiting Wales debuts

Myhill is expected to play 45 minutes, Lewis Price getting the other half.

Manager John Toshack is without 11 senior players, notably James Collins, Wayne Hennessey, Danny Gabbidon, Craig Bellamy, Gareth Bale and Joe Ledley.

Chris Gunter was released to a strong Wales Under-21 squad for their vital Euro qualifier in Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Hennessey was also marked out for that game, before being forced to withdraw with a groin injury.

Groin injuries saw David Edwards and Arron Davies withdraw from the senior squad, while Ledley pulled out last weekend after picking up a hamstring problem.

Cardiff boss Dave Jones said: "Joe tweaked the hamstring he injured last month and the number one priority is that Joe gets back to full fitness."

Wales captain and Fulham midfielder Simon Davies is due to win his 50th cap in the game.

BBC

MAR-26

Broughton to extend Wrexham stay

Broughton will join up with the MK Dons squad to enjoy Sunday's Johnstone's Paint Trophy final as a non-player.

The 29-year-old will be available to the Dragons until the penultimate weekend of the season, along with Oxford loanee front man Robert Duffy.

West Brom striker Stuart Nicholson ends his Racecourse loan spell on 19 April.

Broughton's loan extension is subject to the necessary paperwork being completed by the Football Association and the Football Association of Wales before Thursday's deadline.

"I'm very happy to be staying at Wrexham," Broughton told the Dragons' website.

"Despite playing a part in the JP Trophy semi-final win over Swansea, there was little chance of my being involved in the final.

"I feel that I can be of more use to Wrexham in their relegation fight, although I'm disappointed that I can't stay for the final game against Lincoln as I always seem to score against them."

BBC

MAR-25

Llanelli look to break Aber hoodoo

Llanelli head to Aberystwyth tonight knowing victory will put them within six points of their first Welsh Premier League title. The Reds boast a seven-point lead over champions The New Saints following last weekend's action, and have the chance to move one step closer at Park Avenue (7.30).

But the ground has proved a major stumbling block for Peter Nicholas's side as they have never won there.

Llanelli - who are back at Aberystwyth on Sunday for the Welsh Cup semi-final against Rhyl - will be without keeper Ryan Harrison who starts a two-match ban following his dismissal in Saturday's win at Porthmadog.

EP

MAR-25

Swans take a point in 2nd half turnaround

Rovers had led after Rickie Lambert's 20-yard strike before Craig Disley doubled their lead before the break.

League One's top-scorer inspired the Swans comeback with a close-range strike in the 50th minute before a stunning wonder goal late on.

Scotland's 28th goal of the season curled into the top corner but the Swans lead has been cut to five points.

Swansea City manager Roberto Martinez:
"Jason's second goal in particular was special but he has performed well all season and his goals have been important for us.

"The draw is not two points dropped as every point we win is a point gained at this stage of the season.

"But I was disappointed in the first-half performance because that is well below the high standards we expect from ourselves.

"However, the way we responded and came back shows the great character and belief we have in our squad."

BBC

MAR-25

Euro place for Rhyl

The visitors, desperate for points in their fight against relegation to the Cymru Alliance, fought bravely but were undone just eight minutes from time.

Former New Zealand U20 international Michael White found space 25 yards out and unleashed a tremendous shot that gave visitors’ keeper Richard Harvey no chance.

This was the wake up call the Lilywhites needed and they were unfortunate not to double their lead when substitute Marc Lloyd-Williams hit the woodwork.

Defeat was a cruel blow for Viv Williams’ side who now have just three matches to save their status – against Rhyl again, plus games against Carmarthen and Connah’s Quay Nomads.

Rhyl can now turn their attention to this weekend’s Welsh Cup semi-final against Llanelli and a forthcoming League Cup final also against the Reds.

ICW

MAR-25

Three wins will secure promotion – Martinez

Leaders Swansea inched nearer promotion – if not the League One title – by recovering from a 2-0 half-time deficit to salvage a point against Bristol Rovers, while earlier in the day third-placed Doncaster were held 1-1 at home by Oldham.

Carlisle’s 14th successive home win took them to within five points of Swansea and, with a game in hand and Martinez’s men due to visit Brunton Park on April 8, the title is very much up for grabs.

“I don’t think you’ll need three wins – it will be less than that,” said Martinez after another topsy-turvy day in the promotion race. “We’ve got seven games now and we’ve got to perform in a way to get as many points as possible.

“Of course, we will try to win all seven, but if you’re asking me how many wins we need to get promotion from League One I think it will be less than three wins.

“It’s another game gone – and a point gained the way the game went – and Doncaster’s next two games against Forest and Leeds could shape their season.

“But there are no easy points because every team playing against the top sides will make it difficult for them.

“We’ve got 79 points and the club record is 85, and the Carlisle game will be another fantastic one. Maybe even a title decider.”

ICW

MAR-25

Neath ruin Bangor’s Euro hopes

While the Eagles have gathered maximum Easter points the Citizens have had two fruitless journeys to South Wales, where they lost to Carmarthen on Saturday.

Andrew Dyer’s side are now just two points adrift of their opponents with a game in hand, while Bangor surely require a maximum return from their three remaining fixtures against Rhyl and Neath at home, plus Llangefni Town away, if they are to have any chance of European qualification via the league route.

In blustery conditions both teams played a cat-and-mouse game until the 23rd minute when Matthew Rees found space in the visitors’ penalty area following a corner and netted from close range.

ICW

MAR-25

Cardiff & Swansea bid for Will power

The Stockport County defender has been called into the squad for the friendly in Luxembourg after receiving rave reviews in his team’s League Two play-off push.

And now both Roberto Martinez and Dave Jones are looking to take the 23-year-old on loan, at least until the end of the season.

“It may happen by Thursday,” said Williams, a former West Brom trainee.

“Both Swansea and Cardiff have shown an interest and are both massive clubs.

“I don’t really have a preference – I just want to play as hard as I can, and whoever shows an interest, I’ll weigh up the options.”

ICW

MAR-25

Little concedes Wrexham only have "half a chance" of