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Dec 31

Bridgend town match preview January will be a very important month for Afan Lido and our aspirations for promotion back to the welsh premier league. This Saturday we travel to Treforest to play Bridgend Town, in a must win game, to stay in touch with the teams above us, but easier said than done, Bridgend are flying of late and sit comfortably in 6th place, just a point of Lido but with a game in hand. They could in fact pass out current leaders Bettws if they win their games in hand, so not an easy task, but one we must win, and with goals flying in our opponents net of late a task we can achieve if we fire on all cylinders on the day (we are currently joint top league scorers along with Bettws & Goytre on 38 goals). The biggest loss will be our top scorer Mark Jones whose loan period from Llanelli is up and he heads back west to his contracted club after a very fruitful 3 month loan spell at the Marston. Bridgend have only lost twice so far this season in the league, once at home and once away, in fact their away record is better than their home record, they have won 4 games on the road and only 3 at home and have only managed 12 of their 26 points at home. Our away record is even, though we have only played 5 games away out of our total of 15 league games, we have managed 2 wins, 1 draw and 2 losses (Away to Goytre & Ton Pentre and they don't come much harder than that) Our recent away record against Bridgend away has seen Bridgend having the better of things, last season they won 4-2, we won the previous season 2-0 and the season before we lost 1-0, so it's our turn to win this season. After the Bridgend game we miss out on league action (yet again) as we face AFC Porth in the league cup, but on the 17th we host Ton Pentre who despite their 8th place in the table can go above us and leaders Bettws if they win their games in hand. So after facing Bridgend and the Bulldogs, we then have neighbours Goytre Utd at home on Jan 24th, and to round the month off we travel to face current league leaders Bettws. It will be the 2nd time of facing all 4 clubs in the league this season as so far we haven't won any of the four, with 2 defeats (Ton Pentre & Goytre) and 2 draws (Bridgend & Bettws) Tony

Dec 26

Boxing day Welsh premier league round up Llanelli 5-2 Carmarthen Town Llanelli kicked-off the Boxing Day programme at 11am at Stebonheath and claimed all three points on offer against a Carmarthen Town side who had won their last five League games. Llanelli's skipper Rhys Griffiths opened the way early on, when he latched on to a great ball from Antonio Corbisiero to belt the ball beyond Neil Thomas from six yards. Deryn Brace's side then equalised through Sasha Walters, who calmly finished after Ryan Lewis had stopped the initial shot from Tim Hicks. The Reds regained the advantage through teenage striker Jordan Follows, who is growing in confidence with every game he plays. His strike was a cool Number Nine's finish following good work from Nicky Holland. Carmarthen fought back well again following a mistake from young 'keeper Lewis, who picked up a back-pass after Andy Legg just nudged the ball towards the under pressure 'keeper. Town's Lee Hudgell cleverly took the free-kick quickly and his assist allowed Danny Thomas the easiest of chances. After the break, Mark Pritchard assisted his strikers with two goals, which came within minutes of each other. Firstly his 40 metre run and pinpoint cross found Griffiths' head at the back post for 3-2, and then another sublime cross again found Griffiths who passed back across goal for Follows to claim his second. Griffiths then claimed a hat-trick in the dying minutes as the League's Champions ended their rivals excellent run of wins to go level with Rhyl at the Top of the Table. The New Saints 3-1 Welshpool Town The New Saints got back to winning ways after going three League matches without a victory. They had to come from behind at Park Hall though after veteran striker Steve Rogers gave the visitors a surprise 20th minute advantage. Alex Darlington (24'), Alfie Carter (77) and Craig Whitfield (90') gave Andy Cale's side the three points. Caernarfon Town 0-2 Bangor City Bangor City won the Gwynedd Derby match at the Oval, 2-0 in front of the day's biggest crowd of over 1,000. A goal in each half from former Rhyl players James Brewerton (33') and Chris Sharp (85') compounded more misery on Cofis boss David Rowe as his side remain at the foot of the Table on five points. Neath Athletic 2-3 Port Talbot Town Mark Jones won his first game as Port Talbot Town boss with a late winner from Martin Rose at the Gnoll. The struggling Eagles took a second minute lead through Sean Cronin, but Fahiya levelled the score on the half-hour. A 48th minute penalty from Rose gave the visitors the lead for the first time, but ex-Port Talbot Town youngster Kerry Morgan grabbed the equaliser on 56 minutes against his former side. Rose then went on to score the winner and his second in the last minute. Newtown AFC 0-0 Caersws FC The Powys derby clash was a goalless affair at GF Grigg Latham Park, which gives Dave Taylor's Bluebirds a valuable point in their relegation scrap. In a poor match Caersws' midfielder Aeron Edwards was red carded on 84mins for a second bookable offence. Welshpremier.com

Dec 25

Llanelli aiming to go top of Welsh Premier League LLANELLI can go joint top of the Welsh Premier league with a Boxing Day home win against Carmarthen Town at Stebonheath Park (11am). That is the first of five matches on Friday – the rest start at 2.30pm – and Llanelli will go level on points with leaders Rhyl if they come out on top. Manager Peter Nicholas and his players are feeling confident after completing a league double against Bangor City, winning 2-0 at Farrar Road earlier this season and 4-3 at Stebonheath last weekend. And there is the promise of more goals when Carmarthen Town, now in fourth place, make the short trip to Llanelli on Boxing Day morning. The reigning champions lie second, three points behind Rhyl, with a game in hand. A key weapon for Llanelli has been Andy Legg’s long throws which have proved difficult for opposing defences. Rhyl are at home to Prestatyn on Saturday in their match and they are closing in on a new signing having been given permission for talks with Blue Square North club Fleetwood Town’s midfielder Jimmy Kelly. Rhyl are keen on Kelly, 35, who first joined them in June 2007 from Conference North champions Droylsden. He has also played for Wrexham, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Doncaster Rovers, Chester City, Scarborough, Morecambe and Lancaster City. Terry Phillips

Dec 25

WPL secretary Deakin is unhappy at Druids criticism WELSH Premier League secretary John Deakin has slammed comments from a Newi Cefn Druids official last week which described Rhyl players as “ageing pros” who would end up “playing for the Dog and Duck”. Ancients secretary Mike Beech last week said his side’s 4-3 victory over Rhyl at Belle Vue showed that the league should not be split into two divisions, with a top-flight “Super 10” fighting it out for European qualification. Beech said clubs such as Rhyl, The New Saints and current champions Llanelli were not good enough to progress beyond the first qualifying round of European competition. He also said some of the current league leaders’ players were “ageing pros taking a couple of extra years to earn an extra few quid before they finally end up playing for the Dog and Duck on a Sunday”. Deakin yesterday condemned the outburst, saying: “He was talking about the clubs not being good enough in Europe – but that’s why we want to make the league better. Daily Post

Dec 24

Barry Town back from the brink BARRY Town fans rescued the MacWhirter Welsh League club from disaster at Jenner Park last night. Owner Stuart Lovering agreed to step away from the football side of things at Jenner Park and supporters stepped forward to pledge monthly cash to save the club. Manager Gavin Chesterfield will run all football matters at Barry Town FC. The threat of the football club being pulled out of Welsh League football on January 1 disappeared. Lovering will now focus on making the Jenner Park Social Club a success, while a football committee will be formed. More than 70 people attended a two-hour meeting last night, including former Barry Town secretary Dave Cole, plus AFC Barry officials Neil White and Tim Johnson, who had been banned from the social club for the last few years. “In three years Barry Town will be celebrating 100 years of football at Jenner Park,” said Chesterfield, who was supported by a number of players at the meeting. “That says it’s worth fighting for. Barry Town is still the most successful team in Welsh football. “Unless we do something now this great football club is going to go under – fact. “Barry Town football team is now self-financing and totally independent of the social club. Now we can start to make progress. “From January 1 we will be responsible for our own fate.” Lovering confirmed he will not interfere with football matters in any way, although he pledged to help when he can. “There is a shortfall of £800 a month on the football side,” said Lovering. “The social club is breaking even. We are not making money. “I will not be involved in the football committee or the football team in any way. “I will help by making the social club available and providing posters to help the football side. “I am going to focus on the social club and if we make a profit in that area I will try to help in any way I can. “But I stress the football side of things is totally independent and I will not interfere.” Manager Chesterfield will now seek to appoint a chairman and other committee members for the football side. It had been feared Barry Town would be withdrawn from the Welsh League on January 1, but they will now play on and are at home to Cambrian and Clydach on Saturday, January 3. Terry Phillips

Dec 24

On paper we should beat Neath say Jones Port Talbot are without Swansea City loan striker James Burgin for the clash with near neighbours Neath at The Gnoll. New manager Mark Jones faces his first test on the road since beginning his second spell at the club, and warned: "On paper we should beat Neath, but I've been in this game long enough to know that you can't take anything for granted." The Steelmen gained a creditable scoreless draw against The New Saints last time out, an outcome that satisfied Jones. "To take a point against one of the top three clubs in the league is a step in the right direction," he said. "But we need to follow that up with consistent performances. There are six points at stake over the holiday period and the results can open the league right back up. "Our defence held up well against Saints and that can only breed confidence throughout the team." Jones added: "Neath beat Port Talbot 5-3 at The Gnoll in the League Cup earlier in the season so Andrew (Dyer) will have his troops well up for the battle. "He will probably take the view that one of the holiday fixtures is a must-win game so we are ready for a competitive match." Dyer admitted: "I feel Port Talbot, with the experienced players they have, have under-achieved this season. "That makes me feel a little uneasy, and with Mark Jones now in charge this game may have come at the wrong time for us. "I have the utmost respect for Mark and what he has achieved at this level and I'm sure he will do a good job of lifting Port Talbot up the league. "This may be a bridge too far for some of our young players but we will give it a go and see what happens." Dyer added: "Boxing Day can often throw up strange results. I'd be happy with two points from the two games, but if we get three points I would believe that Santa has arrived in Neath." The Eagles have a number of key players sidelined. Clayton Blackmore and Stephen Pockett should return on New Year's Day but are unlikely to figure in this match. And top marksman Andy Hill will also probably be sidelined. Evening Post

Dec 19

Kinsey is the new Dinas Powys manager DANNY Kinsey is the new manager of MacWhirter Welsh Football League Dinas Powys. The experienced defender, a former Llanelli, Barry Town and Grange Quins player, has taken over from Mark Jones, now manager at Port Talbot Town. He will be assisted by captain Geza Hajgato and back-up goalkeeper John Jones. Tomorrow, Dinas Powys go to Croesyceiliog for a Division One match looking for a first win in four games. They went down 4-1 against Afan Lido in their last outing, producing a solid team display for 75 minutes before conceding three late goals. Pontardawe travel to leaders Bettws, while Bridgend Town are at home to Taffs Well. The chase for success remains close and Bettws, top on 30 points, have played more matches than all of their main rivals. ENTO Aberaman Athletic are five points behind with two games in hand and they are in the Rhondda for a match against Cambrian and Clydach. Barry Town's future remains in doubt with owner Stuart Lovering insisting he will withdraw the club from Welsh League football at the start of 2009. Manager Gavin Chesterfield and his players are sticking together and have even arranged fundraising events to help ease the situation Tony

Dec 18

Cardiff Corinthians match report This Saturday we welcome Cardiff Corinthians to the Marston in our last league match of 2008. If Lido can secure a victory over Corries and if Cambrian & Clydach can avoid defeat at home to ENTO Aberaman, we will move into 3rd place in the table, a feat which looked highly unlikely at the start of October when we were one place away from the relegation zone with just 1 win 2 draws and 3 defeats from our first 6 games. At the moment we are still scoring goals for fun and have found the net 16 times in our last 4 games, while only conceding 4 (and 3 of those came in a 3-3 draw against Caldicot) our strikers have been on deadly form in that recent period with young Sam Wade scoring in each of the last 4 games, while Mark Jones has also scored 5 goals in the last two games. Mark Jonah Jones is now the clubs leading goal scorer in the league with 8 goals, but this will be his last game on loan from Llanelli, also up there in the goal scoring charts are Sam Wade with 7 and Scott McCourbrey also with 7. Corinthians are having a reasonable return to life back in division 1 and are currently in 11th place with 19 points, they have played 7 away games winning 4 and losing 3, but they have won 4 out of their last 5 away games, they have scored 12 and conceded 12 in their 7 away games. We have accumulated 17 of our 24 points at home (though we have played 9 of our 14 games at home) with 5 wins 2 draws and 2 defeats, and we have hit the back of the net 27 times and conceded 14, in fact only 3 other teams have conceded more goals at home than us (Caerleon, Taffs Well & Newport YMCA) but we are the leagues 2nd highest scorers, only Goytre can boast more goals scored. Our last home game saw our biggest crowd of the season with 130 at the Dinas Powys game (the same as last season) and hopefully we will top that Saturday to cheer on the side to 3rd place in the table. Tony

Dec 17

Neath Secure Future with Local Investment Neath FC have announced that, a little over a fortnight after announcing that an opportunity had arisen for a consortium to take control of the club and push it onto the next level, a group of local Business people have stepped in and secured the future of the Principality Welsh Premier League Club. In a Press Statement from Secretary Tony Melding, the club stated; "The club wishes to thank the many parties who have supported us during the last two weeks, not least our main sponsors Happy Home Furnishers and are now looking forward to delivering top flight Welsh Football to the town of Neath in the coming years. "The next step is for the club to achieve the UEFA Domestic Licence, which will prepare us for the re-structuring of the WPL in 2010/11. This is an ongoing process that will be completed in May 2009." Indeed, the club had a successful Meeting with the Football Association of Wales Licensing Officer this afternoon. "After the drama of the last two weeks it is great that the club has been put on sure footings by the consortium that join the committed people who remain at the club. "A new board will now be formed and a structure put in place, making us stronger and enabling us to meet the many challenges that lie ahead. It is with great optimism that the club now moves forward." The Eagles now look forward to their on-field activities and are hoping for a good turnout at the Gnoll this Friday when they entertain a strong Aberystwyth Town side (7.30). Neath Manager Andy Dyer said, "I am delighted at the support we have received from the clubs main sponsors and a consortium of local businessmen who have injected money into the club." "We still need people to come forward to help run the club but its nice to be in control of a club that is getting back on its feet and has genuine prospects again to go forward...We are hoping to build on the teams return to form having picked up four points from the last two games and a win this Friday night at the Gnoll should take us clear of the drop zone."

Dec 15

WPL round up Aberystwyth 5-2 Porthmadog Aberystwyth Town came alive in the Second Half at Park Avenue to beat Porthmadog 5-2, with all seven goals coming after the break. Porth's makeshift defender John Rowley was sent-off in the opening quarter for bringing down Geoff Kellaway who was through on goal. Marc Lloyd Williams had two great chances to give the visitors a surprise lead, but both of his shots were aimed straight at keeper Dave Roberts. Graham Evans was replaced at Half-Time with a hamstring strain and young substitute Stuart Fraser scored two headers with his first two touches to give the Seasiders a 2-0 lead. Porth skipper Rhys Roberts then scored in the 49th minute with another header, but then Aber scored twice in quick succession again. Chris Venables supplied the corner kicks straight on to Aneurin Thomas' head twice in as many minutes, as the home side raced to a 4-1 lead on the hour. Geoff Kellway scored a tap-in after Dave Vickers could only parry a Thomas free-kick, but Porth managed a second as Mike Foster scored from the penalty spot. Deep into stoppage time, Aber's Colin Reynolds was sent-off by Referee Darren Adie for a second bookable offence. Carmarthen 2-1 Caernarfon Carmarthen Town continued their good run as they saw off a spirited challenge from bottom-of-the-Table Caernarfon Town. It could have been so different though as Neil Thomas' dramatic penalty save from Lee Furlong, in the second minute of injury time denied the strugglers a share of the spoils. Danny Thomas gave the Old Gold lead after a quarter of an hour, but Stephen Johnson equalised on 48 minutes. The winner came courtesy of Lee Hudgell on 74 minutes. Paul Addo was sent off for the Canaries by Referee John Swindley with eight minutes remaining. Rhyl 3-4 Newi Cefn Druids NEWI Cefn Druids pulled off one of the season's shocks with victory at leaders Rhyl. The Ancients took the lead at Belle Vue as Mark Stewart netted the first goal, but defender Greg Stones equalised. The diminutive Stewart then scored his brace, but Neil Roberts pulled the hosts back once again. Just a minute later, ex- Rhyl midfielder Ricky Evans restored the advantage. The Druids then made it 4-2 when second-half sub Kevin Holsgrove struck with twenty minutes remaining, before Rhyl made made it 4-3. Airbus UK Broughton 1-0 The New Saints Matthew Cook's 20-yard strike as the first-half came to a close was enough for Airbus to topple third-placed TNS in dreadful conditions at the Airfield. TNS, who were missing Jamie Wood and Mike Wilde through suspension's misery was compounded by Barry Hogan's red card. The Wingmakers won the corresponding fixture last year and were good for the result again this campaign. Neath 1-1 Haverfordwest Richard French rescued Neath after the visitors went ahead through Dylan Blain at the Gnoll. The Eagles are now level with Caersws on points in the Table, and the Bluebirds host newboys Prestatyn Town. Welshpremier.com

Dec 15

Red faced Llanelli let golden chance slip LLANELLI missed a glorious opportunity to return to joint top spot with Rhyl when they fell to a surprising 3-1 loss at Connah's Quay. It completed a remarkable weekend for the top three with Rhyl, The New Saints and the Reds all finishing pointless. Saints were surprise 1-0 losers at Airbus UK while Rhyl went down 4-3 at home to Newi Cefn Druids on Friday night, so Llanelli travelled north on Saturday knowing they could take advantage of their rivals' slip-ups. They looked on course when Andy Legg's fluke corner sailed over the head of highly rated Quay's keeper Chris Maxwell and into the net in the 17th minute. The visitors were in total control and another Legg corner was met by Rhys Griffiths's head but he looked on in anguish as the ball cannoned off the bar. Andrew Mumford was superbly denied by Maxwell, the parry landing at the feet of Stephen Evans but he blasted wide. And Llanelli paid heavily for their generosity as the home side gained in stature after the break. Phil Clark's right-wing cross started the rot in the 50th minute. It looked harmless enough with sufficient red shirts in the box to deal with the threat. But Andy Alston outjumped the Llanelli rearguard to plant the ball into the net. A spectacular Peter Doran 25-yard cracker put the Deesiders 2-1 up and when Mumford was easily dispossessed, it led to Craig Jones setting up Michael Cronshaw for the third. It arrived minutes after Griffiths's penalty was brilliantly saved by Maxwell, who was being watched by Wales Under-21 manager Brian Flynn. Jordan Follows had created the opportunity, his cross handled by Alston who was promptly shown the red card. In April, Llanelli won the title at Connah's Quay but those happy memories evaporated with this untimely defeat. Manager Peter Nicholas said: "It was a totally different occasion this time. It was the proverbial game of two halves. "We should have built on our 1-0 lead by half-time but Connah's Evening Post

Dec 12

£40m sporting village is back on for Bridgend ISLAND Farm in Bridgend has been earmarked as the home of a £40m sporting village for Rugby League, Rugby Union, football, tennis and boxing. Plans seen by the Gazette show three impressive new stadia for Super League’s Celtic Crusaders, Bridgend Ravens RFC, Bridgend Town AFC, a national indoor tennis centre and training pitches, all on a 130-acre site. The area would also include a 25-acre country park, a heritage centre and museum on the site of the historic Hut 9, a science park extension and a 1,250-space shared car park with a park-and-ride scheme for Bridgend town centre and McArthurGlen Designer Outlet. Merthyr Mawr Road, New Inn Road, the A48 and the railway line enclose the potential development, lodged yesterday (Wednesday) by HD Limited. Access to the site would be from the A48 and the existing science park on Technology Drive. HD Limited’s director, Nick Hegarty, said: “Bridgend has, it could be argued, missed out on opportunities over the years, whether it be through genuine bad luck or not seizing the opportunities when they present themselves. “The aim of creating what is effectively a ‘Sports Parkland’ at Island Farm is to provide Bridgend with an outstanding facility for watching or playing sports.” Mr Hegarty said he hoped the project could be completed by 2012 in line with the London Olympics. The plans have the written support of all the sports clubs involved and raise questions about the future of the Brewery Field, with the lease currently held by Dekor, the firm of Celtic Crusaders’ backer Leighton Samuel. The Rugby Football League were critical of the Brewery Field facilities when granting the Crusaders a three-year Super League licence. The Island Farm scheme would see the Crusaders move to a 15,000-capacity stadium with bars, corporate hospitality and conference suites. It would also house a club and gym to be used by Bridgend Boxing Club, as well as offices for all the organisations involved. If the plans are approved, it is envisaged the Ravens would move to a new 5,000-seater stadium on the site with Bridgend Football Club returning from their Treforest exile to a 2,000-seater stadium with ancillary training pitches. Bridgend FC secretary, Colin Mawer, said: “Building a new facility for Bridgend Town at Island Farm is a dream come true for me, as it will, at last, allow us to unite our mini, junior, youth and senior sections together as one club. “This, combined with the other sports that are close by, will, I believe, put Bridgend on the sporting map and give Bridgend an overall sports facility of which we can be really proud.” ICWALES

Dec 11

Welshpool test for new Port boss Jones MARK Jones begins his second spell in charge of Port Talbot at Technogroup Welshpool Saturday afternoon. Having been in charge at the GenQuip Stadium for three years before leaving for a hugely successful three-year stint at Carmarthen Town, Jones is looking forward to his new challenge. "It's nice to be back. I've taken my first training session with the lads and I'm looking forward to the challenge," he said. "I've received so many phone calls since the news of my appointment was announced. They've been from all over Wales and it's been tremendous. "But it's straight down to business with a tough match at Welshpool. "They've taken 12 points from their last five matches so are on a good run and it's ironic they have a new manager also. "I did my coaching badges with Huw (Griffiths). He's a good lad and will do well so we have a big challenge on our hands." Asked about the quality of his inherited squad, Jones said: "There's plenty of talent at the club but we are bit lightweight. "There's nothing I can do about it at the moment. No pre-season, no friendlies, just straight into the first match. "Hopefully, the players will respond well over the next few months so I won't be making any judgement on individuals until nearer the January Llanelli Star

Dec 11

Neath chase league boost after semi-final disappointment NEATH will want to cast aside the disappointment of their failure to reach the final of the league cup when they host in-form Haverfordwest at The Gnoll tonight. Two goals up from the first leg, the Eagles looked on course for glory against The New Saints as they went in 0-0 at the interval. But, within 15 minutes of the restart, Ryan Marriott, Michael Wilde and Alfie Carter had turned the tie on its head and Saints ultimately ran out 3-2 aggregate winners. "I've no complaints," said Neath boss Andrew Dyer. "We needed to score to put pressure on TNS as they would have had to score four goals to win but we never achieved it. "We're disappointed, of course, but the lads have done tremendously well to get this far as we qualified from a difficult group which included Llanelli and Port Talbot. "Now we turn back to fighting for league points. At least we are home after a long period on the road. "Haverfordwest are having a good season and will present us with problems but, with Newi Cefn Druids just above us, playing Rhyl this is an important match for us," he added. Strikers Andy Hill and Carl Shaw have injuries that will sideline them. Llanelli Star

Dec 10

Dinas Powys match preview This Saturday we take on Dinas Powys at the Marston, looking to maintain our recent good run of games. Dinas have lost their manager Mark Jones, who is now back at Port Talbot, after a very successful season last year finishing 2nd in the league only 2 points behind champions Goytre Utd. Last April fools day we played Dinas at home and we lost on that day 2-0. But we did manage a win against them away beating them 1-0 with the goal coming from Kieran Howells, only 5 of the team starting that game are still playing for the club, so a different season and a different team we will be looking for a different result than the 2-0 defeat of last April. Dinas are currently 2 places below us in the table in 7th spot, with a game in hand and only 2 points below us, but we have a 2 goal better average then them thanks to the 7-0 rout of Newport YMCA last time out. It is unlikely that even a win on Saturday will see us move up to 4th place as Pontardawe host Croesyceiliog and should be good value for a win against the struggling Gwent outfit. A win is important to maintain our push for promotion to the welsh premier, but a loss to Dinas and if the 4 teams directly below all win we would drop to 9th in the table, we can ill afford many more slip ups in our quest for the welsh premier, as ENTO Aberaman have also applied for promotion and lie 4 points clear of us and with a game in hand. Plus both teams not have to only finish higher than each other, but we must also try and finish higher than Goytre and Bettws and get into a top 2 spot.  But the goals are flying in for Lido at the moment (albeit against poor opposition) and young Mark Jones in on a roll (though his loan spell finishes at the end of December) but before the end of January we will be tested thoroughly with games against Ton Pentre, and 3 of the 4 teams above us in Pontardawe, Goytre and Bettws, so come February we will know if we are still on course or not. Tony

Dec 10

Neath lose out on cup final place TNS 3-0 Neath FC Ryan Marriott, 46'; Mike Wilde, 58', Alfie Carter, 60 (Mike Wilde Sent Off, 70') TNS overturned a 2-0 First Leg deficit on Tuesday evening to beat a valiant Neath FC at Park Hall to book a place in the Loosemores Cup Final. They had to score all three goals in the Second-Half though as teenager Ryan Marriott turned on the style on a bitterly cold evening in Oswestry. The Saints came out firing after the break and Marriott finished a good Saints move in style on 46 minutes to get the hosts right back in the Tie. They then leveled the aggregate on 58 minutes, despite the Eagles' best efforts to deny them. Duane Courtney shot at the far post, but Wyn Walters saved well, John Toner then followed up, but his shot was blocked on the line and Mike Wilde was then on hand to tap home. Almost immediately after the re-start, it was 3-0 to the hosts as Alfie Carter shot a pearler from the edge of the box after excellent work from Marriott. This gave the Saints the advantage for the first time in the tie and they were able to hang on, despite Wilde being Sent Off by Referee Wayne Tregonning on 70 minutes, after Assistant Phil Bates saw an off the ball incident, which left Neath defender Sean Cronin on the floor. The First Half was dominated by the hosts, but they failed to make the breakthrough. Another youngster Craig Whitfield and Marriott both looked sharp in the First period, with Whitfield hitting the bar in the opening minutes after a mazy run and a lethal strike, which left Neath 'keeper Wyn Walters stranded. Marriott created chances for strikers Mike Wilde and John Toner, and Wilde was twice denied with headers by the impressive Walters. It was all TNS for the first forty minutes and Alfie Carter was also denied by Walters after a trademark 60 metre run down the right. Marriott continued to impress as he grew in confidence and his long range effort went just wide of the post. Neath got themselves back into the game five minutes before the interval but Paul Harrison was also in good form in the TNS goal denying Richard French's goal-bound volley. Kyle Graves also had a chance from the resulting corner, but he pushed the ball wide at the near post, with French free in the box. It was all different after the break though as Andy Cale's Interval Team Talk must have inspired his side to book their Final Spot. Welshpremier.com

Dec 8

Mark Jones back at Port Talbot Former Port Talbot manager Mark Jones is back as the clubs manager following the sacking of Nicky Tucker. Jones had 3 successful seasons at the Victoria Road club from 2001-2004, taking over from Wayne Goodridge, before departing for Carmarthen Town. Jones parted company with Carmarthen in 2007 and got back into management with welsh league club Dinas Powys, and took them to a runners spot last season, the clubs highest ever league finish, and only ended up 2 points away from the title. Jones holds the FAW Certificate of Competence, which means that he meets the UEFA Licensing Criteria. Tony

Dec 7

Welsh league cup round up Bridgend Town were in dynamic form in booking their last eighth spot with a 5-2 thrashing of Dinas Powys. Craig Lima, Rameere Outlaw on his full debut, Scott Hillman, Lloyd Evans and Carl Jenkins were on target for the Town. Reigning Welsh League champions Goytre prevailed 2-1 against Ton Pentre at Ynys Park, thanks to a brace of goals by Kieron Coles. Ton’s marksman was Andrew Hughes. Porthcawl Town were celebrating last night after moving on with a 3-1 defeat of Pentwyn Dynamo, while AFC Porth caused something of a surprise when they edged home 1-0 at ENTO Aberaman. There were no goals after 90 minutes or in extra time between Caldicot Town and Cwmbran Celtic, but Caldicot went through 4-1 on a penalty shoot out. Meanwhile, in the First Division of the League, Pontardawe maintained their championship push with a 1-0 home victory over Taffs Well, while Bettws overwhelmed Caerleon 5-0 with Paul Jones and Jamie Morris each scoring braces and Paul Evans grabbing a goal as well. Cardiff Corries won the other top flight game in a truncated programme, beating Newport YMCA 2-1. Ammanford cut loose in sensational fashion for one of their most convincing Welsh League Second Division victories, overwhelming hapless Garw 5-1. It did not help the Garw cause that they finished the game with only nine men after the dismissals of Richard Llewellyn and Lloyd Griffiths. Griffiths had actually given Garw the lead early on, before he was sent off for two yellow cards. Luke Fayres was the Ammanford star bagging a hat-trick of goals with Richard Lewis and Richard Thomas getting the others. ICWALES

Dec 7

Saturday's Welsh Premier round up The New Saints 0-3 Rhyl Rhyl extended their lead at the top of the Principality Welsh Premier League with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over TNS at a bitterly cold Park Hall. The Lilywhites also ended TNS' unbeaten record for the Season as they showed that they stated their Title ambitions in front of the Live S4C Television Cameras. The visitors made a great start when Neil Roberts scored after just six minutes following a Greg Stones assist. Alun Bickerstaff's side desperately needed the safety net of a second goal and that came in the 70th minute following excellent work from full-back Marc Connolly whose cross eventually found skipper George Horan at the far post. Connolly played a major part in the third and final goal as his cross was cleverly dummied by Roberts and the advancing Stones obliged to seal a memorable victory for Rhyl. There was worse news late on for the Saints as Jamie Wood was sent off in the dying minutes. Newi CD 3 - 1 Caersws NEWI Cefn Druids won this clash of two of the League's struggling teams at Plaskynaston. Ricky Evans opened the scoring, just two minutes before the break, but the Bluebirds were on level terms in the 64th minute as Chris Melia struck. Former Everton trainee Kevin Holsgrove restored the Ancients' lead and young striker Mark Stewart made the game safe a minute later. Newtown 2 - 3 Carmarthen All five goals were scored in an incredible First Half at Latham Park and the Old Gold battled on to claim all three points in a goalless second period. Newtown took the lead on eleven minutes through Mark Griffiths, but Town's Stuart Roberts equalised three minutes later. Defender Danny Jellicoe restored the advantage mid-way through the opening period, but the Old Gold were again on level terms on 33 minutes as Jamal Easter found the back of the net. Midfielder Paul Fowler scored what proved to be the winner on 37 minutes as Deryn Brace's side climbed up to fifth. Porthmadog 1 - 4 Neath Athletic This was a vital win for the Eagles and they did it in style at Y Traeth. On-loan Swansea City midfielder Dion Chambers led the way with a brace including the first goal, but that was cancelled out by Carl Jones on 37 minutes. Chambers scored his second two minutes before the break and Kerry Morgan and Richard Ingram also scored after the interval for a fine win on the road. Prestatyn Town FC 2 - 2 Bangor City It was honours even at Bastion Road, despite Chris Sharp scoring for the visitors after just twelve minutes. Ian Griffiths levelled for the hosts only 7 minutes later though and the sides went in at the break on level terms. Les Davies scored almost straight after the interval, but rookie Karl Murray grabbed a point for the Seasiders on his debut. ICWALES

Dec 4

Dyer adamant that the Eagles will fly on DEFIANT Neath Athletic manager Andy Dyer has said it’s “business as usual” on the playing side despite his chairman and entire board of directors resigning this week. Ravaged by injury on the field, the Eagles, bottom-but-one in the Welsh Premier League, are drifting without boardroom guidance following the shock departures. The club has issued a statement calling for interested investors to get involved, and Dyer said, as far as he was concerned, new faces couldn’t arrive soon enough. He said: “They all had their reasons for leaving but the problem we have now is that nobody is driving the club off the field. “It’s not like the club is going to fold or anything – they haven’t bailed out with bills to pay or no money in the bank – but we need someone in soon.” ICWALES

Nov 30

GOYTRE United ended Bettws’ brief spell at the top of Division One after cruising past visitors Caldicot Town 3-1. Prolific goal scorer Robbie Walters netted a brace and Daniel Thomas added a third. The Port Talbot outfit now share the same points as Bettws, but enjoy a superior goal difference. Third-placed ENTO Aberaman conceded their first goal in 290 minutes when Cardiff Corries’ James Hughes found the net in the 20th minute, but ENTO’s Dean Morris equalised against an injury-hit Corries side and John Phillips grabbed the winner for ENTO midway through the second-half. Fourth-placed Barry Town have been going through a sticky patch and, having lost their last two matches, were relieved to get a point in a 2-2 draw at Bridgend. Newport YMCA remain bottom of the table after a 7-0 thrashing at Afan Lido. Mark Jones grabbed a hat-trick and Sam Wade netted a brace. Scott McCoubrey and Luke Borrelli scored a goal apiece. Pontardawe Town rounded off a good day for the teams in the top half of the table as they rattled four past Caerleon. Vinnie Wattleworth, Stuart Hoskins, Andy Stokes and Dan McGrath all netted, while Luke Cuto scored a consolation penalty for Caerleon. Bryntirion eased their relegation fears with a 4-1 triumph at Croesyceiliog and in the afternoon’s remaining fixture the spoils were shared between Cwmbran Town and Cambrian/Clydach, which ended 1-1. Division Two leaders Ely Rangers were the only top- four team in action yesterday and took full advantage as they ran out 4-2 victors at Pentwyn Dynamos. It was a good day for the clubs on the road as, amazingly, all seven were victorious. Treharris Athletic’s woes continue and though Kevin Bounds netted a brace for them, he was outgunned by Matt Trotman, who enjoyed a red letter day for UWIC with four goals. Kane Smith also found the net in a 5-2 triumph for the students. Cwmbran Celtic kept their promotion hopes alive with a comfortable 3-0 victory at Garw. Sean Matthews scored two and Sean Williamson also found the net. Goals from Robbie Fowler and Jason Becker helped Maesteg Park to a 2-0 success against Newcastle Emlyn. In Division Three 46 goals were scored in nine games. Leaders Llantwit Fardre went in 3-0 up at half-time at Troedyrhiw, but the hosts hit back with four unanswered goals after the break. Wales on Sunday

Nov 30

Airbus UK 1-1 Port Talbot PORT Talbot Town chairman Andrew Edwards left the Broughton Airfields in a buoyant mood after watching his side clinch a draw. It has been a difficult week for the Steelmen and having to part company with Nicky Tucker wasn’t an easy decision for the club. Having finished in the top six in recent seasons, languishing in the league basement with only a handful of wins since August called for such drastic action to be taken. Wayne Davies took charge yesterday in a caretaker capacity, but his role looks like being shortlived. Edwards said afterwards: “I have had a busy 48 hours and the level of interest in the vacant post has been quite amazing. “I have already interviewed two strong candidates and will be having a chat with two other interested applicants early next week. “I hope to be making an announcement soon and aim to have a new man at the helm for next Saturday’s match.” As for the game itself, it was a clash Airbus should have won by a decent margin and they had the lion’s share of the opening half. The first chance of the match fell to Danny Desormeaux after he was played in by Phil Molyneux with the game just eight minutes old. Mark Cadwallader came close to breaking the deadlock with a stunning free kick which former Wrexham shot-stopper Kristian Rogers tipped for a corner. Somewhat against the run of play, the visitors took a 39th- minute lead when Martin Rose picked out James Burgin and he volleyed past the Planemakers’ keeper Phil Palethorpe from close range. The second period was a repeat of the first half, with Airbus wasting chance after chance and Port Talbot happy to sit back on their slender lead. Man of the match Rogers pulled off several excellent saves but could not prevent substitute Tom Rowlands from pulling Airbus level following a corner from Ashley Williams. The hosts had several good chances to grab a winning goal but Rogers stood firm in the Port Talbot goal. However, right at the death, it was Port Talbot who could have put the result beyond doubt when Rose had a shot saved by Palethorpe and Matthew Reece missed a gilt-edged chance to clinch victory. Wales on Sunday

Nov 27

Wayne Davie back at Port Talbot Wayne Davies has returned to the GenQuip Stadium as Caretaker Manager of Port Talbot Town following the sacking of Nicky Tucker last Weekend. Port Talbot Town Chairman Andrew Edwards confirmed the Temporary Appointment this afternoon to the League at their Board Meeting, but added that there would be a Full-Time appointment in the near future. Davies stepped down from his post in April 2007 due to increasing business commitments and was replaced by ex-Wales Semi-Professional Team manager Tony Pennock. Davies first took charge of the Steelmen in the summer of 2004 and enjoyed a successful period of increasing success and achievement at the club. In 2005-2006 Port Talbot finished fifth place in the Welsh Premier League, their highest ever finish, and also reached the semi-final of the Welsh Cup and the final of the Loosemores League Cup. In 2006/07, the side made headline news with a victory over Swansea City in the Quarter Final of the FAW Premier Cup as the young and talented team built by Davies in his three seasons in charge raised the profile of the club on and off the field. At the time of Davies' departure, Edwards said, "It is disappointing that Wayne Davies has decided to step down from his position at the club but I fully understand his reasons and we are indebted to the contribution he has made to this football club during his time in charge." Welshpremier.com Tony

Nov 25

Tonight we take on Barry Town at Jenner Park. A rejuvenated Barry Town lie 4th in the table, but they should be in 2nd place only they were deducted 3 points for failing to fulfil a home game against Pontardawe. They have had a fairly easy home fixture list so far this season without having to meet a team in the top 10, but have still lost 2 of their 5 home games, last time out they were beaten 2-1 by Cardiff Corries, they also lost to Caldicot Town, they have also had 3 home victories. Regardless of tonight's result for either team, Barry's results could all be void if their current owner carries out his latest threat to pull the club out of the league. His latest deadline for selling the club is January 1st. Their manager Gavin Chesterfield has put together a good squad that could be there or there abouts come the end of the season, though if they make to the end of the season, promotion would look like a no no, as the cost of running a club in the welsh premier is considerably higher than the welsh league. Our recent history against Barry Town at Jenner park was very favourable, with a 4-0 win back Sept 2007 with goals from I Jones, K Lewis, John Felton & Matt Lavis, that was in the 2nd round of the welsh cup. And on November 18 we gave them a hammering 7-0 (away in the league) with Ianto running riot scoring 5 goals. But I don't think tonight's game is going to be as easy as the previous 2 meetings. I have no team news for tonight's game as timing from my return and tonight's game came fairly close. Tony

Nov 25

PORT Talbot Town have sacked manager Nicky Tucker. They acted after a 3-2 home defeat by Porthmadog at the GenQuip Stadium. Only a week earlier, Port Talbot had battled to a shock 3-2 win at Principality Welsh Premier League leaders Rhyl. Steve Kehoe (2) and Marc Lloyd Williams scored for Porthmadog and left Port Talbot languishing in 13th place. “It has been a disappointing start to the season,” said club chairman Andrew Edwards. “We have set a standard in the last two campaigns by finishing sixth and then fourth and we need to improve the situation as soon as possible, although we won’t be making an appointment for a week or two.” Former Cardiff City player Tucker is a ex-Taffs Well, Llanelli, Bridgend Town and Dinas Powis boss. The New Saints extended their 100 per cent home record with a 2-1 win against Bangor City. John Toner scored twice in three minutes to put TNS well on top before Sion Edwards netted a late Bangor consolation. Llanelli had Chris Holloway sent off, but were still able to earn a 2-1 win against Haverfordwest County at Stebonheath Park to stay top of the Welsh Premier. Jason Bowen gave Llanelli the lead before Holloway was sent off. Jordan Follows made it 2-0 during first-half stoppage time, while a Nicky Woodrow goal for Haverfordwest made it a tense second half for Llanelli. Newtown earned their third home win of the season thanks to goals from Robbie James and Mark Griffiths against Aberystwyth Town. Kristian James had put Aberystwyth in front. Strugglers NEWI Cefn Druids went down 2-1 to a last-minute Nicky Palmer goal for Carmarthen, while Dave Ridler’s goal gave Caernarfon victory over Neath in a relegation battle at The Oval. There are two midweek matches tomorrow, both in the Loosemores League Cup. Aberystwyth Town are at home to Caersws in a quarter-final with the winners facing Bangor City. Neath Athletic have a home tie against TNS in the semi-final first leg. FORMER Newport County goalkeeper Duncan Roberts has been forced to quit the game after struggling for the past year with a knee injury. The 29-year-old stopper made one appearance for Barry Town in 2003-4 and had been first choice with Llanelli since arriving at Stebonheath Park in the summer of 2005. Western Mail

Nov 25

Ton swept to a 6-1 win at Newport YMCA to step up their challenge for league honours, particularly with top three Barry Town, Goytre United and Bettws all losing. Barry went down 2-1 against Cardiff Corries and dropped to fourth, Goytre slipped 1-0 at Bridgend Town and Bettws went down 2-0 at Cambrian and Clydach. Ton scored three goals in each half against bottom club Newport YMCA with Andrew Pearson (2), Chris Jones (2), Andrew Hughes, Mark Crutch and Gareth Wharton on target. ENTO Aberaman Athletic are up to third following a 4-0 win against Pontardawe Town, Mattie Davies scoring twice and taking his tally to five in three matches. Jon Phillips and Dean Morris were also on target. Goytre could go top on goal difference if they beat Newport YMCA at home tonight (7.30pm), while the second Welsh League match this evening sees Barry Town meet Afan Lido at Jenner Park (7.45pm). There are two matches on Friday with Ton Pentre entertaining Bettws (7.15pm) and Taffs Well at home to Dinas Powys (7.15pm). Western Mail

Nov 16

Steelmen end Rhyl's Unbeaten Record Rhyl have lost their unbeaten record as Nicky Tucker's Port Talbot Town beat the Lilywhites 3-2 at Belle Vue. In a strange day in the League all of the Top four teams were all trailing at Half-Time, but TNS scored twice in the second-half to beat Carmarthen and Rhys Griffiths scored in the last minute to claim a point for Llanelli at Porthmadog. Rhyl FC 2-3 Port Talbot Town  Impressive young Port Talbot striker Drew Fahiya stunned the League leaders at Belle Vue as he became only the fifth person to score passed Lee Kendall in the League this Season. The Steelmen took the lead on 35 minutes and they extended that lead on the stroke of Half-Time as Martin Rose scored to make it 0-2 at the break. Rose made it five in his last two games as he scored his second and Rhyl's third on 62 minutes. Matthew Williams pulled one back with three minutes to go for the hosts and Gareth Owen scored deep into injury time, but it was too little, too late and Rhyl lost their first goal of the Season. CPD Porthmadog 3-3 Llanelli AFC  The League's top striker Rhys Griffiths scored the first goal of the day, when he struck on four minutes. Rhys Roberts equalised for the hosts just six minutes later though. The hosts then stunned the Champions when another prolific marksman, Marc Lloyd Williams gave Porth the lead on 18 minutes. The visitors were level again on 25 minutes though, as Jordon Follows enhanced his growing reputation to make it 2-2. The Reds fell behind again before the interval though as the veteran Lloyd-Williams struck his second on 40 minutes. Porth had their hearts-broken with just a minute remaining when Griffiths had the final say to gain a point. Carmarthen Town AFC 2-3 The New Saints  Former Llanelli winger Craig Williams opened the scoring at Richmond Park with a goal on seventeen minutes. But the Old Gold responded to take the lead before the break. Tim Hicks grabbed his fourth of the year on 22 minutes and Paul Fowler gave the hosts the lead on 42 minutes. Alex Darlington equalised for the Saints on the hour. John Toner secured all three points with a goal three minutes from time for the visitors. Bangor City 0-2 Welshpool Town  On a Special Family Day at Farrar Road, over 700 people went through the Turnstiles, but Managerless Technogroup Welshpool spoilt the day for the Citizens. In a great start to their post-Tomi Morgan era, Steve Rogers scored after quarter of an hour for the visitors. After the break, midfielder Richard Harris scored the second on 68 minutes, with his second in successive weeks for the Lilywhites. Aberystwyth Town 2-1 Prestatyn Town  October's Principality Welsh Premier League Player of the Month Christian Edwards scored the opener on the hour and Luke Sherbon doubled from the spot just two minutes later. Dave Hayes gave the Seasiders some hope with 87 minutes gone. Haverfordwest County 1-1 Caernarfon Town  Bottom of the Table Caernarfon Town took a surprise lead at the Bridge Meadow Stadium as Dale Wright beat 'keeper Lee Idzi on 21 minutes. Jack Christopher secured a point for the Bluebirds with an equaliser with just one minute remaining. Newtown AFC 2-0 Neath Athletic  Darren Ryan's Robins grabbed the advantage when Craig Williams converted a penalty on 37 minutes against struggling Neath. Gavin Cadwallader scored the second on 87 minutes for the hosts. www.welshpremier.com/

Nov 15

It was twice a Welsh Cup final with a European campaign on offer for the win­ner while the clubs' Welsh Premier League clashes were almost always top-of the-table affairs. Now, however, Saturday's Cwmbran Town v Barry Town will go virtually unnoticed except by those involved - with the home side desperate to avoid the same relegation fate as their opponents did in recent times. Barry went from being Welsh domestic kings to also-rans in dropping from the top level to Division Two of the MacWhirter Welsh League - and the Crows could be heading for the same humiliation. They go into tomorrow's clash boosted by last Saturday's magnificent 3-2 home Nathaniel League Cup victory over table-top­ping Bettws. The Crows will certainly need as much confidence as they can get because their poor league form, just one point from the last 24 on offer, has seen them fall to one from the bottom of the Division One table. "The players did remark­able well to overcome a 2-0 deficit last week and that was a just reward for show­ing great character," said manager Gary Proctor, working, unlike his Barry counterpart, minus a play­ing budget. Tony

Nov 13

LLANELLI will be hoping Port Talbot do them a favour at Rhyl tomorrow as they seek to return to the top of the table at Porthmadog. The Lilywhites are a point ahead of the Reds following their 2-0 victory at Bangor City on Tuesday night. It was a game that erupted into crowd trouble after the visitors went 2-0 ahead inside 28 minutes and the repercussions for the Farrar Road club could be serious. Peter Nicholas's side will be hot favourites to topple Porthmadog as they have secured 15 points on the road out of a possible 18. And they have yet to suffer defeat at Yr Traeth in four visits, although all four have been drawn. But Nicholas, who has been voted manager of the month for October, is cautious about his side's prospects. "Porthmadog have had some good results recently and we remember their win at our ground last season," he said. "So there will be no complacency from us as we realise there are no easy games in this league as I've said many times before." Llanelli hope striker Rhys Griffiths will be available to take his place in the line-up following a family illness earlier this week which caused the postponement of a club fans' forum at Stebonheath Park. Griffiths scored a hat-trick in Friday night's 6-4 win over Port Talbot. Tony

Nov 13

PORT Talbot's task at Rhyl is a mountainous one considering their appalling record at the venue. The Steelmen have made eight previous visits and lost the lot. During that barren spell the hosts have scored 23 goals to Port Talbot's five. Despite the miserable history Port Talbot boss Nicky Tucker remains upbeat. "We played really well against Llanelli for 45 minutes in our last match, taking a 4-1 lead. Now we need to perform for the full 90 minutes," he said. "If we can sustain that level of performance for the whole match we can break our Rhyl debt. "But it will be very difficult. Rhyl are a class side — probably the best in the league at the present time." Tucker added: "If we can get something tomorrow it would be a fantastic result for us as we have a run of games up to Christmas that I'll be looking for us to do well in." Matthew Rees is still missing through suspension but Lee John returns. And Scott Barrow, a long-term injury absentee, could make a welcome return from the bench. Tony

Nov 11

Tucker calls for Port Talbot's fans support PORT Talbot manager Nicky Tucker has had to endure a number of painful matches this season but his side's astonishing 6-4 home defeat by Llanelli tops the lot. The Steelmen were coasting 4-1 after 36 minutes but 16 minutes later the champions had clawed back to 4-4 before Rhys Griffiths (72 an 89) sunk his former club with late strikes. Tucker admitted: "It was an interesting game for the neutrals, but not if you are a manager. "We were superb in the first half, went 4-1 up, Liam McCreesh missed a good opportunity to put us 5-1 ahead, then Llanelli came back and scored before half-time. "That was a crucial blow, and with wind advantage second half and Andy Legg's booming long throws into our penalty area from near the halfway line, we were under pressure and cracked." Tucker added: "How do you defend long throws like that? It's a tactic that gets Llanelli results, but from a football point of view we outplayed them. "But football is all about winning matches and there have been several games recently where we have been out muscled. "I am going to have to consider how we play and maybe we need to consider the physical nature of the game when coming up against sides like Llanelli. "Andy's long throw is a lethal weapon and with the wind behind him he was winging in 40 and 50-yard throws. It's very difficult when these are landing around your six-yard box." Martin Rose fired home a quick fire 18-minute hat-trick, one from the spot, before Gary Lloyd hit back with a thunderous free-kick. But James Burgin restored the three-goal advantage with a sweet left-foot volley before Rhys Griffiths responded before the break. Jordan Follows and Wyn Thomas levelled the score seven minutes after the break, but Griffiths had the final say, his strike taking him to 13 league goals for the season. What on looking Wales manager John Toshack made of it, goodness knows. He might have concluded that defending is not the strong point of the Welsh Tony

Nov 6

Tucker calls for Port Talbot's fans support PORT Talbot manager Nicky Tucker has delivered a “get behind us” rallying call ahead of his side’s Friday night game with Llanelli. With last weekend’s 7-0 Welsh Cup win still fresh in the minds of the Steelmen’s faithful supporters, Tucker called for significantly more clicks of the GenQuip Stadium turnstiles for this weekend’s clash with the Welsh Premier League champions. Only 138 watched last weekend’s fixture but, promising to have clamped down on recent on-field indiscipline, the boss said anyone tempted to this week’s game will see his team give their all to overcome the high-flying opponents. He said: “Our attendances are frustrating. Are they because we are where we are in the league? No. We finished fourth last year and our attendances were no different. People just aren’t coming through the turnstiles but, on Friday, it’s a local derby and I’m hoping for a big crowd and a big atmosphere.” Tony

Nov 6

Toshack in town for a Friday night game Wales Team Manager John Toshack will be at Port Talbot's GenQuip Stadium on Friday evening to watch the Principality Welsh Premier League fixture between the Steelmen and Llanelli. Port Talbot Town Chairman Andrew Edwards was asked this afternoon by the Football Association of Wales for a ticket for the Wales Chief. Mr. Edwards, who is the South Wales Representative on the Welsh Premier League Board, said, "We'll certainly welcome Mr. Toshack to the GenQuip on Friday evening. It's great for the club to have him watch one of our games and it's fantastic news for the League too. "It's the kind of Publicity that we are looking to achieve to develop our League." Tony

Oct 30

Taffs Well preview This Saturday we go in search of our 3rd league win in a row and a 4th game unbeaten when we host Taffs Well at the Marston's Stadium. Taffs have only played 2 of their 8 league games away from home this season, and have gotten a draw away to Cwmbran Town in the opening fixture of the season, it ended 1-1 at the Cwmbran Stadium, their only other away game came 2 weeks ago when they narrowly lost 2-1 away against Ton Pentre. They currently lie in 15th place in the table, 1 off the relegation places. Their defence has conceded the 2nd most goals of any team in the league so far with 20 goals in 8 games, 2 games at home they were beaten 5-0 by Barry Town and league leaders Bettws. But last time out they earned a credible point at home against the big spending Aberaman. No team news for Saturday's game yet that should follow later tonight, but we still have an injury doubt over new signing Mika Chunuonsee who has missed the last 2 league games through injury. We also had injuries in the Croesyceiliog game to Karl Lewis and Corey Thomas, more on those tonight. A few more wins could see us heading towards the top places in the table, we are currently only 2 points off 3rd placed Barry Town and 6 points off 2nd placed Goytre Utd following their 3-2 loss against Cambrian last time out, could this be another start to an unbeaten run, we had 2 good runs in the league last season, the first 9 games unbeaten and the 2nd 11 games unbeaten Tony

Oct 25

Neath win again but Port Talbot come a cropper Neath win their 2nd league game of the season, with a 1-0 win over fellow strugglers Newi Cefn Druids, Richard Ingram scored the only goal of the game, today's win moves the Eagles 3 points clear of the drop zone. Port Talbot looked home and dry in their away game at Caersws, they led at half time 2-0 with goals from James Burgin and Matt Thomas. But Caersws made a dramatic 2nd half come back by putting 4 past the Steelmen without reply White, Sudlow and 2 from Hughes gave Caersws an easy 4-2 win, that see's Caersws leap from Port Talbot into 10th while Port drop to 11th. Port Talbot are still without an away in in the league so far from 5 games. Tony

Oct 22

Saturday games could go in bid to boost crowds SATURDAY games could be scrapped in favour of Friday and Sunday fixtures following bumper attendances last weekend. The idea is to be put before the Welsh Premier's board by league secretary John Deakin next week. It comes after there were high gates throughout the league last weekend, with all the games being played on Friday or Sunday to avoid a clash with Wales' World Cup Qualifying match against Liechtenstein in Cardiff. Bangor City attracted their second biggest crowd of the campaign - and the highest of any Sunday game this season - with 502 watching their 4-2 victory over Port Talbot Town. Rhyl's 2-0 win at home to Gap Connah's Quay last Friday was the fifth biggest crowd of the season, while Llanelli and Aberystwyth both attracted their second highest gates of the season for home wins over Prestatyn and Caersws respectively on Sunday. Deakin said: "It begs a question whether we should be playing games on a Saturday. Certainly the attendances are better on Sunday and perhaps we need to be playing more games on Sunday than Saturday, although I'd stick with Friday. The traditional Saturday doesn't work for our league - there are so many alternative attractions. "I know that's still the case on a Sunday but maybe we could time our kick-offs so they don't clash with the big 4pm game on Sky." NEWI Cefn Druids chairman Brian Mackie welcomed the idea, saying the club could never compete with Wrexham and would happily play on a Friday every week. Mackie said: "If Wrexham are at home it cuts our attendance by half so Friday fixtures would be very good for us. People from this area also go to watch football in Liverpool and Manchester. We played Newtown in September and asked if they would change it to Friday, but they wouldn't swap so we had to play the game on the Saturday. "I think the games should be on a Friday, but it has to come from the league because we can't make other teams change to a Friday." However, Bangor City chairman Ken Jones said more Friday matches would not be good for players who worked. There's a lot to be said for the idea, but Sundays would be better than Fridays," said Jones. "Most of our players live in Manchester and Liverpool and they have to get here at least an hour before the game, so to play on a Friday they'd have to leave their work at three or four o'clock and in this day and age nobody wants to upset their employers."   Meanwhile, Rhyl spokesman Doug Mortimer said Friday and Sunday fixtures would no doubt be good for some clubs, but added the league must remain flexible for those clubs which enjoy big attendances on a Saturday. Mortimer said: "It might suit clubs in South Wales where the fans have to choose between football and rugby, and clubs like Druids where they have to compete with Wrexham.   "For clubs like Rhyl which enjoy traditionally strong attendances on a Saturday, we don't feel it would be of any advantage." Daily Post

Oct 22

Knockout Cup 1st rd Cwmavon FC 4 Corus Steel 2 (after extra time) CORUS made the breakthrough, Andrew Dando giving them a 1-0 lead at half-time. At the start of the second half Andrew Williams replaced injured Corus skipper Dai Allen, with Dando scoring again. Cwmavon made it 2-1, coolly putting away a penalty. With 15 minutes to go Cwmavon launched a ball from the back which caught Corus out and a clumsy challenge from Kris Howells saw him sent off as last man. Corus hung on, but with one minute left a superb strike by Cwmavon's right back made it 2-2 and the game went into extra time. Cwmavon scored a well-worked goal to make it 3-2 and broke free to score their fourth and final goal two minutes from time. Baglan Red Dragon 4 Cornelly Utd 1 BAGLAN were boosted by the return from injury of several key players and Shaun Gallsworthy turned provider for Mike Evans to score twice. Baglan continued to dominate for the remainder of the first half and were rewarded just before the break with Evans turning provider to set up Chris Smith for a well-taken header to give the home side a 3-0 lead at the interval. With Cornelly throwing everything at Baglan in a desperate search to get back into the game Baglan broke and substitute Cormac Clement made it 4-0 before the visitors grabbed a late consolation goal. Cwmavon Welfare 2 Abercregan Refresh 3 FIVE second-half goals saw Cwmavon take a 2-0 lead through Richard Mason and Leigh Murphy. With 25 minutes left, Abercregan pulled one back to make it 2-1. They then took control and scored twice more for a deserved victory. Margam YC 2 Real Bay View 12 MARGAM scored eight times, but six were own goals in a heavy defeat. Wales online

Oct 22

Goal-hungry Caersws win through CAERSWS qualified for the quarter-finals of the Welsh Premier League Cup as one of the two best runners-up with a thrashing of Bangor’s second string at Farrar Road last night. Stuart White hammered four for the Bluebirds, with other goals coming from Dave Hughes and Gareth Sudlow. Matthew Sergant replied for the Citizens. Holders Llanelli are therefore eliminated, leaving Caersws to visit Aberystwyth Town next Tuesday. In the last eight, Bangor, who were already through, host Rhyl in the tie of the round, while the New Saints travel to Newi Cefn Druids and Neath Athletic are at Newtown. Walesonline

Oct 19

Welsh league round up Reigning champions Goytre Utd maintained their top position with a 3-0 victory at home to Barry Town. Bettws in second spot beat Newport YMCA 2-0, and kept the Gwent side rooted to the foot of the table. Meanwhile, Ento Aberaman slugged it out with lowly Croesyceiliog and they battled to a 3-3 stalemate. Mid-table Dinas Powys pipped third place Caldicot 1-0 , a goal by Geza Hajgeto separating the sides. Cambrian & Clydach, fresh from their cup exploits and 1-0 defeat by Newtown, took on Bridgend and drew 2-2. Bryntirion Athletic overcame Cwmbran Town 3-1 while, at Ynys Park, former champions Ton Pentre beat Taffs Well 2-1. Afan Lido thumped Caerleon 4-0, thanks largely to a brace of goals by Mark James, while in Cardiff, the Corries pipped Pontardawe 2-1. Nick Hooper’s goal and an own goal cancelled out the opener by Vinny Wattleworth. DIVISION Two high fliers Llanwern maintained their push for the title with a 3-1 victory over Cwmbran Celtic. A brace by Steve Persjewski, one of which was from the spot, and a goal by Kris Hanbury for the home side, put them on the right track before Owen Llewellyn netted for the visitors. Paul Penkitt’s 80th minute goal was sufficient for third placed Ely Rangers to beat West End, who are just below them in the table. Penrhiwceiber smashed Ammanford 6-1, thanks to a brace by Nathan King, with individual goals for Sam George, Sebastian Haggregg, Ashley Willis and Grey Collins. Newcastle Emlyn were also rampant, scoring 7-3 at home to UWIC. Richard Jago went on the rampage for Pontypridd, helping them to a 4-2 win over Treharris. In Division Three, leaders Cwmamman Utd were soundly beaten at Llantwit Fardre, 4-2. AFC Port travelled west to Llansawel and ran out 3-0 winners, while AFC Llwydcoed won 3-2 away at Cwmamman Institute. The most eye-catching scoreline was at Merthyr, where visitors Pontyclun put nine goals past the Saints. Andy Gay and Warren Derravan’s goals were enough to beat Monmouth 2-1, while Briton Ferry were upset 2-1 at Porthcawl. Finally, mid-table Goytre slammed Seven Sisters 3-0, with Lee Grimes taking centre stage with a fine hat-trick. Wales on Sunday

Oct 16

Caerleon league match preview This Saturday Caerleon are the visitors to the Marston. While they lie in a respectable 8th place in the league it looks to be a false position they will be unlikely to maintain as the season unfolds. They lost many key players during the pre-season and have promoted many of their youth team players to fill the losses. They were victims of their own success from last season as they finished in 8th place and were a match for any team in the league, but that success didn't go unnoticed and they lost the backbone of their squad, they are looking to blood their youngsters for future success for the Romans. They have won 3 games this season, but all have been against the teams that were in the bottom 3 in the league at the time they played, they beat winless Newport YMCA 3-2 in the season's opener, then they lost 5-1 at Bryntirion, they then beat Croesyceiliog 2-1, then lost 4-1 at home to Bridgend, their 3rd win came against another struggling side when they beat Taffs Well 3-2, then lost against Caldicot 3-1. While our start has been less than spectacular, we were our own worst enemy's by not making our opponents pay for our better possession in most defeats. On paper and form so far we should be looking for maximum points in our next 3 league games as we take on Caerleon, Croesyceiliog and Taffs Well, but we have to punish teams we are dominating which is something we haven't done since the opening game of the season against Bryntirion. Last season this fixture finished in a 1-1 draw, while Caerleon won the reverse fixture 2-1. We will be looking for our strikers to punish Caerleon and see a move up the table, hopefully Ianto's hand injury will make him available, and the fit again Darren Griffiths will be available, also with young guns Sam Wade and Mark Jones we have a strike force comparable to any team in the league, we just need the rub of the green, it is also a good striker dilemma for the gaffers to chose from those 4 strikers. Squad line up for Saturday's game to follow tomorrow. Tony

Oct 15

Neath clinch their place in last 8 of the league cup with a draw against Port Talbot NEATH moved into the quarter-finals of the Welsh Premier League Cup following a fighting 3-3 draw at Port Talbot last night. The visitors were 3-2 ahead at the interval thanks to Kerry Morgan (two) and Matthew Rees, while Drew Fahiya and Lee John responded. Martin Rose then struck a 73rd-minute leveller.  Aberystwyth qualified from Group One after a 1-1 draw with nearest rivals Carmarthen Town at Park Avenue. Danny Thomas netted for the visitors, Andy Evans for the Seasiders, both in the first half. The New Saints, already assured of qualification, came back from a 3-0 deficit at Prestatyn win 4-3. Steve Bowes, Dave Hughes and Alec Williams appeared to have made the game safe, but in a frantic 11-minute, second-half spell, goals from Alfie Carter, Alex Darlington, Mike Wilde and Tommy Holmes stole the points for the Saints. Newi Cefn Druids are surprise qualifiers from Group Three, joining Newtown as one of the best runners-up. Druids, thanks to goals from Chris McGinn (two) and Mike Thompson, overturned a 2-0 deficit against Caernarfon to win 3-2. Lee Furlong and Andrew Jackson were on target for the Canaries. In Group Five, Welshpool hammered Airbus UK 5-2, but still failed to make it into the last eight, Rhyl the winners of this group. Western Mail

Oct 15

Old Gold looking to upset the odds at Rhyl CARMARTHEN Town travel to league leaders Rhyl on Saturday and player-manager Deryn Brace is under no illusion regarding the size of the task at Belle Vue. Rhyl, who are currently unbeaten, lead champions Llanelli by one point. "We'll have to do what no one else has been able to do, and that is score goals against them. "This season they've set the benchmark for all the other clubs and it's up to everyone else to rise to that challenge". "Full credit to Rhyl for getting themselves into this situation and I'm relishing the challenge. I expect the squad that goes up there to do exactly the same. "Yes it will be a huge test for us. We know its going to be difficult. But it's no different to going up to Rhyl over the last three or four seasons. I'm expecting every player to knuckle down and get on with the job." "The good thing for us is that we know what we have to do. It's not a case of going there and thinking a point will do us or we don't have to win because we've got the points in the bag". "We'll go there and we have to do a job to make sure that we come away with a win. The pressure is off us to an extent because we know what we have to do. So if we don't do it there can be no excuses".  this is southwales - Carmarthen

Oct 13

Bangor go on he rampage against Steelmen A MAGNIFICENT second-half performance gave Bangor City a comfortable victory over gallant Port Talbot who looked on course for a possible upset at half-time. But an interval discussion with manager Neville Powell put the Citizens deficiencies right and such was their dominance after the break that the final score flattered the visitors. Powell said; “Port Talbot were the better team first half and played well. They were the first team to come here and attack us this season and they should be applauded for that. “Second half, the lads were absolutely superb and it was only the brilliant goalkeeping of Kristian Rogers that prevented us getting double figures. “We created chance after chance and showed tremendous character as we looked a little heavy-legged before the break.” Powell added: “That’s 10 games unbeaten for us and things are going well, but we are now forced to play a league cup match on Tuesday night. “We requested a move to Wednesday, but were refused so I now have a dilemma in what side I choose to meet Caersws with players carrying knocks. “It doesn’t matter to us as we have already qualified, but if I put out my reserves and we lose Caersws will go through as one of the best losers, whereas Llanelli would qualify if we win. So, what do they expect me to do? It’s ludicrous.” Les Davies fired Bangor in front in the ninth minute when he turned in a fine Chris Sharp cross, but the Steelmen fought back spiritedly. Their reward came on the stoke of half-time when Drew Fahiya profited from a defensive mix-up to net the equaliser. Chris Seargeant’s magnificent 48th-minute free-kick restored Bangor’s advantage and it was one-way traffic after that. Seargeant added his second with a fine dribble and shot and Chris Sharp added the fourth with 15 minutes remaining. Matthew Rees secured a consolation goal two minutes later. “We ran out of steam which was disappointing," said Port Talbot manager Nick Tucker. Western Mail

Oct 13

Hat-Trick takes Neath off bottom ANDY HILL’S superb hat-trick earned Neath their first Welsh Premier victory of the campaign at the Gnoll, a success that takes them off bottom spot. The striker jabbed his side into a 24th-minute lead from a crisp supply by former Welsh international Clayton Blackmore but the remainder of the half was scrappy. Neath went 2-0 up a minute after the break when Richard French was brought down and Hill confidently converted the resultant spot kick. But the Lilywhites fought back to level the scores after 64 minutes courtesy of goals from William Thomas and Paul Roberts. However, Neath substitute Kerry Morgan then provided the cross which set up Hill for the winner. Western Mail

Oct 13

Llanelli go on the rampage THE reigning champions taught the Welsh Premier novices a lesson at Stebonheath Park yesterday with a rousing display that illustrated their title credentials. It was always going to be a tall order for the North Wales outfit against Peter Nicholas’ full-timers, but a shock 4-2 defeat at home to Port Talbot in the league cup just five days earlier showed the Reds are beatable on their own patch. Unfortunately for the visitors it served only to fire up the Reds, who were clearly still smarting from that setback and three goals in the opening 27 minutes spelt out the champions’ intent. It also signalled an abrupt end to a limited Prestatyn challenge. To compound the visitors’ woes, they not only lost the match but also lost their discipline and ended with nine players after having Bevan Humphrey's and Ian Griffiths red-carded in each half. The Reds started like a steam train, with Rhys Griffiths finding the net after just three minutes following a Craig Jones cross. Two minutes later the pair were at it again, this time a neat one-two setting up Jones to lash in the second goal. A reckless challenge by Humphrey's on eight minutes earned the defender a red and the one-way traffic continued. The only surprise is that it took until the 27th minute for the third to arrive, courtesy of a fine left-foot shot from Mark Pritchard. Ian Griffiths pulled one back from the spot, before getting himself sent off for arguing about a Llanelli penalty decision minutes later that Rhys Griffiths converted. Late goals by Jordan Follows and Wyn Thomas set the seal on a convincing Llanelli triumph. Western Mail

Oct 11

Welsh league round up There were just two games last night in division 1, with Barry Town hosting Pontardawe, and the Dragon's came out 2-0 winners, to move into 6th place and extend their unbeaten run to 4 games, and they have not conceded in those 4 games, Pontardawe have now gone 3 games without a win, their last being a 3-0 win over Lido.  Barry Town could have gone as high as 3rd had they not been deducted 3 points for failing to play a home game against last night's opponents Pontardawe. The night's only other game saw Taff's Well host Croesyceiliog both teams were in the bottom 3 before tonight's clash, and it was Taff's who move out of the bottom 3 with 3 points following their 4-2 win over Croesy.  Taff's moving out of the bottom 3  see's Cwmbran Town take their place, and now leaving 3 Gwent clubs in the relegation positions with Newport YMCA rock bottom. View league table In the welsh cup, Cambrian & Clydach put up a brave fight against welsh premier league side Newtown, before finally going own 1-0 at home. Neil Mitchell scored the games only goal in the 10th minute to put the mid-Wales side through to the next round. Tony

Oct 11

Welsh premier league round up Rhyl moved back to the top of the table following their 2-0 home win over Connah's Quay, but they left it late and it wasn't until the 80th minute before they scored their first with a George Horan goal. Paul O'Neil settled the game with Rhyl's 2nd in the 86th minute. Rhyl overtook TNS for top spot after the Oswestry side could only draw at Haverfordwest. John Toner put the visitors ahead in the 17 minute. But goals from Hwest's top scorers Nicky Woodrow and Jack Christopher gave the home side a 2-1, it wasn't until the 90th minute that Toner got his and Tns's 2nd to give his side a share of the points. The battle of the basement between Porthmadog and Newi Cefn Druids resulted in an away win and a first win of the season for the Druids. The win moves them out of the bottom 2, relegating Neath back to bottom spot. Druids raced into a 3-0 lead after just 15 minutes, but a goal from John Rowley on 38 minutes gave them a glimmer of hope. Gareth Parry got Porth's 2nd on 87 minutes but they couldn't get back on level terms. Carmarthen must have fancied taking all 3 points as they hosted Caersws, but it wasn't to be, it was the Bluebirds who took the lead On 22 minutes with a Ross Jeffries goal, but Carmarthen secured a point when Stuart Roberts got a goal back for Town in the 72nd minute. View league table Tony

Oct 06

Old pals pair down Crows Bridgend Town 3-1 Cwmbran FORMER Crows Raith Plant and Dale Raven both struck to plot the downfall of their old club for the second time in a week. The reward for Bridgend, who currently play their home games at the University of Glamorgan, Treforest, is a third-round home tie against former Welsh Premier side Llangefni Town. Plant, in particular, posed a menacing threat to the Crows defence early on and it came as no surprise when he fired the hosts in front after 25 minutes. Plant was also heavily involved in the second, setting up Dale to find the net from close range. Cwmbran came more into the tie in the second half, pulling one back through Joey Carless. But they were unable to fashion another opening and Bridgend confirmed their place in the next round when Anthony Waters scored with a header from a corner. Tony

Oct 06

Brazil is full of praise for plucky Pontypridd HAVERFORDWEST confirmed their place in the third round and the dubious reward of a visit to Rhyl awaits them after overcoming the Welsh League minnows at Ynysangharad Park, but not before the hosts earned a share of Welsh Cup glory. On paper, this should have been a complete mismatch with the Division Two rookies pitting their wits against one of the aristocrats of the domestic game. But Pontypridd manager Gary Haman, a former Haverfordwest goalkeeper, and his team had other ideas. “I was really proud of how the boys went about the game. We rolled our sleeves up and just got on with it and I thought it was a great cup tie,” said Haman. “Our boys are very inexperienced, with five of them under 21 but they were not overawed and at 2-1 Lee Idzi produced a world-class save from a Samir Misbah free-kick. It would have been very interesting had that gone in.” Ponty keeper Paul Buttery and centre-half Huw Williams, against his hometown club, were outstanding in the heart of the home defence and set the standard for the rest of the home heroes to follow. Bluebirds’ boss Derek Brazil was relieved to get through and had nothing but praise for the Ponty effort. “All credit to them, they did not look like a side in the league position they are and applied themselves very well. “It’s never easy going to these places and especially in the conditions, it is a potential banana skin. “I thought some of their lads were excellent, particularly the keeper who had a great game. At 2-1 with 20 minutes to go it was close, but the third goal killed them off.” The Bluebirds always had the edge in terms of quality and footballing pedigree and the prolific Jack Christopher put them ahead before Mike Hartley doubled the advantage. But Ponty showed true character to pull one back through Misbah, with substitute Luke Bowen finding the killer blow on 76 minutes. A second by Christopher with a header from a free-kick five minutes from time ended Ponty’s bold cup journey but they can hold their heads high after playing their part to the full. Tony

Oct 04

Draw for the welsh cup 3rd round There are two all-Principality Welsh Premier League matches in the Third Round of the Welsh Cup, following the draw which was made this evening in Cardiff. One of the Favourites for the Trophy Rhyl, will host Haverfordwest County at Belle Vue in a match which Lilywhites 'keeper Lee Kendall will relish, having left the Bluebirds to join Rhyl last season. The corresponding League fixture was won by Rhyl last month and they will be favourites. The other all-Top Flight clash sees Caersws host Aberystwyth Town at the Recreation Ground and that will be a special occasion for Graham Evans of Aber, who scored the opener today and he is the leading scorer of all-time in Caersws History. Chris Venables (who was sent off today) and Colin Reynolds are both ex-Caersws players. Elsewhere, there are some long journeys to make all over the Country as holders Bangor City are at their Farrar Road home again and host Garden Village from Swansea. Former Winners Carmarthen Town travel the long way north to Pwllheli, but Port Talbot will be happy to host Denbigh Town at the GenQuip Stadium. Llanelli also have a long Road Trip and make the long journey north to Tywyn Bryncrug. The New Saints host Gavin Allen's CPD Penrhyncoch at Park Hall, but NEWI Cefn Druids will have to wait until next week to know whether they face Top Flight opposition in Newtown or Cambrian & Clydach Vale, whose match was postponed on Saturday. There's a good North East Wales derby at Buckley Town's Globe Way home as they entertain Craig Harrison's Airbus UK Broughton, whilst Prestatyn Town have to travel to Gresford Athletic. Finally, Porthmadog who were victors over Caernarfon in Round Two travel to Lex XI and will be confident of progressing to the last Sixteen. Welsh Cup Round Three Draw Bangor City v Garden Village Bridgend Town v Llangefni Town Buckley Town v Airbus UK Broughton. Caersws FC v Aberystwyth Town Cardiff Corries v Goytre Utd Gresford Athletic v Prestatyn Town Holyhead Hotspurs v Pentwyn Dynamos Lex XI v CPD Porthmadog Llanwern FC / AFC Llwydcoed v Flint Town Utd NEWI Cefn Druids v Cambrian & Clydach Vale / Newtown AFC Newport YMCA v Briton Ferry Athletic Port Talbot Town v Denbigh Town Pwllheli v Carmarthen Town Rhyl FC v Haverfordwest County The New Saints FC v CPD Penrhyncoch Tywyn Bryncrug v Llanelli AFC Tony

Oct 04

Round up of the welsh cup 2nd round The Second Round of the Welsh Cup took place over the weekend and only four Principality Welsh Premier League clubs were eliminated, all by fellow Top Flight opposition. Neath FC, Caernarfon Town, GAP Connah's Quay and Welshpool Town are the four clubs eliminated. Porthmadog won the enthralling Gwynedd-derby match against Caernarfon Town by 5-3 at Y Traeth to send the Canaries crashing. Holders Bangor City overcame the challenge of GAP Connah's Quay at Farrar Road, by a solitary goal. Welshpool Town also crashed out at the first stage at Airbus UK Broughton, as Craig Harrison's men won 2-1 at the Airfield. Aberystwyth Town have gone through, but were taken all the way to Penalties by the 2006/07 Runners-Up Afan Lido at Park Avenue. Graham Evans scored after just 70 seconds for Aber, but Scott McCourbrey levelled for the Lido on 51'. Chris Venables was then sent off for Aber on 65 minutes, but Luke Sherbon still gave Brian Coyne's side the lead for a second time. Karl Lewis equalised again for the Welsh League side with just seven minutes left and after a deadlock in Extra Time, it went to the Shoot-Out, but the Welsh Premier side progressed 3-2. The New Saints had to come from behind as they overturned a 2-1 deficit to beat last season's Surprise Package Guilsfield 4-2. NEWI Cefn Druids beat Halkyn Utd 4-2 at Plaskynaston, whilst Caersws also progressed with a 1-0 win at Newport Civil Service. Rhyl cruised to an 8-0 thrashing of minnows Castell Alun Colts at Belle Vue. Prestatyn Town overcame their tricky test at Bala Town, but had to go all the way to Penalties to beat their high-flying Cymru Alliance hosts. The match finished 3-3 after normal time and Extra-Time, but 'keeper Jon Hill-Dunt was the Seasiders' hero as the visitors won 5-4 in the Shootout. There were three Red Cards in normal time with Andy Fisher for Bala Town and Prestatyn's Jon Fisher-Cooke and Andy Davies all seeing Red. Haverfordwest County won their match at Ynysangharad Park against Pontypridd Town with a 3-1 triumph. Jack Christopher continued his excellent start to the season with a brace and Mike Hartley and Luke Bowen also scored, with Samir Misbah netting for the hosts. Newtown's trip to Cambrian & Clydach Vale was in vein as the game was Postponed at 1:30pm and they will have to try again next Friday or Sunday. Saturday's Results Aberystwyth Town 2-2 Afan Lido (Aberystwyth Town won 3-2 on Penalties) Airbus UK Broughton 2-1 Welshpool Town Bala Town 3-3 Prestatyn Town (AET) Prestatyn Town won 5-4 on Pens Bangor City 1-0 GAP Connah's Quay Brickfield Rangers 3-4 Buckley Town Bridgend Town 3-1 Cwmbran Town, Bryntirion Athletic 1-2 Cardiff Corries, Cambrian & Clydach Vale P-P Newtown, Denbigh Town 4-1 Chirk AAA Dinas Powys 0-1 Briton Ferry Athletic (AET, 0-0 at Full Time) Flint Town Utd 4-0 Mold Alexandra Garden Village 2-0 Risca United Gresford Athletic 4-1 Rhydymwyn Holyhead Hotspurs 2-1 Llay Welfare Lex XI 2-1 Glan Conwy Llandudno Junction 0-2 Pwllheli Llangefni Town 3-0 Llanfairpwll Llangollen Utd 1-2 Tywyn Bryncrug NEWI Cefn Druids 4-2 Halkyn United Newport Civil Service 0-1 Caersws Newport YMCA 3-2 Cwmbran Celtic CPD Penrhyncoch 3-2 Maesteg Park Athletic (AET, 2-2 at Full Time) Pentwyn Dynamos 1-0 Ammanford Town Pontypridd Town 1-4 Haverfordwest County CPD Porthmadog 5-3 Caernarfon Town Rhyl FC 8-0 Castell Alun Colts Taffs Well 0-2 Goytre Utd The New Saints 4-2 Guilsfield Athletic Tony

Oct 03

Mixed welsh cup results for Lido's neighbours ENTO Aberaman travelled to the Victoria Road stadium hoping to pull off a welsh cup upset, but it is Port Talbot who march on to round 3. The Steelmen go through courtesy of a 57th minute goal from Lee John. Neath were not as lucky as they faced one of the hardest tests in the 2nd round with a trip to league champions Llanelli. The Eagles held the hosts for the first 30 minutes, until Wyn Thomas opened the scoring. 5 minutes later Stuart Jones added the Reds 2nd. On 69 minutes fireman Rhys Griffiths put out the last of Neath's fire to make it 3-0, and on the stroke of full time Nicky Holland completed the scoring and brought an end to Llanelli's scoring and safe passage to round 3. Tony

Oct 03

Welsh cup preview HOLDERS Bangor City play in one of four all-Welsh Premier ties in the Welsh Cup second round this weekend. They host Gap Connah’s Quay and manager Neville Powell is determined to put up a strong defence. He said: “To win it in our first season together was absolutely fantastic, but it would be sensational if we could win it twice on the trot.” Last season’s beaten finalists Llanelli have a tricky tie against Neath at Stebonheath this evening. And Neath manager Andrew Dyer believes the draw summed up the difficult season they are having . “There are 63 teams to choose from and we draw the League champions away, happy days!” said Dyer, whose team lost 3-0 against Llanelli in a Loosemores League Cup group match. The other all-Premier matches see Airbus UK face Welshpool, while Porthmadog host Caernarfon. Welsh League sides have enjoyed considerable success in recent years with Afan Lido making the final in 2007 and Newport YMCA reaching the semis last year. Ento Aberaman are unbeaten in Division One this season and provide tricky opposition for Welsh Premier Port Talbot tonight. Aberaman are managed by ex-non-League international goalkeeper Dai Morgan, who is targeting a Premier place with a squad full of experience, including the likes of Mattie Davis and Layton Maxwell. “If we play to the best of our ability we can cause an upset,” said Morgan. “The type of game we are involved with tonight is where I see Ento Aberaman’s future being, and the whole club is looking forward to the occasion.” Tony

Oct 03

Barry docked three points and fined BARRY Town have suffered another blow after securing their MacWhirter Welsh League future. They have been deducted three points after failing to play Pontardawe Town at home during August. The match was scheduled for a Wednesday, but Barry cannot play at Jenner Park on that night. They realised too late, the match was not played on the arranged date and Barry’s punishment was a £250 fine and three points deduction. Tony

Oct 03

Cambrian are out to bridge Premier gap CAMBRIAN and Clydach have their first match against Welsh Premier League opposition tomorrow when Newtown visit King George Playing Field for a Welsh Cup second round tie. “We’d love to pull off an upset,” said Cambrian spokesman Phil Williams. “It’s the first time we’ve played Premier opposition in a competitive match and it’s great for everybody at the club. “We play one step below Newtown and I don’t know what the gap is.” Cambrian, who play in MacWhirter Welsh League Division One and have lost once in five matches, came through their first round game with a 4-1 win against Newcastle Emlyn. Tony

Oct 03

Martyrs no longer fearing execution MERTHYR Tydfil go into their BGB Southern League match at Tiverton Town tomorrow heartened by good news on and off the pitch. The Martyrs defeated Hitchin Town 3-2 in their last match, while a winding-up order for £21,000 owed to the Inland Revenue has been paid in full. And manager Garry Shephard can focus entirely on football matters and Merthyr’s trip to the west country tomorrow and not worry about the club's financial matters. “The amount owed to the Inland Revenue was paid in full on Monday morning,” said executive director Perry Johnson. “The money has come from the directors and the chairman (Wyn Holloway) so we don’t have to go back to court. “It’s been a stressful time, particularly for Mr Holloway.” The winding-up order, originally brought by creditors HM Revenue and Customs in August, sent shock waves through the 100-year-old club with fans fearing for the future. Directors gained a 41-day reprieve at the Royal Courts of Justice on August 20 following the discovery of an Inland Revenue discrepancy dating back three years. The news was followed by a massive falling out between directors and the supporters’ trust ‘Martyrs to the Cause’ who turned down a quarter stake in the club and instead demanded 100 per cent of chairman Holloway’s shares. Since then the club have set up their own trust with around 70 members signed up to date. Tony

Oct 02

Aberystwyth cup preview After nearly 3 weeks of a break from league action, we take another break from the league again this weekend, when we travel to Aberystwyth for the 2nd round of the welsh cup. Aber are having a mixed start to the league and lie in 9th place, but they do have a game in hand of most teams above them, they are unbeaten in their 6 games but have drawn 4 and just 2 wins. Their top scorer this season is Graham Evans who was Caersws's top scorer for many years and is still only 28 Jones has amassed a total of 151 league goals in his career, they have another top scorer in midfielder Luke Sherbon who has scored 38 league goals in his 121 appearances, so our defence will have to be at their best to hold Aber's marksmen at bay. At the other end their defence is holding their own with 6 goals conceded in the 6 games, and a credible 0-0 draw away from home last time out against the league leaders Rhyl. Team news for Lido to follow tonight after training. Tony

Sep 29

Motors man keeps Barry Town going BARRY Town are to play on this season after landing a new sponsorship deal. Owner Stuart Lovering had threatened to withdraw Barry from the MacWhirter Welsh Football League unless a buyer was found by the end of this month, but he has pledged to keep the club running after bringing in a sponsor. Barry-based Jeff White Motors have backed Barry Town with £2,000 and Lovering said: “That's a fantastic gesture by Jeff White and we thank him for that. “I don't have the money to keep the club going and we still have to raise more through sponsorship, but the players have been fantastically supportive and we are playing on.” Tony

Sep 28

Welsh league round up ENTO ABERAMAN and Barry Town, who have both made promising starts to the season, were unable to find the net in a fiercely competitive MacWhirter Welsh League First Division clash in the Cynon Valley yesterday.  Newport YMCA and Bryntirion also drew, with Abdul Njie on target for the YM, and Gavin Thomas striking with a late penalty to salvage a point for the Bridgend-based visitors.  Reigning champions Goytre United travelled to Dinas Powys and grabbed maximum points with a 4-2 scoreline. Rob Waters secured a brace, with Dale Price and Richard Ryan also netting. Jacob Daly swooped twice for the Cardiff-based outfit.  At Ynys Park, former title holders Ton Pentre comfortably defeated Caldicot 3-1, thanks to goals by Andrew Hughes, Lloyd Toghill, and Alyn Jones.  Meanwhile points were shared between Cardiff Corries and Croesyceiliog. For the Corries, Rhys Yates and Robbie James netted, and Jodie Jenkins and Chris Watkins scored for the Gwent Men.  Penrhiwceiber Rangers taught promoted Newcastle Emlyn a lesson in finishing when they ground out a 2-0 home victory in division two yesterday. Garren Davies and Richard Veale scored the goals, both in the first half. Former League of Wales club Grange Quins continued to show their weaknesses and were yesterday defeated 2-0 at Cwmbran Celtic, for whom Lloyd Davies bagged a brace.  Llanwern went on a second half rampage to crush Caerau Ely 5-0, thanks to a hat-trick by Kristian Hanbury and a brace by Michal Vaux.  A Richard Lewis penalty and a Richard Thomas strike were sufficient to give Ammanford a 2-1 win over Tredegar, while Garden Village, who narrowly missed out on promotion last season, won 4-1 at Garw, with Phil John, Sam Brown, Derek Jenkins and Craig Burgess netting.  Llangeinor were too good for West End, winning 3-1 and the battle between UWIC and Maesteg Park ended 0-0. Troedyrhiw went goal crazy in division three, crushing Merthyr Saints 6-1, Kevin Robins leading the way with a brace, and a hat-trick by Paul Atkinson helped Porthcawl see off the challenge of Ystradgynlais 4-2.  Newcomers Newport Civil Service were too sharp for Llantwit Fardre and ran out 3-0 winners, while Andrew Lewis was the Cwmamman United scorer in their 1-0 success against Goytre in Gwent. Tony

Sep 25

Bettws league match preview This Saturday we get back to league action after a 3 week break, and newly promoted Bettws are the visitors to the Marston. Bettws have made a positive start back in division 1 and lie in 7th place, with 7 points from their 4 league games, following an opening day defeat away to Bridgend, they are unbeaten in their last 3 games, and have won their last 2 games at home to Bryntirion 2-1 and in their last game they beat Cardiff Corinthians 1-0 at home. We have to go back to the 2006/07 season for the last league games against Bettws and we won both league games, 2-1 away, and a 2-0 home win. We welcome a former player now in the Bettws ranks in Kieron Howells who signed for Bettws in pre-season, we have also seen another player depart the club this week in Steve Crabbe who has signed for West End. A win could see us move up to a mid table position, while a draw with see us stay in 14th place or lower depending on how the teams below us perform, but if we start putting away the many chances we have been creating in games this season we should bag 3 points come 4:30 Saturday afternoon. Squad line up for the game will be added after training tomorrow night. But good news on the injury front is that Darren Griffiths is making a good recovery following his appendix operation and could be back in the squad sooner rather than later, this should fill the void up front following the departure of fellow striker John Felton who has left the club. Tony

Welsh cup round up

LLANWERN caused one of the biggest upsets of the first round of the Welsh Cup yesterday when they trounced visiting Ton Pentre 3-0. Mike Vaux blasted home two penalties for the Monmouthshire side. To add to the misery of former Welsh League champions Ton, they had Ryan Shugar sent off. In a battle between two MacWhirter Welsh League First Division sides, ENTO Aberaman defeated Barry Town 2-1 in the Cynon Valley. Layton Maxwell and Jonathan Kift were on target for ENTO, while Michael Parkins scored from the penalty spot for Barry. Bridgend Town required a penalty shoot-out to overcome Pontyclun, as there were no goals in regulation or extra time. Bryntirion Athletic went on the rampage at Treharris Athletic, sweeping to a 9-1 victory. There were hat-tricks for Nana Baah and Jonathan Cuss. Tredegar were disappointed to be defeated by Cymru Alliance side Gresford Athletic 1-0, Gareth Williams the scorer on 35 minutes. AFC Llwydcoed were too good for Porthcawl Town, and swept home 3-0. Cambrian and Clydach were on song as they roared into the second round with a 4-1 thrashing of Newcastle Emlyn. Jason Bertorelli, Darren Jones and Scott Jones were on target and Cambrian were also gifted an own-goal for good measure. Newport YMCA have not enjoyed any success in the Welsh League so far this season but they overcame a Cup hurdle yesterday, defeating Cwmaman Institute 3-2 in Monmouthshire. Aaron Cotter bagged a brace of goals for the YMCA and Aaron Stewart got the other. Welsh League champions Goytre Utd made no mistake in romping into round two, with a 4-1 demolition of Caerleon. Richard Ryan bagged two goals, one from the penalty spot, while David Thomas and Robbie Walters were each on target as well. Luke Cueto got a consolation goal for Caerleon. Cardiff Corries powered into round two with a 3-0 defeat of Ely Rangers, Rhys Yates, Andy Smith and Robbie James all scoring. Pontypridd Town edged home at Penrhiwceiber Rangers, courtesy of a penalty shoot-out after the teams were level at 1-1, following extra time. Elsewhere, Garden Village prevailed 3-2 at West End, and Cwmbran Town won 3-1 against UWIC. Tony

Tucker tells his side to deliver

MANAGER Nick Tucker is demanding his Port Talbot Town team say sorry to supporters tomorrow - with a five-star display at home to Prestatyn Town in the Principality Welsh Premier League. Tucker was bitterly disappointed with Town’s 2-0 home defeat against GAP Connah’s Quay last time out and said: “We were shocking. “Now we have to put that right and produce a big performance for the people who spend good money to watch us. Their attitude is good and all three are doing fine." New defender Matthew Walsh, 18, is in line for his league début Tony

Cup clash at ENTO is ‘tie of the round

DAVID Morgan, manager of ENTO Aberaman Athletic, has described the Welsh Cup clash with Barry Town as ‘the tie of the round’. Aberaman have home advantage over their fellow MacWhirter Welsh League rivals and Morgan said: “Both clubs want a good run in the cup. “It’s good to see Barry Town back in the First Division and we congratulate them for the progression they have made over the past two years. “But we are looking to emulate last season’s run which saw us reach the last 16 where we went out to Newi Cefn Druids 1-0.” Sgorio, the S4C television programme, will have cameras at Aberaman tomorrow. Morgan added: “Welsh football fans have a chance to see the progress made over the summer period with the new club, stand and first class facilities.” Tony

Neath win battle of rivals Port Talbot

Neath must wish they could be playing cup games every week, as they scored another 5 goals in last night's game against Port Talbot. Carl Shaw opened the scoring for the home side in the 4th minute, Jarrod Price made it 2-0 to the Eagles on 14 minutes. On the stroke of half time Neath went 3-0 up when Dion Chambers scored. Drew Fahiya pulled a goal back for the Steelmen on 47 minutes to throw the visitors a lifeline, but Carl Shaw restored Neath's 3 goal lead on 58 minutes. Sean Cronin made certain of a home victory when he scored Neath's 5th goal on 69 minutes, then Port Talbot hit back with 2 goals in a minute, Lee John scored after 70 minutes and almost straight away Drew Fahiya got his 2nd of the game and Port's 3rd, but it was too little to late and Neath went onto win their 2nd league up win on the trot following their win over Llanelli last time out. Tony

Welsh Premier league round up

Poor fortunes for our neighbours today in the welsh premier saw both teams losing at home. Neath suffered their 4th league defeat on the trot, as Bangor City spoilt the party at Neath's first home game at the Gnoll. A Chris Seargeant goal after 72 minutes was enough  to sent Bangor home with the 3 points and keep Neath rooted to the bottom of the table after 4 games. It was not the big crowd all had hoped for at the Gnoll with a crowd of 365. While Port Talbot suffered their first home defeat of the season, after manager Nicky Tucker recently emphasised the importance of  having a good home record, they went down to Connah's Quay 2-0. Tommy Mutton opened the scoring on 17 minutes, and 4 minutes before the break Liam Loughlin doubled the visitors lead. Neither side were able to find a goal in the 2nd 45 minutes and Nomads went away with all 3 points with a 2-0 win. It was another poor attended game for the Steelmen with a crowd of only 170. Llanelli claimed a late late show against Airbus today at Stebo, they found themselves 2-0 down after only 8 minutes, with goals from Mark Allen & Tom Rolands. Rhys Griffiths got a goal back for the Reds when he converted a penalty on 27 minutes. But a Red's come back as late as the 88th minutes saw them draw level when Rhys Griffiths scored his 2nd of the game to put the home side level. And the winner came in injury time with an own goal by Airbus keeper Phil Palethorpe giving the Reds a very late winner. In the days other game Newtown held The New Saints of Oswestry Town and Llansantffraid football club to a goalless draw at Latham Park. View league table Tony

Welsh league round up for Sat 30-Aug

ENTO Aberaman's 100% went out the window today, they were at home for their first game of the season, following 3 wins on the road, but Bryntirion spoiled their home coming party holding he league leaders to a 1-1 draw at Aberaman Park. With ENTO failing to win, Caldicot Town took their chance to go top of the table, and they did it away to fellow Gwent side Caerleon. They ran out comfortable 3-1 at Cold blow lane to top the table for the first time since their return to division 1. Another record was lost today, and it was that of Dinas Powys, they lost their firs game of the season today when Cambrian & Clydach came out 3-2 winners, despite their loss today they still stay in 3rd place. Bettws won the battle of the newbies today, they were at home to fellow promotion side Cardiff Corinthians, and it was just one goal to the home side that separated them, Bettws move up to 6th. Taffs Well lost their first game of the season following 2 draws, and it was an emphatic defeat at home against the team likely to quit the league in a few weeks time, Taffs were well beaten at the end by Barry Town 5-0.  The basement battle between Newport YMCA and Croesyceiliog took place at Mendalgief Road with both teams losing all their games so far this season, but something had to give, and it was the visitors who came away with all 3 points following their slender 1-0 win. Pontardawe's good start to the season continued, as they were the visitors of Bridgend Town whose erratic form could have thrown up any kind of a result, so it was no surprise that the game finished all square at 1-1, it maintains their unbeaten start to the season after 4 games though 3 have been draws wit their only win over us 3-0. Ton Pentre carried on their good form following their win over us, when they put 5 passed Cwmbran Town at Ynys Park, though Cwmbran did manage 3 goals of their own in reply, Ton move up to 5th but have 2 games in hand over most teams above them. Unfortunately with teams who were below us before today's game doing well, we dropped 2 places without kicking a ball, we now lie in 15th place, 1 place and 1 point above the relegation zone. View league table Tony

Neath's poor start to the season continues

Neath's poor start to the season continued last light when they leaked in another 5 goals. It's Neath's 3rd defeat in the 3 welsh premier league games this season and they have conceded 16 goals in the 3 games. They handed former Lido keeper Wyn Walters his Eagles debut, but the goal glut continued. Carmarthen went ahead as early as the 3rd minute when Paul Fowler put the home ahead, they doubled their lead on 16 minutes with a goal from Nathan Cotterrall, but Neath came fighting back a minute later when Richard French pulled a goal back and 2 minutes later Neath were level when Andy Hill equalised from the penalty spot. Paul Fowler scored his 2nd goal of the game near the hour mark, and shortly after things started to fall apart for the visitors when Steve Pockett was shown a straight red card 0n 81 minutes, and 2 minutes later 10 man Neath were down 4-2 when Danny Thomas scored. Things got worse for Neath as they suffered a 2nd red card when Dale Evans was dismissed with another straight red on 87 minutes and 2 minutes later again Carmarthen rapped up a miserable night for the eagles when Paul Fowler scored his hat-trick to make it 5-2 . View league table Tony

Port Talbot boss Tucker seeks home comforts

PORT Talbot hope their first home match of the season can help kick-start their campaign. The Steelmen have endured a tough start to the season but hope for a change in fortune when they host Newi Cefn Druids at the newly named GenQuip Stadium. Port Talbot will be glad to finally tread on home soil following a 2-0 defeat to TNS and a 1-1 draw at Aberystwyth last week where they were denied three points by a Luke Sherbon penalty three minutes from time. Manager Nicky Tucker said: "It's important we post a win to continue our excellent home form over the last two years. "Home form could, again, be the key to our campaign as if we make our ground a fortress it will help us achieve our aim of finishing, once again, in the top six. "We have not been firing as I know we can so far but there are signs of an improvement and one good result could start us on a run, especially as four of our next five matches are at home." Tucker added: "A good sequence of results could send our confidence soaring and see us start to climb the table. But if we fail tomorrow we could already find ourselves eight points adrift of the top teams." Shelton Payne is the only injury absentee while new signing David Biggs is likely to start from the bench. Tony

Dyer straits - Neath Athletic manager Andy Dyer has work to do

THE honeymoon period is well and truly over for Neath Athletic in the Welsh Premier League. Leaking 13 goals in their opening three matches has asked serious questions about their defence and the post mortem of last Saturday’s hammering will be ruthless. Athletic went down 5-0 at GAP Connah’s Quay and manager Andy Dyer must now sift through the wreckage. Dyer said: “Incredible is the only word I can find to describe another woeful result. It’s very frustrating and something I’m not used to since joining Neath, but we’ve been set a challenge which will test us. "We could be in a real dogfight if we carry on at this rate and what is very worrying is that we have conceded 14 goals in our first three matches. “It shows something is wrong and it’s my job to put things right.” Tony

Ton Pentre match preview

Wednesday night we take the field at Ynys Park for our first away league game of the season when we take on Ton Pentre. Ton have had a lean time as far as games go this season, and our game will be just their 2nd game of the season, their only game so far was a 1-1 away draw against Cambrian & Clydach. Ton have lost a few of their influential players to ENTO Aberaman, mainly their top scorers of last season, Jonathan Kift and Mattie Davies, who between them netted 23 league goals. Last season we came away with a 1-1 draw, our goal came courtesy of an own goal, though we did get the better of them at home with a 2-0 win with goals from Michael Waters & Steve Cox, last season saw them finish outside the top two which is a rarity for the Bulldogs, but showing how competitive and difficult it is to finish in the top two places. We will be looking to bounce back from our shock 3-0 home defeat we suffered at the hands of Pontardawe last time out which has seen us slip to 9th in the table. Following our game at Ton Pentre we face an equally tough away game at champions Goytre Utd, so something from our next two away games is a must if we want to mount a serious challenge for promotion this season. Ton will be looking to get 9 points from their next three games which are all at home, and they will see all three as winnable with games against Lido, Cwmbran Town and Caldicot Town as their visitors to Ynys Park, though our lads will be doing their best to dent their hopes Wednesday night.  Team news for the game to follow tomorrow. Tony

Pontardawe Town match preview

This Saturday Pontardawe  are the visitors to the Marston and a repeat of last seasons double over Pontardawe would do just nicely. We beat them 2-1 at home and came away with a 1-0 win at their pad. Last season was one Pontardawe will want to forget, they finished in 13th place, their lowest position since returning to the first division. When they visited the Marston last season we came out 2-1 winners with goals form Shaun Best and Ianto. but he previous 2 seasons Pontardawe have come away with 1-0 victories. Our last home game will get mixed reactions, we did score 4 goals, but we also conceded 4 which is a concern from a team that only conceded 31 goals in the whole league campaign last season with the leagues tightest defence. Pontardawe have made a good start to this season so far in their first 2 league games they have come away from last season's top two finishers with credible draws. We have also traded players in close season, Dan McGrath left the Lido to sign for Pontardawe, and Steve Crabbe came the other way. In our last game we were missing a few players, Ianto was on holiday's and should be available for Saturday?, while new signing Darren Griffiths was in hospital (Darren has had his appendix removed and could be out for a month) if both players were available it would have given the gaffers striker selection problems, as both Tuesday nights starters Sam Wade and John Felton both got their accounts of the mark. It is also worth a mention that Dan Williams goal was only his 2nd, the other coming in the 4-4 draw against Neath 2 seasons ago. We will also see who fills the void left by Paul Evans retirement to face Pontardawe.  One worrying trend is the missing supporters this seasons, just 60 for the Bridgend game against 350 last season and 100 for the Bryntirion game against 120 last season. Though hopefully we will pass the attendance for the Pontardawe game which attracted 75 last season. On a final note, there won't be any website updates of the match or table updates until Sunday afternoon, as I will be away during the day and over night at a work mates wedding and won't be home until Sunday afternoon. But I will be kept in the picture on the match by my usual blow for blow contact source Alan Howell's though my phone will be on silent during the wedding ceremony (or so my wife tells me) Lets not forget that the reserves get their season under way on Saturday when they travel to the Welfare ground to take on Seven Sisters. Tony

Barry Town could fold by October 1st

Barry Town have until October 1st to find a new owner or the first team will be withdrawn from the MacWhirter Welsh League. Chairman, Stuart Lovering, has been approached by four parties interested in buying the Club but time is now running out for the former Welsh giants. Barry Town currently sit near the top of Division One - a massive turnaround for the Club who appear well set up for a return to the Welsh Premier under highly-regarded Manager, Gavin Chesterfield. Agents Turner Butler have valued Barry Town at between £500k and £750k but Lovering is prepared to sell for £250k to see the Club continue its remarkable revival. “I saved the Club five years ago and have since rebuilt both the football and bar sides of the businesses. I expect turnover to approach £300k this year. I have done my bit to save and develop the Club. Now it’s time for someone else to takeover”. “Unlike other Clubs, Barry Town have the means to finance a successful team. The Club has a solid business base. It’s self-financing and still has considerable growth potential from developing the food side of the business and increasing support from business and fans”. “If no-one buys the Club in the next six weeks, then the football team will be withdrawn from the Welsh League on October 1st. I have done the hard part in sorting out the business – someone else can now take the Club to success again. It will be very sad if the first team has to be closed when it is doing so well.” People have talked about buying Barry Town but time is now running out. “There needs to be an agreement to buy my 90% shares by October 1st. I hope for the Manager, players, supporters and people of Barry sake that a sale can be agreed. Tony

Bridgend Town match previw

Bridgend are our visitors to the Marston for our 2nd league home game of the season. Last season they were our 1st opponents and they went away with a point following a 2-2 draw, a game in which young Mark Jones scored both our goals, within too long Llanelli saw his potential and signed up the young striker. Friday night's win over Bryntirion was our first home start that produced a win since our 1-0 win over Caerleon in the 2005-06 season.  Bridgend have made a good start to the season seeing off the challenge of newly promoted Bettws 2-1 at their new home at the University of Glamorgan Playing Fields  in Pontypridd. Their goals came from their usual source Raith Plant. Bridgend have high ambitions of playing in the welsh premier as they showed a few years ago when the tried to merge with Grange Quins when they had money problems when they were in the top division, but since and despite having millions at their disposal they still remain homeless and are now playing outside the Borough for their first time. Last season they finished in 10th place and inflicted a 4-2 defeat on us in our penultimate game of the season, but that was a meaningless game for both teams and neither team could climb any higher in the table with a win or defeat. Our win over Bryntirion saw a good team performance from a fairly newly formed line up and once they gel further we can surely look towards a place challenging at the top end of the table. We will be looking to improve on our 1st night's attendance of 100, our oppening game against tonight's visitors last August drew a crowd of  350. Our squad for tonight's game is: L Cosker - R McCreesh - D Williams - D Kindgdom - S Crabbe - S Parry -  C Evans (Capt) - P Evans -  K Lewis M Waters - I Turner - Corey Thomas - S McCourbrey - S Wade - J Felton - D Griffiths. Tony

Jones agrees to help Ponty again

FORMER Pontypridd Town FC chairman Clayton Jones has jumped in to help save the MacWhirter Welsh League club. Jones has been a big supporter of Cardiff City and football at Welsh League level, having been a previous main sponsor of Pontypridd plus the Shamrock Travel Cup. Now his new company, St David’s Travel, are title and main shirt sponsors for Ponty. They have been given the go-ahead to start their league fixtures in September with newly appointed manager Gary Haman busy recruiting a squad following the collapse of a plan for the club to merge with AFC Treforest. Now Pontypridd will be back playing out of Ynysangharad Park and Jones said: “I wasn’t looking to sponsor the club, but without support they’d have gone bang. I could not stand by and allow that to happen. “Now there is the chance to rebuild and the focus is on winning promotion this season and I believe Friday night football for home matches would draw more support.” Tony

Merthyr face winding up order

MERTHYR TYDFIL bosses last night moved to play down fears about the club’s future after it was revealed the Penydarren Park outfit are the subject of a shock High Court winding-up order. The bombshell news, which comes at the start of the new season, will rock Welsh football this morning. Merthyr Tydfil are not only one of the most famous brand names in Welsh soccer, but also in Welsh sport as a whole. The London Gazette reported the club is the subject of a petition to "compulsorily wind it up" as a result of an unpaid tax bill. A hearing has been arranged for the Royal Courts of Justice in the Strand a week today when Merthyr’s fate is due to be decided. Merthyr have arranged a meeting to discuss the matter ahead of Saturday’s British Gas Business Premier Division opener against Brackley Town. The club say that fixture will go ahead and they are also confident the problems surrounding the court case can be resolved. When news of the winding-up order first emerged yesterday, it was thought Merthyr were in danger of collapse after a proud 100-year football heritage. The Western Mail understands the court case is as a result of a £20,000 Inland Revenue discrepancy dating back three years. The order, brought by creditors HM Revenue and Customs, is due to be brought before the courts at 10.30am next Wednesday. Merthyr confirmed the petition had been lodged. Director and comedian Owen Money said: "We have a meeting on Saturday and I’m sure we can work something out. But it will be tough." Chairman Wyn Holloway also insisted the issue was being resolved. If the court petition had totalled around the £400,000 debt burden Merthyr are believed to carry, then the future of the club may have been in doubt ... with the first fixture of the British Gas Business Premier Division against Brackley Town on Saturday being possibly their last. But Merthyr remain confident they can overcome their problems and continue their proud tradition of football at Penydarren Park. Tony

Port Talbot were to blame for not offering him a proper contract

Lee Phillips has defended his decision to end his short stint at Port Talbot by re-signing for Llanelli, insisting: "Everyone else would have done the same."The 29-year-old made a shock return to Stebonheath Park after leaving the Reds following a breakdown in contract negotiations back in May. Phillips, who was captain of Peter Nicholas's side, then made the switch to Port Talbot on non-contract terms. But following a new and improved offer from Llanelli, Phillips decided to end his 27-day stint at the Genquip Stadium and head back to the Welsh Premier League champions. And Phillips, who has been heavily criticised by Port Talbot for his change of heart, wants to put the record straight through the Llanelli Star, stating that: He did what everyone would have done in his situation. Port Talbot were to blame for not offering him a proper contract. He is ready to win over any disgruntled Reds fans. He has no axe to grind with Port Talbot or their manager Nicky Tucker. Phillips said: "I didn't want to leave Llanelli but the new contract I was offered was less than the one I signed for (former chairman) Robert Jones when I arrived here - I was being offered almost 50 per cent less. "I just couldn't sign it, so both parties went their separate ways. "I went to Port Talbot after they contacted me and I took part in training and played one game. "I was going to sign a contract but I was told they would put it on the table as soon as Tucks returned from a coaching course. "They registered me as a non-contract player. Then Llanelli contacted me and offered me better terms than what they originally offered. "Once again, I never wanted to leave Llanelli. I've worked with Nico for most of my career and I'm really friendly with the players. "Everything fell into place and when you are offered that, it makes sense to go ahead with it." Port Talbot chairman Andrew Edwards blasted Phillips for using the club as a "pawn" to negotiate a better deal with Llanelli, while Tucker questioned his commitment. But Phillips, who returned to action in Llanelli's 5-0 victory over Cwmaman Institute on Saturday, insists he has no problem with the Steelmen. "I know the chairman has said his piece and I'm leaving it at that. I don't want to comment on it," said Phillips. Tony

Llanelli quartet reject new deals

Four key members of Llanelli's league and cup double-winning squad have rejected new deals after being offered pay cuts. Skipper Lee Phillips, defender Stuart Jones and midfield duo Antonio Corbisiero and Andrew Mumford have turned down new contracts with the Welsh Premier League champions. The Reds are looking to severely cut their wage budget and have offered the majority of their squad contracts with lower terms. The news may cause panic around Stebonheath Park as the quartet played pivotal roles in the club's most successful season. And with the club issuing a May 31 deadline for contract renewals to be done and dusted, it makes for a crucial few days at Stebo. Phillips - highly respected among his team-mates - arrived from Newport County just before Llanelli turned professional while Jones was the first full-time player to sign for Llanelli in 50 years. Both have made considerable impacts since arriving almost three years ago, with Phillips's versatility and Jones's rock-solid efforts at the back a key factor behind the club's success. Corbisiero - voted player of the year by his team-mates last year - has enjoyed another successful season alongside Mumford in the heart of midfield. Despite rejecting their offers, all four players are hoping to sign new deals before Saturday's deadline. Tony

Cambrian’s progress delights El Tel

	Terry Venables had plenty of praise for Cambrian and Clydach Vale BGC for maintaining their excellent rate of progress in Welsh football. Cambrian and Clydach’s first team finished ninth in MacWhirter Welsh Football League Division One, the highest place they have achieved. They were in South Wales Amateur League Division One in 2003-4, winning that title and following that with two more championships – at Welsh League Division Three and Division Two levels. In their debut season in Division One, Cambrian earned a highly creditable ninth place finish and will look to improve on that next season. “The people in Cambrian and Clydach work incredibly hard and they have done such a lot in terms of football and for the young people of the area,” said Venables when he was back in the Rhondda. “They have fantastic facilities available for the children now and it’s great to see. “This is a hotbed of football talent. “Cambrian and Clydach BGC have done really well in the Welsh League and I applaud their achievements in climbing through the divisions. They also put a lot of time and effort into youth football for boys and girls, which is great to see.” Venables, 65, is president of the Cambrian Village Trust and chairman of the Cambrian and Clydach football section. Tony

Crows part with manager Ganet

	FORMER Welsh Premier outfit Cwmbran Town AFC have parted company with first team manager Guillermo Ganet by mutual consent with immediate effect. Gary Proctor, who was recently appointed director of football, will take over the manager's position. A former Valencia player, Spaniard Ganet took over the hot seat at the beginning of last season after previous involvement with Welwyn Garden City, Kettering Town, Berkhamsted Town and UWIC amongst others. He brought some high quality players into the Welsh League but, as Ganet and many of the players were London based, the travelling involved had been harder than the manager had anticipated. "The club would like to place on the record its thanks to Guillermo for his contribution to Cwmbran and wish him all the best for a successful future," said Crows' chairman Mike Lewis. Tony

Port Talbot reject ground share proposals

	PORT Talbot Town have snubbed the chance of ground sharing with rugby club the Wizards. Town’s arch rivals Neath, known as the Eagles, have decided to switch from their Llandarcy base to one of Welsh Rugby’s famous grounds, the Gnoll. But Town chairman Andrew Edwards, dismissed the option for his club. Edwards, when quizzed if they would consider linking up with the Wizards at the Talbot Athletic Ground if approached by the Welsh Premiership side, said: “We have put too much investment into our ground so the answer would have to be no.” “We are too far down the road to consider sharing grounds. As I speak there is a big investment going on at the ground with major work on the playing surface. I don’t think rugby and football mix, so it’s a non-starter for us.” Port Talbot are also understood to be on the verge of signing a Welsh Premiership player this week. Tony

Dan Williams wins player of the season vote by the supporters

	The supporters website player of the season vote is now closed, and the winner for the 2007-08 season is Dan Williams. Dan was a clear winner scooping 60% of all votes cast.  Congrats to Dan for winning the player of the season vote and by such a huge margin, the runner up was Steve Davies who polled 10% of the voting. Tony

Afan Lido Player Stats for 2007-08

	Some players stats for the past season featuring the top 5 in each category (league stats only)   Goals Games Minutes Played Yellow Cards   1 Michael Waters 6 Steve Davies 30 Steve Davies 2,572 Dan Williams 7 2 Steve Davies 5 Corey Thomas 29 Dan Williams 2,469 Kieran Howells 7 3 Kieran Howells 5 Kieran Howells 28 Kieran Howells 2277 Steve Cox 6 4 Corey Thomas 4 Dan Williams 28 Michael Waters 2,070 Steve Davies 4 5 Shaun Best 4 Michael Waters 23 Leon Cosker 1,895 Michael Waters 4 Tony