View KIFFY'S KORNER FOR 2008/09

 
Aberaman Athletic fight back to share points (Nov 30) 11:30

ABERAMAN Athletic fought back from two goals down to earn a draw in their MacWhirter Welsh League match against Barry Town at Jenner Park.

Brothers Nickie Jones and Scott Jones put Barry 2-0 ahead in the first 15 minutes.

Nicky Hooper pulled one goal back and Jon Kift equalised from a penalty.

Barry Town are at home again on Friday when they host Bryntirion Athletic in the Nathaniel Car Sales League Cup.

Caldicot Town won 3-2 at Bettws and moved above Barry into third place on goal difference, while Ely Rangers won 2-1 at Cardiff Corries.

Dinas Powys won 3-2 at West End in the only other First Division match to beat the weather.

Omar Abdillahi scored twice for Cardiff Bay Harlequins in their 3-2 win against Treharris Athletic Western in Division Two. Gareth Davies and Kevin Bounds replied.

AFC Llwydcoed won 4-2 against Llangeinor. Christopher Vardon (2), Richard Dennis and Rhos Williams scored for Llwydcoed.

Uwic travelled to Cwmbran and won 2-0, while Newcastle Emlyn went to Porthcawl Town and won 3-0, Anthony Owen (2) and Adam Raymond on target.

Ryan Hughes scored the only goal of the match for Garw, who beat Cwmamman United in the Third Division.

Garw also missed two penalties in poor conditions, while Cwmamman had two players sent off.

Evening Post

 
Shephard takes the positives from Merthyr’s Oxford examination (Nov 30) 11:20

MERTHYR boss Garry Shephard was determined to take the positives from an away point – even if he considered it two points dropped in their fight to move out of the Zamaretto Premier Division’s drop zone.

“We could have got out of the bottom four had we got all three points,” he said after watching his side come from behind twice having dominated for long periods.

“We were so in control, particularly before the break but we basically gave them a goal and once they had something to cling to it was difficult.”

Oxford’s opener was indeed a calamity on just seven minutes, Merthyr goalkeeper Andrew Delve somehow letting Liam Malone’s tame shot to  slip through his hands.

But Shephard was quick to point out the former Newport ’keeper made up for that mistake with fine saves later in the game.

It took Merthyr 40 minutes to get level, Scott Armitage finishing well after Marcus Griffiths’ cross  evaded everyone to reach him at the far post. From there, a betting man would have put his house on Merthyr going on to take all three points but after the re-start they struggled to convert their possession into clear cut opportunities and eventually the home side came into the game.

The chances started to come at both ends with Oxford’s Michael Lyon striking the woodwork with a 25-yard free-kick and Puddy denying Griffiths at the near post after Armitage had supplied the pass.

Andy Gunn put the hosts ahead once more on 74 minutes after a ball over the top caught out the Martyrs defence but that stung Merthyr into action.

Within a minute, Shephard saw Puddy turn away his shot on the turn from 18 yards while Armitage looked to have got the equaliser when his header beat Puddy but was cleared off the line by defender Darren Pond.

Armitage  was not to be denied and from the resultant corner Lyon handled the ball in the box and he stepped up to strike home the penalty.

Evening Post

 
Legg delighted with players' character after confident win (Nov 30) 00:30
LLANELLI continue to lead the Welsh Premier by a superior goal difference of one after both they and The New Saints gained convincing 4-0 victories.

While the Reds were putting to bed Aberystwyth Town's five-match winning streak, Saints were hammering another nail into Caersws's relegation coffin.

With Rhyl suffering a shock 2-1 home reverse to Haverfordwest, the top two have opened a three-point gap on the champions.

But Saints are still in the driving seat as they have played a game less.

Antonio Corbisiero and Stuart Jones were surprise inclusions in Andy Legg's starting line-up as both had picked up injuries at Haverfordwest, while Legg, Andrew Mumford and Rhys Griffiths had all recovered from flu.

"In the end it was comfortable, but certainly not a 4-0 on the balance of play," said Legg.

"They had their chances, but we could also have scored a few more."

Legg was delighted with the application of his players. "We showed great character after being hit by injuries and illness," he added.

"We would never use that as an excuse, but I thought the players were in a different class out there."

Mumford gave the hosts an eighth-minute lead from close range after Jason Bowen, Stuart Jones and Chris Venables all helped in the build up.

And Legg's cross from a short corner saw Lee Jarman increase the lead with a firm 13th-minute header.

Craig Moses was guilty of a number of squandered chances, but Llanelli cruised home with two goals coming in the final two minutes.

Bowen's great run ended with Venables firing home and Griffiths added the fourth off the post after Moses set him free.

Evening Post

 
Cardiff City crash to Ipswich Town home defeat (Nov 30) 00:25

A second-half comeback saw Ipswich gain their first away win of the season.

Cardiff, on a two-game losing run, went ahead when Jay Bothroyd and Mike Chopra set up Peter Whittingham for a sweet, dipping 17-yard shot to the top corner.

Ipswich got on top after the break as Owen Garvan's delightful touch set up Jon Walters on the counter-attack, a superb volley providing the equaliser.

With just five minutes to go Garvan found Jonathan Stead in the box, the substitute's low shot winning the game.

Ipswich are now unbeaten in seven games, although five of those have been draws and they remain in the bottom three.

The victory, just the second of the season in the Championship for the Tractor Boys, will ease the pressure on manager Roy Keane.

Cardiff lost the chance to climb into the play-off zone above local rivals Swansea.

Both sides will be troubled by injuries to their goalkeepers, Richard Wright going off after 25 minutes and David Marshall leaving the game at half-time.

BBC

 
Dyer left fuming by late postponement (Nov 30) 00:20

NEATH manager Andrew Dyer voiced his frustration at referee Kevin Morgan, who called off the home match with Prestatyn Town just 20 minutes from kick-off.

The visitors were already at the ground, as were a legion of supporters who had worked tirelessly during the morning to try to get the pitch fit for play.

Even a fire engine had been called in to pump gallons of water off the pitch to virtually clear a lake that had formed between the centre circle and one of the goalmouths.

By the time the referee called a halt to the mop-up operation, only a small area needed attention and both clubs were in agreement to wait until 4pm to start.

But referee Morgan said: "I have to take the safety of the players into account. I spoke to the groundsman who told me the water table was high with little prospect of play by 4pm."

But Dyer disagreed: "The decision was unbelievable and frustrating at the highest level.

"This has cost us a lot of money as one of our biggest crowds of the season were at the ground.

"I'm annoyed, saddened and astonished that the referee called the game off.

"It has cost us and Prestatyn a lot of money. They have had a wasted journey and will have to do it all over again."

Evening Post

 
Trundle's yours if you want him, say Bristol (Nov 30) 00:15

BRISTOL City boss Gary Johnson has told Paulo Sousa he can keep Lee Trundle if he wants him.

Out of favour at Ashton Gate and out of contract at the end of the season, the striker returned to the Liberty Stadium on loan in August.

His spell at Swansea is due to expire on December 31, but Bristol manager Johnson has stated that there is no future for Trundle in Bristol.

And he has revealed a deal is in place that could see Trundle remain in Wales for the rest of the season.

The player himself has made no secret of his desire to stay with Swansea.

But his future is out of his own hands and it will be left to Sousa to decide whether he wants to keep Trundle beyond the end of the year.

Johnson said: "We haven't spoken to Swansea recently, because it's out of our hands. At the moment, the deal is up to December 31 and no longer.

Deal

"But we do have a deal in place where they can take him for the second half of the season if they want to. There is a deal on the table and they know what it is.

"It's something we spoke about in the summer before Lee went out to Swansea and there is an agreement built in that he can stay longer.

"But that is not our decision to make and we're in a position where we are waiting for Swansea to come to us and say whether they want him or not."

Trundle scored 86 goals for Swansea before leaving to join the Robins. He has netted twice since his summer return, though he has largely been on the fringes of the first team.

Johnson added: "Lee has nailed his colours to the mast and said he wants to stay if he can. I know what he wants and I understand that.

"He seems to have played a bit of a cameo role since going out on loan and I cannot say what the people at Swansea want at this moment in time. We will have to wait and see."

Evening Post

 
Carmarthen back on track (Nov 29) 14:20

DERYN Brace is a happy man again after Carmarthen Town bounced back.

Angry after witnessing his side suffer a hugely disappointing home defeat to Porthmadog, Town player-manager Brace was celebrating a triumph at newcomers Bala Town.

It lifts the ninth-placed Old Gold three points clear of Bangor City, who are just below the threshold of the new Super League.

But the Richmond Park club now need to up their game again as Airbus UK, who won 1-0 at Porthmadog, are four points ahead in eighth spot.

The game was won within 37 minutes after the visitors recovered well after the shock of going a goal down in the fourth minute.

It was a sloppy goal to concede, Ross Jefferies unopposed to head home an Osian Jones corner.

Carmarthen drew level in the 16th minute, Tim Hicks glancing home an astute supply from Chris Thomas.

And Hicks netted again 10 minutes later, Richard Hughes and Mark Pritchard combining well to put him through.

The lead grew with eight minutes of the first half left, although Danny Thomas had it all to do as he turned and fired past keeper Leon Bimpson.

"I'm delighted and frustrated as last week's defeat still hurts," Brace said.

"It could have all gone wrong again after they went in front, but fair play to the lads, they knuckled down.

"We have closed the gap on the top clubs, but we need to show consistency from now on."

Wales on Sunday

 
Dean Holdsworth: From Crazy Gang to King of the County (Nov 29) 14:00

NO-ONE would deny Dean Holdsworth a nice, quiet life after being a fully paid-up member of the Wimbledon ‘Crazy Gang.’

The Dons rocked British football in the 1980s and 1990s with their no-holds barred approach and enjoyed themselves off the pitch as much as they did on it.

The club’s characters went down in football folklore: Vinny Jones, John Fashanu, Dennis Wise, Joe Kinnear and Sam Hammam to name but a few.

Wimbledon shook the establishment so much that there were few tears when the club eventually fell from grace and was swallowed up by Milton Keynes to become the MK Dons.

But the club’s spirit lives on and not only in South London where AFC Wimbledon – considered by its supporters to be the real continuation of the Dons – have won four promotions in seven seasons to reach the Conference.

For Holdsworth is forging the ‘Crazy Gang’ spirit at Newport County AFC with ghetto-blasters at the ready and ambition running high.

Two decades after County slipped out of the Football League, football fans in Newport can dare to dream again.

Mark Bloom

 
Harewood headers ruin Swansea (Nov 28) 15:30
A TRIP to Newtown will be no walk in the park for Port Talbot if previous encounters between the sides are a guide.

Newcastle ended Swansea's 11-match unbeaten run as the Championship leaders brushed aside their visitors.

Three headed goals in the first half-hour, two from on-loan striker Marlon Harewood, set the Magpies on their way.

Harewood claimed the first and third, first pouncing when Swansea only half-cleared a corner and then converting Peter Lovenkrands' whipped cross.

Lovenkrands had scored the second from close range after good work from Jonas Gutierrez down the left wing.

Magpies goalkeeper Steve Harper had to pull off fine saves from Cedric van der Gun and Andrea Orlandi to preserve his clean sheet.

Harper's second-half replacement, Tim Krul, had to keep out Nathan Dyer's effort and an injury time pile-driver from defender Angel Rangel as the visitors enjoyed long periods of possession.

But the Swans were not as clinical as the Magpies and it was they who eased to victory in front of a crowd of 42,616.

BBC

 
Super County maintain advantage (Nov 28) 19:30

NEWPORT County held onto their eight point advantage at the top of the Blue Square South with a convincing victory over Lewes at the Dripping Pan.

The Exiles have enjoyed little success against Lewes over recent years but were in no mood to worry about history as they comfortably won out 3-0 in a game where they could've scored more.

Midfielder Scott Rogers had already given County a 25th minute lead when Lewes substitute Ryan Timms was sent off on the stroke of half time for a professional foul on Dave Gilroy.

The red card gave Craig Reid the chance to double the advantage from the penalty spot, but he missed from 12-yards for the second time this season.

However, the Exiles continued to dominate and second half goals from Kerry Morgan and substitute Charlie Henry sealed the win.

South Wales Argus
Barry Town have big ambitions (Nov 27) 15:30
A TRIP to Newtown will be no walk in the park for Port Talbot if previous encounters between the sides are a guide.

BARRY Town owner Stuart Lovering insists the MacWhirter Welsh Football League club is no longer for sale – and they are pushing for promotion.
That will take a huge effort from manager Gavin Chesterfield and his players, who are third in the First Division table.
Tomorrow, Barry Town are at home to defending champions Aberaman Athletic, who are second, at Jenner Park (2pm) and expect their biggest attendance of the season.
Children will be admitted free for the match if accompanied by adults, while students and youths aged under 21 pay £2.
“If we finish in the top two and meet the FAW criteria for promotion, Barry Town will be promoted back to the Welsh Premier League,” said Lovering, pictured below.
“The club has been up for sale for many months, but has now been taken off the market.”
There have been two offers for the club, the first by former Aberaman owner Dai Morgan and a second by a Welsh businessman.
If Barry Town are to challenge for promotion this season it will take a lot of effort and financial backing at a time when the Welsh Premier is preparing for a big change with only 12 teams in the top tier.
The football side at Barry Town is backed by supporters, while Lovering has announced plans to double turnover in the Jenner Park clubhouse.
A second phase refurbishment will including starting lunches, dinners and Sunday dinners in Jenner Park's new ‘Buddha Bar.’
“This next investment is expected to double turnover and help finance the club’s continuing sustainable development in Welsh football,” said owner and chairman Lovering.

Terry Phillips

 
Martyrs set for mid-table push (Nov 27) 15:20
A TRIP to Newtown will be no walk in the park for Port Talbot if previous encounters between the sides are a guide.

IN-FORM Merthyr Tydfil are confident a respectable mid-table position is within their grasp.
After a 10-point deduction for falling into administration in the summer, the Martyrs have hit a rich vein of form.
And boss Garry Shephard has revealed that not doing their homework on the opposition is working for them – big-time!
As Shephard prepares to tackle Oxford City tomorrow, he explained why research is not the Martyrs way.
He said: “I’m not the kind of manager who sends scouts out to look at the opposition.
“What’s the point? We have had people say that the ’keeper for example is poor at crosses.
“So what do we do? We send every ball from deep and put the ’keeper under pressure and he catches everything thrown at him. No, we don’t go down that road.
“I’d rather the opposition worry about what we can do, because we know that we can beat anybody on our day.
“It’s as simple as that. If we concentrate on ourselves we will not go far wrong and the results show that.”
Reflecting on how Merthyr have bounced back from adversity this season, Shephard said it was all down to the players at Penydarren Park.
“The lads have performed brilliantly,” he said.
“It is their never-say-die attitude that has earned them the respect of the league.
“They have made short work of the 10-point deduction.”
Shepherd can pick from a full squad tomorrow apart from the absent Cortez Belle, knowing that a victory could push the Martyrs up several places in the Zamaretto League.

Mark Bloom

 
Port Talbot expect it tough at Newtown (Nov 27) 12:30

A TRIP to Newtown will be no walk in the park for Port Talbot if previous encounters between the sides are a guide.

Nine previous clashes at Latham Park have produced four wins apiece, with the other game drawn, and visiting manager Mark Jones recalls last season's visit vividly.

"I had just rejoined the club, we were on a great run, then Newtown brought us crashing back down to earth, winning 1-0," he said. "It's never easy winning up there and they desperately need the points to scrap themselves back into contention for the top 10.

"But we need points to put further pressure on the teams above us. We have won four on the trot and we need to keep the run going."

Lee Surman, carried off with what appeared to be a serious ankle injury in the impressive 2-1 home victory over Bangor City last week, is Port Talbot's only absentee.

Important

He will be out for a couple of weeks, but the good news is that nothing is broken.

"We are approaching a very important part of the season and we have an opportunity to really make a statement to the title contenders," added Jones.

"But games you are fancied to win doesn't necessarily mean you will win them, so we need to remain focused on what we need to do."

Evening Post

 
Llanelli again laid low by injury crisis (Nov 27) 12::20

WELSH Premier League leaders face a selection crisis ahead of tonight's crucial encounter with revitalised Aberystwyth Town at Stebonheath Park.

Manager Andy Legg is resigned to having five regular first-teamers missing, two doubtful and three others recovering from flu.

It is a nightmare scenario for the former Wales defender but reflects the problems that have dogged his plans all season.

So it is all the more remarkable that the Reds head the table on goal difference from The New Saints.

Definitely out of the home line-up are Owain Warlow, Antonio Corbisiero, Michael Howard, Ross Jones and Chris Holloway, while central defender Stuart Jones is doubtful with a suspected broken nose.

And Craig Moses, who was on the scoresheet as Wales Under-23s drew 2-2 with Northern Ireland in a semi-professional intern- ational on Tuesday, suffered an ankle knock which forced him from the field.

Ryan Batley and Jordan Follows were unscathed, while Craig Frater should recover from a knock sustained against Haverfordwest last week.

Legg is still under the weather following a bout of flu and has been joined this week by Andy Mumford and striker Rhys Griffiths in the sick bay.

To help the situation Legg has re-signed Stephen Evans, who Legg left out of his squad in the summer, but he comes in as Rory Smitham has departed.

Legg said: "It's a chance for other players to stake their claim, and we are not going to let injuries and illness be an excuse.

"Aberystwyth was always going to be a tough match as we have had many difficult battles with them in the past.

"They are on a run of six straight wins and were in a false position when their former manager left."

Evening Post

 
Wary Neath eyeing up spot in top three (Nov 27) 12:10

NEATH are waiting to pounce if any of the top three clubs fail to perform this weekend — but they have a testing challenge awaiting them from Prestatyn Town at The Gnoll.

The visitors have shocked pundits this season with a string of impressive results and lie sixth in the table, just a point adrift of the Eagles in fourth.

The hosts, who gained a point at Welshpool last week, will look to bounce back to winning ways and extend an impressive unbeaten sequence to 11 matches.

"Last week was very frustrating, but we have been excellent at home this season so we are targeting three points against Prestatyn," said Neath manager Andrew Dyer. "But we know it will be difficult as Prestatyn are in the top six for a reason. They have a few experienced players who have made a difference to them.

"This is a big one for us, but all games are going to be big. But we need to be more clinical as, no disrespect to Welshpool, we should have beaten them."

Injury

Carl Shaw will miss out with a ligament injury but striker Craig Stein and defender Liam Hancock both return from suspension.

But Sean Cronin, who has two further games to serve of a three-match ban, was sent off in midweek in Wales's semi-professional match against Northern Ireland. This will result in further punishment.

 

Evening Post

 
Buck up or you're out, warns Brace (Nov 27) 12:10ALARM bells may start to ring if Carmarthen Town put in another meek performance at newcomers Bala Town.

Manager Deryn Brace looked on in disbelief last week as his charges lost the plot in the second half against Porthmadog, slumping to a dismal 3-1 loss.

It brought an unusually strong rebuke from Brace, who has always been a great defender of his players.

"It's how we react to that defeat that's important," he said.

"It was a hugely disappointing loss but the lads have always bounced back well from previous disappointments.

"I thought we were turning the corner then we play like that. If we win the next six matches that defeat will remain and hurt.

"Overall our play was good but we missed so many good opportunities. We can compete with the best in this league but we have to show it more consistently.

"We face a massive task at Bala as only Rhyl have won there this season.

"There appears to a worrying lack of will to win among some of my players. I want players who want to win week in, week out. If they don't, they will be on the outside rather than the inside."

Dyfan Pierce misses Carmarthen's first trip to Maes Tegid with a hip injury, but striker Craig Hughes will almost certainly return following injury.

"We don't want to put any pressure on Craig as we need him fully fit for a massive period of the season that awaits us in December and January," added Brace.

Evening Post

 
Sousa urges Swans to bridge gap (Nov 27) 12:00

SWANSEA City take on the mighty Newcastle United tomorrow with Paulo Sousa adamant his players can bridge the £31million chasm between the two starting sides.

Newcastle's likely XI this weekend features mega-money signings like Fabricio Coloccini (£9.5million), Jose Enrique (£6.5million) and Alan Smith (£6million).

In all, Chris Hughton's probable team cost around £33million to assemble — despite the fact that two players came through the youth ranks and another two are on loan.

Swansea's possible side, meantime, was put together for just £1.41million — but Sousa believes they can cause a shock on Tyneside.

"The money they have spent is reflected a lot in some of their games," said the Swansea manager.

"Sometimes they can win by walking — they don't have to run because of the quality they have got.

"They don't need to be 100 per cent. Sometimes they don't look so good, but in the end they win because they have better players with more experience.

"They should be in the Premier League and I think they will be back there at the end of the season, probably after winning our division.

"But we are in good form also, and if we are at our best — as we have been — it's difficult for anyone to beat us.

"I think if you have quality, as we have, and you work hard, you can disturb them. We can cause them some problems and create some pressure for them, because everyone expects them to win all the time."

Relegated last season, Newcastle lead the second tier by two points having won their last four matches and are yet to lose on their own patch this season.

But Swansea could hardly go to St James' Park in better form — they lie fourth having put together a rousing 11-game unbeaten stretch.

Garry Monk (calf) seems certain to miss the game along with Mark Gower — now complaining of hamstring trouble after a back problem — and Stephen Dobbie, who faces a fortnight out with an ankle injury.

But Sousa insisted: "We aim to be competitive in every game we play and at the end we look for three points.

"We can be stronger than we are now — there is space for progress — but we have reached the stage where we are always competitive already."

Swansea are boosted by new recruit David Cotterill, who is tipped to start on the bench tomorrow after arriving from Sheffield United this week in a deal worth around £500,000.

Evening Post

 
Monk urges Swans to call the Toon (Nov 26) 01:00

GARRY Monk has told Swansea City to show the Toon Army how good they are St James' Park on Saturday.

Swansea head north on the back of an 11-game unbeaten run but will start as firm underdogs nevertheless against the Championship's most glamorous club, Newcastle United.

A crowd in excess of 40,000 is expected to watch the leaders take on fourth-placed Swansea — and Monk wants Paulo Sousa's men to strut their stuff on the big stage.

"This is one of those games where you have to go and enjoy it," the Swansea captain said.

"You can't go into it fearing anything — we have to go there thinking 'let's show what we can do'.

"They are proper football fans up at Newcastle, and at 5pm on Saturday we want them to be thinking that they have just watched a good side in Swansea.

"That's what I'll be saying to the lads before the game — let's show how good we are."

"It's one of those games you want to be involved in and, while we will be definite underdogs this weekend, I know we can handle it if we are at our best.

"You look at their squad and they have players worth millions and millions, but we have shown in the past that we can give these teams a game.

"We have proved people wrong in the past and we can do it again."

Monk's hopes of featuring on Saturday have been hit by the ongoing calf problem he first suffered in the win over Queens Park Rangers in early October.

The 30-year-old considers himself 90 per cent fit, but may miss out if Swansea decide not to risk aggravating the problem.

Evening Post

 
Monk urges Swans to call the Toon (Nov 26) 01:00

GARRY Monk has told Swansea City to show the Toon Army how good they are St James' Park on Saturday.

Swansea head north on the back of an 11-game unbeaten run but will start as firm underdogs nevertheless against the Championship's most glamorous club, Newcastle United.

A crowd in excess of 40,000 is expected to watch the leaders take on fourth-placed Swansea — and Monk wants Paulo Sousa's men to strut their stuff on the big stage.

"This is one of those games where you have to go and enjoy it," the Swansea captain said.

"You can't go into it fearing anything — we have to go there thinking 'let's show what we can do'.

"They are proper football fans up at Newcastle, and at 5pm on Saturday we want them to be thinking that they have just watched a good side in Swansea.

"That's what I'll be saying to the lads before the game — let's show how good we are."

"It's one of those games you want to be involved in and, while we will be definite underdogs this weekend, I know we can handle it if we are at our best.

"You look at their squad and they have players worth millions and millions, but we have shown in the past that we can give these teams a game.

"We have proved people wrong in the past and we can do it again."

Monk's hopes of featuring on Saturday have been hit by the ongoing calf problem he first suffered in the win over Queens Park Rangers in early October.

The 30-year-old considers himself 90 per cent fit, but may miss out if Swansea decide not to risk aggravating the problem.

Evening Post

 
Aberystwyth ready for top 3 sides (Nov 26) 00:45
Aberystwyth Town manager Alan Morgan knows that his side face a massive test of their Welsh Premier credentials as they embark on a tough run against the top three teams.
Morgan’s side could close that gap to a single point if they can beat the full-timers at Stebonheath Park on Friday night, although the new Aberystwyth boss is expecting a massive test.
The Seasiders will then welcome title challengers Rhyl to Park Avenue the following Saturday, before they take on-song full-timers The New Saints in Oswestry just six days later.
Morgan had been delighted with the character that has been shown by his players during his three weeks in charge, and before that under his new assistant manager Christian Edwards.
“We are on a very good run at the moment,” said Morgan. “The lads are giving us 110 per cent and I have been very impressed by their commitment and attitude, conditions were difficult, but the lads rolled their sleeves up and got on with it.
“We have now got three games on the bounce against the top three sides in the league, but we will be taking one game at a time, and hopefully we can also punch up against the top teams.
“It’s going to be hard having to play all three games on the bounce, and football can have a way of bringing you back down to earth when you’re up, but we are not getting carried away.”
The ex-Tranmere Rovers player also praised the spirit in squad that has been revitalised under his former Wales Under-21 teammate Christian Edwards.
Morgan added: “A new manager normally takes over a team that is struggling, but these lads are really enjoying their football at the moment and they can’t wait to play in their next match.
“Previously this season, the home form has been a bit of nightmare, but hopefully we’re starting to put that right, and also looking to maintain the good form away from home.”
Cambrian News

 
Cardiff City face winding-up order as Dato Chan joins board (Nov 26) 00:30
Championship high-fliers Cardiff City today won ten weeks of breathing space from moves by the taxman to have them wound up at London's High Court on the day Malaysian tycoon Dato Chan joined the board.
Mrs. Registrar Derrett adjourned the winding up moves brought against the club by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs for 70 days to give the Bluebirds time to settle their undisclosed debt. The matter will return to court on 3 February, and if the debt is not paid by then, a Registrar is likely to make a winding up order against the club unless good reason is given.
Had the club been wound up today, its affairs would have been effectively handed over to an Official Receiver.  After the hearing, the club announced on its website that Malaysian property tycoon Dato Chan Thien Ghee joined the board, saying: "Dato Chan's appointment reflects the continuing confidence that we have in the opportunity that exists for Cardiff City within Asia and will see us extend our youth development."On his appointment, Chan said: "I am very proud to be joining the board of Cardiff City. I believe together with the existing board, I can provide Cardiff City with the additional resources to reach it's aim of the Premier League."

 
Legg's fury at fans criticism (Nov 25) 13:10

ANDY Legg has hit out at supporters who have questioned the club's training methods.

Llanelli currently train twice a week for an hour a time at the Parc y Scarlets indoor barn and on Astroturf.

There are no goalposts at either facility and some fans have criticised the training arrangements as sub standard.

But the Reds player-manager has hit back, saying: "That's true, but if someone can find me the right facilities we'll train three times a week for two hours a time.

"People should not mouth off if they do not know the situation because they're really getting to me.

The club can't afford to have the barn for two hours at a time."

The former Wales defender also rounded on people who have suggested he has an oversized squad.

"People say I have a 27-man squad, well I'd love to know who they are," he said.

"What a ludicrous comment that was. If they're talking about youth team players they're nowhere near good enough.

"Sometimes people deserve credit and the players should get credit for doing as well as they have done in the circumstances."

Evening Post

 
Legg's fury at fans' criticism (Nov 25) 13:10

ANDY Legg has hit out at supporters who have questioned the club's training methods.

Llanelli currently train twice a week for an hour a time at the Parc y Scarlets indoor barn and on Astroturf.

There are no goalposts at either facility and some fans have criticised the training arrangements as sub standard.

But the Reds player-manager has hit back, saying: "That's true, but if someone can find me the right facilities we'll train three times a week for two hours a time.

"People should not mouth off if they do not know the situation because they're really getting to me.

The club can't afford to have the barn for two hours at a time."

The former Wales defender also rounded on people who have suggested he has an oversized squad.

"People say I have a 27-man squad, well I'd love to know who they are," he said.

"What a ludicrous comment that was. If they're talking about youth team players they're nowhere near good enough.

"Sometimes people deserve credit and the players should get credit for doing as well as they have done in the circumstances."

Evening Post

 
Nine-Man Wales Robbed at the Death in semi-pro clash (Nov 25) 01:10

The Wales Semi Professional team had to settle for a point in their opening International Challenge Trophy match in Shamrock Park, Belfast this evening.

The young Welsh side battled tirelessly with nine-men after Neath's Sean Cronin and Airbus UK's Ryan Edwards were shown straight red cards by local referee Stephen Weatherall.

The Reds made a great start when Haverfordwest striker Jack Christopher scored a clinical header from a dangerous Scott Barrow corner after just three minutes. Shortly afterwards, Steven Cann made an excellent save from ex-Wrexham winger Michael Carvill. Christopher then overstretched a hamstring and was replaced by Craig Moses on fifteen minutes and it was the sub who scored the Welsh second. Captain Craig Jones made a trademark break down the right and his centre was laid on a plate for Moses to tap home on 24 minutes.

Just three minutes later, the hosts responded with an excellently struck free-kick from Daryl Fordyce into the top left corner. Cronin was dismissed on 34 minutes on his debut when the assistant referee saw an off-the-ball incident. Wales had two excellent chances to extend their advantage, but Craig Moses and Curtis McDonald squandered the opportunities.

Ryan Edwards was sent off on 70 minutes for handling on the line and from the resulting penalty Stephen Cann saved excellently from Carvill. The Irish continued to exert pressure and despite having another ex-Wrexham player Rob Garrett sent-off for a second bookable offence, they equalised at the death when Jay Magee tapped in at the far post at a corner when Wales couldn't clear their lines.

It was a disappointing end to the night for the courageous Welsh side, who deserved more, but for some indifferent decisions by the home referee.

 

Wales: Stephen CANN (Aberystwyth Town); Ryan EDWARDS (Airbus UK Broughton FC), Lee BEVAN (Haverfordwest County), Sean CRONIN (Neath FC), Curtis MCDONALD (Forest Green Rovers); Craig JONES (c) (The New Saints FC), Aeron EDWARDS (The New Saints FC), Ashley WILLIAMS (Airbus UK Broughton FC) Scott BARROW (Port Talbot Town); Luke SHERBON (Aberystwyth Town); Jack CHRISTOPHER (Haverfordwest County)

Subs: Lee IDZI (Haverfordwest County), Ryan BATLEY (Llanelli AFC), Sion EDWARDS (Bangor City), Drew FAHIYA (Port Talbot Town), Craig MOSES (Llanelli), Jamie REED (Bangor City), Jordan FOLLOWS (Llanelli)

Welshpremier.com

 
Cambrian & Clydach are handed grounds for celebration (Nov 25) 00:50

CAMBRIAN & Clydach Vale BGC is reaping the benefits of being part of a new joint venture between the Welsh Football Trust and Football Association of Wales to improve grounds in Wales.

The Welsh League One club was recently awarded £22,500 from the Welsh Grounds Improvements Scheme which they have used to build a First Aid room, spectator seating as well as install a new PA system.

The upgrades will play a substantial role in helping the club achieve their goal of a FAW Domestic Licence, which will enable them to host Welsh Premier League matches.

Cambrian and Clydach commercial manager Philip Williams said: “Our overall aim is to bring Welsh Premier League football to Rhondda Cynon Taff, and thanks to the WGI’s support we are closer to this dream.

“We have chosen our improvements carefully, with the aim of maximising the enjoyment for our supporters.

“Not only will they be more comfortable but the changes will take the whole match day experience to another level.”

Established just over a year ago, Welsh Grounds Improvements was set up to distribute Football Association of Wales grant aid to clubs to help improve the standard of stadia across Wales.

Officials from Welsh Grounds Improvements visited the club on Saturday to give their approval to the new facilities and to present a plaque to the club for the work carried out.

Peter Lee, chairman of the Welsh Grounds Improvements Board said: “It is our aim to continue to help clubs like Cambrian and Clydach Vale BGC to improve the facilities that they offer to the community.

“With the introduction of this scheme, we hope to help many more clubs improve their future prospects and at the same time close the gap between the standards of facilities in place at football clubs across Wales.”

Anthony Woolford

 
Cardiff must sell before buying (Nov 25) 00:45
Cardiff City boss Dave Jones concedes he has to sell if he is to sign players before Thursday's loan deadline. But Cardiff's injury crisis is set to be alleviated for Sunday's clash with Ipswich as four players are to return.
Strikers Jay Bothroyd (knee) and Kelvin Etuhu (ankle) and defenders Anthony Gerrard (calf) and Adam Matthews (groin) missed the defeat at Barnsley.
But full-back Kevin McNaughton is set to be out for two weeks after tearing a hamstring in his comeback on Saturday.
"If I want to bring players in," said Jones. "Then I've got to move one or two players out."
But he is boosted as on-loan Manchester City striker Etuhu is back in full training after two months out with ankle ligament damage. The 21-year-old sustained the injury in their defeat by Newcastle United on 13 September when he crashed into advertising boards. And pivotal striker Bothroyd is also set to be available for Jones again. "We hoping to get Jay back for Sunday and we hope Kelvin is coming in," said Cardiff manager Jones."

BBC

 
Now let's turn that pressure into points says Brace (Nov 25) 00:40

DERYN Brace has challenged Carmarthen Town's players to turn pressure into points when they visit Bala on Saturday.

The Old Gold slipped to a shock 3-1 defeat at home to Porthmadog last weekend and remain ninth in the Welsh Premier League table.

They are level on points with Saturday's opponents, who lost at Prestatyn last Friday.

But player-manager Brace believes his side deserve more for their efforts so far this season and that they have failed to turn dominance into goals.

"We're perfectly capable of going to Bala and getting not just something but all three points," he said.

"Let's be honest — it's not going to be an easy game. They've only lost one game at home, to champions Rhyl, so they've got a proud record.

"But we need to show some consistency, especially if we want to compete with the top sides.

"Unfortunately, we do not score enough goals when we are on top, which is probably for the majority of the games we've played in.

"But we also have this knack of conceding when we're not on top. We've played well now in three games — Llanelli, Bangor and the first half on Saturday — and yet we've conceded eight goals.

"And that's playing well. Now that's a concern."

He added: "The truth is if we do score more goals we probably won't concede as many. It has a knock-on effect.

"But we need that will to win week in, week out. We have to regroup again and make sure we get a result at Bala."

Evening Post

 
Port Talbot U19's suffer 8-0 thumping at Llanelli (Nov 24) 12:40 
Llanelli Under 19’s began their Macwhirter Welsh League Youth Division league campaign in style on Monday night as they produced an emphatic second half performance to beat fellow Welsh Premier side Port Talbot Town Under 19’s by 8 goals to 0, at Stebonheath Park. During the first half the visitors managed to keep the home side at bay apart from an eighth minute goal from Craig Frater, who chipped the keeper from close range. For the remainder of the first period, Port Talbot frustrated the young Reds, who failed to produce their usual free flowing football, by defending in numbers and prevented any further clear cut scoring opportunities.
The second half was a completely different affair, with Llanelli producing a superb display of football, scoring a further seven goals without reply. Kieran Hayes started the rout in the 48thminute, when he scored after a fine team move. Three minutes later, Craig Frater got onto the scorsheet again when he played a neat one two with Hayes before hitting the net from 8 yards. Hayes got the home side’s fourth goal when he headed home after 57 minutes from a cross by Nathan Logan. He completed his hat trick when he made it 5 0 in the 82nd minute after a fine build up with left back, Antonio Facciuto prominent. Then the crowd witnessed the best goal of the night after 85 minutes. Kieran Hayes took a corner on the right and spotted Declan John unmarked at the edge of the penalty area. John then unleashed an unstoppable right foot volley into the roof of the net! Criag Frater then rounded off the night with two well taken goals in the final minutes to take his tally on the night to four.

www.llanelliafc.org

 
Cardiff City chief Ridsdale in blast at West Brom (Nov 24) 12:15

PETER Ridsdale has described West Brom’s refusal to allow Cardiff City fans more than 1,324 tickets at the Hawthorns as ‘disgraceful’.

Bluebirds supporters are planning a silent, peaceful protest in West Brom a few hours before kick-off on Tuesday, December 8 and organiser Vince Alm says: “That may even be outside the home of Albion chairman Jeremy Peace!”

West Brom allow most Championship clubs 2,700 tickets for the away section at the Hawthorns. Cardiff City are usually docked 20% anyway because many of their fans tend to stand instead of sit down, which would mean they should be entitled to around 2,000.

“Even West Midlands Police have asked West Brom about allowing us more tickets, but the club refused,” said Alm, who represents Cardiff City Supporters Club.

“We should have 2,000 tickets, but West Brom won’t budge.

“They have not given us a reason and that’s why we are planning a silent, peaceful protest.

“They have said they will look at it again in the future, but there is no reason for this and Cardiff City fans are sick of it.

“We are talking 600 more tickets for a match which families and kids would love to attend.

“Midweek away games when families can go together are rare and this is one of them.”

Bluebirds chairman Ridsdale is backing the peaceful protest, saying: “The West Brom stance is disgraceful. Vince Alm and the Supporters Club have done an outstanding job standing up for the rights of fans.

Terry Phillips

 
Barry Town setting their sights on second spot (Nov 24) 12:15

BARRY Town are aiming for second place in MacWhirter Welsh Football League Division One this weekend when they are at home to defending champions Aberaman Athletic.

Manager Gavin Chesterfield and his team have done an astonishing job in difficult circumstances this season and, following their 1-0 win at Ely Rangers, are lying one point behind second-placed Aberaman, who are managed by former Barry forward Mattie Davies.

Barry Town FC remains for sale and talks continue this week with a businessman interested in buying the Welsh League club.

Barry hope to have Ian Jones and Rob Blatchford back from injury, but they will still be without Kurt Bettles, Kirk Huggins, Michael Parkins and Michael Hayward.

Striker Zak Misbah is away in the North of England and unavailable for the clash with Aberaman.

Central defender Lewis Coslett headed Barry’s winner at Ely Rangers, while Sam Small has been in a rich vein of scoring form with Josh Bell also hitting the target regularly.

Barry are hoping to attract their biggest attendance for several years on Saturday and the club are offering free entry for children accompanied by an adult paying to go in.

Terry Phillips

 
Cotterill targets promotion after completing Swansea move (Nov 24) 12:15

WALES winger David Cotterill last night completed his move to Swansea City and immediately told his new teammates they’ve got what it takes for promotion.

Cotterill trained with the Swans for the first time yesterday as the finishing touches were put on his switch from Sheffield United.

And he reckons he’s joined a side that have found the substance to go with last season’s style – making them as good a bet for the top as anyone else.

Cotterill watched the Swans in action in the 1-0 win over Derby on Friday night, Paulo Sousa’s men putting on a show to take fourth spot in the division.

And while talk has been more about top half than top six at the Liberty after the slow start to the season, 21-year-old Cotterill says the club should not be afraid to aim high.

“I don’t see why promotion can’t be a realistic aim,” said Cotterill, who has signed a three-month loan contract with a permanent deal already understood to be in place for January. The arrival of Cotterill is a signal of Swansea’s intent to do just that, the initial fee for the 16-times capped youngster’s services believed to be close to the £700,000 mark.

“The way the side have been playing, anything can happen.

“I watched the game on Friday and they made a Derby side with very good players look like a poor team; they couldn’t get a kick of the ball.

“Swansea were passing it around for fun and murdered them really.

“So as far as promotion goes why not? No-one’s bossing this league at the moment.

Evening Post

 
Port Talbot's semi-Pro captain Surman ruled out through injury (Nov 23) 18:15

Wales Semi-Professional Team Manager Terry Boyle has had to make five late changes to his squad to face Northern Ireland at Portadown on Tuesday in Wales' first group match in the International Challenge Trophy competition.

Five players from the original squad pulled out over the weekend with injuries or club call-ups. The team met up on Saturday evening in Cardiff but were hampered with the withdrawal of five players on the day.

Captain Lee Surman (ankle and knee) and Owain Warlow (ankle) both sustained injuries in their Welsh Premier games over the weekend and are ruled out. At first, both were suspected to have suffered fractures but Llanelli and Wales physio Chris Miller has confirmed that neither have sustained breaks, but they will be ruled out for several weeks.

Full-back Kai Edwards has been brought into the Wrexham squad for their Conference League match on Tuesday, so the teenager has been withdrawn and Michael Pearson of Barrow has also been withdrawn late by his club for the same reason. Kyle Critchell of Weymouth has withdrawn through sickness, so Terry Boyle has lost four of his defenders.

Neath's Sean Cronin has gained a first call-up and Haverfordwest's Lee Bevan, who was capped at this level against Italy two years ago is also brought in to strengthen at the back. Forest Green's Curtis McDonald who has been playing at the back for his club is also a late addition. Llanelli duo Ryan Batley (defender) and Jordan Follows replace Surman and their club mate Warlow respectively and both will be hoping for game time, having fallen out of favour with the Reds. The squad fly from Cardiff on Monday afternoon and have their fifth training session on Tuesday, before the 7:45 kick-off at Shamrock Park tomorrow evening.

Welshpremier.com

 
Blades Cotterill set to join Swans today (Nov 23) 10:30

Winger David Cotterill is set to complete his move from Sheffield United to Swansea City on Monday. BBC Wales understands the Wales cap, 21, will join on loan and is then expected to sign a three-year deal in January for an initial £500,000 fee.

Cotterill joined the Blades in July 2008 for an undisclosed sum after an initial loan spell from Wigan.

But he has found first-team appearances limited this season starting just three times in 14 Championship appearances.

Cardiff-born Cotterill ended Swansea's play-off hopes last April, scoring from the penalty spot in United's 1-0 win.

It is understood the deal would initially be a loan with the two clubs still trying to thrash out a permanent move.

In any event, no permanent move could take place until the transfer window reopens on 1 January.

Swans boss Paulo Sousa has been looking for more attacking options as Swansea are the lowest scorers in the Championship with 14 goals in 16 games.

Cotterill, who has 15 caps for Wales, started his career at Bristol City and scored for the Robins in their 7-1 thrashing by Swansea in September 2005.

Cotterill will be Sousa's sixth signing since taking charge in the summer.

BBC

 
Big guns will now respect us says Swans star (Nov 23) 10:00
CRAIG Beattie reckons Swansea City have earned the respect of the Championship big boys — but has warned supporters to avoid talk of play-offs.

Swansea climbed to third on Friday following a well-deserved 1-0 win over Derby County at the Liberty Stadium, before results on Saturday saw them end the weekend in fourth.

Fede Bessone's goal clocked up Swansea's seventh Championship win and their highest position in 26 years, with Paulo Sousa's side now unbeaten in 11 games. Bessone was mobbed by his team-mates following his heroics, while Swansea's squad and management embraced each other in a post-match huddle.

While the huddle is regularly seen after matches these days, it is clear the "family" feeling which Sousa has called for is reaping its rewards.

And Beattie, who became the club's record signing in August, insists the club's camaraderie is a huge factor in Swansea's success.

"We have a really close bunch of boys here. We mix very well," said Beattie, who experienced the Celtic huddle during his time with The Bhoys.

"You may hear people around the country say it over and again, but I am being 100 per cent genuinely honest — everyone here is absolutely unbelievable. They are good players, fantastic characters and great people.

"What you see out there is not fake. We are all grabbing each other when we score, and we really mean that because we are a tight unit.

"Everyone is so happy when we do well, but when the chips are down we are all behind each other.

"I've never experienced team spirit like this. Everyone is very humble and know we are privileged — it is a fantastic place to work.

Evening Post

 
Brace lets fly after shock home defeat (Nov 23) 10:00

CARMARTHEN Town manager Deryn Brace could not hide his bitter disappointment as he watched his team crumble to a shock 3-1 loss to lowly Porthmadog at Richmond Park.

It was a satisfying afternoon for former Old Gold boss Tomi Morgan, whose side recorded their second win on the trot and scored for the first time on the road this season.

He admitted: "Carmarthen could have won it had they taken their chances in the first half."

But that was little consolation to Brace.

"It's been a terrible day," he said. "It was a total Jekyll and Hyde performance.

"We should have been out of sight at half-time, but what's the point of saying that when we were a complete disaster in the second half.

"You know I'm always one to defend my players, but seven or eight of them totally let me down today.

"They have been told in no uncertain terms what I think. The boys need to wake up.

"They didn't turn up in the second half and Porthmadog took the game by the scruff of the neck and deserved to win."

Evening Post

 
Rose back to his best for Talbot (Nov 22) 12:00

PORT Talbot dented Bangor’s prospects of gaining a top 10 Super League place with a well deserved victory at the GenQuip Stadium.

The Steelmen were full value for their maximum points haul win, which sees them ease into fifth spot in the table.

Most of the chances created came the way of the Steelmen, with top scorer Martin Rose their two-goal hero.

Rose was back to his best in terms of creation and goal-scoring as he, more than anyone, brought about the Citizens’ downfall.

Following a goalless first half, Rose broke the deadlock when he rifled in a powerful shot from the edge of the area.

Then, 10 minutes from time, Rose was pulled down in the box and he picked himself up to score from the penalty spot.

But the visitors made it a tense finale when a misunderstanding in the Port Talbot penalty area resulted in Dave Swanick scrambling a goal for Bangor.

That came after Rose and Daniel Thomas had gone close to adding to Port Talbot’s tally.

Wales on Sunday

 
Neath miss chances at soggy Welshpool (Nov 22) 12:00

NEATH’S hopes of earning a share of the Welsh Premier leadership were frustrated in a goalless deadlock at rain-drenched Welshpool.

Both sides could have snatched the spoils following plenty of endeavour and goalmouth action amid the sodden conditions.

Although the visitors could take some satisfaction from stretching their unbeaten league run to 10 games, manager Andy Dyer was disappointed his side did not return with the three points.

“You can’t be happy when you miss as many chances as we did,” he said.

By contrast, Pool boss Huw Griffiths felt the draw was a fair result, with the Lilywhites defending in wholehearted fashion while also having a second-half effort ruled out for offside.

Neath carved the better early openings as Chris Llewellyn saw home ’keeper Jack Cudworth turn his 11th-minute effort onto a post, while the former Wrexham striker also steered a strike just wide.

Ashley Evans put another effort just past an upright from the edge of the box, while skipper Andy Hill’s firm header from Evans’ cross was well saved by Cudworth.

Welshpool, battling to climb the table, refused to budge in the rain, and almost went ahead five minutes before the break.

The industrious Peter Doran flicked on for Mike Cronshaw, who saw his floated chip from the right bounce on top of the bar.

The second period continued in similar vein amid worsening weather conditions, Pool sparking one alarm when ’keeper Wyn Walters’ clearance was charged down by Cronshaw before being cleared.

At the other end, young substitute Liam Thomas had a couple of efforts from distance in an increasingly frantic finish.

Hill was denied by Cudworth from the edge of the box, Matthew Harris saw an angled strike cleared off the line, while Cudworth saved well at the feet of Llewellyn. Welshpool did get the ball in the net on 78 minutes when Cronshaw latched on to a rebound after Walters could only parry a shot from Doran, but his delight was shortlived thanks to an offside call.

Gareth Williams also chipped wide with the visitors at full stretch but Neath pressed with increasing urgency late on, with substitute Carl Shaw twice denied by Cudworth, before being stretchered off when injured in a last-gasp goalmouth melee.

Wales on Sunday

 
Goytre on course for title as Lido see red (Nov 22) 12:00

REIGNING champions Goytre United took another step towards retaining MacWhirter Welsh League title as they opened up a nine-point lead at the top of the table after edging out Afan Lido 2-1.

Prolific scorer Richard Ryan opened Goytre’s account with a seventh-minute strike, but Damon Thomas equalised just after the break.

Indiscipline possibly cost Lido the match as two players were red-carded. Jacob Daly restored the lead for Goytre in the 64th minute.

Barry Town moved up three places to second with a narrow 1-0 victory at lowly Ely Rangers.

Mid-table Caldicot went on the rampage, trouncing visitors West End 7-1.

Gareth Cullimore grabbed a hat-trick and there was a brace for Dominic Connor.

Jason Thorn and Mark Williams also got on the scoresheet.

Bridgend went 3-0 down to Taffs Well who scored through Aaron Colwill, Barry Richards and Dean Maynard. But the hosts fought back and two goals from Ramir Outlaw gave them some hope only for Maynard to put the result beyond doubt.

Bryntirion Athletic moved up from ninth to fourth space with a spirited 4-2 success at Dinas Powys.

Nana Baah scored a brace of goals and there was one apiece for Adam Carpenter and Anthony Rawlings.

Jacob Rudman and Tom Hutton replied for Dinas.

The matches at Aberaman, Caerleon and Garden Village all fell victim to the weather.

Wales on Sunday

 
Morgan magic inspires County to cup victory (Nov 22) 11:30

Newport Co 2-1 Braintree

A SWIRLING wind blowing from end to end was the dominant feature in a hard-fought FA Carlsberg Trophy tie at Newport Stadium yesterday.

But Newport County just about earned their place in the first round proper by making better use of the conditions than Braintree Town, their worthy opponents from Essex.

County played some sparkling stuff in the first-half, with Kerry Morgan, on loan from Swansea, particularly impressive.

The diminutive winger forced a good save from Braintree keeper David Blackmore in the 17th minute.

But a free-kick from wide on the left by Morgan five minutes later completely deceived the netminder and found its way in to the far corner of the net, to Blackmore’s embarrassment.

In the 27th minute another Morgan set piece proved Braintree’s undoing as Dave Gilroy planted home a powerful header to put County 2-0 up.

Craig Reid was close to extending it further a minute before half-time, but Braintree skipper Mark Jones made a spectacular goal-line clearance which was followed by a good save from Blackmore – this again after more good play from Morgan.

But with the wind at their backs, Braintree were a tougher proposition after the break and George Purcell smashed home on 51 minutes to cut the deficit.

County had to defend in depth but Braintree could never quite find County’s cutting edge in attack and Scott Rogers almost increased the lead in the last minute only for Ryan Peters to make a good clearance.

County boss Dean Holdsworth said: “Conditions played an important part and I’m really pleased we got through without a replay.”

Wales on Sunday

 
Port Talbot 3 points off the leaders with win over 9 man Bangor (Nov 21) 16:30
Port Talbot's great run continued today at Victoria Road with a 2-1 win over welsh cup champions Bangor City.

It was top scorer Martin Rose who did the biz for the Steelemen by scoring a brace. his first came on 57' and he added the 2nd from the penalty spot on 80' (after Bangor's Peter Hoy was shown the red card and conceeding the penalty).

10 man Bangor got back into it in the 83rd minute when Defender David Swanwick reduced the deficit to make the score 2-1. Bangor were reduced to 9 men when David Morley also saw red after picking up his 2nd yellow of the game. but Port Talbot held out of all 3 points and a 4th win on the trot.

They are now just 1 point of 3rd placed Neath who were held to 0-0 draw against Welshpool.

Port Talbot Town line up:

Lee Kendall, Leigh De-Vulgt, Lloyd Grist, Karl Lewis, Matthew Rees, Lee Surman (Gareth Phillips 12'), Lee John (Drew Fahiya 87'), Neil Thomas, Martin Rose, Liam McCreesh, Daniel Thomas (Scott Barrow 69').

Attendance: 156

 
Swansea leap to 3rd with victory over Derby county (Nov 21) 12:15

FEDERICO Bessone smashed home a late winner as Swansea moved up to third in the Coca-Cola Championship with a richly deserved victory over struggling Derby on Friday night.

Paulo Sousa's side, who went into the game on the back of a 10-match unbeaten run, were in control throughout at the Liberty Stadium but were unable to apply the necessary finishing touch until Bessone's 81st-minute winner, his first goal for the club.

The Argentinian latched on to a delightful through ball from substitute Joe Allen before thumping home a left-footed shot into the top corner to the delight of the home faithful.

Although Derby defended bravely, they could have few complaints with the final result, having failed to offer anything by way of an attacking threat.

And while Swansea look set to challenge at the top end of the table this season, the Rams remain in 18th, just three points clear of the relegation zone.

Swansea, who were still without the injured duo of Garry Monk and Mark Gower, recalled Andrea Orlandi in place of Allen following the latter's exertions with the Wales Under-21 side.

Derby boss Nigel Clough made two changes to the side that defeated Coventry 2-1 prior to the international break. Jake Livermore replaced Stephen Pearson, who was ruled out with a slight groin strain, while Bryan Hughes came in for Paul Dickov as Clough opted to switch to a 4-5-1 formation.

Evening Post

 
Neath and Port Talbot aim to steal Welsh Premier march (Nov 21) 12:15

With The New Saints going head-to-head with arch-rivals Rhyl tomorrow, Neath and Port Talbot have a chance to join the Welsh Premier title race today

Neath, who have already enjoyed a brief moment of top-spot glory, should advance their cause at Welshpool and extend an unbeaten run to 10 matches.

But manager Andrew Dyer is forced into making changes for the first time in eight games as defenders Liam Hancock, Sean Cronin and striker Craig Steins are all suspended.

Rob Folland and Matthew Harris return, while 16-year-old central defender Mike Davey is set to appear for the first time.

Port Talbot aim to put aside the disappointment of their midweek League Cup semi-final defeat when they entertain Bangor. Victory would continue a remarkable rise up the table by Mark Jones’ side.

“We have won three on the trot and put ourselves in a good position, so it’s important to keep the run going,” said Jones.

New Aberystwyth boss Alan Morgan will be in charge for the first time when the Seasiders host strugglers Cefn Druids, who have not won in six.

Carmarthen Town are still without striker Craig Hughes for the visit of Porthmadog, who are out of the bottom three after last week’s first win of the campaign against Prestatyn.

Elsewhere, bottom club Caersws host Connah’s Quay and Newtown visit Airbus UK.

Phil Blanche

 
Newport County bid to take rich vein of form into the FA Trophy (Nov 21) 10:15

HIGH-FLYING Newport County take a break from Blue Square South Division football to tackle FA Trophy with Braintree the visitors to Spytty Park (3pm).

County have an eight-point gap at the top of the division and passed the 2,000 attendance mark last week when they beat Kent-based Bromley 2-0 to extend their lead.

One of the biggest problems Holdsworth has to face is to keep everybody’s feet on the ground, players’ staff and supporters.

“There’s a long way to go but it’s a fabulous position to be in,” he said.

“The players should all be proud of themselves. They have amazing belief and we are just determined to carry it on.

“The supporters broke the 2,000 barrier last weekend and it would be great if we could break the 3,000 barrier by the end of the month.

“At the moment I wish we had a game every day to be honest, but we will take the FA Trophy seriously.

“The lads will do the best they can to progress through.

“They are high on confidence and that is coming through in the football we are trying to play here.”

Mark Bloom

 
Llanelli go top with victory at Haverfordwest (Nov 21) 11:00 10:15
A Rhys Griffiths goal after 78 minutes put the Reds on top of the Welsh Premier League as they won 1 0 at Haverfordwest.
Both sides had chances during the game with the Reds more prominent throughout and hitting the wood work twice.
The win puts the Reds ahead of Rhyl on goal difference. Rhyl visit TNS on Sunday.

Llanelli official website

 
Bluebirds wait on Far East cash for transfer window move (Nov 20) 10:15

CARDIFF CITY boss Dave Jones will be given the green light to bolster his Bluebirds squad in the January transfer window if Far East investment in the club is confirmed soon.

Jones wants a central midfielder as well as a targetman to challenge Jay Bothroyd to maintain City’s promotion push in 2010.

The Bluebirds hierarchy had made it clear they would not sanction any new signings unless Jones off-loaded players.

But chairman Peter Ridsdale has indicated a change of approach if Malaysians looking to pour money into City put pen to paper in the next few days.

“If, as we hope, the new investment comes in then we will move to bring in players in the areas we recognise need strengthening,” said Ridsdale.

“I would be extremely disappointed, without being able to guarantee it, if we could not strengthen during January.”

New investment from Malaysia would also ensure City could turn away offers for their players and enable Jones to keep the men he wants.

The talks are at a delicate stage and Ridsdale won’t want anything to upset either agreement.

“If new investment comes in, which I believe is just around the corner, then we would only sell a player if an offer came in at a level which we would be mad to turn down,” said Ridsdale.

“Then, of course, we would invest money back into the playing squad.

Terry Phillips

 
Mark Jones has to pick his players up (Nov 20) 02:15

PORT Talbot manager Mark Jones admits he must pick his players up for tomorrow's visit of Bangor City after defeat in the Loosemores League Cup semi-final to The New Saints.

The Steelmen went down to a 2-0 second-leg loss at Park Hall on Tuesday after the first leg finished 0-0.

Two goals in the opening half hour put Saints into the safety zone and, although the visitors hit back after the break, they failed to score.

Port Talbot were unlucky, though, as Liam McCreesh hit the woodwork and Neil Thomas forced a good save from Paul Harrison before sending a header just over.

"The boys are devastated but will be up for their next challenge against Bangor," Jones said.

"Two early goals killed us, but we dominated the second half and just needed to get that little bit of good fortune to set us up again.

"But we'll be raring to go against Bangor as we are keen to make it four wins in a row. We are up to fifth and want to keep the pressure on the teams above us."

The Citizens are yet to fire on all cylinders but have an enviable record in Aberavon, having lost just twice in nine visits, although Drew Fahiya earned Port Talbot a 2-1 win last season.

Despite a hectic week the hosts are at full strength.

Evening Post

 
Neath's league push hit by suspensions (Nov 20) 02:00

NEATH boss Andrew Dyer has major selection problems for his side's trip to Welshpool as they seek to claw back ground after last week's postpone- ment against Aberystwyth due to a waterlogged Gnoll pitch.

Liam Hancock, Craig Stiens and Sean Cronin are all subject to suspensions, with Dyer likely to add 16-year-old central defender Mike Davey to the squad.

Dyer has high hopes for the youngster, who is the brother of midfielder Stephen, and he is likely to be introduced from the bench.

But to offset the absentees, Rob Folland and Mattie Harris are both available again and should make the starting line-up.

Dyer was not too displeased at last week's postponement.

"The weather was dreadful and they (Aberystwyth) had just announced a new manager so it would have been a really difficult game for us," Dyer said.

"Welshpool will not be underestimated, but if we are going to challenge for a top-three or top-four spot these are the games we have to win.

"I'm just hoping the weather relents and the match goes ahead as there are some very tough matches for the teams above us this week and we could make up more ground on them."

Dyer added: "It is disappointing to have to make changes to the team for the first time in eight matches, but we have the players who can come in and do the business."

While the Eagles have flown to another level this season, Mike Griffith's team have struggled for consistency and a record of three home defeats in four matches points to another Neath win.

That would extend an already impressive unbeaten run to 10 matches.

Evening Post

 
Tommi Morgan back on familiar ground against Carmarthen (Nov 20) 01:45

A VISIT from struggling Porthmadog tomorrow sees the return to Richmond Park of one of Carmarthen Town's most successful managers, Tomi Morgan.

The former Old Gold favourite has his work cut out to prevent his team toppling out of the league, although last week's 2-0 victory over Prestatyn, their first of the campaign, has not gone unnoticed by Town boss Deryn Brace.

"Porthmadog will be on a high after last week's result and I've heard they have been playing better than their results indicate, so we are certainly not going to take them lightly," said Brace.

"The lads know what they have to do, but it remains to be seen what two weeks off has done. Hopefully, it has refreshed us, but you are always wary it could go the other way."

If previous form is any guideline, the visitors' cause looks hopeless as they have won only once at Carmarthen in eight visits — and that was in 1996.

Striker Craig Hughes was earmarked to return to action this week after making only four appearances due to injury, but Brace has decided to give him further time to recover.

"We have a huge December and January and I would prefer him to be fully fit through that hectic period rather than risk his missing out."

A doubt surrounds Dyfan Pierce, but Brace is hopeful he will have recovered from his hip injury.

Evening Post

 
Llanelli keen to get back on track against Haverfordwest (Nov 20) 01:30

TONIGHT'S visit to Haverfordwest will ask further questions of Llanelli, who will be desperate to return to winning ways following last week's disappointing 2-0 home reverse to The New Saints.

It was a Jekyll and Hyde week for Andy Legg's team, who looked world beaters in thrashing lowly Caersws 7-1 but looked anything but against a team who are rapidly turning into title favourites.

Legg takes his side to Bridge Meadow, where they have won three and drawn one of their last four visits.

Stuart Jones's last-gasp goal gave the Reds a 1-0 victory last year, and Legg would be happy for a repeat.

"Haverfordwest away is always a big challenge for any team, but we need to bounce back from the Saints disappointment," said Legg.

"We didn't perform, although credit to Saints — they played very well."

Legg should have recovered sufficiently to consider himself for a starting position after a bout of flu confined him to the bench last week, although he came on for the last half hour.

A couple of players suffered aches and pains following the defeat by Saints, but they should have recovered to take a spot in the line-up, with the most important aspect of tonight's match being the restoration of pride and belief.

Evening Post

 
Saturday games for Port Talbot and Neath could be a thing of the past (Nov 19) 19:00

WELSH Premier League football matches on Saturdays could become a thing of the past if attendance figures for fixtures on Fridays and Sundays are found to be higher.

According to Anthony Evans, Club Director of Aberystwyth Town, league matches could be played on Fridays and Sundays from next season, bringing an end to the traditional Saturday slot.

Mr Evans told the Cambrian News how Tony Bates, Managing Director of Aberystwyth Town Football Club and a member of the Welsh Premier League Board, reported the news to Aberystwyth Town’s board of directors. He said: “Mr Bates said that the Welsh Premier League Board has been discussing the way the league will be run next year, and they have reviewed attendances at fixtures this season and last, and they do appear to be better on a Friday and Sunday.

“Also, games on Sundays are being televised and that makes playing on Sundays an option.

“At the moment, no hard decisions have been made, but its obvious there is going to be an on-going review of the situation and decisions will be made.”

“Around 40 per cent of our matches have already been played on Friday nights and that doesn’t seem to have affected our players or our fans. It seems like they have already been weaned on to it.

“However, if fans do prefer to watch their football on Saturdays, they need to come out and do so because the league is looking at attendance figures.”

Aberystwyth Town manager Alan Morgan thinks a switch from Saturdays would be good for the league.

He said: “Friday games always get a bigger crowd because on Saturday you have to compete with rugby, televised Premier League matches, district games, etc.

“If they do get rid of Saturday fixtures it would mean more money for league teams and that’s obviously a good thing.

Cambrian News

 
Cardiff City investment hope if debt deal is secured (Nov 19) 08:40

PETER RIDSDALE is hopeful of landing major new investment into Cardiff City this week – if agreement can be reached with Langston on paying off their debt.

Bluebirds chairman Ridsdale revealed the financial future of Cardiff City could be secured ‘within days’.

Ridsdale is close to agreement with Langston, while talks on investment from Malaysia are going well.

Property magnate Dato Chan Tien Ghee, usually called ‘TG’, has watched Cardiff City play three times this season and Ridsdale said: “He is one of two people who I believe want to put significant funding into this football club if we can resolve the Lanston debt.

“I am in daily contact with those people and TG is very keen to invest. So is the other party. First, though, we must sort out the Langston situation.

“We are very close. This could happen soon, possibly within days. In the very near future I believe we will be saying we have paid off two chunks of debt.”

Ridsdale, talking on Cardiff City’s phone-in programme sponsored by St David’s Travel and broadcast via GTFM, Cardiff and Bro radio stations, spoke to Dato Chan at around 6pm last night – and was due for further talks early this morning.

Cardiff City owe £24m to Langston, an historical debt from Sam Hammam’s time in charge of the club, plus a debt to property developers Paul Guy and Mike Hall.

“At the stage when we have paid of those debts Cardiff City will have the best balance sheet in football with £60m worth of assets and no debt,” said Ridsdale.

ICWALES

 
Chopra back in harness (Nov 19) 01:40

Cardiff City will welcome back one of their 12-goal leading scorers at Barnsley on Saturday – but they face a wait to see if the other will be fit.

Michael Chopra returns to partner Jay Bothroyd up front, having completed his one-match suspension.

But Peter Whittingham, who has fired nine goals in his last seven matches, is battling to be fit after missing the match at Swansea with a knee injury.

Full-back Kevin McNaughton could also be back, having recovered from the ankle injury and calf strain which has kept him out this season.

He came through a reserve team match against Hereford United and said: “This injury has been a nightmare – the longest I have ever been out.

“I need to get back in action. I’m hopeless as a spectator.

“I’m looking forward to Barnsley.

“The lads have done a brilliant job getting us into third place and, if I’m picked, I want to help us push on from there.”

The return of McNaughton to fitness is a major boost for manager Dave Jones, while he would love to have Whittingham, Chopra and Bothroyd together again at Barnsley.

They have scored 26 of Cardiff's 33 League goals between them this season.

With Ross McCormack, who fired 23 goals last season, also fit and available Jones has decisions to make.

Terry Phillips

 
Flynn's boys suffer setback to Euro qualifying dreams (Nov 19) 01:30

WALES Under-21s lost their unbeaten record in Uefa Championship qualifying Group Three with a 2-1 defeat at Bosnia- Herzegovina.

And they now face a 10-month wait for the next chance to secure a play-off spot.

Coach Brian Flynn saw his team take an early lead through Swansea City's Joe Allen, but a goal in each half from Bosnian striker Anes Haurdic brought to an end Wales's six-match unbeaten record at this level.

Now Wales must wait until September next year for the final games, away to Hungary and Italy, knowing they still need one victory to secure a top-two finish in the group.

Cardiff youngster Adam Matthews won his first cap at this level, having been in the senior squad on Saturday which beat Scotland 3-0.

With Italy winning 4-0 in Luxembourg to close the gap on leading pair Wales and Hungary, the race to reach the 2011 finals in Denmark has intensified.

Wales got the perfect start with a fifth-minute goal from Allen, who fired home from 10 yards after Matthews' throw-in was flicked on into his path.

The home side were level after 29 minutes when a shot from Haurdic flew past goalkeeper Chris Maxwell.

Wales sent on Swansea's Jazz Richards at the break for the injured Matthews, and then introduced MacDonald for Vokes soon after the interval. It meant that the Swansea winger, currently on loan at Yeovil, set a new caps record for the Wales under- 21s with his 22nd appearance at this level, overtaking James Thomas.

Wales were still under pressure and conceded a penalty when Darcy Blake was booked after 62 minutes for a foul on Haurdic.

Wales received a major let-off when Nenad Kiso missed from the spot, firing his effort wide. But their joy was short-lived when Haurdic fired home his second of the match after 66 minutes to put Bosnia ahead.

It was now Wales's turn to try to mount a recovery, with Church, three times, Mark Bradley, Evans and Richards all going close.

Evening Post

 
Port Talbot bow out of League cup with defeat against TNS (Nov 18) 22:00

Port Talbot were beaten tonight in Oswestry by 2 goals to nil. TNS book their place in the league cup final for the 2nd year running and will face Rhyl in the final. The tie was level at 0-0 after the 1st leg at Victoria Road. But Port Talbot's hopes were all over in the 1st 30 minutes. TNS relied on their midfielder's tonight to get them through to the final with Barry Hogan putting them in front on 22' putting the ball over Port keeper Kendal from just outside the box . On the half hour TNS were awarded a penalty and Scott Ruscoe who was fouled got up to take the penalty himself and made no mistake from the spot to put the home side 2-0 up and Port were not able to reply for the remainder of the game as TNS secured a comfortable victory.

Port Talbot line up:

Lee Kendall, Leigh De Vulgt (Matthew Rees 85'), Scott Barrow, Gareth Phillips, Gary Bansor, Lee Surman, Drew Fahiya, Neil Thomas, Martin Rose,
Liam McCreesh (Lee John 72'), Daniel Thomas (Lloyd Grist 63').

 
Swansea closing in on Cotterill (Nov 18) 14:00

Swansea City are close to signing Sheffield United forward David Cotterill.

The 21-year-old Wales international joined the Blades in July 2008 for an undisclosed fee after an initial loan spell from Wigan.

But he has found first-team appearances limited this season starting just three times in 14 Championship appearances.

Cardiff-born Cotterill ended Swansea's play-off hopes last April, scoring from the penalty spot in United's 1-0 win.

It is understood the deal would initially be a loan with the two clubs still trying to thrash out a permanent move.

Swans boss Paulo Sousa has been looking for more attacking options as Swansea are the lowest scorers in the Championship with 14 goals in 16 games.

Cotterill, who has 16 caps for Wales, started his career at Bristol City and scored for the Robins in their 7-1 thrashing by Swansea in September 2005.

In August 2006, he joined Wigan Athletic for £2,000,000, but made just 18 Premier League appearances in 18 months, prompting a move to United.

BBC

 
Fit McNaughton itching for action (Nov 18) 14:00

Kevin McNaughton says he is desperate to play his first senior game of the season at Barnsley after returning to fitness with Cardiff City reserves.

"The lads have done a brilliant job to get us into third in the league and if I'm picked, I want to help us push on from there," said McNaughton.

The Scottish defender played 45 minutes at left-back for the Bluebirds reserves in Tuesday's 2-0 defeat to Hereford.

Peter Whittingham and Michael Chopra are also available for Barnsley.

Whittingham is back to fitness after a knee injury and Chopra available after suspension.

McNaughton, sporting a natty moustache in support of the Movember charity, has been out since damaging ankle ligaments in a pre-season friendly with Celtic.

"I'm feeling fine," he told the Cardiff website after the Hereford game. "The half I played was another step forward for me.

"The big thing is to get match practice because you can only get so much out of training.

"This injury has been a nightmare. It's the longest I've ever been out.

"I've had a couple of hamstring injuries during my career, but the longest I've been out before this was eight weeks.

"I need to get back in action, I'm hopeless as a spectator.

"I went to the Swansea match and didn't enjoy it at all, although the result certainly didn't help.

"The nearest I've been to the first team this season was when I was on the bench against Palace, but I didn't get on the pitch."

BBC

 
Swansea take pair on trial (Nov 17) 17:55

Swansea City have taken two members of the Glenn Hoddle Academy on trial.

Nineteen-year-old pair Matthew Dempsey and Billy Lumley were spotted by chief scout Lil Fuccillo playing for the academy against Fulham and MK Dons.

Both will join the Swans on a week's trial and are set to figure in today's reserve team fixture at Plymouth Argyle.

Central defender Dempsey joined Hoddle's academy in Spain after being released by Sheffield United, while goalkeeper Lumley is looking to make his mark again after being shown the door by Wolves.

"We've watched them a couple of times and they also come highly recommended,'' said Fuccillo.

"Hopefully we will see something in them over the next few days and they can earn themselves a second chance.''

Stephen Ware

 
Cardiff striker Feeney hoping for January move (Nov 17) 17:45

CARDIFF CITY striker Warren Feeney has admitted that he is looking to move on in the January transfer window.

The Northern Ireland international has played only two minutes football for Cardiff this season, coming on as a late substitute in the 1-1 home draw with Crystal Palace last month.

“The transfer window is coming up in January and we’ll see what happens there and take things on in the New Year,” said Feeney, who started Northern Ireland’s 1-0 friendly defeat at home to Serbia in Belfast on Saturday.

“I want to get out there and I need to get playing to feel good about myself again.

“I’ve another six weeks to go and then I’ll be looking to get something sorted out.

“Right now I’m fit, passionate about my football, an honest player – and I am keen to play as much football as possible.”

Feeney, 28, has been keen to stay and break into the Cardiff squad, but with Michael Chopra, Jay Bothroyd and Ross McCormack in front of him that has proved impossible.

Loan signing Kelvin Etuhu is also due back from Manchester City next week.

That means a move away from South Wales looks inevitable for Feeney, who was close to joining Swansea City in 2007 before injury struck.

He was also lined up for a move to Leeds United – where he started his professional football career – but that collapsed when he failed the medical because of a hip complaint. I was gutted over the summer with what happened,” he said.

“But I am not one to sit back and look at the past.

“The move to Leeds fell through because of a problem with the hip, but that’s sorted now and I managed to get myself back ahead of schedule. I was told I wouldn’t kick a ball until the end of October and I was back three weeks earlier. “I’m not one who is going to sit there and pick up the money, I wouldn’t do that, I want to play.”

ICWALES

 
County WILL go up says Hughes (Nov 17) 17:35

FORMER Newport County fans’ favourite Craig Hughes is convinced Dean Holdsworth’s men are dead-certs to win promotion to the Blue Square Premier.

The 30-year-old striker, who won cult hero status during his three and a half seasons at Spytty Park, believes the Exiles will finally see the back of the Conference South after years of near-misses.

County moved eight points clear at the top of the table with a game in hand after Sunday’s 2-0 victory over Bromley and Hughes, now with Welsh Premier League outfit Carmarthen Town, is delighted to see his old club flying high.

“It’s been a tough few months out injured for me but I’m so pleased with the way things are going in Newport,” said Hughes.

“Deano and the boys are on fire at the moment and I texted a few of them after the game on Sunday to say ‘we are going up’.

“I think this is definitely the year. County are going up,” he added.

“They are so well drilled and balanced all over the park – the lads are destined to go up and I’m so chuffed for them.”

Hughes believes the credit crunch has been a big factor in County’s success.

“The financial situation has definitely put everyone on an even keel,” he said.

“When I was at the club there were teams like AFC Wimbledon, Lewes and Chelmsford with massive budgets but now its not the case and Newport County are head and shoulders above the other clubs in that division.”

Holdsworth himself is keen to keep everybody’s feet on the ground but he can’t disguise his delight at the way things are going.

“There’s a long way to go but it’s a fabulous position to be in,” he said. “The players should all be proud of themselves. They have amazing belief and we are just determined to carry it on.

“I’ve got 17 winners in this squad and the effort and desire they show every match is amazing,” he added.

“The substitutes Ashan Holgate and Kerry Morgan did very well on Sunday when they came on but I thought Scott Rogers and Wayne Turk were the real unsung heroes.

“A lot of the stuff they do in the middle of the park goes un-noticed but they were absolutely spot-on against Bromley.”

Andrew Penman

 
Sousa makes plea to Swans fans (Nov 17) 17:30

PAULO Sousa has challenged Swansea City's supporters to pack the Liberty Stadium for every match — not just the big games.

Swansea defeated arch rivals Cardiff City in front of a capacity crowd 10 days ago as Sousa sampled a Liberty sell-out for the first time.

But he said: "We sold out for the derby against Cardiff, but it can't be a one-off.

"A true Jack doesn't just come to the 'big' games. They come to support us through thick and thin."

Sousa hopes the atmosphere generated during the thrilling win over Cardiff will inspire Swansea fans to turn out in numbers more regularly — starting with the visit of Derby County on Friday.

"The atmosphere against Cardiff was fantastic and when we needed our fans the most — when Cardiff came back to 2-2 — they were there for us," he added. "They spurred the players on when it mattered most and made all the difference between success and possible failure.

"Now we need the Jack Army to make the difference in every game. We need to fill the Liberty Stadium on Friday and every game after that. That is my challenge to Swans fans everywhere.''

Swansea have already sold 14,000 tickets for Friday's game.

Evening Post

 
Disappointed Llanelli unable to fix their New Saints jinx (Nov 16) 02:00

THE New Saints hoodoo struck again at Stebonheath Park as they deservedly beat a lacklustre Llanelli, who have beaten the visitors only twice in 13 attempts at home.

Yesterday's defeat was Llanelli's first at home this season and leaves them three points adrift of leaders Rhyl, who were 3-1 winners over lowly Caersws.

Saints are now level with Andy Legg's side with a game in hand on the top two.

Llanelli player-manager Andy Legg sprung a pre-match surprise when he named himself on the bench, although he was thought to be recovering from a virus.

Steve Jenkins filled in on the left, with Craig Jones on the right flank and Andy Mumford taking a position in front of the back four.

Rocked

The hosts were rocked when The New Saints went in front in the 15th minute.

A high ball into the box was chased by visiting striker Matthew Berkeley, who caused confusion at the heart of the Reds defence.

The ball fell to Craig Jones, whose shot off the outside of his boot trickled into the net past wrong-footed keeper Ashley Morris.

Just before the break the visitors had a glorious chance to double their advantage but Aaron Edwards headed wide from six yards after Scott Ruscoe had beaten Craig Jones.

Llanelli's moments were few and far between.

Craig Moses put Jason Bowen through but he was well denied by a superb Tommy Holmes tackle, and Rhys Griffiths set up Moses, whose effort was safely gathered by Saints keeper Paul Harrison.

On the stroke of half-time Llanelli were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the box but Antonio Corbisiero's powerful shot went straight at Harrison.

The visitors nearly increased their lead shortly after the interval when former Llanelli flyer Craig Williams shot wide after being put through by Jones.

Spark

This seemed to spark the hosts into life and Corbisiero, Llanelli's most impressive player, was twice denied in the space of a minute.

His first effort was brilliantly saved by Harrison after good approach work by Owain Warlow, and a thunderbolt shortly afterwards was bravely thwarted on the line by Edwards, the force nearly driving him into the net.

It proved to be Llanelli's last opportunity, and the game was sealed in the 62nd minute when Saints scored again.

Brilliant approach work by the highly impressive Berkeley put Ruscoe in space and he beat Morris with a fierce near-post shot.

That signalled the arrival of Legg in place of Craig Jones, but even his influence failed to provide Llanelli with an escape route as the visitors comfortably held on for a crucial success.

Evening Post

 
Port Talbot boss hails substitutes' impact (Nov 16) 01:30

Port Talbot took advantage of the first major weather disruption of the season to steal a march on their rivals with an impressive 3-0 victory at Connah's Quay.

Another three points for the Steelmen elevated them to fifth, only three points adrift of third-placed Neath but having played an extra game.

It was Port Talbot's fifth triumph at the venue in their last six visits and, although he would not publicly agree, manager Mark Jones must now be contemplating the possibility of his team joining one of the closest races for the title in years.

"It was an outstanding victory and within the comfort zone that a 3-0 win suggests," Jones said.

"In fact, I felt it could have been more as Quay were well beaten and we thoroughly deserved to win."

Jones pointed to the second-half introductions of Scott Barrow and Drew Fahiya, who replaced Neil Thomas and Lee John, as the major turning point after Martin Rose had given the visitors a dream start with a goal in the opening 20 seconds.

It came from a brilliant Danny Thomas delivery into the box that Rose chested down and finished off with aplomb.

"It was a magnificent goal and gave us the perfect start, but it was when the two young lads came on that we really stepped up a gear," Jones added.

"It was like bringing on Theo Walcott and Joe Cole — and you can quote me on that. They were excellent. They changed the game.

"We need to just keep playing as we are and stay free of injuries and suspensions. As I've said before, we have a nice little run leading up to Christmas and we have a chance of putting pressure on the teams above us."

Next week is probably the toughest of those of those challenges as Bangor City head to the GenQuip Stadium, with strugglers Porthmadog and Cefn Druids the next home encounters, while Newtown and Bala Town are the two away trips.

If Jones's men can gain 12 or 13 points from those five games, the scene will be set for a crucial Christmas double header against the Welsh Premier's new rising stars Neath.

Central defender Matthew Rees equalled Robert Cockings' record of 155 appearances for the club.

Evening Post

 
Swans are named in U21 squad (Nov 16) 01:30

SWANSEA City quartet Joe Allen, Shaun MacDonald, Jazz Richards and David Cornell are in the Wales squad for the Uefa Under-21 Championship qualifier against Bosnia-Herzegovina on Wednesday. Simon Church, who scored his debut goal for Wales's senior side in the 3-0 victory over Scotland, has also been called up He was one of eight players on duty for the win over Scotland, who were named in Brian Flynn's revised squad for the clash in Sarajevo. Injury Wales are top of their group, and, following Italy's 2-0 defeat in Hungary on Friday, a victory on Wednesday will ensure a play-off spot. Aaron Ramsey is out with a back injury but Church, Ched Evans, Allen, Andy King and Sam Vokes — who all played against the Scots — are in the under-21s. Other senior squad members, Adam Matthews, Darcy Blake and Cornell are also in Flynn's party. Wales: Maxwell, Cornell, Blake, Matthews, Morris, Ribeiro, Richards, N Taylor, Wilson, Allen, Bodin, Bradley, King, MacDonald, Chamberlain, Church, Evans, J Taylor, Vokes, Marc Williams.

Evening Post

 
Ramsey can be one of Europe's best players (Nov 16) 00:30

DAVID Edwards was quick to hail Aaron Ramsey's class after his superb performance helped destroy Scotland.

The Arsenal teenager pulled the strings as Wales ran out easy winners over George Burley's side.

And Wolves player Edwards, emerging as a seasoned international himself with his third goal in 18 appearances, said: "Aaron is going to be a great, great player. One of the best in Europe when he gets into his prime. He looks a bit like Cesc Fabregas was at his age.

"I played against Aaron last week against Arsenal and he ran the show, with such a mature head for a lad of his age. He is going to be a really great player." He added: "The boys were terrific and I was delighted to score, the ball arrived quickly from Aaron and I didn't have to think about it much, just hit it.

"Our coach Dean Saunders is always telling us about the volleys he used to score, so that was for him, we can do it!

"We looked solid. With Ashley (Williams) sitting in front of the back four and myself and Joe (Ledley) wide, it gave Rambo space ahead of us to do what he does, create havoc. We forced them to give the ball away, and we broke quickly.

"That is when we are at our best with runners arriving from midfield."

Evening Post

 
Newport extend lead at the top to eight points (Nov 15) 18:30

County continued their good form with a 2-0 win over Bromley today, They had to wait until the 61st minute to take the lead through Rose. and they only secured all 3 points a minute from time when Morgan made it 2-0. They now lead 2nd placed Dover by 8 points with a game in hand.

 
Merthyr teach Rugby a lesson about football (Nov 15) 14:00

MERTHYR emerged convincing winners at struggling Rugby, for whom debutant manager Lee Colkin had introduced four new faces into the home side’s starting line-up.

The Martyrs’ 10-point deduction for entering administration meant this was a meeting between the League’s bottom two clubs. But Merthyr showed they are much better than that, with the visitors forced to make all the running early on.

On the half hour, Merthyr got the breakthrough they needed when young striker Scott Armitage caught Rugby goalkeeper Andrew Stevens out with a cross-cum-shot that looped into the far corner of the home side’s net.

But four minutes later Rugby’s debut-making striker Greg Smith levelled with the sweetest of strikes from the edge of the box.

But Andrew Thomas put Merthyr ahead a second time, heading home a free kick seconds before the half-time whistle.

Rugby’s task was made all the more difficult when player manager Garry Shephard put Merthyr further in front within a minute of the restart when his shot found the back of the net off the keeper’s head.

Merthyr sealed the points 10 minutes from time, the impressive Armitage completing a miserable afternoon for keeper Stevens by once again catching him out with a cross-shot.

Merthyr keeper Andrew Delve stopped a late Rugby penalty five minutes later to ensure the points returned to South Wales.

Wales on Sunday

 
Port show Steel on long trip north (Nov 15) 12:00

TOP marksman Liam McCreesh grabbed a last-minute goal – his eighth of the season – to wrap up a comfortable hat-trick of wins for the travelling Steelmen in their last three trips to Deeside.

Fresh from opening up a 2-1 advantage over champions Rhyl in their midweek League Cup semi-final triumph, confident Quay never recovered from conceding a goal in the first minute when Martin Rose fired Port ahead.

From the kick-off Port exploited a long throw-in, which left Rose in space to drive past keeper Terry McCormick from seven yards.

“It was a bad goal to give away almost before we started and it left us chasing the game from that moment on,” summed up disappointed Quay player-manager Mark McGregor. “We were rarely in it to be honest and there was no doubting they deserved the win.”

Lifted by their dream start, seventh-from-top Port showed why they have now won four times on the road already with another solid performance that froze out the Quay on a sodden pitch that only passed a morning inspection after their opponents had been on their way north for nearly two hours.

Port captain Matt Rees, making a record-equalling 155th Welsh Premier League appearance for the club to go level with former defender Robert Cockings, was determined to make the landmark occasion a winning one as he marshalled his side to return three handsome points richer.

Fifth-from-bottom Quay found Rees and keeper Lee Kendall a formidable barrier and their prospects of a point to show for some sustained spells of genuine pressure further receded when newly-introduced substitute Drew Fahiya headed Port’s second at the far post on 65 minutes, having only become involved for four minutes. In a twin substitution Fahiya replaced Neil Thomas, with Scott Barrow taking over from Lee John, producing a crucial goal to effectively kill off the flickering home threat.

McGregor brought on all three home substitutes in a bid to claw back the deficit but the final word on the scoring fell to star predator McCreesh when he outjumped the Quay defence to add to his tally in the first minute of added time and plunge the fifth-from-bottom Deesiders into deeper trouble in what was only their second home league defeat this season.

Wales on Sunday

 
Peter Whittingham wins top player gong (Nov 14) 13:10

Peter Whittingham completed a Cardiff City Championship awards double in October as the winger has been named the division's player of the month.

The 25-year-old scored seven goals in his four games in October as he emulated Bluebirds boss Dave Jones to win the division's top individual gong.

He beat Leicester's Chris Weale, QPR's Adel Taarabt and Swansea's Alan Tate.

Norwich's Grant Holt won the League One award while Notts County keeper Kasper Schmeichel won the League Two trophy.

Whittingham scored in every one of his four games last month, including a hat-trick in Cardiff's 4-3 win at Sheffield United and their double in a 4-1 victory at Watford.

The former England under-21 international was inspirational in Cardiff's push to second place at the Championship before their south Wales derby defeat at Swansea City.

BBC

 
Ashley Williams focused on leading Wales (Nov 14) 13:00

Ashley Williams is unconcerned about the potentially frosty reception he may get as the Swansea City defender leads Wales against Scotland in Cardiff.

The newly-crowned Welsh Player of the Year believes supporters at the Cardiff City Stadium should forget about club rivalries and get behind Wales.

"This is a Wales game, it is not a Swansea or Cardiff game," he said.

"We are playing at Cardiff which I hope will become our 'home' ground in the future."

The animosity between Cardiff and Swansea fans is a constant element in south Wales football - but it is Swans supporters who are revelling after last weekend's 3-2 derby win at the Liberty Stadium.

The 25-year-old's superb performance helped inspire the Swans to take the bragging rights.

But Williams' critical comments of the Bluebirds' long-ball tactics and reliance on set pieces afterwards could provoke a reaction from Cardiff fans at the Cardiff City Stadium on Saturday.

"I have not even thought about the fact that I'm a Swansea player captaining Wales in Cardiff," he said.

"It is not an issue, we are all playing for Wales, that is all that matters.

"Whoever the captain is should not be an issue really. I know I was born in England, but my mum and her family are all Welsh and I feel Welsh.

"I am living in Wales now and that gives you the chance to really get a feel for it and understand what the fans want.

BBC

 
Jonathan Ford set to be new FAW chief (Nov 14) 12:00

THE Western Mail understands that Jonathan Ford, from Coca-Cola, will be the new Football Association of Wales chief executive.

The Englishman is expected to replace outgoing David Collins, who will retire in January when he is 65.

Ford, who has a background in business, is believed to have impressed the FAW interview panel on Thursday and verbally accepted the job offer.

But confirmation of his appointment has had to be delayed for contractual reasons, with FAW president Phil Pritchard saying: “We are waiting for loose ends to be tied up.”

IcWales

 
Thomas flying high after mixing with soccer superstars (Nov 14) 11:30

NEWPORT-BASED Neil Thomas is back in the Port Talbot team today, having played alongside Lothar Matthaus and Gus Poyet in midweek.

Thomas, an RAF Serviceman based at St Athan, played for Rest of the World against England in the Help for Heroes match at Reading’s Madjeski Stadium.

“Sharing a dressing room with players like Lothar Matthaus and Gus Poyet was unbelievable,” said Thomas.

“There were a few offers to go out after the match, but I had to get back to South Wales.

“It was a superb experience, but today Port Talbot play at Connah’s Quay in the Welsh Premier league and I’m certain the lads will ensure I don’t get carried away with it.”

Thomas played for manager Lawrie Sanchez and his Rest of the World team against an England side managed by Alan Curbishley.

Andy Cole, Paul Gascoigne, Les Ferdinand, Chris Waddle, Peter Beardsley, Mark Wright and Des Walker were among the footballers who took part along with pop star Simon Webbe, boxer Nigel Benn and rugby stars Kyran Bracken, Justin Marshall and Kenny Logan.

Caernarfon-born Thomas, 27, was among the current servicemen representing the Army, Navy and RAF during the match.

 
South Wales clubs to fight FAW's plans (Nov 14) 11:10

SOUTH Wales clubs have vowed to stand their ground against the FAW following plans to direct Welsh Premier League representation from its ruling council were unveiled.

The nation's governing body is looking at removing the league's representative — it is currently The New Saints' Mike Harris — from its board.

It would mean the clubs losing their voices on future changes to the structure of the league, which is due to be cut to 12 teams from next season.

The FAW were due to meet on Thursday to discuss these changes, which would come into immediate effect if agreed on, but the Evening Post understands that has been put back to December 14.

Port Talbot chairman Andrew Edwards, who is also the South Wales representative on the Welsh Premier League board, insists his club, along with Llanelli, Neath, Carmarthen and Haverfordwest, will call on the FAW to stick to the plan in place already.

"It is important we don't lose our position on the FAW board," he said. "In no way could we, as the Welsh Premier League, lose our representative on the board. It would have too big an effect for us.

"We need a voice on the board to represent the true feelings of our clubs in the current structure.

"The clubs will be fighting their corner."

CHRIS BARNEY

 
Top six spot is Port Talbot's aim (Nov 13) 13:10

PORT Talbot look to hit the top six for the first time this season when they travel to Connah's Quay tomorrow.

Inconsistency has dogged Quay's early season, but they are still dangerous opposition, as Port Talbot manager Mark Jones acknowledges.

"They are better than their league form suggests," said Jones.

"They have had some very good cup results against Rhyl and Airbus UK, so it's another big game for us."

Jones added "I have always felt that Deeside Stadium is a very difficult place to get a result so we will have to be on our guard.

"We just need to keep churning out the results as we are already up to seventh after a good run of results."

History points in Port Talbot's direction as they have won at Deeside four times, Drew Fahiya's double forging a 2-0 triumph last year.

Earlier this week Port Talbot drew 0-0 with The New Saints at the GenQuip Stadium in the Loosemores League Cup semi-final.

Boost

"We played well and should have won against Saints, but away goals count double and that's a boost for the second leg," Jones added.

"Saints are a great team who pass the ball well, but we will go there confident."

Once again Jones has no injury worries.

Evening Post

 
Neath looking to leapfrog Llanelli with victory over Aber (Nov 13) 13:10

NEATH can leapfrog Llanelli again tonight if they win at home to Aberystwyth Town.

Town have blossomed under caretaker manager Christian Edwards, though the Park Hall club have announced that former Bangor City assistant Alan Morgan has been appointed to the top job with Edwards his number two.

"It's Alan's first proper game in charge so we need to guard against the new- manager factor and put the party to bed nice and early," said Neath boss Andy Dyer, the newly-crowned manager of the month for October.

"Team of the month it should be, as one man cannot do this alone," he added.

"A lot of hard work by many people has brought this award and the players are the ones who have to do all the talking on the pitch."

Neath's boss has a lot of respect for tonight's opponents. "They are always one of the toughest teams to face and they are full of confidence at the moment," he added.

Unbeaten

"They are unbeaten on the road and we are undefeated at The Gnoll, so it should be a great tussle and we're looking forward to it.

"If Aberystwyth beat us they would only be a point from us so it shows how tight things are. The league is nice and competitive this season. It's just what the league needs."

Dyer has a fully fit squad at his disposal.

Evening Post

 
No let up for Llanelli as TNS visit (Nov 13) 13:10

WELSH Premier League leaders Llanelli face another of their main rivals for this year's title when former champions The New Saints visit Stebonheath Park on Sunday (2.35).

Last week the Reds drew 0-0 at Rhyl to overcome their first big hurdle of the campaign, but the challenges are coming thick and fast for Andy Legg's men.

Encouragingly for Legg, his team reached the summit with a 7-1 success against outclassed Caersws in midweek.

Confidence

Rhys Griffiths emphasised his growing confidence in front of goal with a hat-trick that took him past 100 goals in Llanelli colours.

His Welsh Premier total now stands at 168 from 215 appearances.

He is on 10 for the campaign, while new boy Craig Moses, who scored twice against the Bluebirds, is on nine, and the pair are mainly responsible for Llanelli's superior goal difference over both Rhyl and Neath.

"Every year I play, the more relaxed I am as I feel I have nothing to prove," said Griffiths.

Thrashing

Other than a 4-0 thrashing of Saints two years ago, the Reds have fared poorly in this fixture, with just two wins in 12 attempts. And Legg wants the same spirit and commitment from his team that secured a precious point against Rhyl.

"We played with focus and character last week at Rhyl and we need to do the same again if we are going to get something against Saints," said Legg.

Chris Venables misses the match, which is in front of the S4C cameras, through suspension, but will be back for next week's visit to Haverfordwest.

Llanelli secretary Nigel Richards is hopeful the match will go ahead despite a worrying weather forecast.

"We need six hours of continuous rain to put the match in jeopardy," he said.

Evening Post

 
Carmathen visit happy hunting ground (Nov 13) 13:10

CARMARTHEN Town face a tricky trip to Newtown tomorrow, the home side going into the match on the back of 1-1 draw at Prestatyn last week.

Latham Park has been a happy hunting ground for the Old Gold, with only one loss in the last six matches, but manager Deryn Brace remains cautious.

"It's a tricky one as they have had some decent results, especially at home," he said.

"They play football, as any side managed by Darren Ryan would.

"We have won there on our last two visits, but by the skin of our teeth, so we will need to be on our mettle.

"The lads have played well this season although we have not been sticking the ball away and it's crucial we improve our goal ratio.

"Two wins on the trot — or two successive losses — can make such a difference to a club's league position at this time of the year, and I believe we have the players to take us further up the table.

"We have yet to reach our full potential as I believe there's a lot more to come from my players."

Striker Craig Hughes, who has figured just four times so far this season, is likely to be Carmarthen's only absentee, although Brace expects him to be back in action at home to Porthmadog next week.

Otherwise the squad is at full strength, with Sacha Walters having recovered from a virus.

Evening Post

 
FAW delighted with in new chief but he remains a mystery (Nov 13) 08:10

THE Football Association of Wales say they have their man – but were last night forced to delay the announcement of their new chief executive.

Welsh FA head honchos were yesterday locked in discussions at their Cardiff HQ after interviewing the three top candidates for the job.

But, after making their choice, president Phil Pritchard was left unable to officially name the new man for contractual reasons.

He is believed to be a London-based 39-year-old year with a business background rather than a football one and Pritchard was quick to express his delight at the imminent capture.

But he insisted he will be able to unveil the replacement for the retiring secretary general David Collins within the week, possibly within 48 hours, and was adamant there will be no hiccups after a verbal agreement.

“We are thrilled with the choice we have made,” said Pritchard. “And I am sure everyone connected with Welsh football will feel the same once we are in a position to announce who the candidate is.

“It is unfortunate that, due to contractual issues with the candidate’s employers and not the FAW, that we cannot make the announcement yet and he cannot formally accept the offer we have made to him.

“But I am confident we can do that within as little as 48 hours.”

The new chief executive, believed to be an Englishman, will pick up a £100,000 yearly package and will be looked at to increase sponsorship and commercial revenue at the association.

And the decision to opt against a candidate with a Welsh football – or even simply football – background speaks volumes of the new direction they want the new man to go.

Western Mail

 
Ashley Williams pride of Wales Twice (Nov 12) 14:10

SWANSEA City's Ashley Williams is the Welsh footballer of the year.

And in a double celebration, the defender has also been named Welsh club player of the year.

Williams collected both awards at a ceremony at Cardiff City Stadium last night.

Williams has become a cornerstone of a Swansea defence that has conceded just 12 goals in 16 Championship games this season.

The 25-year-old signed a four-year contract extension last month and beat off competition from reigning PFA Player of the Year Ryan Giggs and Wolves goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey to claim the top award.

Williams pipped Swansea team-mate Joe Allen and Cardiff midfielder Joe Ledley to clinch the Welsh club player prize.

He has become a Wales regular since making his debut in Luxembourg two seasons ago, winning 17 caps and even featuring in midfield against Liechtenstein last month.

The ex-West Brom trainee is again expected to form part of the Welsh rearguard when John Toshack's side play Scotland in Cardiff on Saturday.

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey was named young player of the year and Swansea-born former Leeds goalkeeper Gary Sprake received a long-service award.

Evening Post

 
Goytre extend lead at the top with demolition of Ton Pentre (Nov 12) 06:30

LEADERS Goytre United swept to a 5-0 victory at Ton Pentre in midweek to go six points clear of Aberaman Athletic in MacWhirter Welsh League division one.

The Port Talbot side overcame wet conditions at Ynys Park to heap more misery on the Bulldogs, who lost 6-1 against West End on Saturday in the Nathaniel Cars Cup.

Two goals in the space of a minute sent Goytre clear with Chris Summers opening the scoring in the 22nd minute.

Richard Ryan made it 2-0 at the break while on the restart Summers netted another.

Ryan made it 4-0 on the hour, and he completed a hat-trick on 70 minutes to take his seasonal goal tally onto the 16-mark.
View league table

Tony Poole

 
Swans skipper signs new 3 year contract (Nov 11) 15:15

SWANSEA CITY captain Garry Monk has handed the club a massive boost by signing a new three-year deal to keep him at the Liberty Stadium until 2012.
And the experienced defender, who claimed he would love to finish his career with the Swans, immediately thanked manager Paulo Sousa for making it such an easy decision.
While contract negotiations took several months to complete, Monk insists he always intended to extend his stay in South Wales.
Considering the 30-year-old has been one of the club’s most reliable and influential players in recent seasons, it’s fair to say Sousa was keen to tie him down as well.
Acknowledging things could have been very different when the Portuguese came in to replace former boss Roberto Martinez, the Swans skipper is certainly happy with the way things worked out.
And, as he described his joy at finally putting pen to paper, Monk paid tribute to the relationship he has with the former Champions League winner.
“I’m delighted to seal the new deal,” he beamed. “It’s something I’ve wanted for a long time and I want to finish my career at Swansea.
“I like to think I’ve got a long time left in me. I am in the peak of my career and I believe I still have a lot to offer this club, both now and in the more long-term future.
“I absolutely love it here and it has never crossed my mind to play anywhere else.
“My relationship with the chairman, board, manager, club staff and the fans is fantastic and I was more than happy to make a long-term commitment to the club.”

Western Mail

 
Deryn Brace will demand full focus when Carmarthen visit Newtown (Nov 11) 10:10

DERYN Brace will demand full focus when Carmarthen Town visit Newtown this weekend.

Town's concentration let them down last Saturday when they conceded two sloppy goals against Bangor in a 2-2 draw.

And Town's player-boss does not expect a repeat showing as he looks to move a step closer a spot in the Welsh Premier League's top 10.

"With the Robins it certainly won't be easy," he said.

"I don't think they've had the rub of the green or they're getting the results that their play deserves.

"So we have to set our stall out well and not be sloppy like we were on Saturday and obviously keep the ball off them.

"That doubles up from Saturday when we were great on the ball but we were also careless in giving the ball away too often.

"If we're going to do that against a footballing side, then they will punish us."

Town currently lie ninth in the table with 15 points from 11 matches.

Newtown are three places below them, with two points fewer.

And Brace is aware his side must be fully switched on if they are to head back to Richmond Park with three points.

Evening Post

 
Merthyr make their point again (Nov 11) 10:00

Merthyr returned from Clevedon with a well deserved point and will consider themselves unlucky not to have collected all three.

The home side were unlucky early on when Danny Wring struck the underside bar on nine minutes but it was Merthyr who finished the half stronger, and, on the stroke of half-time, the visitors went ahead as Scott Armitage’s cross was side-footed home by Steve Williams.

Merthyr continued to take the game to Clevedon at the start of the second half and Ryan Dorrian looked to have doubled their lead only to see his header cleared off the goal-line by Matt Walsh.

In the final quarter Clevedon had their best spell of the game and that culminated with substitute Aaron Blakemore firing home from 18 yards for the equaliser on 81 minutes.

Merthyr threw everything at their hosts in the closing stages and Matthew Trotman and Garry Shephard both went close to a winner.

icWales

 
Port Talbot with all to do in 2nd leg of the semi-final (Nov 10) 22:00

Port Talbot have left themselves a big task in the 2nd leg of the league cup semi-final after they were held to a 0-0 draw at Victoria Road. They now need to come out on top of TNS at Park Hall to progress to the final.

Port Talbot line up:

Lee Kendall, Andy Boslem, Scott Barrow, Gareth Phillips, Gary Bansor, Lee Surman, Daniel Thomas (Lee John 76'), Neil Thomas, Martin Rose, Liam McCreesh, Nicky Holland (Drew Fahiya 82')

Sub not used: Lloyd Grist.

Attendance: 166

In the other semi-final home side Connahs Quay beat Rhyl in their 1st leg Rhyl went down to 10 men just after the half hour. Nomads came out 2-1 winners and take a 1 goal lead into the 2nd leg at Belle Vue.

 
Llanelli go top with seven of the best against hapless Caersws (Nov 10) 21:30

Llanelli trounced Caersws at Stebonheath tonight with seven of the best.

Jason Bowen started the rout in the 7' and then Bowen made it 2-0 4' later.

Craig Moses then parted Caersws to make it 3-0 on 21'. Rhys Griffiths got in on the act to make it 4-0 on 27' Caersws lasted 18' into the 2nd half before they conceded again and it was Griffiths who scored his 2nd and Llanelli's 5th Craig Mosses on 71' became the Reds 3rd player on the night to score a brace as Llanelli went top of the table on goal difference from Rhyl and Neath when he made it 6-0.

 

 

Matt Prosser did manage to get a goal for the visitors on 87' but Griffith's got his hat-trick 2' into added on time to complete the rout and final score of Llanelli 7-1

Caersws. Caersws have now gone 8 games without a win stretching back to August 29th.

Port Talbot in good form ahead on tonight's league cup clash (Nov 10) 17:00

Port Talbot entertain TNS tonight in the first leg of the league cup at Victoria Road. They will be confident of taking a lead into the return leg having beaten TNS already this season at Victoria Road, and they are on a 4 game unbeaten run in the league, so they are on fine form going into tonight's game.

Manager Mark Jones said "Some people consider this a second rate competition, But we are now at the semi-final stage and will be looking to take a step towards a place in the final. The New Saints are the current holders of this trophy and we know it will not be easy but we have already beaten them here this season and will be confident in our approach as ever".

Goals have been a bit on the short side for the Steelmen with their strikers only finding the back of the net 4 times in their 11 league games, they have been relying for the majority of their goals from former Lido midfielder Liam McCreesh who has scored 6 of their 13 league goals so far this season.

The return leg at Park Hall takes place on November 18th.

 
Swans emerge as Championship force (Nov 010) 12:30

FOLLOWING their scintillating victory in the South Wales derby, it’s time Swansea City were taken seriously as a Championship force to be reckoned with.

At least that’s the view of former England striker and Sky Sports pundit Gary Birtles – a keen onlooker as Darren Pratley’s impressive brace settled a pulsating affair at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday.

As well as providing a “great advert” for Welsh football, Birtles claimed the Swans victory over bitter rivals Cardiff City could prove to be a watershed moment in their season.

After a disappointingly slow start, Paulo Sousa has presided over a dramatic revival in recent weeks and, after going 10 games unbeaten, his team are now within touching distance of the play-offs.

Combine that with the manner of their derby performance, which was broadcast around the world thanks to the Sky cameras, and Birtles is confident Swansea will soon be attracting the sort of high praise they enjoyed so much under Roberto Martinez.

“That performance will make everyone sit up and take notice of Swansea,” declared Birtles.

“People will be thinking ‘wow, Paulo has got them playing some great stuff again.’

“That result could go on to be a big turning point for them. After a slow start, it should definitely get people taking them seriously again.

Blair Wood

 
Shephard targets gap closure for Merthyr (Nov 010) 12:15

MERTHYR Tydfil boss Gary Shephard is hoping his side can close the gap on Clevedon tonight after their excellent 3-2 win over Banbury Town last weekend.

Clevedon are just three places above in-form Merthyr, who have lost just once in the last 10 fixtures.

That has produced a steady climb up the Zamaretto League Premier Division table after the Martyrs were deducted 10 points for falling into administration during the summer.

“We’ve doing well and if it was not for the 10-point deduction we’d be eighth in the league table,” said Shephard.

“All we can do at the moment is hunt down the next club above us – and if we can do that at Clevedon then that will be great. We certainly go there full of confidence because we’ve mixed it with the big boys.

“Now we must get down to the business of beating the bread and butter teams around us.”

Club captain Paul Keddle returns after a one-match suspension, with Simon Gregory serving his one-game ban tonight.

Shephard said: “Paul is lucky really coming straight into the side because I could not drop anybody after their performance on Saturday.”

Mark Bloom

 
Three Port Talbot players make the Welsh semi pro squad (Nov 09) 14:15

Port Talbot can boast having the most players of any club representing Wales in the semi pro squad. Scott Barrow Lee Surman and Drew Fahiya have been included in the squad to face Northern Ireland in Portadown on November 24th.

"A win would set us up nicely in the Group after the other two sides (Poland and Portugal) drew in their opening game. There are plenty of goals in the squad, so we'll go there with confidence and hopefully come away with all three points," said Boyle this afternoon.

The Irish side will be strong with players all coming from the Carling Premiership and in McFall, they have a Manager who boasts a wealth of experience. He is the second longest serving manager in British top flight football having been resident in the Shamrock Park hotseat since December 1986, a length of tenure only bettered by Man. Utd's Sir Alex Ferguson. During that time he has guided the Ports to five Irish League titles and three Irish Cup victories.

WALES SQUAD TO FACE NORTHERN IRELAND
Tuesday 24th November 2009
Shamrock Park, Portadown at 7:45pm.

Stephen Cann (Aberystwyth Town) (GK), Lee Idzi (Haverfordwest County) (GK), Scott Barrow (Port Talbot Town), Kyle Critchell (Weymouth), Kai Edwards (Wrexham), Ryan Edwards (Airbus UK Broughton), Michael Pearson (Barrow FC), Lee Surman (Port Talbot Town), Aeron Edwards (The New Saints FC), Sion Edwards (Bangor City FC), Drew Fahiya (Port Talbot Town), Craig Jones (The New Saints FC), Luke Sherbon (Aberystwyth Town), Owain Warlow (Llanelli AFC), Ashley Williams (Airbus UK Broughton), Jack Christopher (Haverfordwest County), Craig Moses (Llanelli AFC), Jamie Reed (Bangor City FC)

Stand-By: Lee Bevan (Haverfordwest County), Craig Williams (Newtown), Matthew Harris (Neath FC), Curtis McDonald (Forest Green Rovers), Jamie Owen (Chester City), Jordan Follows (Llanelli)

 

 
Port Talbot's Lee Surman wins monthly award (Nov 09) 00:15

The Principality Welsh Premier League Player of the Month for October is Port Talbot Town's centre-back Lee Surman. The commanding centre-half has once again been a rock at the heart of the Port Talbot defence, which has helped Mark Jones' side climb up the League table. Surman gained Man of the Match awards in two matches during the month.

It should be a double celebration for the Wales Semi-Pro captain this week, as the ex-Swansea City player is expected to be named in the Wales Semi Professional squad to face Northern Ireland later this month

 
Neath boss Dyer wins manager of the month award (Nov 09) 0:10

Neath boss Andy Dyer has been awarded the Principality Welsh Premier League Manager of the Month for October. Dyer has enjoyed an excellent run of form with the Gnoll club, which has made his side genuine title contenders.

During a difficult month for fixtures, the Eagles took seven points from nine in the League from matches against the 'Big Three'. They started with a 2-1 home win against Llanelli in their first League game of the month. They then beat Rhyl 2-0 at the Gnoll with Stephen Pockett and Craig Steins netting against the Champions. They finished the month with a creditable 2-2 draw at Park Hall against TNS.

 
Port Talbot v Caersws match report (Nov 08) 10:30
PORT TALBOT stayed in range of the leading pack after sealing victory over struggling Caersws, who suffered their fifth home defeat in six outings.

All the goals came inside the first 15 minutes, after which the Steelmen made hard work of the task with a string of missed opportunities, including one from the penalty spot.

The visitors made a flying start by taking the lead in the first minute when a right-wing cross from former Caersws man Lloyd Grist following a short corner fell for Liam McCreesh to fire home.

The Bluebirds were back on terms just three minutes later when Chris Melia released Matt Prosser, who neatly lobbed keeper Lee Kendall.

But the Steelmen got their noses back in front on 14 minutes as the hosts were breached a second time when Drew Fahiya found space to convert a Lee John cross from the left.

Caersws stayed in the hunt, thanks to an improved performance and several missed chances from the visitors.

For the hosts, Prosser headed over from a cross by Mark Griffiths, who also had an effort blocked, but the Steelmen should really have surged further ahead.

Eight minutes after the break, home defender Hugh Clarke was ruled to have fouled Rose in the box. Rose took the resulting spot kick but his effort was saved by David Jones.

After that, Port Talbot could have sealed a more emphatic win with Fahiya, Rose and substitute Scott Barrow spurning chances.

 
Swansea prove 'promotion' class (Nov 08) 10:30

Welsh derby goal hero Nathan Dyer has warned the Championship that Swansea City are realistic promotion contenders after beating high-flying Cardiff City.

Dyer opened the scoring as Swansea beat rivals Cardiff 3-2 to extend their unbeaten run to 10 games and move two points outside the play-off zone.

The winger said: "People have to start standing up and taking notice of us."

But fellow Swans goal-scorer Darren Pratley sounded a note of caution, insisting: "We won't get carried away."

Swansea suffered a stuttering start to the season under new boss Paulo Sousa as the Welsh club won just one of their opening six Championship games.

The former Portugal midfielder had replaced popular manager Roberto Martinez at the Liberty Stadium in the summer as, after guiding Swansea to their best league finish for almost a quarter of a century, Martinez left to fill the vacant managerial post at Premier League Wigan Athletic.

As he followed such a successful manager, Sousa endured a little criticism early on after his average start.

But the one-time Inter Milan and Juventus superstar has gradually made his mark on the club.

The two-time Champions League winner has inspired Swansea on a division-best unbeaten run with the second meanest defence in the Championship.

The Swans have risen from just outside the relegation zone to move into the slipstream of the promotion-chasers - and Sousa's side are now just two points behind third-placed neighbours Cardiff.

Swansea's pulsating win over the Bluebirds, who were six games unbeaten before Saturday, means they have beaten three of the Championship's top four within the last month.

BBC

 
Rhyl v Llanelli match report (Nov 08) 10:20
ALTHOUGH Rhyl returned to the top of the Welsh Premier on goal difference they should have enjoyed a landslide victory over Llanelli.

The Lilywhites could easily have been 3-0 up inside the opening 10 minutes as they pushed the visitors firmly on to the back foot.

In the first minute Mark Connolly found space on the left-hand side of the box but Llanelli ’keeper Ashley Morris went down to deny him and Matthew Williams’ follow-up effort was blocked.

Connolly was then through one-on-one with Morris who thwarted him again and Williams lashed the loose ball against the underside of the crossbar.

Llanelli showed what they are capable of though, when a Rhys Griffiths header from an Andy Legg cross clipped the bar.

James Coates then did well to keep out a firm strike from Antonio Corbisiero, but Rhyl were doing most of the attacking and Chris Williams blasted just over.

Chris Williams forced Morris into a decent stop and Connolly’s header narrowly missed the target.

The home side continued to carve out most of the opportunities after the interval, Owen drilling wide from 18 yards before Connolly nodded over from Tyrone Kirk’s centre.

Owen and Martyn Naylor crashed long-range thunderbolts over, but in the last 15 minutes the Reds at last began to show some adventure.

Owain Warlow’s low shot tested Coates and from the rebound Griffiths steered the ball across the six-yard box but the Lilies managed to clear.

Griffiths then stormed in to meet Craig Moses’ right-wing cross only for Rhyl skipper George Horan to make a fantastic last-gasp clearance.

Legg’s resulting corner clipped the bar, but the closing stages saw the Lilywhites go all out for the winner.

Rhyl were unfortunate not to win a penalty for handball against Legg, Kirk volleyed wide from a great position and was foiled by a great Morris save, and Connolly’s header from a Williams cross hit the post.

Wales on Sunday

 
Reid fires County further ahead in the league (Nov 08) 10:10
COUNTY won a titanic struggle at the South East extremity of England to stretch their lead at the top of Blue Square South.

The Exiles are now five points clear of second- placed Dover, with a game in hand and a superior goal difference.

And, while the old cliches about the league being a marathon and not a sprint will be trotted out, this was an immense performance.

Dean Holdsworth shuffled his pack but, tactically, the County boss was spot on with his judgement. County had to withstand heavy pressure from Dover, but skipper Gary Warren was dominant at the back against a home outfit who included former Arsenal youngster and Welsh under-21 international Adam Birchall.

Dover had the ball in the net in the 15th minute, but the flag had already been raised to rule Shaun Welford offside.

In the 33rd minute County struck with a magnificent goal. Referee Ian Crouch played an excellent advantage when Scott Rogers was fouled and when Danny Rose played the ball forward to Craig Reid, the County top scorer squeezed his shot home from a narrow angle.

Dover came out for the second half with all guns blazing and County were placed under heavy pressure. When Welford equalised in the 59th minute, the home side looked the likelier winners. But that man Reid again scored a goal which almost matched the first.

A Rose cross from the left produced an effort from Sam Foley which was blocked by a home defender and when the ball rebounded to Reid at the edge of the area, the striker hit a first-time shot into the corner of the net for his 12th goal of a very prolific season.

Home hearts were broken and although Dover ’keeper Dave Wilkinson joined the attack as they desperately strove for an equaliser, County were not to be denied.

At the end demoralised Dover trooped off as the couple of hundred County fans crowed: “We are top of the League.”

Holdsworth said: “We achieved what we wanted. This team has great character.

“To come back and score after Dover had equalised showed the belief that is within the side and while we played a good side today, I thought we were exceptional.

“It is a time to enjoy the moment and be proud of what we have achieved.”

Wales on Sunday

 
Merthyr's blitz leaves Banbury cross (Nov 08) 10:00
THE Martyrs gained what could be a vital three points against high-flying Banbury United as Cortez Belle blasted a second-half hat-trick in the space of six minutes.

A match that was a classic game of two halves failed to raise even a whimper before the interval with chances at a minimum.

However, it exploded into firework fiesta after the break and it was the visitors who broke the deadlock on 68 minutes when Jason Taylor made the most of a chance from nothing to put his side ahead.

Within seven minutes Merthyr were level, Ben Milner brought down a Merthyr substitute in the box and Belle stepped up to score, albeit at the second attempt after his first successful spot-kick had to be retaken due to encroachment.

Three minutes later they were ahead, but only after some help from Banbury goalkeeper Joe Murrell, who dropped a looping cross and Belle was on hand to snap up the chance.

On 81 minutes Merthyr were in heaven as Banbury’s Milner was once again penalised in the box and Belle once more converted the penalty, this time shooting to Murrell’s right.

But Merthyr were given a nervous last couple of minutes when Declan Benjamin struck a shot from the left-hand side of the area into the far corner to reduce the deficit, although in truth Banbury struggled to create a chance of note before the final whistle.

Wales on Sunday

 
Today's local soccer round up (Nov 07) 17:20

A good day for Neighbours Port Talbot, following on from last night's exploits of Neath going top of the welsh premier. Today Port Talbot had the fairly easy task of taking all 3 points off all Caersws who are doomed to life in the Cymru Alliance next season. they won 2-1 with all 3 goals coming in the first 14'. Port got off to flyer with a goal in the 1st minute scored by ex Lido midfielder Liam McCreesh, but Caersws were level 3 minutes later, Drew Fahiya score the goal for Port in the 14 minute to ensure they moved up to 7th in the table.

It wasn't such a good afternoon for the champions of the Welsh league, Aberaman had the chance to join Goytre on 26 points and still with a game in hand, they only needed to beat Garden Village at home, but Village had other ideas and beat the champions on their home patch 4-2, they now join Lido and make up 5 teams with 19 points.

View league table

Goytre Utd had hard work of getting through to the nest round of the league cup at Glenhafod Park, they needed to score 2 goals in extra time to beat Llanwern 5-3. The 90 minutes finished level at 3-3.

Bettws's poor season continued when they were knocked out of the league cup to division 2 Croesyceiliog in Cwmbran going down 1-0. Corus Steel failed to add a bit of daylight at the top of division 3 when they were held 2-2 at home by Seven Sisters, but they still top the table by 2 points from Goytre who were in league cup action today, narrowly losing to Bryntirion 3-2.

Our Reserves match against Cwmamman was postponed today, presumably due to pitch being unplayable.

 
Swansea 3-2 Cardiff (Nov 07) 15:20
Darren Pratley's double fired Swansea City to 3-2 success in a pulsating south Wales derby with Cardiff City.

Nathan Dyer headed the Swans into an eighth minute lead after Pratley's free-kick was headed into his path.

Pratley turned goal-scorer, converting Craig Beattie's knock-down before Jay Bothroyd got Cardiff back in the game with a cool finish from Burke's ball.

Bluebirds skipper Mark Hudson levelled it before the break but Pratley's crisp volley won it on the hour.

BBC
Hatred between South Wales sides is ‘massive.’ says Nathan Dyer (Nov 07) 09:20
Swansea City star Nathan Dyer has further stoked the flames ahead of today’s South Wales derby, insisting the hatred between the two teams is “massive”, writes Blair Wood.

Dyer, widely regarded as one of the more laidback members of Paulo Sousa’s squad, got his first taste of the rivalry between the Swans and the Bluebirds during last season’s 2-2 draw at Ninian Park.

And, despite featuring in both the Sheffield derby and the south coast derby between Portsmouth and Southampton, the hostile reception Swansea’s players were given was still a real eye-opener.

With referee Mike Dean being hit with a coin from the stands, the game was marred by crowd trouble.

Unsurprisingly, it has left Dyer with a good idea of what to expect when the two sides once again do battle for Welsh football’s bragging rights.

“This is the worst derby I’ve been involved in,” he revealed. “The hatred between the teams is massive.

“When the bus pulled into Cardiff it was a real eye-opener. I’ve been in the Sheffield derby and the Southampton-Portsmouth game too, but this was on a different scale.

“On the pitch you can see the hatred of Swansea in the fans’ eyes. It will be great to shut the Cardiff fans up, though, and win the game.”

As for what victory would do for the Swans, Dyer continued: “It would be awesome to keep our unbeaten run going.

“It means a lot to the players, but I also realise what it means to the supporters.

“Our fans have had the bragging rights over Cardiff for a long time now and we want to keep that going.

“It should be an explosive, high-tempo match with an intense atmosphere. But we are the better footballing side and we are going to come out fighting and show no-one can take us lightly.”

IcWales
Llanelli boss Legg warning over Rhyl repeat (Nov 07) 09:20

Neath sit proudly on the summit of welsh domestic soccer for the first time in its history, with victory last night over Haverfordwest. And they had to do it the hard way with only 10 players on the field from the 8' on when Sean Cronin got his marching orders.

The 10 men of Neath went ahead in the 14' when Craig Steins put the Eagles 1-0 up. It was Steins again 2' later that doubled their lead.

Jamie Bradford pulled a goal back for the Bluebirds on 31' but even with the extra man advantage for over an hour Neath were not to be denied their place at the top of the table.

Neath are now on an unbeaten 9 game streak. But just a point for Rhyl in their home game this afternoon against Llanelli will see Rhyl reclaim top spot. But victory for Llanelli would keep Neath top.

IcWales
Neath top welsh premier for first time with victory over Haverfordwest

Neath sit proudly on the summit of welsh domestic soccer for the first time in its history, with victory last night over Haverfordwest. And they had to do it the hard way with only 10 players on the field from the 8' on when Sean Cronin got his marching orders.

The 10 men of Neath went ahead in the 14' when Craig Steins put the Eagles 1-0 up. It was Steins again 2' later that doubled their lead.

Jamie Bradford pulled a goal back for the Bluebirds on 31' but even with the extra man advantage for over an hour Neath were not to be denied their place at the top of the table.

Neath are now on an unbeaten 9 game streak. But just a point for Rhyl in their home game this afternoon against Llanelli will see Rhyl reclaim top spot. But victory for Llanelli would keep Neath top.
Bryntirion's Jon Brown still looking to make the pro grade

Jon Brown, currently playing a leading role for MacWhirter Welsh Football League side Bryntirion Athletic, has not given up hopes on a professional career.
The former Cardiff City speedster is still only 19 and is being watched by pro clubs on a regular basis.
Having come through the Bluebirds system with Adam Matthews, both players looked likely to make the grade.
The two trainees were both taken to West Bromwich Albion for a Championship match, gaining experience of being with the first team.
But whereas Matthews has established himself in the Bluebirds’ first team, Brown went out on loan at Wrexham and was later released by Cardiff.
Bridgend-born Brown is enjoying his time with Bryntirion under manager Fran Ford, an ex-Bluebirds player himself.

Terry Phillips
Steelmen facing must-win trip north

IF Port Talbot are to be seen as genuine top-four material, a win at lowly Caersws is vital tomorrow.

Mickey Evans's side are in the bottom two with only one win from nine starts, and look to be heading to the Cymru Alliance after two seasons of late reprieves.

The Steelmen are up to seventh, and although manager Mark Jones insists a top-10 finish would satisfy him, he must, deep down, have higher expectations.

But the visitors will not need reminding they crashed to a 4-2 loss at the Recreation Ground on their last visit after taking a 2-0 lead inside 13 minutes.

"Caersws gave us a shock last season and had a 4-1 win in the cup last week and will be on a high, so we know we could be in for a difficult afternoon," said Jones.

"We must guard against complacency as we have a very poor record at Caersws and the players have something to prove.

"We have, on paper, a good sequence of fixtures taking us deep into December.

"So it gives us an opportunity to claw back a lot of ground on the front-runners, who are all playing each other over the next few weeks.

"We must show Caersws respect, although most people will see this as an away win."

Gary Bansor is the only definite absentee for the visitors.

Evening Post
Eagles eye perch at top of league

NEATH Athletic travel to Haverfordwest tonight hoping to extend an eye-catching eight-match unbeaten sequence that has lifted them to second spot.

A victory at Bridge Meadow would end Haverfordwest's undefeated home record and send the Eagles to the top of the league for the first time in their history — for 24 hours at least.

That would be a remarkable achievement considering the doubters who rounded on Andrew Dyer's team after their faltering start to the campaign.

Goals from Jack Christopher and Neil Thomas earned Derek Brazil's men a 2-0 success last year, but Neath are much better equipped this time.

"I had Haverfordwest watched last week and they were unlucky to lose to Aberystwyth and are a very hard-working team," said Dyer.

"Any team Derek puts out will be competitive, youthful and energetic, but we have a great incentive to win there and make our own little piece of history.

"The players have enjoyed some time off as we trained every night leading up to our last two matches against Rhyl and The New Saints.

"There is no bigger incentive than the carrot of going top, even for a short time, and it's an opportunity the players are relishing.

"But it's best not to dwell on that. We'll just have to wait and see."

Evening Post
Merthyr Tydfil wait to see impact of players’ pay-cut
Merthyr Tydfil player-manager Garry Shephard will discover the effects of last week’s pay-cut before tomorrow’s Southern League Premier Division clash with Banbury United (3pm).

All staff have taken a 50% reduction in wages as the financial constraints at Penydarren Park take hold.

And Shephard admits he will not name the team to face the high-flying Pilgrims until just before kick-off.

“I’ll pick the side when I see who arrives at the ground tomorrow,” admitted Shephard.

“We have players coming from places like Hereford and the pay-cut might not be enough for them to cover their petrol. It could be a case that some of the players are paying to play for us instead of the other way around.

“The players took it on the chin last week just an hour before the game against Halesowen. They did everything they could, despite losing the game, so I can’t fault them.

“The bigger picture is that the club needs to stay in the English pyramid system and we battle on. We need every supporter possible to turn up and help us.”

Merthyr have already been docked 10 points after falling into administration during the summer, but have managed to claw themselves off the bottom of the table.

They meet a Banbury side unbeaten in their last 10 league matches, but Shephard is undaunted.

“Whether you are bottom or top, they are all tough games and this will be no different,” he said.

“But once we pick the side we know they will give everything.”

ICWALES
Holdsworth telling his County players to seize the day
Newport County boss Dean Holdsworth has told his players to seize the moment as they get ready for their biggest game of the season.

The table-topping Exiles travel to second-placed Dover knowing victory will open a five-point gap over their nearest promotion rivals.

County will prepare for the game by travelling today and stopping in a hotel near Dover this evening.

And Holdsworth wants his players to pile more misery on the pre-season title favourites, with Dover going into the big game on the back of dodgy results.

“We will be well prepared and know that Dover’s confidence will have been dented over the last couple weeks with results not going their way,” said Holdsworth.

“But it’s about us and how well we can perform.

“Everybody is excited about the fixture but the players must be focused on what is at stake here.

“Yes a win would give us a five-point gap, but we must perform well and that is the most important thing.

“We are more than capable of beating them but we have to put the groundwork in before and not get too carried away with things.

“Everybody must have a decent game, not just one or two. We have one of the tightest defences in the league and I’m sure that will be tested.

“But we’re high on confidence and will be going for a win.

“There will not be any of this going for a draw nonsense.”

Holdsworth says there are a couple of niggling injuries amongst his squad, but he hopes to be at full strength after last week’s 1-0 win over high-flying Basingstoke.

ICWALES
Bettws are suffeing striker crisis (Nov 6) 07:20

BETWS are not firing on all cylinders in MacWhirter Welsh League Division One and were exposed by a side that took its chances.

Club secretary Neil McEachen said: “We are struggling up front and have to concentrate on survival, which has to be our target with five or six teams going down. It’s going to be one hard slog for the rest of the season.”

Betws are away at Croesyceiliog on Saturday in the Nathaniel Car Sales League Cup.

With two weeks before their next game in the league, it gives Lacey an opportunity to run the rule over a few strikers.

With the Welsh League restructure at the end of the season, five or six sides will be relegated, so Betws face a tough struggle to finish above the watermark.

Glamorgan Gazette

 
Cardiff striker takes swipe at Swans (Nov 5) 23:30

JAY Bothroyd has written Paulo Sousa's derby day team talk for him by questioning Swansea City's form and claiming they are a fading force in the Championship.

The Cardiff City striker can expect a red-hot reception from a sell-out Liberty crowd when Wales's big two do battle on Saturday thanks to an extraordinary pre-match outburst.

Bothroyd claims Swansea are a weaker proposition than in the last Cardiff clash because of the summer exits of Jason Scotland and Jordi Gomez.

Dismissing the increasing influence of Paulo Sousa, he also argues the departure of Roberto Martinez will be a "massive factor" as Cardiff look to improve their miserable derby record.

And the former Coventry and Wolves forward has bizarrely rejected the suggestion that Swansea are in good form even though their nine-game unbeaten stretch is the longest in the Championship.

"Two form sides? Really?" Bothroyd said. "Where are they in the league? Where are we in the league?

"Since the changes at Swansea, they are not the side they were.

"They've lost their goalscorer Jason Scotland, they've lost Jordi Gomez and they've lost their manager, which I think is a massive factor.

"That is being shown by how well he is doing in the Premier League at Wigan.

"I don't think Swansea are the same and it will be a totally different game compared to last year. We're looking to go there and beat them."

Bothroyd played in all three derbies last season as Cardiff failed to beat their neighbours.

Swansea deservedly saw off the Bluebirds in the Carling Cup and came close to another victory in the Liberty league game, when a dubious penalty decision helped the visitors to a 2-2 draw.

Another draw followed at Ninian Park in April when Cardiff had trailed in stoppage time but were saved by one of the softest spot-kick awards imaginable.

Cardiff have now won only one of the past 12 derby clashes — excluding the FAW Premier Cup — but Bothroyd is convinced the run is about to change.

Unbeaten in their last six games, Dave Jones's team are currently third in the Championship, five points better off than the 11th-placed Swans.

"The hype is big," Bothroyd added.

"I didn't know about the hatred between the two sides before I came here so I didn't know what to really expect.

"It's a great occasion. The fans are buzzing and will have been looking forward to it all week.

"But I've experienced it three times now and I'm looking forward to the fourth and getting the win."
Evening Post

 
Legg gives warning to Rhyl test (Nov 5) 23:30

ANDY Legg has warned Llanelli that they can expect another "spanking" if they don't mentally prepare for Saturday's trip to leaders Rhyl.

Legg was part of the Reds side that was humiliated at Belle Vue last season as the then champions were thumped 5-1 by Rhyl.

The North Walians went on to win the Welsh Premier League title soon after another victory over the Reds at Stebonheath Park.

And Legg reckons attitudes need to be spot on if his side are to oust Rhyl from top spot.

"That was a day to forget," said Legg on reflection of the 5-1 defeat. "We just weren't up for it. The focus we normally have wasn't there and Rhyl took their chances and quite rightly hammered us.

"We know that we have to go there fully focussed."

Llanelli have started well in Legg's first season in charge since taking over from former boss Peter Nicholas.

Third in the table and three points behind Rhyl, with a game in hand, the Reds are also going strong in the Welsh Cup.

Yet Legg reckons his side are still some way off fulfilling their maximum potential.

"The players are trying their hardest — it has to be said — but we haven't reached the levels that I expect yet," said Legg.

CHRIS BARNEY
Let's not forget the agony says Brace (Nov 5) 23:30

DERYN Brace wants Carmarthen Town to put their Welsh Cup agony behind them when they host Bangor City on Saturday (2.30).

Town put up a valiant battle against Llanelli at Stebonheath last Friday, but were undone by two late Rhys Griffiths goals as the Reds moved into the last 16 with a 3-1 victory.

Ands player-manager Brace is keen to avoid any cup hangovers when they entertain the in-form North Wales outfit.

Bangor travel to Richmond Park on the back of two Welsh Premier League wins, one of which was a 4-0 victory over Prestatyn Town.

"We have to put the cup behind us now," said Brace.

"We can't dwell on it. Yes it hurts. It always hurts when you're out of the top competition because you don't get a second go at it. But we have plenty to play for and we've got another massive game next against Bangor.

"They are only a point behind us and we now have to focus on that."

Brace insisted he was happy with Town's performance against Llanelli, but admitted that was scant consolation.

"For long periods in the second half we were the team that was looking to win the game," he added.

"Yes it was a very positive performance and I thought we were the better side. But in a cup game it's all about the result and we didn't get it.

"Leggy (Andrew Legg) and his team will be wondering how they managed to get away with it.

"They thought we were the better side. But that's no consolation because we're not in the hat for the next round. They are."

Evening Post

 
Wage cut blow for Merthyr - Nov 2 - 01:40

MERTHYR TYDFIL assistant manager Danny Carter admitted that its as bad as it gets after he and manager Garry Shephard broke the news to the team that all staff had to take a 50 per cent pay cut for the club to survive.

Just an hour before kick-off, the management duo, instead of rallying the troops against in-form Halesowen Town, Shephard and Carter delivered the news.

It is understood that they will now have to run the squad on just £900 a week, a squad that week moved off the bottom of the table for the first time after starting with minus 10 points due to falling into administration in the summer.

“This club and squad has taken every knock possible yet it seems there is another one just around the corner, the Supporters Trust have done a fantastic job, but they need outside help.

“I don’t know who will stay after this, but Garry and I will continue to do the job until told not to. The one thing that this squad does have and that a brilliant team sprit.
Western Mail

 
Port Talbot will have to do it the hard way - Nov 2 - 01:30 am

PORT Talbot Town face a tough task if boss Mark Jones is to achieve his dream of leading them into Europe via the Welsh Cup.

The Steelmen have been drawn at Aberystwyth Town in the fourth round of the competition.

Aberystwyth, under caretaker manager Christian Edwards, have totally transformed their campaign in the last six weeks.

"It could have been kinder, but you just have to take what you are given in the cup," said Jones.

"I believe we can go to Aberystwyth and get a result."

Llanelli, having overcome Neath and Carmarthen Town to reach the last 16, will eye a home tie against Holyhead Hotspurs as a golden opportunity to progress — the visitors are currently second bottom of the Cymru Alliance.

Pontardawe Town are in the same plight in the Welsh League, so their trip to Welsh Premier champions Rhyl will be an enormous test.

But they will be heartened by Bridgend Town's brave effort, who lost 4-2 at Rhyl despite playing for 89 minutes with 10 men.
Evening Post

 
Rose blooms in Welsh cup win for Port Talbot - Nov 1 - 11:30 am

PORT TALBOT avoided a potential banana skin with a comfortable 3-0 Welsh Cup third round victory over Welsh League Caldicot Town.

Martin Rose put them in front from the penalty spot in the 20th minute.

It came after Steve Edwards had been penalised for handball and was sent off.

Daniel Thomas and Rose added to the tally to take them safely through to the fourth round.

Aberaman Athletic beat Ely Rangers 2-0 with goals from Jonathan Phillips and Barry Gunstone.

Llangeinor were dumped out 6-1 by Holyhead Hotspurs of the Cymru Alliance after making a disastrous start.

Wales Under-19 international Kenleigh Owen scored the opener for the visitors on 22 minutes. Dean Garney then scored twice in two minutes.

Although Darren Jones claimed a goal for Llangeinor in the second half, further strikes by Gareth Caughter, Mel McGuinness and a Matt Vivers own goal completed the rout.

Pontardawe Town redressed the balance with a 2-0 triumph over Llandudno.

Meanwhile, Afan Lido sent Caerau Ely crashing out 2-1. Scott McCoubrey and Craig Baker scored for the Lido, with a Germain Thomas penalty keeping Caerau in contention.

Bala Town started their tie with minnows Llanrug United as favourites but only scraped through with a 70th-minute winner from Mark Harris.

Caersws beat Coedpoeth 4-1.

Ensuring their safe passage were Matt Prosser and Lee Jenkins who gave them a two-goal cushion at the break, Scott Williams extended their lead, Steve Davies pegged a goal back but Mark Griffiths put the tie out of reach.

Out go Llangollen Town, who flopped to a 3-1 reversal against Llandudno Junction who were on target through Jamie Hobson, Darrel Jones and Matt Hughes with Mark Lunt replying.

Cardiff Bay Harlequins were scalped 3-0 by Prestatyn Town, following a goalless first half, Prestatyn were indebted to a double strike from Neil Gibson and a 78th-minute Andy Moran effort.
IcWales

 
Bridgend face tough cup trip to Rhyl - Oct 28 - 12:30 am

BRIDGEND face another major test in their quest for Welsh Cup progress next weekend when they take on WPL champions Rhyl.

They drew 1-1 against title-chasing Goytre United in MacWhirter Welsh League Division One last weekend and now travel to play Welsh Premier League Rhyl.

“We reached the semi-finals last season and went out against eventual winners Bangor City,” said manager Drewe Phillips.

“It’s a tough tie, but we’ll travel believing we can cause a surprise.”

Bridgend are now settled in their new home at Brewery Field and have all the facilities needed for a step up to the Welsh Premier League, which is where the ambitious club want to be.

Striker Chris Summers has moved on from Bridgend to sign for Goytre United, but Bridgend still have a team they believe can challenge for a top two finish.

They have won only three of their 10 league matches, although they led against Goytre until the later stages, and are keen to move up the First Division table.

While Bridgend contemplate their task at Rhyl, Cambrian and Clydach are at home against Welsh Premier League club The New Saints.

Former Cardiff City player Richard Haig is in charge of the Cambrian team, who are third having lost only once in the league this season.

Aberaman Athletic play Ely Rangers in an all-Welsh League tie, while Caerau Ely, who have Jeff Eckhardt and Nathan Wigg in charge of their team, take on Afan Lido at their Cwrt-yr-Ala ground.

Caldicot Town have a big home tie against Port Talbot Town, while Cardiff Bay Harlequins travel to Prestatyn Town.
IcWales

 
Port Talbot v Neath game live on SC4 - Oct 27 - 11:30 am

The Principality Welsh Premier League and S4/C are delighted to announce that the League derby clash between Port Talbot Town and Neath will be shown Live on S4/C over the Festive period.

Originally scheduled for Boxing Day, the game has been put back 24 hours to fit in with the S4/C TV Schedule over Christmas and will now be played on Sunday December 27th at the GenQuip Stadium.

It will be an afternoon kick off, although Geraint Rowlands, the Content Editor for Sport at S4/C is unable to confirm the exact time for two weeks.

The match will be the third live television game of the season, with the S4/C cameras already visiting Belle Vue on the opening Saturday of the season, to screen Rhyl's 2-1 triumph over Carmarthen Town. The second live game will be on Sunday 15th November at Stebonheath, as Llanelli host The New Saints in what is sure to be a close and tense encounter.

The fact that the third live match features two other sides who have top six aspirations, shows the Broadcasters commitment to providing coverage of as many clubs as possible and also the competitiveness of the League this season.

A delighted Mark Jones told the League this morning;

"It's fantastic. By the time the match arrives I hope that we are towards the top end of the table, which will make it an even bigger derby game," said the Port Talbot Manager.

"It will be a huge challenge for the team and I hope that the players respond and make it a great game."

Jones has enjoyed live televised matches whilst in charge of Carmarthen Town before, but it's a new experience for him in the Port Talbot blue as he explained.

"This will be my first live game with Port Talbot Town and I think that it will be the first live League game at the GenQuip. The match will showcase our excellent stadium, facilities and pitch to the people of Wales." Jones also credited the off-field personnel at the club
Welshpremier.com
Deryn Brace delighted with Carmarthen's recent run - Oct 26
Carmarthen stretched their unbeaten run to 4 games with 3 wins and a draw, and break into the top 10 for the first time this season.
Manager Brace said " Conditions were difficult and it was never going to be a pretty affair."But it was a crucial three points. We spoke in the week of the importance of collecting three points today and back-to-back wins has given us all a big boost.

"We have a nice little run going and we are in the top 10 for the first time this season and that's a great feeling.

"Everything's getting quite tight in the middle of the table and we need to keep picking off the results to take us above a bunch of clubs in the coming weeks.

"The lads have done well, confidence is growing but we must keep doing the basics right as we did today to earn a clean sheet."

 
Neath boss disappointed with only a point against TNS - Oct 26

Neath have come a long way since August where they only took 2 points from their opening 3 games, but then they had a relatively handy run in for their next 4 league games, winning all 4 before they were going to be really tested by taking on the top 3 clubs in the league, and they came out of that test with flying colors. They are now unbeaten in their last 8 games and sit in 2nd place in the table, in their latest test they nearly made 7 wins on the trot against TNS having taken a 2-0 lead after 16 minutes, but TNS came back with a quick double of their own to salvage a point.

Dyer said on the TNS game "

"I'm delighted with the point, which I would have taken before kick-off, but disappointed we let slip a two-goal lead," said Dyer.

"In the end it was a fair result and it gives us seven points against the big three clubs, which is a great effort.

"That does not mean we are one of the favourites for the title but it does mean we can compete against any team in this division.

"We have had a great October and we need to build on it in November, otherwise all this good work will be undone.

"Rhyl, Saints and Llanelli all meet each other in November so it gives us an opportunity to possibly challenge for top spot if we continue to string good results together."

Dyer and his team will be looking to get back to winning ways next time out when they travel to face Haverfordwest on November 6th at the New Bridge Meadow.

 
Liam the hero for Port Talbot - Oct 25

THE Steelmen won this fascinating game with Liam McCreesh the goal-scoring hero.

In blustery conditions neither side was able to craft a worthwhile opening in the first half and a stalemate seemed likely.

That changed five minutes into the second half when Neil Thomas struck from 20 yards with a fine shot to put the Steelmen in front.

It was very much the boost the home side needed but midway through the second period the league’s top all-time scorer Marc Lloyd Williams pounced in typical style to level matters.

He needed no second invitation to cash in on a mistake in the Port Talbot defence and rifled the ball home with aplomb.

It was at this point that Airbus sensed victory and appeared odds on to go on to snatch the three points as they took control in the middle of the park.

But Port Talbot hung on and tree minutes from time snatched the winner when McCreesh back-heeled the ball into the net from Martin Rose’s supply.

Wales on Sunday

 
Goytre get late break - Oct 25

DIVISION One leaders Goytre United snatched a point at Bridgend as a closely contested game finished 1-1.

It was cruel luck on the challengers who went in through Mike Waters but were denied all three points by an equaliser two minutes into injury time from Dale Griffiths.

The goal was enough to keep the Port Talbot-based side on top as Aberaman missed he chance to go to the summit after a 0-0 draw at home to Afan Lido.

Barry Town, in sixth, strolled to a 3-0 win over Bettws, Sam Small (two) and Morgan Harry the scorers. Caldicot Town went up to seventh after a fine 3-2 victory over Ton Pentre, Gareth Cullimore (two) and Mark Williams on the score sheet.

There was drama in the basement battle as Cardiff Corries fought back from two down to draw 2-2 with Pontardawe.

A brace from Steffan Davies put the visitors in control but Richard Veal and Rhys Yates struck back for Corries to snatch a point.

Wales on Sunday

 
Goytre United test unbeaten record - Oct 23

GOYTRE United test their unbeaten record at Bridgend Town tomorrow in the MacWhirter Welsh League, Division One (2.30pm).

But last season’s runners-up face a Bridgend side determined to spring a shock after a sluggish start to the season.

Town manager Drewe Phillips – who takes his team to Rhyl in the Welsh Cup next weekend – has added Mark Sage to the management, reuniting their partnership which took Garw from Division Three to the top flight.

“I’m delighted that Mark Sage is joining me on the Bridgend management team – and hopefully we can match the success that was achieved at Garw,” said Phillips.

“Mark knows both the local scene and Welsh League like the back of his hand and he will bring a gritty edge to proceedings.”

There is one Welsh League match tonight when Cambrian and Clydach entertain Taffs Well (7pm).

Former Ton Pentre centre-forward Richard Haig is the Cambrian manager and they have made a solid start to the new season, having suffered only one defeat in their opening nine league matches.

Haig is assisted by ex-Hull City player Jarred Harvey, who has a Uefa A coaching licence and is Football Development Officer for the football club’s community arm, Cambrian Village Trust.

Jason Bertorelli, a striker signed from South Wales Amateur League Brynna, is Cambrian’s top scorer on 13 goals.

Cambrian are planning for their big Welsh Cup match against Welsh Premier League club The New Saints at home next weekend, but manager Haig will insist his players focus on tonight’s clash.

“It’s been a pretty good season so far and our only defeat came against Goytre United,” said Haig. “The football club has come a long way in a short time, on and off the pitch.”
Terry Phillips

 
Welsh league round up - Oct 18

GOYTRE United stay at the head of Division One of the Welsh League – but had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Dinas Powys.

Jacob Daley scored the only goal of the game two minutes into the second half.

But Aberaman Athletic are chasing hard and remain on the same number of points but with an inferior goal difference after winning 3-1 against Ton Pentre at Ynys Park.

Bettws produced a surprise when they overcame rejuvenated Bridgend 2-0 thanks to goals by Richard Ready and Paul Jones.

Bryntirion Athletic stayed in the top half with a 2-0 home success against Caerleon, Jonathan Cuss and Anthony Rawlings scoring the goals.

Cambrian & Clydach scored twice in the last five minutes to overcome Garden Village 4-2.

Dave Williams and Jason Bertorelli each scored braces, while Matthew Harding and Lee Rastatter were on target for the Village.

Mark Jones grabbed a brace as Afan Lido overwhelmed Ely Rangers 4-0, while elsewhere Taffs Well beat Caldicot Town 5-3 and the honours were shared in Swansea when West End and Cardiff Corries drew 2-2.

Cwmbran Celtic produced a solid performance to overcome Llangeinor 3-0 in Division Two and step up their challenge for promotion.

Owen Llewellyn bagged two of the Celtic goals and Sean Matthews the other.

Former Cardiff City legend Eddie May is having an unhappy start to his career as Porthcawl Town’s manager as once again yesterday they lost heavily 4-0 at Croesyceiliog, with the much-travelled Jodie Jenkins bagging a hat-trick. Anthony Southard got the other goal for Croes.

Adam Cellan and Nathan King were on target for Penrhiwceiber Rangers as they beat Porth 2-1 while, in an amazing Second Division game, Treharris Athletic came back from being 5-2 down at home to Maesteg Park to draw 5-5.

Garw have finally broken their duck after two months of the season as they won 3-2 at Risca.

Phil Tranter grabbed a hat-trick as Monmouth Town defeated Cwmamman United 5-2, while there were wins also in Division Three for the Gwent side Goytre, Troedyrhiw, Pontypridd Town and Llantwit Fardre.

Division leaders Corus Steel were held to a 2-2 draw by Aberbargoed Buds.
Wales on Sunday

 
Subs win it for Carmarthen against Port Talbot - Oct 18

MANAGERS earn their corn when it comes to timing substitutions, so all credit to Carmarthen’s Deryn Brace for getting it absolutely right yesterday.

Twenty minutes into the second half the frustration was building as Port Talbot were clinging to a 1-0 lead and he sent on Nathan Cotterrall and Danny Thomas.

The game changed as the home side discovered a cutting edge and they swept to a morale-boosting victory.

Although Carmarthen had territorial domination throughout, the hosts were stunned when Port Talbot took the lead through a Martin Rose shot.

However it all changed when Brace made his substitutions. Cotterrall broke free almost immediately and his pinpoint cross gave Tim Hicks a free header.

Within nine minutes the game was tied up when a cross was headed back across goal and this time it was Danny Thomas who finished clinically.

Tim Hicks then broke and, when the ball was missed by the advancing keeper, Nicky Palmer clipped the ball into the net.

Wales on Sunday

 
Toshack to watch Neath v Rhyl clash - Oct 16
 Wales Team Manager John Toshack will be at the Gnoll on Saturday to watch the vital Principality Welsh Premier League fixture between the Eagles and the Table-Topping Lilywhites.

Toshack was at the GenQuip Stadium last year to watch former Champions Llanelli beat Port Talbot 6-4 in an enthralling encounter. He was also due to visit the Gnoll last November for the Neath versus Llanelli game, but became unavailable as he had to honor a long-standing commitment at another Football Club in South Wales.

The Wales boss confirmed his attendance to the League this morning and he will have a keen interest on the Neath side, as his son Cameron has been assisting on the coaching staff at the club this year. Toshack Jr has known Neath boss Andy Dyer for a number of years and the two have been working together again with their Coach Qualification programme.

Official Welsh Premier

 
Ryan Giggs supports cousin in Welsh league clash - Oct 13

RYAN Giggs turned up to watch his cousin, Callum Miller, in Welsh League action for Cardiff Corries at the Riverside Ground, Radyr.

Miller, whose uncle Paul played for Cardiff City, made his debut for Corries in their MacWhirter Welsh Football League clash with Bryntirion Athletic.

Giggs stood on the sidelines at Corries, happily signing autographs and posing for photographs as he supported Callum in the Division One game.

Miller played in midfield for Corries, who fought back from two goals down to earn a 2-2 draw.

Bryntirion, who included former Cardiff City striker Jon Brown, powered into a 2-0 lead and looked in control.

The home side fought back with goals from Rhys Yates, who fired home from six yards, and Andy Smith with an injury-time equaliser.

Terry Phillips

 
A round up of games played in the Welsh league this weekend - Oct 12

GOYTRE United kept their unbeaten record to go back to the top of the Welsh League First Division yesterday with a hard-earned 2-1 victory.

They were briefly deposed from pole position on Friday when Aberaman overcame Taffs Well.

And they had to pull out all the stops at Cambrian and Clydach to record a fifth win in nine games.

At the other end of the table, Pontardawe moved off the bottom with their second win of the campaign, 3-0 at Bettws thanks to goals by Andy Lewis, Dale Otten and Steffan Davies.

The Swansea Valley side led 2-0 at the break and were excellent value for their triumph.

Bryntirion Athletic looked likely to chalk up a fourth win when they led 2-0 at Cardiff Corries at half-time through goals by Brian Burke and Lewis James, but back came Corries through Rhys Yates and Andy Smith for a 2-2 draw.

Barry Town also looked set for victory when they led visitors West End 1-0 courtesy of a Sam Small goal, but Andy Tyrell snatched a late leveller for the Swansea side.

Caerleon caused an upset when they coasted to a 3-0 home victory over Afan Lido, while Garden Village won by the only goal of the game at Caldicot Town.

Former Cardiff City giant Eddie May did not have a happy baptism as manager of Welsh League Second Division side Porthcawl.

The Seasiders entertained promotion-chasing Llanwern at Locks Lane and slipped to a 1-0 defeat, their fourth loss in seven matches as Marcus Stewart struck.

Maesteg Park finally broke their win duck by beating Croesyceiliog 3-1 at Tudor Park.

Lewis Bowen bagged two of the goals and Adam McGrath got the other with much travelled Jodie Jenkins netting for Croes.

Goals by Matthew Fisher and Richard Lewis gave Ammanford a 2-1 home victory over Cwmbran Celtic, while Gareth Davies and Thomas Harris each scored twice for Treharris Athletic to add to Llwydcoed’s woes with a 5-4 win.

Newport YMCA won 3-1 at Newcastle Emlyn, David Pearce scoring two.

Corus were not in action, but stay three points clear at the top of Division Three from Goytre, 4-1 winners at Troedyrhiw via goals by Andrew Walsh, Craig Jolliffe, Graham Mason and Lewis Clare.

Garw are still the only pointless side in the Welsh League after a 6-1 thrashing by Seven Sisters for whom Liam Soroka scored two.

Wales on Sunday

 
Jones looking for Steelmen to test Prestatyn - Oct 10

WITH only five points separating Port Talbot from the top three, manager Mark Jones sees today’s home clash with high flyers Prestatyn Town (2pm) as an opportunity to claw back some of the difference.

The visitors have recruited well in their determination to qualify for next season’s new super league structure and only one defeat so far and three wins on the road emphasises their ambition.

“They have done tremendously well and are one of a number of North Wales clubs who are going to make finishing in the top 10 difficult,” Jones said.

“I’ve done some homework on them as I saw them beat Carmarthen a few weeks ago and they thoroughly deserved their victory.”

Port Talbot are at full strength although they have released young striker Mark Jones back to Afan Lido to aid his development.

South Wales Echo

 
Eddie May linked to manager's job at Porthcawl

FORMER Cardiff City manager Eddie May is to take charge at MacWhirter Welsh League club Porthcawl Town.

May was in the stand to watch Porthcawl during their 3-1 defeat at AFC Porth, who have ex-Bluebirds defender Scott Young in temporary charge at Dinas Park.

This time it was Young who came out on top and they now stand second in Division Two, their highest league position since being relegated from Division One in 2002.

Stuart Brock (2) and Craig Davies scored for AFC Porth in a deserved win.
South Wales Echo

 
Pontardawe answer critic's with a comfortable cup win over Goytre Utd

PONTARDAWE Town bit back in devastating fashion to gain a stunning 3-0 win at Goytre United in the Welsh Cup second round.

Having been written off in some quarters, Steve Price's side didn't require motivation in setting up a home pairing with Llandudno Town in the last-32 stage on October 31.

Former Goytre player Paul Lenihan shot Ponty ahead after just three minutes while Gary Taylor drilled in a 28th-minute free kick.

Jonathan Coates then made things safe for Ponty in the 50th minute, while Goytre rounded off a miserable day by having Richard French sent off.

But there was heartbreak for Garden Village, who led 2-0 against visiting Caldicot only to bow out, 6-2, after extra time.

First-half goals from Dave Rimmer and Craig Burgess had Village in the box seat, but both goalkeeper Mark Snell and defender Kevin Hodder were then sent off.

Caldicot forced extra time at 2-2 via a 90th-minute Dai Lloyd penalty, and scored another four times in the extra period — Village lost striker Burgess to a broken jaw.

Goals from Vincent Wattleworth and Michael Hartley sent Bridgend through, 2-0, against Ton Pentre at the Brewery Field.

Bridgend handed a debut to former Goytre and Afan Lido wide operator Michael Waters, who they signed from Aberystwyth.

 


Jones is delighted to have McCreesh back

Liam McCreesh returned from suspension to net twice as Port Talbot won for the fourth year in a row at Maes y Dre.

His efforts sent the Steelmen up to seventh spot and earned praise from his manager Mark Jones.

“Liam also scored twice in our 2-0 win over TNS and that’s a fantastic effort for a midfielder,” he said.

“I was really pleased today as we won well. It was very comprehensive as we missed six or seven glorious chances to have secured a really big win.

“Some team are going to get a real hammering from us if we carry on like this. We’re back on track and Liam is back with a bang.”

It took McCreesh just half an hour to celebrate his return as he pounced on a rebound to slam an unstoppable shot past Jack Cudworth.

And he made the game safe 10 minutes into the second half leaving Welshpool pointless from their two home matches to date.

Evening Post

 


Welsh football league round up

IT’S as you were at the top of Division One after the clash between Aberaman Athletic and Goytre United ended in a 2-2 draw.

The match started dramatically with Barry Gunstone putting the hosts in front in the first minute.

Goytre then had keeper Chris Curtis sent off and had to battle through the rest of the game with 10 men.

But they equalised after 35 minutes through Dale Griffiths before Lee Williams put Aberaman back in front for a second time.

Just before the interval, Richard French levelled again and it stayed that way for the 10-man visitors to take a point and stay top.

Caldicot Town moved into third after a 6-0 drubbing of Dinas Powys, Jason Thorn firing a brace and Richard Sharrett, Gareth Cullimore, Jacob Guy and David Lloyd also scoring.

Two goals from Richard Reddy salvaged a point for Bettws against Bryntirion Athletic, who had Sean Williams and Antony Rawlings to thank for finding the net.

Cardiff Corries were 3-0 winners against Ton Pentre, Gareth Delve, Rhys Yates and Richie Veale scoring.

At the bottom, Swansea rivals Pontardawe and West End drew 2-2, while Garden Village won 3-1 at Ely Rangers and Caerleon and Taffs Wells fought out a 0-0 draw.

Division Two leaders Penrhiwceiber won 1-0 at Ammanford to stay top, Nathan King grabbing the goal.

Cwmbran Celtic moved to third after winning 3-1 at UWIC, while AFC Llwydcoed had a 3-2 home win over Llanwern, Tomas Morris (2) and Craig Bolton on target for the hosts, with Mike Vaux and Matthew Currie replying.

Newcastle Emlyn saw off Tredegar 2-0 with Antony Owens and an Adam Rainham penalty enough to give them the spoils.

Caerau Ely took the lead at Maesteg Park through Kane Amos, but David Williams equalised a couple of minutes later.

There was a closely contested affair at Porthcawl where the Seasiders and Newport YMCA drew 0-0.

In Division Three, leaders Corus Steel pipped Cwmaman Institute 2-1, while Goytre were the day’s top scorers in a 6-1 win at Garw.

Graham Mason was on target with a hat-trick, while Chris Williams, Adam Roberts and Robert Surtees scored one apiece.

Aberbargoed Buds in second were 4-2 victors at Llantwit Fardre, while Abertillery Bluebirds beat Troedyrhiw 5-2 away thanks to Owen Goodenough (2), David Gibbs, Lewis Clark and Jo Heard.

South Gower had a first win with a 2-0 success over Pontyclun, Steve Lancey and John Gill scoring.

Evening Post
Rose Hat-Trick and DeVulgt Stunner send Steelmen into Third Round
Port Talbot Town 5-0 Cwmbran Celtic
Port Talbot Town coasted to a 5-0 Second Round Welsh Cup win against Cwmbran Celtic in the Welsh Cup at the GenQuip Stadium this evening. The hosts started brightly and Scott Barrow's early effort was well saved by 'keeper Nicky Church. The Principality Welsh Premier League outfit took the lead on 13 minutes, when Martin Rose responded quickly to tap the ball home after Church could only parry a strong Lee John free-kick.

There wont be many better goals scored on Welsh Cup weekend than the second for the Steelmen as right-back Leigh DeVulgt scored a 35-yard screamer into the far top left corner, which Church could only watch in amazement.

After the break, the hosts were again always in the ascendancy and Rose became the provider to find space in the box before laying off to Drew Fahiya who gratefully fired home into an open net. Fahiya had one disallowed shortly after from another Rose assist, with Liam McCreesh blocking 'keeper Church in an offside position.

Rose then scored his deserved brace after a Nicky Holland header found the striker and the in-form forward scored from a very acute angle to make it 4-0. Rose then scored his first hat-trick of the season after a mistake at the back from Lloyd Davies and Church almost led to an own-goal before Rose raced on to steal his third.

Aberaman AFC 3-2 Penrhiwceiber Rangers
Last season's Welsh League Champions Aberaman AFC came from behind twice to win their derby match against the visiting Penrhiwceiber Rangers of Division 2. The lower League opposition took a third minute lead through Jason Lewis, before Nicky Hooper equalised for the home side. Dean Brown then made it 2-1 to Rangers as the visitors led at the interval, but striker Jon Kift again equalised for the home side. With fifteen minutes remaining, Barry Gunstone gave Aberaman the lead for the first time in the game and it proved to be the winner.

Cambrian & Clydach 3 - 1 Troedyrhiw
At Cambrian & Clydach, the Welsh League Division 1 hosts won 3-1 against their Third Division opponents, Troedyrhiw in another exciting encounter. The home side led 1-0 at the break with Steve Turner scoring on the half-hour. The equaliser came on 68 minutes from Adam Callan, but just two minutes later Jason Berterelli gave Cambrian the lead again and the same player struck his second on 85 minutes.

Welshpremier.com


Jones is delighted to have McCreesh back

Liam McCreesh returned from suspension to net twice as Port Talbot won for the fourth year in a row at Maes y Dre.

His efforts sent the Steelmen up to seventh spot and earned praise from his manager Mark Jones.

“Liam also scored twice in our 2-0 win over TNS and that’s a fantastic effort for a midfielder,” he said.

“I was really pleased today as we won well. It was very comprehensive as we missed six or seven glorious chances to have secured a really big win.

“Some team are going to get a real hammering from us if we carry on like this. We’re back on track and Liam is back with a bang.”

It took McCreesh just half an hour to celebrate his return as he pounced on a rebound to slam an unstoppable shot past Jack Cudworth.

And he made the game safe 10 minutes into the second half leaving Welshpool pointless from their two home matches to date.

Evening Post


Welsh football league round up

IT’S as you were at the top of Division One after the clash between Aberaman Athletic and Goytre United ended in a 2-2 draw.

The match started dramatically with Barry Gunstone putting the hosts in front in the first minute.

Goytre then had keeper Chris Curtis sent off and had to battle through the rest of the game with 10 men.

But they equalised after 35 minutes through Dale Griffiths before Lee Williams put Aberaman back in front for a second time.

Just before the interval, Richard French levelled again and it stayed that way for the 10-man visitors to take a point and stay top.

Caldicot Town moved into third after a 6-0 drubbing of Dinas Powys, Jason Thorn firing a brace and Richard Sharrett, Gareth Cullimore, Jacob Guy and David Lloyd also scoring.

Two goals from Richard Reddy salvaged a point for Bettws against Bryntirion Athletic, who had Sean Williams and Antony Rawlings to thank for finding the net.

Cardiff Corries were 3-0 winners against Ton Pentre, Gareth Delve, Rhys Yates and Richie Veale scoring.

At the bottom, Swansea rivals Pontardawe and West End drew 2-2, while Garden Village won 3-1 at Ely Rangers and Caerleon and Taffs Wells fought out a 0-0 draw.

Division Two leaders Penrhiwceiber won 1-0 at Ammanford to stay top, Nathan King grabbing the goal.

Cwmbran Celtic moved to third after winning 3-1 at UWIC, while AFC Llwydcoed had a 3-2 home win over Llanwern, Tomas Morris (2) and Craig Bolton on target for the hosts, with Mike Vaux and Matthew Currie replying.

Newcastle Emlyn saw off Tredegar 2-0 with Antony Owens and an Adam Rainham penalty enough to give them the spoils.

Caerau Ely took the lead at Maesteg Park through Kane Amos, but David Williams equalised a couple of minutes later.

There was a closely contested affair at Porthcawl where the Seasiders and Newport YMCA drew 0-0.

In Division Three, leaders Corus Steel pipped Cwmaman Institute 2-1, while Goytre were the day’s top scorers in a 6-1 win at Garw.

Graham Mason was on target with a hat-trick, while Chris Williams, Adam Roberts and Robert Surtees scored one apiece.

Aberbargoed Buds in second were 4-2 victors at Llantwit Fardre, while Abertillery Bluebirds beat Troedyrhiw 5-2 away thanks to Owen Goodenough (2), David Gibbs, Lewis Clark and Jo Heard.

South Gower had a first win with a 2-0 success over Pontyclun, Steve Lancey and John Gill scoring.

Evening Post


Goalkeeper worries for Port Talbot

AFTER the controversial 2-1 home defeat by Aberystwyth Town last week, Port Talbot manager Mark Jones is without the services of suspended duo Drew Fahiya and Danny Thomas for the trip to inconsistent Welshpool.

He also has major concerns over the fitness of keeper Lee Kendall, which leaves him with a real problem as to who will fill the gap. Last Friday Tony Pennock made a surprise appearance but his duties with Swansea City could well rule out another appearance tomorrow.

With no other cover, Jones could be forced into playing an outfield player between the sticks, which would be a major gamble.

On the positive side, Liam McCreesh returns from his two-match ban.

"We need to string two or three wins together, but Welshpool is never an easy place to get a result. I am big friends with their manager Huw Griffiths and know how competitive his teams can be," Jones said.

The Steelmen have lost just once in eight visits to Maes y Dre and have won on their last three visits.

But Jones knows the division has hotted up this season in anticipation of the new super 12 league.

"At the start of the season most people thought they knew the top eight, but the North Wales clubs have upped their game with big budgets that many other clubs cannot match," he said. "I'll be satisfied to play badly and sneak a 1-0 win as our one focus is to finish in the top 10 so we are in the new set-up next year."

Evening Post


League cup round up

BARRY had a desperate struggle to avoid being victims of the biggest shock of the first round of the Nathaniel Car Sales Welsh League Cup at the weekend when they tackled Risca.

Forty-three places separate them in the league, but with two minutes to go it was 0-0 at Jenner Park and extra-time beckoned.

But then up popped Josh Bell to fire home and save Barry’s blushes.

A Marcus Power goal was enough to give Llanwern a 1-0 win at UWIC and Llangeinor, struggling at the foot of the second division, put league woes behind them to defeat Troedyrhiw 1-0 thanks to a Josh Ellis strike.

West End enjoyed one of the most impressive wins of the day overwhelming Tredegar 5-1, Darren Griffiths and Alex Chrysanthou each bagging a brace of goals.

Porthcawl caused a surprise when they knocked out Garden Village 2-0 thanks to goals by John Sullivan and Nicky Murphy.

Anthony Woolford


Bridgend win opener in cup in front of over 600

BRIDGEND Town hit the ground running at the Brewery Field to pull off a narrow Nathaniel Car Sales Cup victory over Aberaman Athletic.

An attendance of 605 – which more than favourably compares with the Principality Welsh Premiership gates this season – saw the launch of competitive football at this famous old rugby venue.

This not only proved one of the biggest gates in the Welsh League of recent times, but was comfortably Bridgend’s biggest since Southern League days.

Back in 1978, a crowd of over 2,000 spilled out onto the pavement outside their old Coychurch Road ground to see Jimmy Greaves play for Barnet during a Bank Holiday Monday league fixture.

Having played out of temporary bases at Porthcawl and Treforest since vacating Coychurch Road in February 2007, this was just the start that Bridgend were seeking.

With Celtic Crusaders Rugby League having switched to Newport and Bridgend Ravens RFC relegated to Division One, the hope now is that a successful football team could create interest in the town.

Their aim is to win a place in next year’s streamlined Principality Welsh Premiership, and the club have applied for the required licence.

The occasion was also marked by a special pre-match lunch while the new Brewery Field sports bar and updated changing facilities were also launched.

The game proved a lively affair – especially during the first half – and Bridgend did well to come through considering they had Grant Thomas sent off in the 38th minute.

Tony Poole 


Neath boss says "I have best striker in the league"
Neath manager Andrew Dyer believes that his striker Chris Llewellyn is the best striker in the Welsh Premier League.
The Gnoll-based side have made several new signings and are starting to turn the corner after a somewhat inauspicious start to the campaign, and with his high-profile summer acquisition netting his fifth goal in as many games in a hard-fought 2-1 win over Bala, Dyer, speaking to Afan FM, paid tribute to Llewellyn. “Maybe now, people will stand up and see just how good the lad is,” he said. “I don't think I'm boasting when I say I've got the best striker in the league. His performance, his training and his attitude to everything is outstanding.” 
Dyer went on to talk about 30 year old Llewellyn, who signed for the Eagles this summer in what is a major transfer coup for Neath, the signing being a major statement of intent for the club, and with Llewellyn's experience in the Football League, Dyer believes that Llewellyn is only going to get better, as well as improve the younger players at the club. “I can't speak highly enough of him, to be honest, he brings great leadership qualities, he's a calming influence on the team and he certainly knows how to stick the ball in the back of the net,” he said. “He's a great influence on the rest of the team, young players like Rob (Spendiff), how could they not learn off him?” 
Chris Llewellyn has played in over 350 games for clubs such as Norwich City, Hartlepool and Wrexham and is well on the way to getting his highest single season total, with five goals early in the season and has scored in every league game so far this season. 
But what of the player himself? Speaking to Afan after scoring, Llewellyn said he was still learning: “I'm really happy so far, but I'm still adapting,” he said. “I'm just happy to be helping move the team up the table.” 
The Merthyr-born player also revealed that he was pleased with what he had seen of the division and Neath in particular. “I was impressed when I came down here to sign,” he said. “I had no expectations, I wasn't sure really, except I knew they wanted to move forward and wanted to do things.” 
And it's with his goals that Neath are progressing. Moving up to 7th after their second consecutive win, both Llewellyn's goals at the Gnoll have been headed, and his aerial prowess has really set himself apart from the rest of the league. The player himself, however, was surprised at how well he'd been able to use his head. “It's only taken me 15 years to head a ball correctly,” he said. “Maybe it's the style of play here, but I've been heading more and more balls.” 
Going back to his manager, Andrew Dyer sees the signing of Llewellyn as one that raises the profile of the league as a whole. “The whole league is lucky to have Chris playing.”

Afan FM - www.afanfm.co.uk 


Bettws announce new manager
Bettws FC have appointed Darren Dyke as Manager . He replaces Mark Sage. An assistant is to be confirmed soon. Jason Edwards who acted as caretaker has also left the Club. Bettws FC wish to thank Mark Sage and Jason Edwards for their commitment over the last three years and we wish them well.
Darren was Manager of Bettws when we first entered the Welsh League in 2000-01. He won two successive promotions before resigning due other coaching and scouting commitments. He is Director of Football at the Bridgend Academy and will be staying within that role although he is sharing some of his workload with other coaches.

He brings vast coaching and management skills to Bettws and the committee are delighted with his appointment. Club Secretary Neil McEachen said “We had hoped Jason would have taken the job because he has done a marvellous job here, but I had also nagged Darren to come back to the club for three solid weeks. The both of them would have been a great team, but Jason declined. We talked to few other interested parties but we got our man in the end and I know the club will do well from here on in."
10 man Port Talbot just fail to hold onto the 3 points against Hwest
 
Port Talbot could have gone 4th in the table, and were only 2 minutes away from pulling off a good result having played the whole of the 2nd half with only 10 men.

Former Lido player Liam McCreesh was shown the red card after he picked up his 2nd yellow on 45, at the time Port Talbot were 1-0 in the lead, former Bluebird Lee John gave the visitors a 14' lead, and despite being down to 10 men Port held out until the 88' when Bluebirds Academy product Steffan Williams gave the home side a share of the points.
Aberaman's name change get green light
 
Aberaman's quest to change its name to Aberdare Town AFC has been granted by the FAW.

At a meeting held in Cardiff on September 10th the FAW passed the clubs request to change it's name, and as from Tuesday September 15th the club will be officially called Aberdare Town AFC, the final piece of the jig-saw will be the approval of the welsh league, The club looked to change it's name to appeal to a wider support base in the area.

Aberaman came close to gaining promotion to the welsh premier league last season with David Morgan at the helm of the team supported by his company ENTO, Morgan has since parted company with the club, they currently top the welsh league, but strangely enough they have not applied for promotion to the welsh premier league this season.
Port Talbot boss confident ahead of Haverfordwest clash
 
PORT Talbot boss Mark Jones holds no fear of his side not performing on arguably one of the best pitches in the Welsh Premier.
The high-flying Blues travel to Haverfordwest County this Friday night in buoyant mood after taking the scalp of last season’s runners-up TNS last Saturday.

Jones has kept a watchful eye on the Bridge Meadow side and was impressed by their 2-1 win over his old club Carmarthen Town recently.

Given the enviable surface at Bridge Meadow, Jones expects Haverfordwest to play a passing game but it is one that the Blues are familiar with.
Jones has encouraged the Blues not to lump the ball upfield and treasure possession.
“I have watched Haverfordwest a few times already and they are a good side,” said Cardiff-based Jones.

“They have one of the best playing surfaces in this league by a country mile and they alway try to play football.
“Our boys will also have no problems in moving the ball around the park.
“It is important that we get a result there after our win against TNS at home.”
Port Talbot are in sixth spot - one place above Friday night’s opponents, who are one point behind.
A win at Bridge Meadow will provide further evidence that Port Talbot will be among the top six sides this season.

Jones has been delighted with the growing stature of his squad and the bedding in of his new summer signings -- especially goalkeeper Lee Kendall, who the club signed from champions Rhyl.
“Lee has been magnificent for us,” said Jones.
“He has kept three clean sheets in four games and that is priceless for us.
“He is a good character to have at Port Talbot and works hard at his game.”

Robert Skeels
Wales semi-pro lose to Poland
 

Two goals in five minutes cost Wales a deserved result against a physically strong and technically gifted Poland side in an Under 23 friendly at Richmond Park, Carmarthen.

Two goals in five minutes cost Wales a deserved result against a physically strong and technically gifted Poland side in an Under 23 friendly at Richmond Park, Carmarthen.

The young Welsh side featured eight Principality Welsh Premier League players, as well as three from Wrexham against a professional Polish under 23 outfit of players from their Under 21 squad and fringe of the National set-up.

Despite this, the Welsh had the better of the opening exchanges and Wrexham forward Marc Williams looked dangerous throughout. However, a slice of bad luck cost Terry Boyle's fledglings as the visitors took the lead on 31 minutes through striker Przemyslaw Trytko. A Polish cross was deflected off Mike Williams, and the ball landed on a plate for the forward to head passed Haverfordwest keeper Lee Idzi. Just five minutes later and the visitors doubled the lead as Legia Warsaw's Adrian Mierzejewski's excellent right wing cross was finished with one touch by his club teammate Adrian Paluchowski.

Wales enjoyed the majority of possession in the second-half and centre midfielders Ashley Williams (Airbus) and Aeron Edwards (TNS) impressed despite being considerably shorter and smaller than their opponents. Substitute wingers Owain Warlow (Llanelli) and Drew Fahiya (Port Talbot) got themselves into the game and looked dangerous as the game went on, and Warlow was deprived of a debut goal by the woodwork as he hit the near post following good work from Marc Williams.

Fahiya then supplied Williams who turned well inside the box only for the Polish keeper Adam Stachowiak to deny him. The Wrexham striker had another great chance moments later but his free header went over the bar from a corner.

The Welsh were given hope on 84 minutes when referee Dean John awarded a penalty as Craig Moses was fouled for a penalty. Marc Williams' spot-kick was well saved by Stachowiak, but Moses was first to the rebound and he fired home for 2-1, which was how the game finished.

Port Talbot's Surman to captain welsh semi-pro
 
Port Talbot's Lee Surman is to captain the welsh under 23 semi-pro team. Surman is one of three Port Talbot players to make the squad, another local player to make the squad is Neath's Matthew Harris.

The starting 11 is made up of 8 players from the welsh premier, with 3 from Wrexham, and the welsh premier boasts 6 of the 7 subs.

Port Talbot has 2 players making the starting 11 in Captain Lee Surman and Scott Barrow, Drew Fahiya makes the bench.

The game is being played tonight at Carmarthen's Richmond Park.

The line up:

1. Lee IDZI (Haverfordwest) 
2. Kai EDWARDS (Wrexham) 
4. Michael WILLIAMS (Wrexham) 
5. Lee SURMAN (C) (Port Talbot Town) 
6. Ashley WILLIAMS (Airbus UK Broughton) 
8. Aaron EDWARDS (TNS) 
9. Marc WILLIAMS (Wrexham) 
10. Craig MOSES (Llanelli) 
11. Jordan FOLLOWS (Llanelli)
13. Scott BARROW (Port Talbot Town) 
15. Sion EDWARDS (Bangor City)

Subs:

12. Stephen CANN (Aberystwyth Town) (GK) 
3. Ryan BATLEY (Llanelli) 
7. James OWEN (Chester City) 
14. Ryan EDWARDS (Airbus UK Broughton) 
16. Matthew HARRIS (Neath) 
17. Owain WARLOW (Llanelli) 
18. Drew FAHIYA (Port Talbot Town)

Tony

Day at the Beach was a Real Team Effort, says Dyer
 
A real team effort gave Neath a convincing 4-1 win on the road against Porthmadog. Manager Andy Dyer spoke to Afan FM crediting many of his players.

Goals from Chris Llewellyn, Stephen Pockett and a brace from Craig Steins gave the Eagles their first win of the season and Dyer said that making the most of their opportunities was the key: “All today was us taking our chances, and that's exactly what we did,” he said. “We've done it a few times this season, where we've only performed for 45 minutes.

Today we did it for 90 minutes and we got our just rewards.” It wasn't all plain sailing for Neath, Dyer was apprehensive until he saw Chris Llewellyn hit his fourth goal of the season. “Chris missed a hatful of chances in the first half, and I was thinking 'here we go again' but to be fair to him, he scored right at the start of the second half.” Llewellyn's strike partner Craig Steins also received praise from Dyer after a pair of goals, his first for the club. “Craig looked sharper and the boy almost got a hat-trick, he hit the bar, and he really got his rewards.

” At the back, loan signing Rory Smitham went straight into the side and Dyer was impressed by his first start for the side. “Rory is a leftie, which gives us a lot more balance at the back, Richard (Ingram) has been doing well there, but he isn't a left pegger, which Rory is,” he said. “As well as that, he's a huge presence, he's very vocal and a a real leader on the park. He's an excellent acquisition for us.

” After the win at Y Traeth, Neath move up to 9th, their first time in the top 10 this year. They now face newly-promoted Bala Town at the Gnoll on the 13th, and Dyer believes this win will give his side confidence. “Bala have started very well, had a great start, but we need that first win at home, and we have a lot of confidence,” he said. “In fairness, a result like this has been coming, we just had to take our chances, and we did that.”

Afan FM

Aberaman Athletic lead the Welsh League
 
ABERAMAN Athletic stand top of MacWhirter Welsh League Division One following their 2-1 win at Dinas Powys.

Captain Chris Ashley won the toss and opted to play with the wind at Aberaman backs. They led 1-0 at half-time and doubled that advantage before Dinas replied from a penalty.

Barrie Gunstone and Steve Edwards scored for Aberaman, whose squad includes Tom Ramasut, Jon Kift and Samir Misbah.

Scott McCoubrey and Shaun Galsworthy scored for Afan Lido in their 2-1 win against Bettws. It was Galsworthy who grabbed the winning goal after 88 minutes.

Bettws went ahead after nine minutes when Paul Jones scored, while Lido equalised when Carl Evans played the ball forward for McCoubrey to run on to and lob the keeper to make it 1-1.

Mike Lewis, in the Lido goal, made an excellent one-handed save to deny Bettws, while McCoubrey headed over from a good position.

The winning goal came when Carl Payne was fouled just outside the penalty area. Jonathan Hood took the free-kick, lifted the ball in deep and the keeper fumbled.

It was half-cleared to Galsworthy and he hit it first time into the net.

Ely Rangers returned from Goytre United with a hard-earned 1-1 draw, while Ton Pentre edged a 1-0 win against Barry Town at Ynys Park.

Goytre are still unbeaten and in second spot, while Cambrian and Clydach are the other unbeaten team in Division One.

They have two wins and four draws from their first six matches, battling to a 3-3 finish against Caldicot Town at home.

The all-Gwent derby between Cwmbran Town and Croesyceiliog finished 1-1 at Cwmbran Stadium.

Cup fixtures dominate over the next two weekends. It’s Welsh Cup action next Saturday, followed by Nathaniel Car Sales League Cup ties on Saturday, September 19.

There is one First Division fixtures on September 19 when Goytre United entertain Ton Pentre, while on the same day in Division Three Pontyclun are at home to Monmouth Town.

Pontyclun are back in the Welsh Cup next weekend, even though they were beaten 3-0 against Tredegar Town in the last round. But it’s Pontyclun who go forward to face Goytre FC because Tredegar were found guilty of fielding an ineligible player.

South Wales Echo
 
PRESSURE, WHAT PRESSURE? SAYS DYER

 
Neath manager Andy Dyer insists that there is no pressure on him at the Gnoll.

With several high-reputation signings, and a large-scale reshaping at the club, few expected the Eagles to be winless after three league games, and with the investment in the side, Dyer was asked by Afan FM after the 1-1 draw with Newtown whether or not he feels any pressure: ”No, not at all,” he said, before asking where pressure could be coming from.

Dyer also made it clear that external expectations will not play a part in his plans for the rest of the season: “We've got our own targets, and our own aims, and I'm quite happy with everything that's going on. We haven't stuck the ball away and that's frustrating, but that's football.”

The Neath squad has 13 players in their first season with the club, amongst them Football League veterans Chris Llewellyn and Anthony Williams who have joined a trio of Merthyr players, Ashley Evans, Matt Harris and Craig Steins, the latter of whom is scoreless after four appearances in a Neath shirt. The Neath manager, whilst stating that Steins looked sharper, also challenged his long-term talisman Andy Hill a chance to force his way into the team. “Whether or not he (Hill) starts the next game depends on how he does in training. To be fair to Craig, he kept the ball alive for the first goal.”

Neath have the opportunity to gain 12 points in September with trips to Porthmadog and Elements Cefn Druids and home games against Bala and Caersws. After this month, and with the prospect of facing last seasons' top three in October, September will be a crucial month for Andy Dyer.

AFAN FM
 
Port Talbot lose at Rhyl

 
Port Talbot suffered only their 3rd league defeat under manager Mark Jones. They went down 2-0 to Rhyl at Belle Vue. Williams put Rhyl 1 up on 32' and Hunt gave them a 2 goal lead that was not cut back for Rhyl to take 2nd spot in the table.

In the welsh league there was no shortage of goal, Goytre ran in 6 past Caerleon without reply at Cold Bath Road. There were 8 goals at Aberaman Park where unbeaten Aberaman went down 6-2 to Cambrian & Clydach. Big spending Bridgend conceded another 4 goals but this time they managed to score 4 and draw 4-4 away with Caldicot.

Cardiff Corries earned their their first points of the season with a 2-1 away win at Garden Village. Lido's victims in mid week West End lost again when Bryntirion winning 2-1, Bryntirion are now up to 3rd.

Bettws and Ton Pentre played out a 0-0 draw, the only other draw of the day was at Ely where they were held to a 1-1 draw by Dinas Powys.

Barry Town earned their 2nd win of the season beating Taffs Well 2-1 at Jenner Park.

Corus Steel top division 3 with their 3rd win in 4 games, today they beat Pontypridd Town 2-1 to head the table by 3 points.

View league table

Tony
 
Former Steelman Bond given licence to thrill

 
THREE years ago the best hope Chad Bond had of gracing the Liberty Stadium appeared to rest with cutting the grass there.

Released by Swansea City courtesy of a three-minute conversation with former boss Kenny Jackett, the heartbroken Bond landed a council job on lawnmower duties.

Like so many youngsters before him, his lifelong dream to play professional football seemed dead and a ‘civilian’ career beckoned.

But Roberto Martinez handed him a second chance and, via a circuitous route taking in Port Talbot Town, CF Balaguer (Spain) and Ostersunds (Sweden), the Neath product has finally made the first-team at Swansea.

Nearly four years on from a fleeting substitute appearance in a Football League Trophy defeat of Rushden, Bond was back for a first league outing in Saturday’s vital 1-0 Championship victory at Coventry.

Bond’s progress had been slowed by knee injuries, but he had a stroke of luck when former Swans captain Martinez succeeded Jackett in 2007.

Martinez remembered the young midfielder and offered him a trial in a pre-season friendly against Scottish club Hamilton Academicals.

Bond came off the bench to score twice and was handed a one-year deal before returning to Port Talbot on loan.

Further temporary spells followed at Martinez’s hometown team Balaguer and Ostersunds as Bond showed his determination to make the grade.

IcWales
 
Port Talbot aiming to take advantage of Legg's absence

 
LLANELLI go into tonight's tough local derby with on-fire Port Talbot at the GenQuip Stadium without influential player-manager Andy Legg.

Legg knows tonight's visit to Aberavon will be another major test for his team, who have won just three times at the venue in eight visits, the last occasion a thrilling 6-4 victory in a howling gale after the Steelmen had led 4-1.

The result ultimately led to the sacking of Port Talbot manager Nicky Tucker and the arrival of former boss Mark Jones, and what a transformation there has been since then.

Port Talbot eventually finished fifth last term and have continued their winning vein this season with a 1-0 league triumph at Elements Cefn Druids last week followed by a 2-1 home League Cup victory over Neath in midweek.

"It's going well at the moment but we know this is one of the season's big tests for us," Jones said.

"Let's face it, Llanelli, Rhyl and TNS are the equivalent of Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool's domination of the Premier League.

"It's a domination we and several other clubs are trying to muscle in on but it is difficult as we are relying on a relatively small squad of players."

Jones has a fully-fit squad to choose from tonight which gives him a headache after making seven changes in midweek from the team that travelled to Druids.

"I will have 18 players on my back baying to get on the park," he said.

"It's difficult but really a nice problem to have.

"This is a real test of character for the lads and this is the type of match we have to get a result from if we are to be candidates for the next stage, challenging the big boys."

Evening Post
 

Port Talbot's manager faces selection dilemma for Friday night.

 
PTT's manager faces a selection dilemma come kick off Friday night, as Port have won both their opening games with almost two different teams out in both games, only 4 players played against Neath in the league cup game that started the game against Druids. New signing Lee Kendal, Lee Surman, Lee John and former Lido midfielder Liam McCreesh. While 4 new signings made their debut's against Neath including former Lido striker Mark Jones. So Jonah has a decision all managers would relish, picking a starting 11 from a big squad of players.
 
DIVISION 1 ROUND UP

 
There were a few surprise results in division tonight. One of the favourites for the title and promotion Bridgend Town travelled to the capital and were hammered 4-1 by Ely Rangers. Dinas Powys gave Bettws a hiding at the Murch winning 5-0 Goytre had little trouble in seeing off Pontardawe and came out 6-3 winners at Glenhafod Park, Caldicot recorded their 2nd win in a row with a 5-2 win over Cardiff Corinthians. Bryntirion were 2-1 winners at Taffs Well, last seasons champions narrowly won at home beating Caerleon 1-0. Barry Town drew 0-0 at Cambrian, and the two newcomers playing each other tonight ended 0-0 between Garden Village and West End in the Swansea derby.

So only 3 teams left with a 100% record after 2 games and they are Aberaman, Caldicot and Goytre Utd.
 
Fahiya strikes down Druids

 
CEFN DRUIDS not only started with a new name but almost a complete new side with seven new faces on parade at Plas Kynaston for this opener.

It was the visitors who had the game’s first chance when midfielder Liam McCreesh was set free and left with only keeper Rob Thomas to beat but he tipped the ball over for a corner.

The stalemate was broken in the 34th minute when McCreesh broke down the right flank and squared for Drew Fahiya to beat Thomas from close range.

It was almost the hour mark before the hosts created their first clear-cut chance and it followed some inspirational play for Josh Russell who fed Bobby Jones but Lee Kendall saved well

Wales on Sunday
Welsh league round up

 
CHAMPIONS Aberaman Athletic started the season in fine style as they raced to a 4-0 lead against promoted Ely Rangers and eventually ran out 5-3 victors.

Barry Dunstone and John Kift both grabbed a brace and Steve Edwards also found the net.

Graham Cummings scored twice for Ely and was denied a hat-trick as he missed a penalty. Anthony Nagi rounded off the scoring.

Barry Town eased past Dinas Powys 3-1 with goals from Josh Bell, James Simpson and Ian Jones.

Last season’s runners up Goytre also made an impressive start with a 3-2 victory over Bettws and newly promoted West End saw off Taffs Well 3-1.

Bridgend Town made a convincing start with a 3-1 success at Afan Lido and Ton Pentre and Bryntirion shared the points in a 4-4 draw.

In Division Two’s only match, Treharris and Ammanford battled out a 2-2 draw, while in Division Three league newcomers Corus Steel got off to a flier with a 4-1 triumph over Abertillery.

Cwmbran Celtic cruised into round one of the FAW Welsh Cup with an emphatic 4-0 victory at Garw thanks to a hat-trick from Scott Lanyon and a fine solo effort from Luke Sallis.

In a high scoring encounter at Newport YMCA, Croesyceiliog took the honours 5-3.

League new boys South Gower provided the shock result as they saw off Division Two’s Llanwern 5-0. Matthew Kendall netted twice and there was one apiece for Tom De Val, Will James and Ben Higgins.

Newport Civil Service enjoyed a successful venture into Mid Wales as they won 2-0 at Rhayader Town. Matthew Palmer and Colin Wigmore both scoring.

Troedyrhiw from Division Three also upset the odds as they beat Division Two’s Cwmbran Town 3-1 with a brace from Craig Howells and a solo from Sean O’Brien.

AFC Llwydcoed, champions of Division Three, overcame fellow promoted rivals AFC Porth 3-1. A goal from Matthew Hughes saved Aberbargoed Buds blushes as they won 1-0 at Spar Midland League outfit Bow Street.

Wales on Sunday
Port Talbot sign Lee Kendal

 
Former Rhyl Goalkeeper Lee Kendall - who cancelled his contract with Rhyl yesterday by mutual consent - has signed for Port Talbot Town this afternoon.

Rated as one of the League's top 'keepers, Kendall spent two seasons at Belle Vue and became a crowd favourite during his spell with the Principality Welsh Premier Champions.

A statement from Port Talbot Town this afternoon said,

"In the biggest transfer of the summer, manager Mark Jones swooped to sign the former Barry Town and Haverfordwest shot-stopper after he negotiated his release from Rhyl on Thursday night.

"Regarded as one of the best keepers to have ever played in the Welsh Premier League, Kendall lifted the championship with Rhyl last season and brings a wealth of experience to Mark Jones squad after nine seasons in the league."

Official welsh premier
Dyer signs up 2 more for the Eagles

 
 Neath have added to their strong-looking squad with the acquisition of two new signings to the club, Stephen Davey and Carlos Castan.

Midfielder Davey, 18, is a Wales youth international who spent two seasons with Shrewsbury Town. He won 8 Under 17 Caps in 2007/08, scoring one goal. He then won 6 Under 19 Caps last season, again scoring once. But, he was released at the end of the season by the New Meadow club. Striker Castan also arrives in the Welsh Premier for the first time and he has experience playing in the Spanish leagues.

Both played for the Eagles against Coventry City Under 18's last night in a 2-2 draw at The Gnoll. Andy Hill put the Eagles in front in the first-half, but the Sky Blues were leading 2-1 in the final stages through goals from Callum Wilson and Josh Ruffels before veteran Carl Shaw levelled at the death.

Official welsh premier
Two Macedonian U21's sign for Barry Town

 
BARRY Town have signed two Macedonian under-21 internationals for their new MacWhirter Welsh Football League season.

Teenagers Tomi Ilievski and Dusko Trajcevski made their Barry Town debut in a goalless draw against Western League Willand Sports in Devon.

“They are both central midfield players and they’ve impressed manager Gavin Chesterfield with their technical ability,” says Barry secretary Dave Cole.

“They are due to be with us for six months.”

Ilievski played for 65 minutes against Willand, while Trajcevski went on for the last 25 minutes.

The two players, who look composed in possession and pass the ball well, will have to adjust to the Welsh League.

Both are 19 years old and almost signed for Pontypridd Town last season.

Welsh businessman Clayton Jones, who is launching St David’s Travel, has close links with the Macedonian FA and has worked closely with Barry on the two signings.

Terry Phillips
Merthyr optimistic about new season

 
MERTHYR Tydfil are now looking ahead to the start of their Zamaretto Southern League season with real confidence.

The club are in administration, but have cleared every hurdle put before them so far.

And manager Garry Shephard used 19 players as the Martyrs took on Gloucester City at Cirencester Town’s ground.

Merthyr were beaten 4-1, but are delighted to have played a match which looked in doubt at times last week.

Then the Football Association, the Football Association of Wales and the Southern League all gave a thumbs up to plans for the club’s supporters trust to run things under licence from the administrator.

Merthyr Tydfil will start the season with a 10 points deduction, but there is a real spring in their step now they have been given the go-ahead to play on.

Manager Andy Legg and his Llanelli team are scheduled to visit Penydarren Park for a pre-season friendly this Saturday, August 8.

Electricity is now back on at the Merthyr ground and the club should be ready for the start of their new league campaign.

Merthyr open their Premier Division fixtures against Hampshire club Bashley at Penydarren Park on Saturday, August 15 (3pm).

Terry Phillips
Swansea City win at Port Talbot

 
 The crowd started to fill the GenQuip Stadium as the referee got this friendly underway and with 90 seconds played Martin Rose had the game's first chance as he broke free of Garry Monk and into the box.

He held on to the ball a little too long as David Cornell raced off his line to gather the ball at his feet.

Casey Thomas, playing in his hometown, fired straight at Neil Collins from the right of the box and the former Welsh League goalkeeper into stopping from Chad Bond soon afterwards.

But three minutes shy of the half-hour mark the deadlock was broken, Fede Bessone picking out Guillem Bauza inside the area before the ball founds its way back to him on the edge of the area.

The Argentinian full-back mis-hit his effort across the face of goal but Jordi Lopez was waiting at the back post to tap home the opening goal.

And six minutes before the break the former Afan Lido youngster sent Matty Collins on his way inside the area and his namesake Neil in the Port Talbot goal was forced into making a stop from his angled shot.

Half-Time: Port Talbot 0 Swans 1

Port Talbot made an encouraging start with Drew Fahiya forcing David Cornell into making his first real save of the game while Neil Thomas fired wide 30 seconds later.

Guillem Bauza fancied his chances from just outside the area two minutes in, only to see it fly over, but Chad Bond saw his effort from similar distance shave the top of the crossbar.

Kerry Morgan fired high over the bar from close-range after latching on to Jamie Grimes' long ball forward and that came just before the home side made seven changes in the space of three minutes.

Stephen Dobbie shot inches wide ot the target before the visitors made a further three changes - Jazz Richards, Daniel Sheehan and Marcos Painter all coming on - and defender Sheehan almost made the perfect start as he came close to meeting Dobbie's corner.

The Swans continued to dominate the latter stages and it was Orlandi this time that came close to bagging a second with 10 minutes left but he shot inches past Collins' right-hand post.

But the second just wouldn't come and as the fourth official raised his board to signal the two minutes of added time Stephen Dobbie came closest to doubling the advantage when his wicked drive struck the foot of the post.

Attendance: 1,200 (approx)

Official Swansea City website