Wrexham hoping to sign winger Luke Holden from Rhyl (Jan 31) 13:10

Dragons boss Dean Saunders wants Holden to follow Andy Mangan to the Racecourse in the January transfer window.

But Holden's move could be scuppered as he has played for two other clubs this season during a three-month loan spell at League One Charlton Athletic.

Fifa rules state a player cannot play for three clubs in one season but Wrexham will be permitted to sign the 21-year-old on an emergency loan deal.

"It's just a bit complicated with Rhyl and Charlton," said Saunders. "He has been at Charlton for the last three or four months.

Holden, who was also linked with Coventry City, signed on loan for Charlton in September on a three-month loan deal but made just one appearance for The Valley club in a 2-1 Football League Trophy defeat to Southampton.

The left-sided midfielder helped Rhyl win the Welsh Premier title last season and Saunders hopes Holden can bolster Blue Square Premier side Wrexham's push for promotion back to the Football League.

BBC

 
Steelmen’s extra mettle ends Aber’s cup dreams (Jan 31) 12:50

Aberystwyth crashed out of the Welsh Cup after finding themselves well shackled by Port Talbot at Park Avenue.

Goals at the start of each half from Liam McCreesh and Leigh de Vulgt saw The Steelmen march into the last eight at the expense of last season’s beaten finalists.

It was set to be a close-run thing in this fourth-round battle between two sides in the top five of the Welsh Premier, but the visitors ran out convincing winners against the Black and Greens.

In fact, Port Talbot never looked back after taking the lead on just five minutes when McCreesh, with eight league goals this season, added to his tally when nodding in from close range following a corner.

Aberystwyth, who had defeated their rivals in the league earlier in the campaign, rarely looked likely to repeat the feat as they struggled to a find a way back in front of a 500-plus crowd, their best first half effort coming from debutant Ryan Fraughan.

While their hosts were struggling to carve any clear chances, Talbot were on top for the majority of the first period, with Neil Thomas twice going close and McCreesh missing another opportunity from close range.

The Steelmen, looking well organised and strong throughout, tightened their grip six minutes after the interval when de Vulgt curled home a free-kick inside the left corner of the net.

Aber did end the game with a flurry with a couple of late efforts, Luke Sherbon attempting a lob and, after one of their few flowing moves, Graham Evans’ shot was parried to safety by keeper Lee Kendall. The Black and Greens also had a late penalty shout turned down, but by then it was too little, too late.

IcWales

 
Holders struggle to see off Aberaman (Jan 31) 12:50

WELSH Cup holders for two years, Bangor City progressed to the quarter-finals again but made heavy weather of their last-16 challenge from Aberaman Athletic.

Jamie Reed scored twice and it was his second goal, from a last-gasp penalty, that ultimately clinched a win that should have been a lot more convincing.

City virtually parked in Aberaman territory in the second half but squandered chances galore, some of them, incredibly, in the six-yard box.

Yet, full credit was gained by Leighton James’ battlers from the Welsh League who, after snatching an unlikely early lead, stayed within distance all the way.

Complacent City were caught ball-watching on 17 minutes, when Aberaman’s John Phillips blasted a 15-yarder past home keeper Paul Smith, after a quick throw-in on the right.

A second goal for the visitors could have followed quickly but captain Jonathan Kift’s volley from just inside the box was grabbed by the alert Smith.

In another scare for the cup kings, Michael Johnston cleared off his line from Palmer, after Smith was stranded following a poor clearance.

Bangor began to get their act together on 33 minutes, thanks to Reed, who took in his stride a diagonal pass from newcomer Eddie Jebb and shot low into the target.

The second goal from Craig Garside on 50 minutes was the product of an exquisite interchange involving several players – and that signalled City’s apparent takeover.

But there followed all those woeful misses, until on 92 minutes Reed tucked away a spot kick, after Samir Misbah had been blamed for a shirt tug on the Bangor striker.

IcWales

 
King Leah is a tragedy for Pontardawe (Jan 31) 12:50

HAT-TRICK hero John Leah inspired the Lilywhites to a thumping victory over Welsh League Division One minnows Pontardawe at Belle Vue.

The hosts took only 16 minutes to get going when Leah scored with an absolute corker into the far corner from the left-hand side of the box.

Rhyl keeper Paul Pritchard made a vital stop from Pont’s Andrew Stokes before the Welsh Premier champions went 2-0 up when substitute Mark Connolly headed in.

Another Leah cracker from 20 yards put the Lilies in total command by half time and the lead was increased seven minutes after the break when Rob Turner headed in a free-kick.

Connolly, who might have been playing his last game for Greg Strong’s side, lashed in from 20 yards on the hour and the half dozen was brought up when Turner squared for Tyrone Kirk to find an empty goal.

And the demolition job was completed when Leah blasted into the roof of the net from an angle to reach his hat-trick.

IcWales

 
Hillier salvages Neath point (Jan 31) 12:50

NEATH’S hopes of clinching a top-three spot were dented as they were held by the battling Druids at the Gnoll.

It was yet another below-par performance from the big-spending South Wales outfit who created enough chances to have won but flattered to deceive in front of goal and let their opponents off the hook.

In contrast, Druids are operating on a shoestring budget but cut their cloth accordingly and all battled well for each other.

Neath had the better of the first half chances but could not find a way through a stout Druids defence that held firm.

It was a familiar story in the second half as Druids relied on a solid defence and the odd breakaway as their main tactic.

It seemed to have worked when they took the lead on 53 minutes, John Rush doing well to set up Craig Whitfield who scored from inside the box.

The Neath front-runners were thwarted time and again by a combination of good defending and bad luck.

Craig Steins hit the post when put in on a one-on-one situation before Andy Hill hit a post and Richard Ingram’s effort rebounded into play off the bar.

Then, with 13 minutes remaining, Neath finally drew level when Ian Hillier pounced on to a far post cross to force the ball home from close range.

IcWales

 
Llanelli fire four in easy win (Jan 31) 12:50

THIS proved to be routine cup victory for Llanelli who were far too strong for the Cymru Alliance minnows at Stebonheath Park.

The full-timers did a thoroughly professional job on the visitors who were far from disgraced but were never going to create a cup upset.

In fact, had keeper Michael Doutch not being in such fine form, the North Walians could have been heading home with an even more comprehensive beating behind them.

Llanelli drew first blood when Jordan Follows put Chris Venables in on goal and he stabbed the ball past a stranded Doutch for the opening goal after 26 minutes.

Good build-up play set up a second when Rhys Griffiths and Antonio Corbisiero fed Follows in the box and he fired into an empty net.

Llanelli put the tie beyond doubt two minutes into the second-half when Venables was involved in the build-up and Griffiths slotted the ball home from an acute angle.

The final Llanelli goal came after Craig Jones had a shot blocked, the ball rebounding to Corbisiero who scored from close range.

IcWales

 
County’s class shows in the end (Jan 31) 12:50

COUNTY stretched their lead to 17 points as they strolled towards the Blue Square South title.

But the Exiles had to show another side to their character after Bromley shocked them with two second-half goals to level the scores.

County looked supreme in the opening period and took a richly-deserved lead on 21 minutes through an unstoppable header from central defender Paul Cochlin.

Craig Reid hit the post from a narrow angle and Foley had a long-range effort superbly saved by Gareth Williams in the home goal as County tried to build on their advantage.

Williams again performed wonders to make two saves from Foley early in the second period before Charlie Henry appeared to put the outcome beyond doubt in the 52nd minute.

But Bromley, who are on the fringe of the play-off zones themselves, replaced the defender with Welsh-born forward Ramon Calliste and they stunned County with two goals in quick succession.

Ryan Hall provided the first in the 62nd minute after beating the offside trap and Warren McBean pounced to scramble the ball home after a long throw from Steve Ferguson provided the chance.

But County soon reasserted their authority and, from a sparkling move involving Jamie Collins and Danny Rose, man-of-the-match Foley struck the winner on 69 minutes.

IcWales

 
Port Talbot ready for Welsh Cup battle (Jan 30) 13:10

PORT TALBOT manager Mark Jones believes his side have drawn the short straw in today’s fourth round of the Welsh Cup.

The Steelmen travel to Aberystwyth Town looking to cement a spot in the quarter-finals and Jones has identified their task as the most difficult of all the remaining 11 top-tier clubs.

“It’s a tough one, but, if we show discipline and energy, as we have done recently, we can earn a result. But, apart from Park Hall and Belle Vue, Park Avenue is the hardest place to get a result,” Jones said.

Jones, who has a fully-fit squad available, is a previous cup winner while in charge at Carmarthen Town.

In the other all-Welsh Premier ties, Porthmadog host Prestatyn Town, while strugglers Caersws are at Bala Town.

Porthmadog boss Tomi Morgan has major selection problems. He lost three players in the January transfer window and brought in Andy Evans, Robert Evans and Marcus Orlik, but all three are cup-tied.

And Euron Roberts is doubtful after concussion in the 3-2 defeat at Neath last week.

The biggest chance of an upset could be at Afan Lido, who are challenging for promotion to the new super league from the Welsh League.

They host inconsistent Connah’s Quay, who will do well to return from Aberavon with a positive outcome.

Rhyl look to have a comfortable passage as they entertain Pontardawe Town, but the Lilywhites are still subject to conjecture over financial pressures.

IcWales

 
Dave Jones blasts Cardiff City board (Jan 30) 13:10

DAVE JONES has criticised the Cardiff City board for not turning out publicly to support embattled boss Peter Ridsdale.

The Bluebirds’ chairman apologised to supporters this week after admitting season ticket money brought in last month would not be used to bring in new players.

In a fraught press conference on Thursday, Ridsdale said he was eating humble pie, but could give no assurances when the club’s £2.7m tax bill would be paid before walking out with many questions left unanswered.

The Cardiff board had earlier issued a statement totally backing Ridsdale... but he was left to issue his apology alone.

Other directors were nowhere to be seen as Ridsdale was forced to face the music.

City manager Jones, who also emphasised his belief in Ridsdale, said he thought his chairman should have received more of a show of strength from within the club.

“The board put a statement out and I would have liked Peter to have had his board beside him when he was getting a grilling,” said Jones.

“I do think the whole board should have been there as they issued the statement backing him.

“I saw Peter after the press conference and he looked devastated and disappointed.

“We are in it together from the tea lady to the top people at the club and we should each be showing our support for him.

“And we have to keep doing that.”

IcWales

 
Tough test for Wrexham (Jan 30) 13:00

WREXHAM travel to Moss Lane today to face an Altrincham side within striking distance of the play-offs after emerging from their enforced winter break with back-to-back wins.

Altrincham showed no signs of rustiness when they won 2-1 at Ebbsfleet United and then beat Hayes and Yeading 3-2 at Moss Lane last Saturday.

Wrexham striker Gareth Taylor faces a late fitness test (ankle), but manager Dean Saunders remains without defender Neil Taylor (foot).

Striker Marc Williams (ankle) and defender Sam Williamson (foot) are not expected to figure in the game.

Meanwhile, the Dragons are in talks to sign Rhyl’s former Liverpool winger Luke Holden.

Saunders wants Holden to follow Andy Mangan to the Racecourse, but his move could be scuppered as he has played for two other clubs this season during a three-month loan spell at Charlton Athletic.

IcWales

 
Takumi boost for County (Jan 30) 13:00

NEWPORT County’s downbeat players were given a major boost in training this week ahead of their tricky trip to Bromley – the return of an old friend.

The Exiles, cruelly knocked out of the FA Trophy on Tuesday at Conference outfit York, return to league action today and as such, boss Dean Holdsworth called his troops in for training on Thursday night.

And rather than licking their wounds, the squad were buoyant thanks to the return of winger Takumi Ake from Japan.

The livewire winger has been out since the opening day of the season after suffering a cruciate knee ligament injury, but is close to regaining full fitness, though he won’t feature today.

Takumi trained with us and it added an extra dimension for the boys, they were very bright and upbeat and we also managed to get back on grass after the terrible weather, so it was a great session," he said.

Takumi looked fantastic, he’s in terrific shape and it’s like he’s never been away.

His presence was really timely, we loved having him back."

The Exiles travel to Kent today without key midfielder Wayne Turk.

An almost ever present in the side this season, Turk is unavailable due to family reasons.

However, boss Holdsworth isn’t short of options in midfield and any one of Danny Rose, Ashley Nicholls, Sam Foley or Jamie Collins could partner Scott Rogers.

Holdsworth will face tough selections all over the field, Paul Cochlin and Gary Warren outstanding in midweek at York, but new signing Chris Todd equally impressive on debut, giving him a defensive dilemma against an in-form side.

IcWales

 
TNS Sign Sharp to Spearhead Title Challenge (Jan 29) 16:10

The New Saints FC have secured one of the biggest transfers of January's window with the signing of striker Chris Sharp, 23, from Bangor City. He arrives at Park Hall on an 18-month contract for an undisclosed fee.

We are delighted that Chris has agreed to join us at The New Saints, his goal scoring record in the Welsh Premier is superb and he will give us another dimension up front

The forward - who has been linked with a football league move since his arrival at Farrar Road - has scored 13 league goals this term, as well as 2 Loosemores Cup strikes and currently trails just Llanelli's Rhys Griffiths in the League's Hot-Shots chart.

The Saints have the meanest defence in the League with just 8 goals being scored against them in nineteen League games to date, but they have again struggled for a consistent goalscorer. Midfielder Craig Jones (7) is the club's hot-shot to date, followed by Jamie Wood (6) and midfield trio Aeron Edwards, Alex Darlington and Scott Ruscoe (4). On-loan striker Steve Abbott who joined from Wrexham in August has scored fewer, so Saints' boss Andy Cale will be delighted to have captured a proven scorer at this level. In his first season at Bangor last year, Sharp scored 20 goals from just 23 league games.

"We are delighted that Chris has agreed to join us at The New Saints, his goal scoring record in the Welsh Premier is superb and he will give us another dimension up front" said assistant manager Mike Davies.

"Bangor City are sorry that Chris has decided to leave the club; however, we agreed in the summer when he re-signed that we would not stand in the way of his progression," says a City spokesperson

The Liverpool-born son of Everton legend Graeme, joined Bangor from rivals Rhyl in August 2008, after he was released from his Lilywhites' contract by mutual agreement. He made his debut in the 2-0 home defeat on the first game of the 2008/09 season against Llanelli, but became an instant Citizens' hero, when he struck a hat-trick in his second League game for the club away at Porthmadog.

Welshpremier.com

 
Bangor capture Jebb from Colwyn Bay (Jan 29) 16:10

Following confirmation of Chris Sharp's departure to TNS this afternoon, Bangor City have announced that they have today secured the transfer of Eddie Jebb from Colwyn Bay on an 18-month contract.

The 27 year old winger/forward had been a long time target for manager Neville Powell, who tried to sign him last season when he opted to join Colwyn Bay. Powell said;

"With the departure of Chris Sharp to The New Saints, it was important that we signed another player as soon as possible as we only have a small squad."

Eddie has got pedigree, was a target for two other Unibond clubs, and will fit in well within the squad as he knows most of the player's already

"Eddie has got pedigree, was a target for two other Unibond clubs, and will fit in well within the squad as he knows most of the player's already.

"With Marc Limbert now my assistant it was important that we signed a right sided player to give the team balance, and this is what we have done. Marc has still got a big part to play on the field; however, I do not expect him to feature as often now." Speaking about Sharp's departure, Powell added;

"We have parted on good terms and Chris will always be welcome at Farrar Road; I am sure he will be a success for The New Saints, but hopefully not against Bangor City."

Jebb's transfer was completed in time for him to be eligible for the Welsh Cup match tomorrow, where he will be unveiled to Bangor fans and he is likely to be named in the squad to face Aberaman Athletic.

Welshpremier.com

 
Bluebirds ask council for £2m lifeline (Jan 29) 13:10

CARDIFF City will ask the city council to authorise an urgent £2m land sale next week to help the club pay off its tax debt, the Echo understands.

The club will ask the council to approve the sale of a piece of land in Leckwith, which it is hoping then to sell to an investor for £1.8m to help pay off the Inland Revenue.

An emergency meeting of the council’s executive to discuss this single issue has been scheduled for next Tuesday , February 2, at 1.30pm.

If the council approves the sale, it would give the club just six working days to raise money from the land, part of which has planning permission for a hotel, in order to pay off the taxman before the club faces a winding-up order on February 10 in the High Court.

The Echo understands that City has already lined up a buyer.

Sources on the council’s executive, made up of Liberal Democrat and Plaid councillors, told the Echo that while they were keen to support the club, their first duty was to protect the interests of the taxpayers of Cardiff.

At the moment the cash from the sale of the land is allocated to pay for a community facility at the Leckwith site called the House of Sport.

Whether the council gives its permission for the land sale rests on the strength of the guarantees the club is able to give that it will still be able to build the estimated £3.5m facility by December.

A club spokesman said a guarantee from the contractor due to build the hotel and House of Sport, backed by what he called a “bank guarantee”, would be offered.

Under the initial terms of the land deal, the club should have built the facility by December last year.

IcWales

 
Rhyl's top scorer plays his final game for Rhyl tomorrow (Jan 29) 13:10

The goal-getting midfielder is set to sign for Unibond League club Colwyn Bay after the Lilywhites’ Welsh Cup fourth-round tie against Pontardawe Town at Belle Vue.

But there can rarely have been a case of a footballer so reluctant to leave a club.

Connolly admits to being in love with Rhyl and its fervent supporters, but with an addition to the family due in August, he cannot risk accepting the financial package on offer to the Lilies players for the rest of the season.

The departure of president and main benefactor Peter Parry from Belle Vue has left the Welsh Premier champions facing a well-publicised cash crisis.

The majority of the squad have reportedly agreed to a deal whereby they remain on their current wage until the end of February, but for the remaining two months of the season will not be paid.

However, if the team qualifies for Europe, either through finishing in the WPL top three or by winning the Welsh Cup, the players will share the resulting attractive cash prize between them

Unfortunately, Connolly felt he could not take that gamble.

“If my girlfriend wasn’t pregnant, I’d probably have taken a chance, but as it is I couldn’t take the risk.

“I need the money I earn from football for our ‘baby fund’,” said the 25-year-old, who joined Rhyl at the start of 2005/06.

Connolly admits saying goodbye to Rhyl this Saturday will be a very difficult experience.

“I don’t really want Saturday to come,” he stressed. “I’ve got a lot of friends at Rhyl and I don’t want to leave the club.

Daily Post

 
Merthyr look to lift play-offs dream (Jan 29) 13:00

MERTHYR Tydfil travel to high-flying Nuneaton Town just seven points from a play-off spot after two victories in five days, writes Mark Bloom.

With wins over mid-table Chippenham Town and Bedford Town, the Martyrs have the bit between their teeth and are ready to claim another scalp from a promotion front-runner.

Even manager Garry Sheppard is starting to believe that after taking a 10-point hit in the summer due to falling into administration, his side can grab a play-off spot.

“Saturday is a real test for us because of Nuneaton’s high position, but that will only fire the lads up even more,” said Sheppard.

“We have done well against the top-rating teams so that will not bother us.

“We have only lost one game in the last nine and the lads are really up for the challenge.

“We win this weekend and it is really game on, we lose and some damage has been done, but it is not a total disaster.

“If we get anywhere near the play-offs this season, Danny and I will pay the players’ beer for the whole night because they will have deserved it big time.”

IcWales

 
Newport County look for lift after FA Trophy exit (Jan 29) 12:50

NEWPORT County hope to bounce back from their FA Trophy exit at York by completing a league double at Bromley tomorrow (3pm).

Dean Holdsworth’s men will be bidding to maintain their dominance of the Blue Square Southern Division where they lead by a 12-point margin with a game in hand on their nearest rivals.

Holdsworth is banking on his troops having recovered from their long midweek trip when their FA Trophy replay with York City ended in a dramatic injury-time defeat.

County came out of the two tough ties with tremendous credit and Holdsworth was pleased with his players’ efforts.

He said: “We gave it our best and more then held our own over the two legs and said after the first leg that we could have done without a replay, but there you go.

“But I was proud of them. They were a credit to the club and if we do get promoted at least we know what kind of benchmark we must be trying to hit next season – and that is something that we did not have two weeks ago.

“Sometimes you don’t get what you deserve. We deserved extra-time, but you’ve got to play for the full 94 minutes,” he said. “We switched off and paid a heavy price.

“But we take a lot of dignity in defeat. We feel we should have won the first game, but that’s gone and the players will bounce back quickly.

“Bromley are in very good form and might well fancy their chances after we went out of the cup.

“But it won’t be a good time to play us.

“We had been on a super winning run and I expect the players to put the York result right.”

Holdsworth is close to securing a deal to keep on-loan midfielder Ashley Nicholls and young defender Aaron Morris at the club for February.

The loans, from Bishop’s Stortford and Cardiff , expire on January 31, but both loanees are likely to be staying on after plans to bring in a Blue Square Conference midfielder stalled.

IcWales

 
Goytre held at home by Taffs Well (Jan 28) 21:40

GOYTRE United had to pull out all the stops in order to secure a 4-4 draw with Taffs Well at Glenhafod Park in MacWhirter Welsh League division one.

The unbeaten league leaders were only once ahead, as the Cardiff side made good use of a higher percentage of possession.

Tyrone Topper shot the Wellmen into an early lead, but it wasn’t long before Richard Ryan responded.

A 23rd goal of the season from Ryan gave the Port Talbot side the lead for the only time at 2-1 only for Jamal Roberts to equalise.

The sides changed ends on 2-2, but the visitors went back ahead on the back of another Topper strike.

Ian Morgan nodded in a Darren Griffiths cross on the hour only for Topper to complete a hat-trick, and give the Wellmen a 4-3 advantage.

And with just 10 minutes remaining, visiting goalkeeper John Howe could only parry a Scott Kenyon shot, and Richard French followed up to score.

The hard-earned point stretched their lead over Caldicot to eight points, but Goytre have played two more matches.

Against the odds, Afan Lido gained a stunning 5-3.

Tony Poole

 
Port Talbot boss chases more cup success (Jan 28) 11:40

IF Port Talbot are to bounce back from last week's defeat at Welsh Premier League leaders The New Saints, they will have to do it the hard way at Aberystwyth Town.

The pair meet in the fourth round of the Welsh Cup and both clubs will feel confident of reaching the quarter-finals.

And Port Talbot boss Mark Jones knows this is the toughest draw of the round.

"There's no doubt we have drawn the most difficult tie of the round, but if the players show discipline and continue the work rate we have achieved recently we can get through," he said.

"I watched Carmarthen win there last week but Aberystwyth are a good side. They have had a good run recently, although Neath earned a point there on Tuesday."

Jones won the trophy while in charge at Carmarthen and has several semi-finals under his belt. But he would love to achieve another success with Port Talbot.

"This club has never played in Europe and it would be great if we could get there," he added. "The Welsh Cup is the quickest route to Europe and we are only three wins away from the final.

"You know what I think of this competition. It has a fantastic history and been good to me, but to get to the final with Port Talbot would be special.

"We will have great support at Park Avenue as we are taking five coachloads of supporters. It should make for a special atmosphere."

Evening Post

 
Angry Cardiff City fans demand cash crisis meeting (Jan 28) 11:30

Cardiff City supporters have called for an extraordinary general meeting so the club can explain why they will not be using fans' money to buy new players.

Fans had expected an estimated £3m raised by advance season ticket sales to be used to finance transfers.

But Cardiff's decision not to buy players is because of a cash crisis.

"They have made a big mistake by over-budgeting. An EGM is what we need now," demanded Paul Corkery, chair of Cardiff City Supporters Trust.

More than 10,000 fans invested in deals for season tickets for 2010/11, cash that manager Dave Jones said he expected to be used to buy new players.

And if Cardiff won promotion to the Premiership the fans were promised that money would be paid back to them in a scheme called "Golden Ticket".

But the Bluebirds are facing a second winding up order 10 February if they fail to pay the outstanding tax bill of £2.7m owed to Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs.

Corkery reacted angrily to a statement from the club on Wednesday saying the club would not now be investing in players before the January transfer window as they look to concentrate on paying off debts.

Corkery added: "We should have an EGM of shareholders to see if the shareholders are behind this statement because... I don't believe they are.

"It's totally their [the club's] fault. They need to prove to the fans that they can run this football club properly for 12 months without any [outside] investment.

"Because that is how you are supposed to run a business, not on hoping you are going to win the lottery.

BBC

 
Eagles chase vital victory (Jan 28) 11:20

NEATH will treat the visit of strugglers Cefn Druids as a must-win game as they seek to climb back into the top four of the Welsh Premier League.

A point at Aberystwyth on Tuesday night was a satisfactory outcome for the Eagles, although the first half was disappointing and manager Andy Dyer is anxious there is no repeat.

"Aberystwyth started brightly but we came back well after the break and it was a good point and a fair result," he said.

"We showed great desire and commitment but the first half was disappointing."

The match was another triumph for Chris Jones, who hammered a superb 25-yard equaliser in the 47th minute to advance his tally to four from two matches.

"He has great appetite and he hit a great goal, but some players disappointed me," added Dyer.

"I have rotated the squad over the last two matches but it will be the best team on the park from now on.

"With a squad of 20 players some will miss out. Some will have to wait for their chance again.

"We need to win this one and then we enter February which is a huge month for us as we play six matches."

Druids arrive at The Gnoll with their future already decided. They will play in the Cymru Alliance next season as they are unable to fulfil ground criteria.

They have won just once in 17 attempts and have a wretched record on the road, with one point from nine matches. Neath, on the other hand, are undefeated at home.

Evening Post

 
Llanelli favourites to progress (Jan 28) 11:10

LLANELLI appear to have a fairly comfortable passage through to the last eight of the Welsh Cup as they host Cymru Alliance strugglers Holyhead Hotspur.

But the visitors have picked up of late with four wins from their last six matches.

And they have already dispatched one Premier League club as they beat Newtown 4-3 on penalties in the second round.

Reds boss Andy Legg will not underestimate the challenge, but if Holyhead prevail it would be one of the competition's biggest shocks.

"They will come here feeling they have nothing to lose so we will have to be on our mettle," said Legg, so influential in last week's 3-2 home victory over Bangor City.

"We got out of jail last week, but to recover from a 2-0 deficit against a side like Bangor is a great effort by the lads and shows the character and desire we have at the club.

"These games against lower-league opposition are never easy, especially if they get off to a good start. But if we can nick an early goal or two it should make the task an easier one."

Legg is likely to give a few of his fringe players an opportunity, with some of his big guns on the bench as back-up.

Owain Warlow remains sidelined following an injury, but he is stepping up light training and should make a return to action shortly.

Evening Post

 
Carmarthen chase Newtown boost (Jan 28) 11:10

CARMARTHEN Town visit Newtown looking for three league points to take them into the top 10 for the first time for months.

The Old Gold have an eight-point advantage on the Robins, who have played two games fewer, with manager Deryn Brace viewing this as a huge moment in the campaign.

"This is a very important game for both sides," he said. "If we win it will give Newtown one or two problems and we will leapfrog Airbus into the top 10.

"We have been chasing the pack and another three points would have other teams looking over their shoulder and that would add pressure on them.

"It's going to be difficult as Newtown have brought in a number of new players to try to secure a super league spot, but we must build on our win last week at Aberystwyth.

"We haven't been doing that and that has been our downfall — lack of consistency."

Carmarthen are undefeated in six matches on the road and, with a visit to Llanelli next week, an extension to that run would put them in a much more favourable situation.

"It's all about us and what we do from now on," added Brace. "It's not what other clubs do. Our destiny is in our own hands and I feel we have the players to get us up the league."

Brace's only doubt is Craig Hanford, who has had stitches removed from a nasty shin injury.

Evening Post

 
Jones is on target yet again for Neath (Jan 27) 15:00

GRIMSBY Town loan striker Chris Jones is proving to be a masterstroke signing for Neath manager Andrew Dyer, whose side drew 1-1 at Aberystwyth.

Jones followed up his hat-trick on his debut against Porthmadog at the weekend with another cracking goal from 25 yards to level an earlier Luke Sherbon header.

Sherbon’s far post effort came on the stroke of half time but, two minutes after the break, Jones profited from Ian Hillier’s long throw to give the Eagles a deserved point.

Western Mail

 
Pacquette delivers heartache for County (Jan 27) 15:00

NEWPORT County suffered FA Trophy heartache when York’s Richard Pacquette scored an injury time winner.

Pacquette settled the second round replay in the fourth minute of injury time when County ‘keeper Glyn Thompson failed to hold Adam Smith’s shot.

On a heavily sanded surface at the soon-to-be renamed Kit Kat Crescent, County more than held their own in the opening half.

It was 25 years to the day that York had knocked Arsenal out of the FA Cup with Keith Houchen settling a fourth round tie.

But it was the 80-odd County fans who had made the long trip north that had most to cheer in the opening stages.

Gary Warren saw his shot blocked and Kerry Morgan fired wide before Sam Foley also went close.

It took over half-an-hour for York to get into their stride with former Wrexham man Levi Mackin to the fore.

Twice Mackin forced Thompson into action, diving acrobatically to his left and then saving at his near post.

The hosts lost defender David McGurk with a cut head but they looked the most likely to break the deadlock as the first half ended.

Chances were at a premium in the second half, though York’s Michael Gash saw his shot blocked on 74 minutes in a goalmouth melee.

County owed much to the excellent defending of Paul Cochlin.

Cochlin had removed the threat of Richard Brodie, who was substituted after 77 minutes following an angry exchange with the referee.

County were restricted to long-range shots from Foley and Cochlin in the second half, but neither tested home goalkeeper Josh Mimms.

South Wales Echo

 
Belle of the ball in win for Martyrs (Jan 27) 14:50

MERTHYR moved up to 13th spot in the Zamaretto League Premier Division table with their second 2-1 victory in the space of three days.

Evesham came to Merthyr having lost just one game in the past three months and took the lead as Merthyr stuttered in the first half hour. Marcus Palmer got the goal on 17 minutes, turning the ball in from 12 yards.

The Martyrs equaliser arrived just before the half time whistle, and Cortez Belle was creator, delivering an inch perfect ball for substitute Marcus Griffiths.

Merthyr emerged much more confident after the break but it wasn’t until 14 minutes from time that Merthyr took the lead for the first time when Belle out-jumped visiting ’keeper Nathan Vaughan to head into the empty net.

Western Mail

 
Victory for Rhyl secures 3rd spot (Jan 27) 07:00

Rhyl 2-1 Airbus
Matthew Williams, 36' (p); Rob Turner, 78' - Ryan Edwards, 22' (p)

Rhyl came from behind with ten-men to gain a valuable win at Belle Vue against Airbus UK Broughton. The Wingmakers took the lead on 22 minutes after referee Matt Bridges awarded the visitors a penalty. Wingmakers' full-back Ryan Edwards made no mistake from the spot to beat Jack Cudworth.

Winger Chris Williams who came off the bench for Tyrone Kirk after just 26 minutes, was shown a straight red card by Bridges, just seven minutes later. Despite this, just three minutes later, another penalty was awarded but at the other end and Matthew Williams beat Kristian Rogers to level.

The ten men managed to grab the winner twelve minutes from time as January signing Rob Turner registered his first goal at Belle Vue.

www.welshpremier.com

  
Cardiff hit Bristol for six (Jan 27) 07:00

BLUEBIRDS boss Dave Jones recorded his biggest win in his five seasons at Cardiff with a six-goal thrashing at Ashton Gate.

The Bluebirds scored three quickfire goals in a five-minute period through Peter Whittingham (18), Ross McCormack (22), Michael Chopra (23).

Just before the break Robins defender Liam Fontaine diverted in a Whittingham cross and Bristol fans were leaving the ground.

Incredibly Cardiff started as they finished and added two more from Chopra (46) and McCormack (55) to leave City just one goal short of their biggest-ever win.

Jones made three changes from the starting line up that beat Leicester City 4-2 in the FA Cup on Saturday.

Adam Matthews returned to right-back for the out-of-favour Paul Quinn, centre-back skipper Mark Hudson made way for Gabor Gyepes and Gavin Rae was preferred to Darcy Blake in midfield.

This was the third time the two clubs had met in just over two weeks, with them fighting out a 0-0 in the FA Cup round.

Then, in the replay, a late Bradley Orr own goal separated the two teams to send Cardiff through.

As in the other two encounters, it was Bristol who started the brighter with shots from Danny Haynes and Paul Hartley calling Bluebirds goalkeeper David Marshall into action.

But in the 18th minute the Bluebirds took the lead when goalkeeper Dean Gerken and defender Jamie McAllister collided on the edge of the box leaving City’s top scorer Whittingham to tap into an empty net.

Two minutes later and City doubled their lead when McCormack tapped home from close range and a minute later the game was virtually sealed when Chopra drove from 30 yards to find the bottom corner of the net.

Just three minutes before half-time Whittingham’s cross came off the foot of Fontaine.

The contest was really over just 10 minutes after the re-start when Chopra skipped through and McCormack drove home low.

South Wales Echo

  

Swan's draw a blank with Coventry (Jan 27) 07:00

SWANSEA CITY dropped to fifth place in the Championship after being held to a goalless draw against Chris Coleman's Coventry City.

Darren Pratley hit the post for the hosts in the first-half in one of very few chances for a lackluster Swans who saw rivals Cardiff City jump above them in the table.

Swansea, with Leon Britton axed from the squad amid rumours of interest from Wigan, started brightly enough with Pratley and Nathan Dyer full of running.

And the pair linked up to create the hosts first chance 11 minutes in, exchanging passes before Dyer slammed in a cross from the right byline that Keiren Westwood needed to save strongly from.

The impressive Andrea Orlandi then got in on the act after whipping in a cross from the left that Gorka Pintado attacked only for Westwood to deny, Pratley seeing his effort from the rebound cannon off the post.

But the opportunities quickly dried up for the Swans as both sides played out an error-strewn half with plenty of passes going amiss.

Sammy Clingan did go close for the Sky Blues with a free-kick but although Swansea edged the opening period, it remained goalless at the break.

Sousa changed things at the interval by replacing the ineffective Jordi Lopez for Joe Allen and Swansea started with good intent without testing Westwood.

Lee Trundle was introduced as Swansea looked for the cutting edge they so desperately needed before new signing Shefki Kuqi was given his Liberty bow with 13 minutes remaining.

And the two subs combined soon after to play in Pratley who went down under Martin Cranie's challenge only for referee Danny McDiarmid to wave play on.

Allen tested Westwood from the resulting corner but the strong Sky Blue defence won out to keep it goalless.

South Wales Echo

  

Taffs Well in winning warm up for tricky trip to Goytre (Jan 26) 14:30

TAFFS Well warmed up for their MacWhirter Welsh Football League trip to leaders Goytre United tomorrow with a 4-0 win against Caerleon at home.

Goals from Steve Edwards, Tyrone Topper, captain Liam Williams and Arron Colwill gave Taffs Well an emphatic victory against Gwent club Caerleon, who are adrift at the foot of the table.

Matt James was steady as a rock in the heart of a solid defence and Taffs Well go into their match against Goytre with the confidence to take on the First Division's top club.

Ton Pentre earned a 2-0 home win against Cardiff Corinthians and now turn to a Rhondda derby against Cambrian and Clydach tomorrow (7.15pm).

Ton Pentre were without a match for six weeks because of the poor weather, but eased back into action with a deserved win.

Liam Hutchinson played a pass through for Chris Jones to score Ton’s first goal, while Alyn Jones went close with a shot which rebounded off a post.

Substitute Caio Iwan, on for Calvin McLaggon, secured victory in the last minute when his solo run saw him take on several defenders before rounding the goalkeeper and squaring for Jones to add his second.

Barry Town are in action at Jenner Park tonight when Bridgend Town are visitors to Jenner Park (7.45pm).

Tonight’s clash is in Division One, while the two rivals meet again in League Cup action early in February.

That tie is at Bridgend’s ground.

Manager Gavin Chesterfield has added two new signings in Lewis James, former Bryntirion Athletic captain, and winger James Dixon, who has rejoined Barry from Dinas Powys.

South Wales Echo

 

Jones in FA Cup warning to Chelsea (Jan 26) 14:25

CARDIFF City will be up for more than “just a day out” when the Bluebirds invade Stamford Bridge for their FA Cup fifth round tie against Chelsea.

Around 7,000 fans will be there to roar the visitors on and City boss Dave Jones aims to give them something to cheer about.

“The FA Cup is a rest from Championship action – and the tie at Chelsea is fantastic for everybody,” he said. “We will travel with confidence and have a go – that’s what we are all about.

“We’re not just going for a day out. We’re more professional than that.

“We’re a football club with a pride about ourselves and no matter who you play, you believe you can go anywhere and get something from the game.

“If you don’t believe that, don’t bother going.

“If we’re honest with ourselves, which we are, we’ll have to be at our best and they’ll have to be just off their best and then you might get a result nobody expects.

“But we’ll go there with confidence and look forward to playing one of the best sides in Europe.

“It’s a superb draw against the biggest club left in the competition.

“I had a feeling when Chelsea came out it was going to be us next.

“Our allocation will be between 6,000 and 7,000 tickets and they will be sold.

“The tie is a welcome boost for the club coffers – or if we have a new owner it will be a drop in the ocean.”

The Bluebirds earned £90,000 in FA Cup prize money by beating Leicester City 4-2, while they will receive 45% of gate receipts at Stamford Bridge.

South Wales Echo

 
County confident of toppling York in Trophy replay (Jan 26) 14:20

NEWPORT County boss Dean Holdsworth is confident the Exiles can shock Conference high-fliers York City on their own turf tonight (7.45pm).

Last week both sides fought out a terrific high-quality 0-0 draw in the FA Trophy second round tie at Spytty Park.

Yet, but for three excellent saves from York goalkeeper Michael Ingham, Newport would have gone through to the next round.

And Holdsworth – whose side have a 14-point gap and a game in hand on nearest rivals Woking in the Blue Square South – believes County can take a notable scalp at Kit Kat Crescent.

Holdsworth’s optimism has been boosted by the 5-0 demolition of St Albans on Saturday.

“We are on a decent run and it’s our aim to keep that going for as long as we can,” said Holdsworth,

“I thought we did enough last week to go through and know we must do it all again.

“I could do without another cup-tie to be honest, but now we are here at this level then we must go out and prove that we are a decent side at this level.

“We want to be a Conference team next term and this is a great challenge for us.”

South Wales Echo

 
Martyrs on the fast track for league climb (Jan 26) 14:20

FAST-IMPROVING Merthyr Tydfil can move into the top half of the Zamaretto League table by beating Evesham United tonight (7.45pm) after a taking a 10-point hit at the start of the season, writes Mark Bloom.

Despite that deduction for falling into administration and a 50% pay cut for all staff, Merthyr are quietly sneaking up the table and have not given up on the play-offs.

If that was so, it would be on equal par to the amazing story that is happening down the road at runaway Blue Square South leaders Newport County for so many different reasons.

“The lads are determined not to just play out this season,” said manager Garry Shephard. “At first the main thing is to keep in this division and that is still the main objective.

“Yet after all the different things that has been put in front of them they still keep coming back.

“The 2-1 win on Saturday against Chippenham was just the boost the lads needed and wanted.

“I told the players before the Chippenham game they’ve really got to get the bit between their teeth. They are really going for this play-off spot.

“A lot of players would have given up the ghost, but they have stuck by us and nothing is beyond them.

“While they are in this state of mind, Danny Carter and I do not have to motivate them.”

South Wales Echo

 
Stunning debut for Jones as treble seals another Eagles victory (Jan 25) 14:40

GRIMSBY Town loanee Chris Jones enjoyed a dream debut as Neath beat lowly Porthmadog 3-2 at The Gnoll.

The former Swansea City trainee hammered a brilliant first-half hat-trick.

Neath boss Andrew Dyer beamed at Jones's contribution.

I've known Chris and his family since he was a boy and watched his progress," he said.

"When he became available I had no hesitation in moving for him. He is a lethal finisher, as he showed today.

"Chris was the difference between the sides and I thought he, Kevin Cooper and Kristian James, who were also making their debuts, were our three best players.

"We've got to improve. I've now got 20 players so expect a rotation system over the coming weeks when we have a glut of matches, starting with Aberystwyth on Tuesday."

Evening Post

 
Llanelli out of jail thanks to Rhys (Jan 25) 14:30

LLANELLI'S never- say-die attitude surfaced again at Stebonheath Park as they turned a 2-0 half-time deficit against Bangor City into a thrilling 3-2 victory.

But it was a close call for the Reds, who trailed with 12 minutes remaining.

It was the influence of player-manager Andy Legg that turned the tide.

A long throw into the box found its way to Rhys Griffiths and he didn't need a second invitation from six yards.

A draw seemed a fair outcome considering Llanelli's plight at the interval, but three minutes into stoppage time a corner presented a final opportunity to steal all three points.

Legg floated a corner to the near post and Griffiths was first to the ball to head home the winner. It was his 17th goal of the campaign.

It sealed a stunning 45 minutes after all seemed lost after Mark Smyth (13) benefited from sloppy marking from a throw-in to hammer home Bangor's opener.

And the situation became dire when Ashley Morris brought down Chris Sharp, who netted from the spot.

Lee Jarman's superb pass sliced open the Citizens defence in the 48th minute, leaving Chris Venables to finish with a crisp drive, and the fight back was underway.

Although delighted with his double and his side's victory, Griffiths aired a warning.

"We cannot afford to gift sides a two-goal start, but we can take a lot of confidence from the second-half performance," he said.

"Bangor are a good side, especially going forward, but we have to do better than we did for 45 minutes."

Legg added: "We took the first half on the chin and showed what a good side we are.

"The players showed tremendous spirit and character to fight back against a side who came here on the back of a fine run.

"I suppose you could say we got out of jail, but I thought we could have scored more as we missed at least two other very good chances.

"To come back from two down I've got to be delighted. I'll take the good points from the game but reflect on the bad ones."

Evening Post

 
Kuqi agrees terms with Swans (Jan 25) 14:30

SHEFKI Kuqi is poised to make his Swansea City debut against Coventry tomorrow after agreeing terms on an 18-month contract.

The Finnish international striker agreed a deal this morning and paperwork has been sent to the Football League and German FA.

Kuqi, 33, will move on a free transfer from German Second Division side TuS Koblenz, where he has struck seven times in 17 games this season.

He signed there after leaving Crystal Palace in the summer.

"I'm moving to a club that is doing really well," said Kuqi. "I had a good game at the Liberty Stadium for Crystal Palace last season and scored one of the goals. Hopefully this will be a lucky ground for me.

Swans boss Paulo Sousa added: "I'm sure that a player with his experience and maturity can only help us at Championship level. He will help us improve."

Evening Post

 
Goytre sweep clear while Garden Village bloom (Jan 24) 11:45

GOYTRE United swept seven points clear at the top of the Macwhirter Welsh League First Division, overcoming Aberaman Athletic 3-0.

Richard Ryan bagged a brace of goals and came close to completing his hat-trick but uncharacteristically failed with a penalty attempt. Darren Griffiths scored their other goal.

Caldicot Town are Goytre’s closest pursuers after recording an excellent 3-0 win at Dinas Powys.

Former champions Ton Pentre got the better of Cardiff Corries 2-0, thanks to a goal in each half by Chris Jones.

Elsewhere, Adam Carpenter scored both goals in Bryntirion Athletic’s 2-0 victory over Bettws.

Garden Village gave one of their best performances as they took apart Ely Rangers 3-0. Goals came from Lee Rostater, Ashley Richards and Derek Jenkins.

Taffs Well were also on form, brushing aside Caerleon 4-0.

Elsewhere, West End and Pontardawe battled to a 2-2 stalemate.

Sam Brown and Alex Chyrsanthou scored for the former Swansea League champions, but it was not enough to get the better of their Valley opponents.

Bridgend Town’s hopes of securing a Welsh Premier League place next season have all but disappeared and they could only manage a 1-1 draw on Friday night at Cambrian and Clydach.

Ammanford gave a vintage performance, sweeping to a 5-3 victory at Penrhiwceiber in a thrilling second division match yesterday.

Goals for the West Walians came from Luke Harris, Gethin Jones, Luke Sayers, Richard Lewis and Geraint Rees.

Wales on Sunday

 
Cup holders Chelsea next up for Cardiff (Jan 25) 11:30

HOLDERS Chelsea will be the next FA Cup test for Cardiff City.

The two clubs were paired together in the fifth round with ties to be played on the weekend of February 13-14.

It’s a real financial shot in the arm for the Bluebirds, who pocketed £90,000 on Saturday for beating Leicester City 4-2 in round four on Saturday.

Cardiff will cash in with 45% of the net receipts on a 40,000 gate at Stamford Bridge and could also benefit to the tune of £250,000 from the game being selected for live television coverage.

On the field, it’s a huge opportunity for Cardiff’s Championship players to test themselves against the very best.

The Chelsea squad reads like a who’s who of world football: John Terry, Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba, Petr Cech and Ashley Cole.

The two clubs have not met since the 1986-87 season when Cardiff won a League Cup tie 2-1 at Ninian Park.

The draw will spark huge interest from Cardiff fans, who can expect to receive around 6,000 tickets at Stamford Bridge.

“As the cup goes on, you do get caught up in it all,” said Bluebirds striker Jay Bothroyd.

Phill Blanche

 
Goytre sweep clear while Garden Village bloom (Jan 24) 11:45

GOYTRE United swept seven points clear at the top of the Macwhirter Welsh League First Division, overcoming Aberaman Athletic 3-0.

Richard Ryan bagged a brace of goals and came close to completing his hat-trick but uncharacteristically failed with a penalty attempt. Darren Griffiths scored their other goal.

Caldicot Town are Goytre’s closest pursuers after recording an excellent 3-0 win at Dinas Powys.

Former champions Ton Pentre got the better of Cardiff Corries 2-0, thanks to a goal in each half by Chris Jones.

Elsewhere, Adam Carpenter scored both goals in Bryntirion Athletic’s 2-0 victory over Bettws.

Garden Village gave one of their best performances as they took apart Ely Rangers 3-0. Goals came from Lee Rostater, Ashley Richards and Derek Jenkins.

Taffs Well were also on form, brushing aside Caerleon 4-0.

Elsewhere, West End and Pontardawe battled to a 2-2 stalemate.

Sam Brown and Alex Chyrsanthou scored for the former Swansea League champions, but it was not enough to get the better of their Valley opponents.

Bridgend Town’s hopes of securing a Welsh Premier League place next season have all but disappeared and they could only manage a 1-1 draw on Friday night at Cambrian and Clydach.

Ammanford gave a vintage performance, sweeping to a 5-3 victory at Penrhiwceiber in a thrilling second division match yesterday.

Goals for the West Walians came from Luke Harris, Gethin Jones, Luke Sayers, Richard Lewis and Geraint Rees.

Wales on Sunday

 
New Saints’ decider against Port Talbot is Evans sent (Jan 24) 11:40

ANOTHER miserly defensive showing helped the Saints see off the spirited Steelmen at Park Hall to maintain their two-point lead at the top of the league.

The Saints have proved a tough nut to crack this term, conceding just eight in 18 league games, and edged the spoils courtesy of skipper Steve Evans’ close-range effort on the stroke of half time.

A keenly contested encounter was on the cards with both sides in fine form, Port Talbot arriving at Park Hall without a defeat in eight outings while TNS were unbeaten in 14.

The Saints started brightly, with Matt Berkeley, Craig Jones and Alex Darlington all failing to capitalise but the Steelmen more than matched their hosts.

However, clear-cut chances were hard to come by, with the visitors’ best openings falling to Matthew Rees, the defender seeing a header saved while blazing a shot over.

The game’s decisive moment came on the stroke of half time when Scott Ruscoe whipped a free kick into the goalmouth from the right and, amid the melee, Evans got the final touch.

There was little between the sides in the second period, visiting keeper Lee Kendall making a fine close- range save from Craig Jones, while Berkeley crashed over the rebound. Saints sub Jamie Wood also fired wide after rounding Kendall late on.

Wales on Sunday

 
Jones treble as Neath edge win (Jan 24) 11:30

NEATH new boy Chris Jones took the plaudits as the Eagles resisted a strong Porthmadog fightback to take the spoils at the Gnoll.

Former Swansea City man Jones was paraded alongside former £1m man Kevin Cooper and Christian James and made an instant impact with a hat-trick.

Striker Jones stole the limelight by smashing three debut goals to send the North Walians sliding to another defeat.

A long shot by Jones beat Richard Morgan for the opening Neath goal and he scored again from the spot after 40 minutes before another unstoppable shot gave him his third and put Neath firmly on the victory path.

But Neath went completely into a shell after the break with their passing game letting them down and mistakes galore creeping into their play.

Marcus Orlik scored from close range to give the visitors a lifeline and when Rob Folland was forced to put the ball into his own net, Neath looked worried.

Gareth Parry went close to grabbing a late equaliser but Neath managed to hang on.

Wales on Sunday

 
Cash fears for Rhyl forgotten on the field (Jan 24) 11:30

WELSH Premier League champions Rhyl put a week of off-the-field turmoil aside and produced a sparkling display which moved them up to third in the table.

The financially troubled title-holders went ahead in the 29th minute through a tremendous Mark Connolly free kick.

It was awarded for a foul outside the box on Rob Turner by defender Andy Alston, who received a straight red card for illegally denying the Lilywhites striker a clear run on goal.

The hosts missed several opportunities to grab the all-important second goal before, in the 78th minute, George Horan out-jumped everyone to head home a Phil Doran corner.

Quay responded immediately, though, when Aaron Burns drove home from 10 yards and the same player went close to an equaliser, but Rhyl settled the issue on 86 minutes when Matthew Williams diverted in a Chris Williams shot.

In injury time Matthew Williams added his second from close range.

Wales on Sunday

 
Newport dampen St Albans’ fire (Jan 24) 11:20

COUNTY welcomed local rap band Goldie Lookin’ Chain to Spytty Park and stretched their lead at the top of the Blue Square South to a phenomenal 14 points – with games in hand over their closest rivals.

St Albans came with a game plan to stifle the Exiles, and for an hour they made life difficult, before being simply blown away by an exhilarating exhibition of attacking football.

A pudding of a pitch did not help and County had to withstand some ferocious tackling.

But once skipper Gary Warren powered them in front from a 23rd-minute corner, there was only going to be one outcome.

It took a brilliant effort in the 68th minute from Craig Reid to open the floodgates and on 82 minutes Reid made it 3-0 with his 21st goal of the season. There was simply no stopping County and, in added time, Reid set up a fourth goal for Sam Foley before left-back Jamie Collins made it five from a Danny Rose corner.

The Goldie Lookin’ Chain members joined in with the club’s internet radio commentary and manager Dean Holdsworth hailed his side, saying: “Our goals today were fantastic and in the second half we were playing touch football as if it were a training session.”

County travel to York City on Tuesday for a replay of their FA trophy second-round tie.

They will make the long journey in a very confident mood.

Wales on Sunday

 
Four off as Merthyr sink Chippenham (Jan 24) 11:30

THE scoreline hardly tells the story of this fiery clash as both teams ended the game with only nine men.

There was little sign of things to come when Cortez Belle rose at the near post to head Merthyr in front after only 11 minutes.

However, some slack defending on 25 minutes allowed Chippenham to draw level, Welshman Lewis Powell finishing.

Merthyr were back ahead six minutes later, with Jamie Rewbury netting from a free-kick. Within two minutes it was the visitors who were first to be down to 10 men.

After a number of flare-ups throughout the first half, Chippenham’s Iain Harvey received a straight red for an elbow on Tariq Khalil that saw the Merthyr midfielder’s nose pour with blood. The sides were on level terms, in numbers at least, on the hour, when Belle also saw red for use of the arm.

Merthyr found themselves down to nine with 17 minutes remaining as Simon Gregory was sent off for a professional foul. However, things were evened up in injury time when Shaun Lamb received a second yellow card.

But instead of going quietly he lashed out at Merthyr’s Andrew Thomas and pushed the referee in the chest before leaving the field.

From there Merthyr escaped a late scare to take a deserved three points.

Wales on Sunday

 
Llanelli’s title bid is facing a big test (Jan 23) 11:20

BANGOR CITY look to upset Llanelli’s title push when they travel to Stebonheath Park this afternoon.

The Citizens’ have reeled off five wins on the trot, netting an impressive 19 goals in the process, after a sluggish start to the campaign.

And they profit from action last week when they beat Cefn Druids 3-1 with on-fire striker Chris Sharp slamming a hattrick.

Llanelli have been inactive due to the weather since Boxing Day although they beat a Swansea City XI 2-1 in a midweek friendly to help them back into the groove.

“You are always concerned about rustiness and sharpness when you have such a lay-off but the lads did well against a useful Swansea side,” said Reds boss Andy Legg.

“They are always tough opposition and the games usually have plenty of goals and they arrive full of confidence.”

Western Mail

 
Will it be tenth time luck for Port Talbot? (Jan 23) 11:00

Leaders The New Saints have lost only once this season, to Port Talbot 2-0 at the GenQuip Stadium, and they face another big test when the pair meet again at Park Hall.

While the hosts are undefeated in 14 matches, the Steelmen have surged to fourth on the back of a superb run that has reaped 22 points from the last eight matches.

“Beating Rhyl last week was a great result, but this is the big one and could define our season” said visitors’ boss Mark Jones, whose side have yet to win at Saints after nine failed attempts.

Western Mail

 
Steele poised for Bluebirds visit after Ridsdale talks (Jan 23) 11:00

BEN Steele will fly in this morning to watch Cardiff City’s FA Cup clash with Leicester City.

The Guernsey-based millionaire had extensive talks with Bluebirds’ chairman Peter Ridsdale during a meeting held away from South Wales yesterday.

Now Steele, keen on a £40m takeover at Cardiff, will watch the team play for the first time today.

He has visited the training ground and Cardiff City Stadium before, but has not attended a match, having missed the 1-0 win against Bristol City on Tuesday after his nine-year-old daughter was hurt in a fall.

Ridsdale yesterday met with legal representatives of the American group interested in investment, while talks continue with a Malaysian offer led by newly-appointed director Dato Chan Tien Ghee.

Ridsdale would not comment on how the talks went this week, but did confirm he expects Steele to be at today’s cup tie.

While Ridsdale works on the financial future, manager Dave Jones wants to strengthen his squad as quickly as possible.

“We need to bring in the players we need to push on,” said Jones.

“I am still hoping we will get the players I have asked for here before the end of January. I have not been told anything different.

“As soon as the chairman gives us the green light, we will move, but the tax bill must be paid first.

“Fans committed to buying season tickets were told the money would go on rebuilding the team.

“If the money doesn’t go on players the fans will want to know why as much as anybody else.

“But let’s wait and see. I have been promised the money will be available for players.”

Terry Phillips

 
Bluebirds reject Swans approach for Bothroyd (Jan 22) 12:20

CARDIFF City have rejected an audacious approach for Jay Bothroyd, arch-rivals Swansea have revealed.

Paulo Sousa’s fourth-placed Swans saw Bothroyd as the final piece in their jigsaw to win promotion from the Championship this season.

But the Bluebirds rejected Swansea’s approach out of hand with the two clubs miles apart on their valuation of the 27-year-old.

It’s understood that Cardiff want £3m for the striker who was recently linked with a return to the Premier League at Aston Villa.

“We have spoken to Dave Jones about the possibility of signing Jay,” revealed Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins. “We were interested in a number of strikers and that was one conversation we had.

“He is not a player that is within our price range though.

“Cardiff’s valuation for Jay is miles out from where we put ours.

“That is where things stand at the moment. We couldn’t come anywhere near Cardiff’s valuation.”

Bothroyd infuriated Swansea fans in November when, ahead of the South Wales derby at the Liberty Stadium, he claimed City’s bitter rivals were weaker this season than when Roberto Martinez was in charge.

Swansea fans had the last laugh with a 3-2 win, but Bothroyd scored and his all-round display did not go unnoticed by the Swans hierarchy.

Asked whether he thought it would be a controversial signing, Jenkins responded: “Yes.

“But it was just an inquiry to see how Dave Jones viewed things and to let him know how we viewed things.

“Jay is the type of player we are looking at.

Blair Wood

 
Title is ours to lose admits County boss Holdsworth (Jan 22) 12:20

NEWPORT County boss Dean Holdsworth has admitted for the first time that the Blue Square South title is theirs to lose.

With a 12-point advantage on their nearest rivals, plus two games in hand, Holdsworth’s side are well and truly in the driving seat.

“We are in a position where we will have to manage our expectations,” said Holdsworth ahead of tomorrow’s visit of St Albans (3pm).

“If we carry on the way we are and with the quality we have in the squad, I agree that it’s for us to lose the title.

“I’ve told the players that we must keep everything on the ground, both physically and mentally.

“We have been in this league for the last 20 years and everybody connected with the club wants to get out of it.

“We all want to progress and that is why I won’t let myself or the players take their foot off the gas.”

Newport gave another excellent performance against Conference high-fliers York City in midweek.

Mark Bloom

 
Merthyr Boss Shephard sets new targets (Jan 22) 12:20

MERTHYR’S pre-season ambition was to stay in the Zamaretto League having had 10 points deducted for administration in the summer – now it’s the play-offs!

Despite losing 2-0 to Stourbridge on Tuesday, victory at home to Chippenham Town tomorrow (3pm) would take the Martyrs to within striking distance of the play-off positions.

“You have to hand it to the players,” said Martyrs boss Garry Shephard.

“After everything they have gone through they still keep coming back at you.

“These lads have been knocked from every angle but they tend to get stronger and more bloody-minded.

“That makes my job easier because motivation is not needed with these bunch of lads.”

Merthyr shrugged off their rust with a 4-2 victory over Bedford Town, their first game since December 12 following the spell of wintry weather.

“To go out and play like that was remarkable really,” added Shephard.

“I just hope they get their just rewards because a win on the weekend will put us in a healthy position.”

Mark Bloom

 
Floodlights cash blow for Eagles (Jan 21) 00:30

NEATH have been dealt a potential blow regarding their spot in next season's Super 12.

The Eagles need to overcome a stumbling block surrounding their floodlights if they wish to pursue a place in the new structure next season.

Neath have seen a grant aid application to upgrade their floodlights at The Gnoll rejected by the Welsh Grounds Improvements, which is part of the FAW.

And if they fail to meet the March deadline for meeting the domestic criteria licence, Neath will be demoted from the Welsh Premier League even if they finish in the top 10.

While no-one at Neath will officially comment on the matter, it is believed they have appealed against the decision to reject their application.

If they received no financial aid, Neath — who share The Gnoll with Neath RFC and newly-formed rugby league club South Wales Scorpions — will either be forced to stump up the cash out of their own pocket or accept relegation to the Welsh League. That would prove a huge blow for the club, particularly as they turned professional in the summer.

The Eagles have the likes of ex-Wales internationals Chris Llewellyn and Clayton Blackmore on their books, along with former Wolves midfielder Kevin Cooper and ex-Real Zaragoza defender Carlos Castan.
Chris Barney

 
Newport County's Wembley dream still alive (Jan 21) 00:30

NEWPORT County’s dream of a trip to Wembley in the FA Trophy is still alive after they were held to a 0-0 draw at home by York City tonight in front of 1,040 at Spytty Park.

The Exiles made most of the running and will be disappointed not to get a victory over the top Blue Square Premier outfit, but ultimately it was a frustrating night for both sides.
South Wales Argus

 
Things are looking up for Pontypridd Town (Jan 20) 13:50

Pontypridd Town are striding towards promotion in MacWhirter Welsh League Division Three.

Their match at South Gower was one of the few to go ahead last weekend and Ponty emerged 2-0 winners.
Goalkeeper Marty Ellacott was in good form for Pontypridd, who scored a goal in each half to secure the three points and move clear at the top of the Third Division table.
South Gower included Richard Cleverley for his debut, but could not halt Pontypridd's successful run.
It was Danny Street who clinched their win with a second-half goal.
Ponty made a shaky start to this season, going down 4-0 against Pentwyn Dynamos in their opening match.
They now face the rematch with Pentwyn on Saturday and that will be a measure of how far they have come so far this season.
In all, Ponty lost four of their opening seven matches, but manager Alan Davies has steered them back to winning ways.
The change in the club’s fortune coincided with the arrival of businessman Phil Gibb as chairman, who is determined to restore the club back into the First Division where they were just three seasons ago.
Gibb also brought in experienced player-manager Davies, who made more than 400 appearances for Burton Albion under manager Nigel Clough and was with Manchester City and Southampton as a youth player.
He also played for England at junior level.
Davies added ex-Ponty, Ento and Ton Pentre player Dean Morris to the coaching staff along with Neil Morgan and goalkeeper Ellacott.
Welsh League First Division players Mike Jones, Neil Davies, Ryan Jenkins, Paul Dawes, Nathan Hosgood and Anthony Waters were also brought on board.
Up front Waters has forged a promising-looking free-scoring forward line alongside young Ian Traylor and Richard Jago.
Off the field Pontypridd have experienced Adrian Dumphy as secretary, Adele Mansell as commercial manager and matchday organiser as well as Neil Mansell.
Along with the existing committee Ponty now have one of the most experienced off-pitch teams in the Welsh League.
Pontypridd lead the way in Division Three ahead of Corus Steel, who are three points behind with two games in hand.
 IcWales

 
Llanelli 2 Swansea City 1 (Jan 20) 13:40

The Reds beat a Swansea City side which included first team squad members, Kris O'Leary, Matty Collins, Guillem Bauza and Stephen Dobbie and Swedish Under 21 International Mario Simunovic who featured as a trialist, by 2 goals to 1 at Stebonheath Park on Tuesday night. A Craig Moses header gave the Reds the lead just before half time and that looked like being the only goal of the night until Stephen Dobbie equalised in the first minute of stoppage time at the end of the second half. In a pulsating finish, Reds defender, Wyn Thomas, scrambled the ball home to give the Reds the win.

Llanelli official website

 
Sully's back for Haverfordwest (Jan 20) 13:30

County's attacking flair added another facet tonight, as winger Chris O'Sullivan re-signed for the club. Sully left at the end of the 2007-08 season as he was going to New Zealand, and since his return from down under has been playing for Merlin's Bridge in the Pembrokeshire League. A firm favourite with the Bridge Meadow faithful, he made over appearances in two spells with the Bluebirds. He was hampered in his last season at the Meadow by a shoulder injury but is back to full fitness. He is the third former Bluebird to re-join the squad recently, following on the heels of Tom Ramasut and Tom Billing. His pace and attacking flair will be an added bonus to the team as they push forward for the top ten spot that will ensure them a place in next seasons league. A spokesman for the club said on Tuesday night, "We are delighted that Chris has agreed terms. There were a number of clubs after him and his decision to come here, along with the decisions of the other recent signings, shows that there is a desire for quality players to play for Haverfordwest County."
With Steffan Williams, Ricky Watts and new signing Josh Hartrick on international duty with the under 18 Wales squad on Friday night, there is a good chance that Sully could make a return against Airbus on Saturday, but as usual, manager Derek Brazil is keeping his team selection a secret until the last minute.

Haverfordwest official website

 
Martyrs hit in first half (Jan 20) 13:30

The Martyrs were unable to build upon Saturday’s encouraging 4-2 victory at Bedford, falling to defeat in the West Midlands courtesy of two first half goals.

Ironically, it was Merthyr who started the game brightly but the home side came into the game midway through the first half and took the lead, albeit fortuitously, with their first period of pressure.

The goal was credited to Merthyr defender Paul Keddle who turned the ball into his own net after pressure from Stourbridge leading goalscorer Ryan Rowe on 25 minutes.

The second, and perhaps crucial killer goal arrived on the stroke of half-time and on this occasion it was a well worked Sourbridge move that undone Merthyr culminating with Rowe getting the better of Jamie Rewbury to this time find the scoresheet.

The Martyrs gave everything after the interval but some wayward finishing cost them. 

IcWales

 
Martyrs target play-off spot after league rise (Jan 19) 10:30

MERTHYR Tydfil boss Gary Shephard refuses to write off the rest of the season – and reckons the Martyrs can even make the play-offs.

Despite going into administration last summer and starting the season on minus-10 points, plus having the playing budget cut by 50%, Shephard revealed optimism remains high at Penydarren Park.

“Having beaten Bedford over the weekend 4-2 the players are talking about snatching a play-off spot,” insisted Shephard ahead of tonight’s Zamaretto League trip to Stourbridge (7.45pm).

“We went up five or six places and are out of the bottom four for the first time this season.

“A win at Stourbridge and we will have reached mid-table, we are only eight or nine points off a play-off spot.

“This is not me trying to wind the players up for the second half of the season, it’s them,

“They are the ones talking about the play-offs whereas my remit was just to stay in this division after all the problems we’ve had.”

But Shephard admits the Martyrs deserve success after the effort that the players have put in during this toughest of seasons.

“The players are doing the team talk and that’s fine by me after the work they have put in,” he said.

“A play-off spot would be just rewards for them, we have already taken points off the front-runners and know we can match any of them.

“We have not played for six weeks and to turn in a performance like the one on the weekend was brilliant.”

South Wales Echo

 
Welsh league round up (Jan 18) 15:30

CARDIFF Bay Harlequins swept to a 4-0 home win against Llangeinor in the MacWhirter Welsh League.

In the only Second Division match played, Ahmed Norr, Tim Dunne, Matthew Tennetta and Rasul Abdul were the scorers for Quins.

Pontypridd Town are top of Division Three, having won 2-0 against South Gower.

Ian Taylor and Danny Street scored for Ponty, who are three points ahead of Corus Steel.

South Gower are one place off the bottom, while Ponty are clear at the top having played two more games than Steel.

Caldicot Town are second in the First Division after beating Cambrian and Clydach 3-0.

Goytre United, former champions and runners-up to Aberaman Athletic last season, hold a seven-point lead at the top.

South Wales Echo

 
Port Talbot's revival under manager Mark Jones, has been quite remarkable (Jan 18) 15:20

The Port Talbot revival under manager Mark Jones, who returned to the GenQuip Stadium for a second spell in December 2008, has been quite remarkable.

Just one home defeat during this period and 22 points from their last eight matches has sent the Steelmen up to fourth spot and they have matches in hand on two of the sides above them.

Next week’s visit to The New Saints will indicate whether they can push on to the next level.

This was a quality match played on a magnificent surface despite incessant heavy rain, and it was fitting that the winner, four minutes from time, was superbly constructed and taken.

Scott Barrow, Matthew Thompson and Lloyd Grist combined neatly to supply substitute Nicky Holland and his little shimmy gave him the space necessary to fire home a classic goal.

It was a stunning end to a complex week for the 20-year-old, who had been courted by another top tier club but rejected their advance.

“We are in a great position with a great manager and a great set of players and I was itching to get on and luckily the chance came and I took it,” Holland said.

“It’s been difficult being on the bench, but the lads have been doing so well I decided to bide my time and then make the most of the opportunities that came my way.”

Jones praised Holland’s attitude and also paid tribute to defender Lloyd Grist.

“I was so pleased that Nicky opted to stay as he’s a big part of this club’s plans,” he said.

AS Port Talbot’s season continues on an upward spiral, Rhyl’s campaign is grinding to a halt.

The champions have now gathered just a point a game from their last 11 matches and their chance of retaining their Welsh Premier crown has now virtually evaporated.

But player-manager Greg Strong, whose plans have been undermined by financial restraints, remains defiant.

“We need to dust ourselves down again after this defeat. In our dressing room we have players who can match the very best in the league,” he said.

Western Mail

 
Aberystwyth boss Alan Morgan looking for more (Jan 18) 15:10

FOUR wins on the trot have swept Aberystwyth into the top three, but manager Alan Morgan still believes there is much to come from his players.

"We are doing OK, but there's still a hell of a lot of work to do here.

“We are not brilliant by any means, but four on the bounce is pleasing,” Morgan said.

“Winning is a good habit and we need to keep churning out the results, but no-one is getting carried away.

“I’m still looking to bring two or three players in and the signing of Connall Murtagh, on loan, is a good start.”

Morgan was pleased for goalscorer Graham Evans, who has been plagued by injury. “Graham has a big part to play. If we keep him fit, he’ll score goals.”

Prestatyn were weakened by the absence of player-manager Neil Gibson, Ian Griffiths, Mike Parker and Gareth Wilson – all ruled out through suspension.

They fell behind to a quality Evans strike in the 12th minute and Luke Bowen added to their misery 15 minutes into the second period.

Western Mail
County face a York team in fine form (Jan 18) 05:20

YORK City warmed up for their visit to Spytty Park by demolishing Hayes & Yeading to make it a record-breaking eight consecutive league wins on Saturday.

The Minstermen, who take on County in the FA Trophy on Wednesday night (kick-off 7.45pm), beat the Londoners 4-1.

Hotshot striker Richard Brodie led the way with a brace and an assist.

Chris Carruthers and Kevin Gall netted either side of Brodie’s double to cap yet another fine team performance by the Blue Square Premier outfit.

The Exiles were inactive again this weekend after their fixture at Basingstoke was postponed and Dean Holdsworth's men saw their lead at the top of the Blue Square South table cut to 12 points as a result.

Dover Athletic thumped Havant & Waterlooville 4-0 at home to go second but they have played three more games than County.

Chelmsford moved to within 13 points in third after a 4-1 win at bottom club Weymouth, though they too have played a game more than the Exiles.

South Wales Argus

 
Sousa: My super Swans can fly even higher (Jan 17) 15:20

PAULO Sousa insisted he was proud of his Swansea City players after showing how they’ve grown against play-off rivals Leicester.

And he insisted an already successful season can get even better if the Swans keep to their standards.

Sousa saw his side beaten by the Foxes on the opening day of the season, but here Gorka Pintado’s strike was enough to give them the three points that pushed them into fourth spot.

And Sousa said: “I am proud of these players – they are fantastic. They have grown in maturity as a side and they know when they are suffering how to get over it.

“We have had a great season until now but we want to keep it going so we will improve and continue to grow stronger.

“If we keep doing well then we are there. We are in a good position and we can now fight to stay there.

“It will not be easy but this gives us hope. People are now starting to respect us.”

Sousa saw Pintado break a 10-month scoreless streak, adding: “I am pleased for him – but he could have scored more.”

Sousa lost substitute Albert Serran with a suspected knee injury late on, but would not predict how long the Spaniard will be out of action for until the defender is assessed on Monday.

Chris Watham

 
Late goal secures a point for Bluebirds (Jan 17) 15:20

Peter Whittingham rescued Championship play-off chasers Cardiff City a point at Scunthorpe with a late leveller.

The Championship top-scorer's long-range shot deflected over keeper Josh Lillis in the final ten minutes as the winger scored his 16th of the season.

Northern Ireland midfielder Michael O'Connor's 11th minute 20-yard free-kick had given the hosts an early lead.

Cardiff had one cleared off the line as Michael Chopra and Jay Bothroyd went close before Whittingham's equaliser.

Scunthorpe look set to celebrate three successive wins for the first time this season before the deflected 20-yarder from former England under-21 international with eight minutes remaining.

Cardiff drop to fifth in the Championship following their third consecutive draw, as rivals Swansea leapfrog the Bluebirds in the table thanks to their 1-0 win over Leicester.

BBC

 
Merthyr win at Bedford (Jan 17) 15:10

THE Martyrs kicked their first ball in anger since December 12 and took no time in making it count – racing into the lead inside 28 seconds at Bedford.

With the good news that their game was on and the vast majority of games in the Southern League Premier Division off, the Martyrs knew that a positive result would see them escape the bottom four in the division for the first time this season, and a sparkling second-half attacking display achieved just that.

Scott Armitage scored in the first minute after home goalkeeper Mike Armitt had parried a Cortez Belle shot.

But, after Paul Keddle went close to doubling their lead on 17 minutes, Merthyr not only relinquished their advantage by half time but also fell behind.

Ian Draycott scored the equaliser on 29 minutes with a low drive.

However, it was a mix up in the Merthyr defence which led to the home side going in front, Graham Clark sneaking between two Merthyr defenders five minutes before the break.

The re-start saw Merthyr return in determined fashion and just five minutes later they were level as Kris Leek buried his chance following a scramble in the Bedford box.

Merthyr regained the lead on 65 minutes with the goal of the game. Belle curled the ball into the top corner from 18 yards after drifting inside from the left.

And, the victory looked assured nine minutes later when Marcus Griffiths joined in on the act,  getting the final touch after another scramble in the home side's penalty area to score Merthyr’s fourth goal.

In the last 10 minutes Bedford came back strongly once more, but on this occasion Merthyr goalkeeper Andrew Delve came to the fore, making a number of saves to keep the hosts at bay to give the Martyrs three points

Wales on Sunday

 
Aberystwyth take the points at Bastion Gardens (Jan 17) 15:10
TWO pieces of quality finishing secured three points for in-form Aberystwyth at Bastion Gardens.

The visitors broke the deadlock on 14 minutes when a slick three-man passing move led to veteran marksman Graham Evans drilling home a cracking shot from 20 yards out.

Prestatyn, who were without four regulars through suspension, lacked punch up front, and Aber went close to a second in the 52nd minute when Geoff Kellaway broke from his own half and hit a firm strike which keeper Jon Hill-Dunt did well to save.

Alan Morgan’s side made it 2-0 on 65 minutes when Prestatyn defender Dave Hayes’ headed clearance from a Bari Morgan cross only found Luke Bowen who brought the ball down skilfully and lashed a left-footer inside Hill-Dunt’s near post.

Kellaway could have added a third but was off balance when receiving a return pass from Bowen and missed the target.

Prestatyn’s best chance came in the 85th minute when Andy Moran picked out Jon Fisher-Cooke in the area, but the striker could only fire straight at Seasiders’ keeper Steve Cann.

Wales on Sunday

 
Businessman in talks on £40m Cardiff City takeover (Jan 16) 17:10

GUERNSEY-based property developer Ben Steele will come to South Wales on Tuesday to tie up a near-£40m deal to buy Cardiff City.

Steele, 32, has had talks with Bluebirds chairman Peter Ridsdale both in Cardiff and on Guernsey.

Now, with potential investors from America and Malaysia in advanced talks on buying the Championship club, Steele will come to Cardiff next week to reach agreement.

“My plan is to hopefully get Cardiff City into the Premier League,” said Steele, whose father is an investor in Premier League side Bolton Wanderers.

“I have been talking about making an investment or buying the whole club.

“Hopefully, we’ll get something agreed and we’re in the process or starting due diligence.

“We have lawyers lined up ready and we have the money ready.”

Steele, who is married with two young daughters, started in business selling cars in the south of England, starting as a salesman at the age of 17 and owning his own garage by the time he was 21 years old.

He retired to Guernsey two and a half years ago and began a property investment company, Steele Properties Guernsey Ltd. Steele is said to be Guernsey’s biggest single open market investor.

Steele was involved in a partnership with fellow Guernsey man Quinten Hubbard and they were keen to buy Southampton Football Club.

Mr Ridsdale would not comment on club takeover talks but he is known to be in contact with Steele as well as Dato Chan Tien Ghee, who is heading up a bid from Malaysia, and a group of billionaire Americans, whose representatives watched the 1-1 draw at home against Blackpool last Saturday.

It looks increasingly likely a takeover is imminent and it could be completed by the end of February.

Dato Chan has been appointed to the Bluebirds board and has made a small initial investment, thought to be around £200,000, and has promised more.

If Steele or the American group bought the club then Dato Chan would almost certainly stand down from the board.

Cardiff City have debts standing at around £23m in total, the majority to Langston (£10m after a new agreement), with £9m owed to Paul Guy and Mike Hall of PMG and £2.7m to Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs.

The cost of a takeover rather than investment would be around £40m and that would include paying off the debts.

Terry Phillips

 
John Deakin: No extension to Premier season necessary (Jan 16) 17:10

WELSH PREMIER secretary John Deakin is confident an extension to the season is unnecessary unless the severe weather returns.

Following the coldest snap for 30 years, Deakin revealed the league had lost 24 matches so far.

But he insisted: “The situation is not critical at the moment.

“I am confident that clubs can re-arrange the fixtures lost so far, with goodwill on all sides.”

However, the situation has worsened overnight with the postponement of three other matches which have failed late pitch inspections.

The thumbs down at Latham Park heaps huge problems on Newtown and Neath, who have only completed 14 and 15 games respectively.

Eagles secretary Tony Melding has been critical of other clubs who have failed to agree new dates.

He stormed: “It’s an absolute joke and reiterates our criticism of a 44-fixture programme next season.

“We cannot deal with 34 games, let alone 44.”

Phil Blanche

 
Port Talbot win again and are now up to 4th (Jan 16) 17:10

Port Talbot's excellent form continued today at Victoria Road when they beat league champions Rhyl 2-1 in front of 226.

The Steelmen are now 8 games undefeated, and that streak stretches back as far as the 17th of October with a 3-1 away defeat against Carmarthen, since then they have rattled off 7 wins and 1 draw.

Today's win was started off by former Lido midfielder Liam McCreesh on the 17'. Rhyl did get back on level terms on the hour when Rob Turner made it 1-1, but Nicky Holland came off the bench and took just 3' to score the winner for Port Talbot, Port could have gone as high as 3rd in the table but Aberystwyth spoilt that chance when they beat Prestatyn 2- away. But they just 2 points behind Aber and do have 2 games in hand.

 
Marc Lloyd Williams is the world's top goalscorer (Jan 15) 15:40

LEGENDARY Welsh Premier League goal machine Marc Lloyd Williams feels great to be on top of the world!

The Airbus UK Broughton striker is officially the world’s leading top division goalscorer amongst still active players.

The International Federation of Football History and Statistics reveals Lloyd Williams’ record of 313 goals from 445 appearances in the domestic league heads a list which includes global greats like Henrik Larsson (268 goals/478 matches), Rivaldo (261/518), Ronaldo (240/335), Thierry Henry (230/443) and Raul Gonzalez (225/534).

Second in the rankings is Juan Carlos Plata from Guatemala (299 goals), with Glenn Ferguson of Northern Ireland club Lisburn Distillery third (296).

“It’s nice to be acknowledged as being top of the world,” said Lloyd Williams, who is popularly known as Jiws.

“It came as a shock when I found out. To be honest, I didn’t know about the Federation (IFFHS), but being ahead of great players like Ronaldo, Raul and van Nistelrooy makes me feel very proud.

“I know the quality of the Welsh Premier is not as high as the levels they play at, but it still means a lot to be on top. I didn’t actually know they played football in Guatemala, but then again I’m sure Plata hasn’t heard of the Welsh Premier either!”

Lloyd Williams began his career in the Welsh Premier with Porthmadog in 1992 and apart from brief spells with Football League clubs Halifax Town, York City and Stockport County, plus short stints at Altrincham, Colwyn Bay and Southport, he has remained faithful to the national league of Wales.

“Growing up in the country, you’ve got to be thankful for the fact with Welsh clubs you get a chance of playing European football every season,” he said.

“I first played in the Uefa Cup for Bangor way back in 1994 and had the chance to play against Liverpool for TNS (as a substitute in the 2005/06 Champions League qualifiers).

“Those kind of experiences stay with you forever and offer you opportunities you won’t get in the non-league system. I’ve played in the FA Cup too, but realistically playing in Wales offers the best chance of playing in Europe.”

Lloyd Williams’ most prolific Welsh Premier scoring spell came at Bangor City, where he racked up 149 goals over five stints, while he also grabbed 60 in TNS colours, 52 for Porthmadog, 18 for Aberystwyth, 16 for Newtown and seven at Rhyl, while he is currently on 11 at Airbus.

He would have won the European Golden Boot after scoring 47 goals in the 2001/02 season, but was not eligible as the Welsh Premier has a lower co-efficient than some of Europe’s bigger leagues.

That 47-goal tally is a record for a single season in the WPL and he is the only player to score six times in the same league match.

A Wales B and semi-pro international, Lloyd Williams has Welsh Premier championship and Welsh Cup winners’ medals in his collection.

Now 36, the question has to be how much longer can this ace netfinder keep going.

“I can see myself getting to 350 goals at least,” predicted Jiws. “I look at Andy Legg and Clayton Blackmore playing into their 40s and think that I’ve still got a few years on them.

“I’ll keep going for as long as I enjoy it; if I start making a fool of myself I’ll know it’s time to call it a day.”

MARC LLOYD WILLIAMS’ WELSH PREMIER RECORD (SUBSTITUTE APPEARANCES IN BRACKETS)

Porthmadog 101 (7) – 52 goals

Bangor City 179 (10) – 149

Aberystwyth Town 26 (6) – 18

Total Network Solutions 51 (16) – 60

Rhyl 10 (3) – 7

Newtown 20 (0) – 16

Airbus UK Broughton 16 (0) – 11

Total: 403 (42); Goals: 313

Dave Jones

 
Winter wipe-out is “nightmare” for cash-strapped Martyrs (Jan 15) 14:40

MERTHYR Tydfil’s troubled season is becoming a “total nightmare,” according to assistant boss Danny Carter.

The Martyrs have not kicked a ball since December 12 and must now wait to see if they can beat the big freeze at fellow strugglers Bedford Town tomorrow (3pm).

The club’s financial situation was on thin ice well before the wintry weather hit, but, with no home matches for five weeks, Merthyr’s plight is becoming desperate.

“This is turning into a total nightmare to be honest,” said Carter.

“We will have to show the lads what a football looks like first, never mind show them what to do with it.

“We tried getting indoor facilities, but it’s all booked up months in advance.

“We’re just praying that the Bedford game is on.”

But Carter admits that waistlines might have grown thicker over the last month.

“I do expect players to come back a few pounds heavier, some more than others,” he said.

“But what can we do? They will be like strangers...and we’ll have to get them name tags!

“It will take us three, maybe four, games to get going again to anywhere near the level we were at when we played our last game.

“Back then the lads looked fit and were playing some really good football.”

Mark Bloom

 
Newport County boss Dean Holdsworth wants to get back to normal (Jan 15) 14:40

NEWPORT County boss Dean Holdsworth says he will welcome back normality after the snow disruption when his team travel to mid-table Basingstoke tomorrow.

With County amassing a 14-point gap at the top of the table, the snow has been no laughing matter for the former Wimbledon striker, who is keen to get back into action and complete the job of promotion.

“As a kid I liked the snow, but boy is a it a pain in the butt now,” said Holdsworth.

“I just hope the game is on so we get back to some kind of normality.

“I’ve been in constant contact with the lads and they all feel the same.

“They have had to look after themselves and do their own work at a local gym, but collectively its been a gap of a couple weeks.

“OK, it’s the same for the other clubs around the country, but I’m only concerned about this one.

“The quicker we can get together and get back to what we are all trying to do, the better.”

Holdsworth believes his players are being motivated by some comments that have suggested County could yet implode despite their mammoth lead.

“Other players and managers have said in the press that we could crumble and drop off the pace because its happened to them.

“But really they are making my job a bit easier because my players are reading some of this stuff and that keeps them on their toes instead of me telling them every week.

Mark Blom

 
Jones hopeful over Rhyl go-ahead (Jan 15) 14:30

PORT Talbot manager Mark Jones is confident tomorrow's home match against champions Rhyl will get the green light.

The GenQuip Stadium pitch is regarded as one of the top surfaces in the Welsh Premier League and Jones is upbeat the match has a chance of going ahead.

"If we do play it will be a massive game for both clubs, and a win could take us into the top three with two games in hand," he said.

Current form favours the Steelmen, who have taken 19 points from their past seven matches, while the visitors have slumped of late with only two wins from their past nine encounters.

Last season a Greg Stones goal four minutes into added time earned the Lilywhites a 2-2 draw, but they will need all their resolve to deny Jones's men their sixth home victory of the campaign.

Jones has acknowledged that Welshpool defender Peter Doran is a target, and the decision now lies with the player, who has previous top-tier experience with Connah's Quay.

Evening Post

 
Brace: We must improve (Jan 15) 14:30

CARMARTHEN Town have signed Neath's Sean Cronin on loan — and chairman Jeff Thomas anticipates further arrivals at Richmond Park.

The months ahead are shaping up to be one of the greatest challenges in the club's history as they look to secure a place in next term's 12-team Premier League.

And Thomas is seeking extra help off the field.

"People think the work starts and ends with 90 minutes of football on a Saturday, but that couldn't be further from the truth," he said.

"This new-look league is a whole new ball game which is why we are trying to recruit more volunteers to the cause."

Meanwhile, Town boss Deryn Brace has demanded a dramatic improvement from his side as they enter the second half of the season.

"As I've discussed with the players, every remaining game will be like a cup final," he said. "We've under- performed for the first half of the season.

"No excuses, we have to take it on the chin. But we now have to respond in a positive manner, we have to start performing and we've got to do much better."

Town's home match against Haverfordwest tonight has become a victim of the cold snap.

Evening Post

 
Swansea City’s search for striker goes on (Jan 14) 19:30

SWANSEA CITY’S search for a new striker will go on – despite a second blow to their plans in the space of 24 hours.

Swans boss Paulo Sousa has made it clear he wants to bring in a new frontman to the Liberty to boost his firepower for the second half of the season.

But, after chairman Huw Jenkins revealed any move for Finland international Shefki Kuqi is now off, Wolves boss Mick McCarthy has insisted Wales forward Sam Vokes (left) is staying put in the transfer window.

Swansea have previously made moves for Vokes, who proved his worth as a powerful line-leader as Wolves won promotion from the Championship last season.

But he has found game-time hard to come by in the Premier League and Swansea could have been tempted into reasserting their interest in a 20-year-old who fits the bill in terms of the kind of striker Sousa is looking for.

Yet, having returned from a loan spell at Leeds, McCarthy has put the blocks on any January exit for Vokes after a striker crisis at Molineuex.

McCarthy has been hit with the news Austrian forward Stefan Maierhofer needs a hernia operation, while Andy Keogh is out with ankle ligament damage.

And, despite admitting the three-month spell at Elland Road did 14-cap international Vokes good, McCarthy insisted he cannot afford to let him leave the Black Country.

“Big Sam Vokes has come back and he looks two yards quicker, and that’s what you get from playing first-team football,” said McCarthy, who signed Vokes from Bournemouth in a £250,000 deal back in May 2008.

“But there’s no chance of him going back out on loan, because I’ve got Stefan Maierhofer needing a hernia operation and Andy Keogh out for weeks.”

Swansea could wait until after the end of January on a loan deal to land Vokes, who has already seen temporary stays in the Championship thwarted this season after switches to Derby and Coventry broke down.

But it is understood Sousa does not want to leave it too late before adding to a frontline that already includes Craig Beattie, Lee Trundle, Gorka Pintado and Stephen Dobbie but has struggled for goals this term.

Evening Post

 
Rhyl face a tough task when they visit Port Talbot on Saturday (Jan 14) 01:30

RHYL’S first game of 2010 – weather permitting – promises to be a very tough one as they travel to South Wales to take on resurgent Port Talbot Town this Saturday (2.30pm).

Mark Jones’ Steelmen are on a run of seven league matches undefeated – six wins – and have climbed up to fifth spot in the Welsh Premier.

Victory on Saturday would take them above the Lilywhites.

Earlier this season Rhyl overcame Port 2- 0 at Belle Vue in what was one of Greg Strong’s side’s finest performances of the campaign to date.

But it will be a very tough ask for the Lilies to repeat that result at the GenQuip Stadium where their fortunes have been mixed in recent times.

Last season Port fared better than any Welsh Premier team against championship-winning Rhyl, claiming a thrilling 3-2 triumph at Belle Vue and almost doing the double only for a late Greg Stones goal to rescue a 2-2 draw at the GenQuip.

Meanwhile, Lilywhites player-boss Strong has said he is more than happy with his squad following the addition of three new recruits in the January transfer window.

The Lilywhites have signed former Sligo Rovers striker Rob Turner and picked up Macclesfield midfielder Michael Thomas on loan until the end of the season, as well as bringing in ex-Preston North End keeper Jack Cudworth from Technogroup Welshpool.

"I’ve filled all the positions now we needed to fill and I’m more than happy with the squad I’ve got, although if anyone else did become available who I feel would benefit the club I’d obviously take a look," said Strong.

"The new lads are looking good in training and I’m really impressed with Jack Cudworth, who I think can push on from us and play at a higher level.

www.denbighshirevisitor.com

 
Bangor City FC aim for five in a row (Jan 14) 01:30

BANGOR City will have a fifth straight league win in their sights when struggling Elements Cefn Druids visit Farrar Road this Friday (7.30pm).

Neville Powell’s side boast two wins over the Ancients already this term and with their next bottom visitors already out of the running for next season’s Super 12, as well as having lost several key men due to the club’s playing budget being halved, everything points to a home victory.

City won 1-0 at Plaskynaston Lane at the start of the season and then thrashed Druids 4-1 on home ground in the Welsh Cup on October 3.

History also points to a Bangor success on Friday with the Citizens having been triumphant in 16 of the 19 league clashes between the sides.

Meanwhile, two new faces have been added to the Citizens squad in the January transfer window.

Utility man Nicky Ward has been signed from Newtown while manager Powell has also brought 18-year-old former Wrexham midfielder Matthew Hurdman to the club.

www.theonlinemail.co.uk

 
Absolutely Farcical! says Neath secretary (Jan 13) 14:30

With the inclement weather having played havoc with recent fixtures, the difficult task of re-arranging fixtures has proved some what impossible with various clubs citing 'prior commitments' , 'unsuitability' and 'student exams!' as poor reasons for not accepting new dates. This has made a difficult task even more so as clubs turn down perfectly reasonable dates for no good reason. Out of 5 games we have to re-arrange we have only been able to sort out ONE - when we travel to GAP Connah's Quay on the 17th March ( a Wednesday night). We agreed with Bangor a week end fixture to avoid them having to travel on a week day, as long as another Southern club would move a Friday fixture to a Tuesday (us being away) and lo and behold they refused Bangor's request to do so! Absolute joke and it further re-iterates our criticism of a 44 League programme next season - we cannot deal with 34 let alone 44! Given what we have had to deal with this week we will be asking the League Secretary to intervene on this nonsense.

www.neathfc.com

 
Wrexham poised to sign Chester midfielder Anthony Barry (Jan 13) 14:20
 Wrexham have confirmed the Blue Square Premier League club are in negotiations to sign former Chester City midfielder Anthony Barry on a free transfer.

The 23-year-old had his Chester deal terminated by mutual consent and the Wrexham Supporters Association are to help finance the Barry signing.

The Everton trainee is also in talks with Blue Square North side Fleetwood Town but is expected to join Wrexham.

Barry is one of Dragons boss Dean Saunders' transfer targets.

Barry, who joined Chester in the summer of 2008, trained with Wrexham at their Colliers Park HQ on Tuesday.

He was the latest player to leave Chester following reports that Chester's squad have still not been paid for the last two months and after boss Jim Harvey parted company with the Blue Square Premier's bottom club.

BBC

 
Striker Michael Chopra issues goals warning to rivals (Jan 13) 14:10
Michael Chopra has sent out a warning to Championship defences that he has rediscovered his scoring touch after ending a four-month goal drought.

The former Sunderland striker scored Cardiff's opener in the 1-1 FA Cup third round draw against Bristol City at Ashton Gate on Tuesday.

That took his season's tally to 13, but his last goal before then came in the 6-1 thrashing of Derby on 29 September.

"The main thing was for me just to get one goal," said 26-year-old Chopra.

"I'm sure there's going to be a lot more coming now.

"A lot of people have been criticising me recently because I've been on a long goal drought.

"As a striker I have a lot of belief in my own ability and I know if I get chances I will score goals and I've proved people wrong again today."

Chopra admitted that not scoring had knocked his confidence.

He added: "When you're not scoring, you've got to take a look at your game and take a look at other things and I think that's that the manager's done.

BBC

 
I'm keeping my options open – Reid (Jan 13) 14:00

SWANSEA City's move for Shefki Kuqi has hit the rocks because of demands made by the player's agent.

Paulo Sousa identified the former Ipswich, Blackburn and Crystal Palace powerhouse as the man to add physical presence to his frontline.

But although Kuqi is keen on a return to British football after joining German second-tier outfit TuS Koblenz last summer, it seems he won't be coming to the Liberty Stadium.

It is thought Kuqi would be available on a free transfer and that Swansea would have been prepared to meet his wage demands.

But the Evening Post understands Swansea have gone cold on the deal because Kuqi's representatives are looking for a payment to set up the transfer.

And there is also an issue over the length of contract Swansea would be prepared to offer. Kuqi, 33, has 18 months to run on his deal in Germany, but Swansea would prefer to take him on a short-term agreement.

"Paulo was keen on Kuqi," chairman Huw Jenkins admitted. "But I looked into that option and sometimes what is demanded comes nowhere near what we are prepared to offer.

"As things stand, the move is not going to happen."

Evening Post

 
Agent's demands scupper Kuqi deal (Jan 13) 14:10

CONFERENCE South MVP Craig Reid is making no promises about his future as he focuses squarely on helping Newport County to promotion.

The hotshot striker has been an absolute revelation since signing for Newport just over a year ago, having already bagged 19 goals in all competitions this term, taking his tally to 40 in just over 14 months in an amber shirt.

His superb form is unlikely to have gone unnoticed and unlike fellow key men Gary Warren and Sam Foley, Reid is not tied to the Exiles beyond the end of this season, a worrying situation for the County faithful.

The Argus understands that the Exiles hierarchy are keen to open contract talks with Reid in the coming weeks and the former Cheltenham and Coventry City marksman is ready to listen to the plans for the club next season before deciding on his future.

“Perhaps there are clubs looking at me, I don’t know, but it’s no distraction to me, without Newport County I wouldn’t have had the chance to score goals and enjoy my football so much,” he said.

“Everyone knows I am only signed until the end of the season and at the moment there is no issue, because Newport haven’t spoken with me yet about staying on.

“The bigger picture is making sure we finish the job and get promoted and I want to help take Newport up, not just to the Conference but into the Football League.

“But I don’t know what the plans are for next season. I want to see what is happening with the club, whether the gaffer is staying on, the backroom staff and what is happening with regard to going full time, there are a lot of factors to consider.

“The manager is a massive factor, but like I say, I have no decision to make at the moment.

“But I think everyone knows and can see that I love playing for Newport.”

Reid is as frustrated as most Conference South footballers over the lack of action at the moment.

South Wales Argus

 
Aberaman boss adds 4 more to his squad (Jan 12) 01:30
 Aberaman's new manager Leighton James has been busy in the transfer market adding 4 more players to the squad, though he has lost 2 players who exit the club.
In come 2 players from Cambrian & Clydach, midfielder Laith Jawald from Bridgend and Alun Hughes, Hughes was a former Swindon Town player under Liverpool legend Steve McMahon, he then signed for Barry Town before moving to Cambrian.
The other 2 new signings are Simon Truman who was at Tottenhan Hotspurs, Barry Town, Caerleon and Clevedon. And the final new signing is center half Tarrant Watkins who was most recently with Bridgend Town and Merthyr Tidfil.
They also hope to complete a further 3 more signings in the next few days.
Two players have left the Aberaman Park outfit, with Nicky Hooper joining Cardiff Corries and Tom Ramasut joining welsh premier side Haverfordwest.
Info from www.aberamanathleticafc.com

 
Dobbie could be leaving Swans (Jan 12) 01:20

PAULO SOUSA has made his first moves to slash his Swansea City squad before splashing any transfer window cash.

The Swans boss has long maintained he wanted to cut the numbers at the Liberty Stadium after finding himself with an overly-large squad.

And out-of-favour striker Stephen Dobbie could be the first to be shipped out after clubs were alerted of his availability.

SPL side Aberdeen have confirmed their interest in the 27-year-old, who was signed from Queen of the South by former Swansea manager Roberto Martinez weeks before he quit South Wales for Wigan.

Dundee had been interested in taking the former Rangers, Hibs and St Johnstone man but have been put off by the fact Swansea want him off their wage bill completely.

That might not be an issue for Aberdeen boss Mark McGhee, who said: “I’m a fan of his and we have asked about his availability, and it is possible he could come here.”

Sousa is in the market for a new striker and has been heavily linked with a move for Finnish international Shefki Kuqi, the former Ipswich, Blackburn and Crystal Palace frontman currently with German outfit Koblenz.

Chris Wathan

 
Newport County are promotion cert's (Jan 11) 15:00

WING wizard Jason Bowen believes Newport County fans should put the champagne on ice with promotion to the Conference now a formality.

The former Wales international, now with Welsh Premier league champions Llanelli, was a hero to the Spytty Park faithful during his four-year spell at Newport Stadium, regularly winning matches single-handedly and scoring some sublime goals in the process.

Now 37 years old, Bowen is in his second season at Llanelli, having departed Spytty Park in the summer of 2008 despite wanting to remain with the club.

Caught in the crossfire as County changed managers, Bowen departed reluctantly, boss Dean Holdsworth initially describing him as “the number-one player I hope to keep at the club”.

However, having enjoyed a decent career with a number of football league clubs, including Cardiff and Swansea, Birmingham City, Reading and a spell in the Premiership with Southampton, the skilful midfielder is not bitter about departing the Exiles and is certain that they are only heading one way… up.

“Newport won’t want to admit it, the manager won’t say it and neither will the players, but I think when you look at the league table and how many goals they’ve conceded this season (nine), then it’s just too good, their form, their lead, they’re absolutely flying and I don’t see that stopping,” he said.

“I am really pleased for them, it’s a big club and I still keep in touch with all the news, Steve Jenkins (player/coach and Llanelli and former Newport skipper) is still in touch with a lot of the boys and he keeps me updated.

“I do miss the club, but I am not bitter about how things ended, it was just one of those things.

“I am enjoying myself at Llanelli, we had a good season and I was happy to stay on, we’ve got some good young players and it’s nice to help them out as well.”

Michael Perlman

 
Welsh League faces fixture crisis (Jan 11) 10:30

WELSH League clubs are facing more fixture problems with more than 40 scheduled first-team and reserve matches wiped out by the current snow and frost.

There were 39 games planned in the MacWhirter Welsh League, plus three quarter-final ties in the Nathaniel Car Sales League Cup.

Three First Division midweek games are arranged, but all three must already be in doubt.

They are Afan Lido v Dinas Powys and Bryntirion Athletic v Cambrian and Clydach on Wednesday plus Bridgend Town v West End on Friday.

Welsh League officials have already extended their season until mid-May and badly need the weather to ease quickly.

All four League Cup quarter-final ties are still to be played and one, Afan Lido v AFC Llwydcoed, has been rearranged for Tuesday, January 26 (7.30pm). The game was due to be played last Tuesday.

All three cup matches scheduled for Saturday – AFC Porth v Croesyceiliog, Bridgend Town v Barry Town and Goytre United v Cambrian and Clydach – now have to be slotted into the fixture list.

Barry Town’s cup trip to Bridgend was called off and their next match is against Ton Pentre in the league at Jenner Park on Saturday.

That is followed by a trip to play Afan Lido on Friday, January 22 and a home game against Bridgend Town on Tuesday, January 26.

Manager Gavin Chesterfield has been able to strengthen his injury-hit squad recently, signing James Dixon from Dinas Powys and Lewis James from Bryntirion Athletic.

Talks continue between Barry Town owner Stuart Lovering and Welsh businessman Clayton Jones, who wants to buy the Welsh League football club.

Jones is keen to complete a deal quickly.

ICWALES

 
No new faces at Prestatyn says boss (Jan 11) 10:20

THE opening of the January transfer window will bring no major changes at Prestatyn Town, reports player-manager Neil Gibson.

The Seasiders boss is more than delighted with the squad which has developed from a struggling outfit last season into a top eight side this term.

Pre-season signings Andy Moran, Steve Rogers, Paul O’Neill, Adrian Moody, Gareth Wilson and Matt Towns have no doubt given added strength to the Bastion Road boys in their second season in the Welsh Premier, but the majority of the ranks remains made up of local talent.

Gibson has been shadowing one or two players in the transfer market and he could make a move for one of them next week, but nothing definite has been decided.

“If we do bring anyone in, it would probably be just the one big signing to give us a bit more quality, but I can’t be anything less than happy with the squad I’ve got,” said the Town chief.

“Also, we’ve got Dan Evans and Jon Fisher-Cooke back from injury now which is like having two new signings.

DAILY POST

 
Rhyl's boss joy at his lot (Jan 11) 10:10

RHYL player-boss Greg Strong says he is now more than happy with the squad he has at his disposal, writes Dave Jones.

The Lilywhites have signed former Sligo Rovers striker Rob Turner and picked up Macclesfield midfielder Michael Thomas on loan until the end of the season, as well as bringing in ex-Preston North End keeper Jack Cudworth from Technogroup Welshpool.

“I’ve filled all the positions now we needed to fill and I’m more than happy with the squad I’ve got, although if anyone else did become available who I feel would benefit the club I’d obviously take a look,” said Strong.

“The new lads are looking good in training and I’m really impressed with Jack Cudworth, who I think can push on from us and play at a higher level. Every goalkeeping coach I’ve spoken to who’s worked with him praises him very highly.”

DAILY POST

 
Bluebirds banking on American bail-out (Jan 10) 14:10

BILLIONAIRE Americans are planning a swift move to buy troubled Cardiff City – and the deal could be completed inside two months.

Representatives from potential American investors attended the Bluebirds’ home match against Blackpool yesterday – and are keen to press ahead quickly with a Bluebirds’ takeover that could be the answer to mounting financial pressures at Wales’ biggest club.

Their takeover would cost around £40m, with £23m going to paying off debts.

Talks with the American investors have been going on for months and they will be stepped up this week along with attempts to resolve the issue of the outstanding £2.7m due to Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs.

Cardiff must settle with HMRC or face the prospect of a winding-up petition at the High Court on February 10.

The emergence of the American interest calls into question the future involvement of Malaysian investors headed up by Dato Chan Tien Ghee, who is a newly-appointed director.

But they remain keen on increasing their influence and are in regular contact with chairman Peter Ridsdale.

However, it now looks a case of first come, first served in the race for control of the Bluebirds.

Ridsdale would not comment today, but a club insider said: “The Americans are keen on reaching agreement quickly.

“The backers are billionaires – and they believe Cardiff City would be a good investment.

“Talks continue with the Malaysian connection and Dato Chan is due over in the near future for more talks.

“But the Americans are keen to get on with things – and they have the money needed.”

Terry Phillips

 
Experienced Cooper join Eagles Nest (Jan 10) 12:30

Neath FC unveiled their two new signings during training this afternoon as former Wolves midfielder Kevin Cooper and young striker Chris Jones joined Andy Dyer's squad for the first time.

The signing of Cooper which will raise the eyebrows of most in the Principality Welsh Premier League.

Cooper began his career as a trainee at Derby County but managed only five first team appearances for the club following his debut in May 1995, as a substitute in a 2-1 defeat at Watford. In Spring 1997, he found an opportunity for first team football when he was taken on loan at First Division Stockport County.

The midfielder joined the Edgeley Park club permanently in Summer 1997 for £150,000, where he went on to make 173 appearances in total over almost four seasons. He eventually moved to Wimbledon in March 2001 for a reported £800,000, where he stayed for a year, notching his best seasonal goal tally of ten during the 2001/02 season.

However, he ended the season by being signed by his former Stockport manager and current Cardiff City boss Dave Jones at Wolverhampton Wanderers, for £1million in March 2002.

He joined Wolves and played the remainder of the 2001/02 season with the club, including the play-off games where they lost to Norwich City, despite Cooper scoring a spectacular long range goal in the second leg. He then featured regularly, although not a first choice player, throughout the following season as the team won promotion to the Premier League.

Cooper made just one substitute appearance against Charlton in the Premier League, which proved to be his only experience at this level. He spent the later half of the season on loan at second tier clubs Sunderland and Norwich City, where he won a championship medal.

He returned to Wolves, post-relegation, and found himself back in the side during the 2004/05 season. However, he requested a transfer for more playing time and was signed again by Dave Jones in July 2005 at Cardiff City.

He was a regular player in his first season at Ninian Park but fell out of favour in the following years and was loaned out to Yeovil Town and Walsall during the 2006/07 season.

Despite being transfer-listed he stayed at Cardiff through the summer but again found himself only in the reserves at the start of the year, so he joined League One side Tranmere Rovers on a one-month loan in October 2007. After returning to his parent club, he was given a send-off game against Welshpool Town in the FAW Premier Cup, his first game for over a year for the Bluebirds.

His contract at Cardiff was terminated by mutual consent on 1st February 2008 and a week later he joined Chesterfield until the end of the season, where he made a goalscoring debut, but his contract was not extended at the end of the campaign and he was released. He signed with Conference South team Newport County in July 2008 but was released by the Exiles in October and with him now being based in the Vale of Glamorgan, Dyer has swooped to capture his signature, which signals the Eagles' intention for the Title over the next four and a half months.

Welshpremier.com

 
Bangor's Powell wins WPL manager of the month (Jan 10) 12:30

Bangor City Manager Neville Powell has been named as the Principality Building Society Manager of the Month for December after a 100% success rate during the month.

The Citizens chief has enjoyed his most consistent period of a generally inconsistent season, which has seen his side climb back into the Top Eight of the League.

City were able to play four League games in the month, despite the poor weather conditions throughout the country and scooped all twelve points on offer, netting an impressive sixteen goals at and average of four strikes per game.

They began December at Caersws and won 3-1 with goals coming from Dave Swanick, Marc Limbert and Dave Morley. They also travelled to the Bluebirds' rivals, Newtown the following Saturday and won an exciting game 5-2 with Ashley Stott and Chris Sharp bagging a brace each and Jamie Reed rounding off a good afternoon with a spectacular finish.

Just three days later on a Tuesday evening, the Citizens hosted Bala Town in an even more eventful game. They went one better to score six goals in a 6-3 triumph, having come from 3-1 behind at the break. Reed and Sharp both netted doubles and Stott and Morley also found the back of the net. Powell's last match of 2009 was on 27th December against Porthmadog and his side finished the year in style with a 2-0 win at Farrar Road, with Reed again bagging a brace.

Welshpremier.com

 
TNS's Steve Evans wins WPL player of the month (Jan 10) 12:30

Wales International defender Steve Evans of TNS is the Player of the Month, having helped the Saints mount their title challenge with their miserly defence. Evans is the backbone at the heart of the Saints back four and he scooped three Man of the Match performances in December. The 30 year old was rated as the Star Man in the games against Porthmadog, Prestatyn and Haverfordwest and also bagged the winner at Prestatyn in a tight encounter at the home of the Seasiders.

The six-times capped International returned to TNS on Transfer Deadline Day in February 2009, following his release by Wrexham. He was only a bit-part player under Dean Saunders' regime at the Racecourse and is enjoying his career in the League once more, which has been a real success story for the Wrexham-born player.

He was the Welsh Premier League Player of the Year in 2004/05 and spent seven years with the Saints in hs first spell at the club and won the League, Welsh Cup and Loosemores Cup, as well as playing in Europe for the Saints. He then switched to Wrexham and gained his first International Cap against Liechtenstein in November 2006, just five months after leaving the Welsh Premier League.

Welshpremier.com

 
Young Wrexham midfielder joins Ward in Citizens Switch (Jan 9) 15:30

Bangor City have this evening announced the signing of two players to boost their squad for the second half of the season.

Nicky Ward, a 32 year old utility man who was formerly with Wrexham and Shrewsbury arrives from Newtown and Matthew Hurdman,18 joins following his release from Wrexham yesterday.

Ward had two spells with the Robins, but originally left to join TNS and played a part in their 2000 title win. He has bagged more than 60 Welsh Premier goals for Newtown and TNS, which shows to his attacking credentials, but he was released by TNS for 2007/8. After a year in London where he signed for Welling United, he returned to the league with NEWI Cefn Druids in June 2008, before moving back to Newtown in January 2009.

Hurdman is a central midfielder who spent two months on loan at Prestatyn last season and played 9 matches scoring twice. He also had a spell on loan at Colwyn Bay earlier this season.

The teenager has been capped by Wales at Under 17 level five times and at under 19 level a further five times.

Welshpremier.com

 
Aber swoop for Murtagh loan deal (Jan 9) 15:30

Aberystwyth Town have swooped to sign midfielder Conall Murtagh from The New Saints on loan until the end of the season.

The former Wrexham midfielder joined the Saints in the January transfer window last year after a disappointing spell at the Racecourse, which saw illness and injury limit his opportunities at the club.

The former Northern Ireland Under 21 International made 50 Welsh Premier League appearances for Connah's Quay and Rhyl, but after a season at Belle Vue, he attracted the attention of the Dragons and signed a two-year contract in summer 2007 at the Racecourse.

Welshpremier.com

 
Grimsby striker joins Eagles (Jan 9) 15:00

Grimsby Town striker Chris Jones has joined Welsh Premier League side Neath on a loan deal until the end of the season.

Jones impressed Mike Newell during the summer tour of Devon and penned a deal with the club in July.

Despite his early promise Chris has failed to make an impact at Blundell Park and has only featured in eight games this season - just one game under Neil Woods' reign.

Jones will team up with former Town player Chris Llewellyn who is now playing for the Eagles.

www.grimsby-townfc.co.uk

 
Cardiff City boss Dave Jones calls for three points (Jan 9) 15:00

CARDIFF CITY boss Dave Jones wants his players to forget about the off-the-pitch woes and focus upon winning three points against Blackpool today.

The Bluebirds have pulled out the stops to get the game on against Ian Holloway’s side, the match at the Cardiff City Stadium is one of the few nationwide to beat the big freeze.

But that is the least of the club’s problems as Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs have slapped a new winding-up petition on the club over unpaid tax, meaning the club is not currently able to bring players in.

Chairman Peter Ridsdale has vowed the tax debt will be paid and at least three new players brought in during the January transfer window.

Jones himself was unwilling to comment on the club’s financial problems maintaining it was business as usual on the playing side.

Indeed he has handed Ridsdale a list of four players he wants brought in to help with the Bluebirds’ Premiership promotion push.

For the time being, though, Jones will have to go with what he has against Blackpool, a team who have surprised many this season and who are eighth in the Championship just three points behind fourth-placed Cardiff.

Steve Tucker

 
Budget cuts making life tough for Huw. (Jan 8) 15:00
Midfielder Richie Harris followed goalkeeper Jack Cudworth out of Maesydre, while budget cuts also saw assistant manager Timmy Edwards quit. Now only defender John Boardman and the locally-based midfield duo of Geraint Windsor and George Hughes remain on the books from the squad which ended the 2008/2009 campaign. Griffiths’ financial restraints have meant Technogroup Welshpool will be forced to complete a seminal season with a skeleton squad. However ‘wheeler dealer’ Griffiths has still managed to make a few signings and in Marc Griffiths and Jordan Kane hopes are high that the Lilywhites can start scoring more goals in January.“Marc is an unselfish player who holds up the ball well and involves others,” said Griffiths. “He also showed against us in the Loosemores Cup that he can score goals.”Jordan Kane arrives on loan from Wrexham and joins fellow loan arrival Eric Ramsey, who arrives from TNS.“We are grateful to both TNS and Wrexham for loaning two emerging talents in Jordan and Eric. Both will go straight into the squad for the Aberystwyth Town game.”
Goalkeeper Danny Jones has also returned to the squad after Jack Cudworth’s departure to champions Rhyl. Griffiths said: “It’s good to have Danny back, but I cannot help but feel Jack has sold himself short by going to Rhyl. League clubs were after him and I would have backed him for the step up.”Griffiths has been boosted by the decision of John Boardman and Martin Beattie to commit their immediate futures to the club.“I have been thrilled by John’s decision to stay at Welshpool. He likes the club and wants to see the season through.“It was a similar story with Martin, who turned down more money at Caernarfon Town to stay with us.”However a lucrative offer from Port Talbot Town looks set to tempt ex-Connahs Quay defender Peter Doran away from Maesydre.“There is no way we can compete and we have waived the seven days notice of approach so we can identify a replacement as soon as possible.IN - Marc Griffiths (Bala Town); Eric Ramsey (loan - TNS); Jordan Kane (loan - Wrexham)
OUT - Jack Cudworth (Rhyl); Richie Harris (Newtown); Timmy Edwards (released)
TARGETS - Mark Davies (Guilsfield)

County Times

 
Llanelli let Ross go on loan (Jan 8) 14:30

LLANELLI FC youngster Ross Jones has joined Haverfordwest on loan.

The 19-year-old midfielder, a product of the club's academy system, has recently returned to fitness following a spell out injured.

"Derek Brazil (Haverfordwest manager) asked if he could take Ross and I was happy to help out," said Llanelli boss Andrew Legg. "It will also benefit Ross, who I rate very highly."

Legg's only injury absentee is now Owain Warlow, who he signed from Lincoln City in the summer.

Llanelli's match against Port Talbot Town — scheduled for this evening at Stebonheath — was called off last night as the icy conditions continue to take a grip.

Legg confirmed that his team have been unable to train due the weather.

"We have several players who live in Mid Wales, another in Aberystwyth, and I travel to Llanelli three times a week from Nottingham, but it has been impossible to get all the lads together for several weeks now," he added.

Port Talbot boss Mark Jones said: "I cannot recall another period like this. We have not even been able to train on the beach. It's very disappointing because we were getting up a real head of steam."

Evening Post

 
Dyer is planning further transfer swoops in the coming weeks (Jan 8) 14:30

NEATH boss Andrew Dyer has bolstered his side's defence as he prepares for a title push.

And Dyer is planning a further transfer swoop in the coming weeks.

Dyer has signed Aberystwyth Town's 27-year-old defender Kristian James, who had a spell at the club before.

James has been involved with Welsh Premier clubs for a decade, making 90 starts in a career spanning three spells at Port Talbot and two at Aberystwyth, while he has also been at Barry Town and Cwmbran Town.

"Kristian is a useful player who gives us more options, but I am still chasing a couple more players including one, who — if it comes off — will be a very exciting acquisition," Dyer said.

"I can't say more at this stage other than he is young and has pedigree. Watch this space."

Evening Post

 
Bryntirion Athletic ‘well placed’ for 2010 (Jan 8) 05:30

Bryntirion Athletic are in good shape going into the second half of the season in MacWhirter Welsh League Division One, writes Tony Poole.

The Bridgend side hold a lofty sixth position in the league with the highlights provided by a first win over Taffs Well and beating Ton Pentre on home soil for the first time.

The 13 league outings have produced six wins and five draws with poor displays resulting in defeats against Ely Rangers and old chums Pontardawe.

But during the Christmas period, Bryntirion said goodbye to midfield player Lewis James who has signed for first division rivals Barry Town.

And journeyman Nana Baah has exited Bryntirion Park for a final time.

The former Grange Quins and Bridgend Town striker, who left Bryntirion for Barry last summer only to return in the autumn, has now gone to Clevedon Town.

Last winter, Baah was Bryntirion’s top scorer with 16 goals while this time around he hit the target three times.

There was further bad news for the club in the approach to Christmas when young defender Mattie Jones broke a leg in a reserve team game.

Ankle ligament damage is likely to keep experienced operator Ian Gearie on the sidelines for a month while goalkeeper Josh Payne is laid low through illness.

However, former Bettws striker Robbie Hugglestone, who damaged a knee during the 1-1 home draw with Bridgend Town back in August, is back in training.

Hugglestone is lined up to take the place of wandering star Baah once he reaches full fitness.

And Bryntirion are set to welcome back Martin Dando, who has been absent from the Bryntirion scene this term due to college studies.

 
Merthyr manager Garry Shephard remains upbeat (Jan 8) 05:30

ALMOST a month without football has left Merthyr Tydfil player-manager Garry Shephard champing at the bit to get back into action on the field – and he still believes his team can reach the play-offs.

Tuesday night’s Zamaretto Premier Division match at home to Leamington fell foul of the cold snap and, with Saturday’s visit of Brackley Town to Penydarren Park in serious doubt, it means the Martyrs will not have played since December 12.

Shephard got the goal that day in the 1-0 victory over Swindon Supermarine and, with the Southern League fixture schedule hit hard by the weather over the festive period, Merthyr are still only three points from safety.

The boss is keen for his players to remain focussed during the current period of inactivity as the backlog of matches means they could be facing as many as six games from now until the end of the month.

“I just can’t wait to get playing again,” said Shephard. “Sometimes a break like this affects you, sometimes it doesn’t.

“The thing for us is, we haven’t trained for nearly a month so it’s going to be like pre-season again, but that’s the way it will be for most teams.

“Even when you are playing at this time of year, you have to trust the players to look after themselves. The spirit in the squad is still good and we’ve got to take every game as it comes.

“We need to keep the momentum going and stay focussed. All we need to do is beat the teams around us.”

Shephard insists he and his players are looking forward to the task at hand and the man in the managerial hot-seat isn’t settling on finishing the season just above the drop zone.

With a couple of games in hand over those teams immediately above them, their position – one off the foot of the table due to the points deficit for entering administration – does not give a true reflection of their campaign.

And Shephard is looking for a strong end to the season. “Given that we started the season on minus 10 points, it’s nice to be where we are and we are still capable of beating the top teams,” he added.

“And with a bit of luck I don’t think the play-offs are out of our reach.”

IcWales

 
Swans target quartet in bid to bolster striking options (Jan 7) 14:30

SWANSEA City have a drawn up a shortlist of four potential forward targets as Paulo Sousa looks to beef up his frontline during the transfer window.

It is understood former Ipswich, Blackburn and Crystal Palace targetman Shefki Kuqi remains a possible recruit — as the Evening Post revealed last month.

But Swansea have laughed off rumours linking them with Birmingham's Kevin Phillips, who is not the type of player they are looking for and whose wages would be excessive anyway.

Chairman Huw Jenkins has also admitted that Swansea have now withdrawn their long-standing interest in Millwall centre-back Zak Whitbread.

With only 21 goals scored in 24 Championship fixtures so far this season, a powerfully-built centre-forward is Swansea's top priority.

Craig Beattie has impressed but has been troubled by injury, Gorka Pintado is yet to score this term and Lee Trundle has been used primarily as an impact player.

"Paulo is looking for somebody to lead the line in the formation we play," Jenkins said.

"There are a few players we are looking at and there are probably three or four strikers around who fit the bill.

"It's a matter of going through all the different options and weighing up each potential signing individually."

Swansea have said goodbye to long-term trialist Radanfah Abu Bakr already this week, while Shaun MacDonald has rejoined Yeovil on loan until the end of the season.

But there are still 34 professionals on the club's books — not including youngsters out on loan like Kerry Morgan — and there could be further departures over the next three weeks.

"There are a lot of conversations going on and options being looked at," Jenkins continued.

"We are looking at potential signings, but on the other side we are looking at one or two members of our squad going out on loan as well.

"These things have to be worked out so that they suit everybody and often that takes time."

Marcos Painter admitted earlier this week that he would be happy to make a loan move if it would improve his chances of first-team football at the Liberty.

Other potential candidates for temporary spells away may include Guillem Bauza, Matty Collins and Chad Bond.

Gareth Vincent

 
Snow stopping County now (Jan 7) 14:30

NEWPORT County are preparing to entertain York City and looking to remain in red-hot form for their FA Trophy clash, despite the fact the game may yet be snow-go.

The Exiles have arranged a pitch inspection for 8am tomorrow as they look to beat the elements and welcome Conference outfit York City, last season’s beaten Trophy finalists, to Spytty Park for Saturday’s clash.

It’s another great test for Dean Holdsworth’s imposing side and the boss is hopeful that the Spytty Park ground staff can perform a miracle and get the game on.

“It’s a shame for us, we’d love to play on Saturday and we’re preparing as if the game is on, we couldn’t train on Tuesday because the roads are bad, but we’ll be doing something in doors tonight,” he said. “It’s already a tough month, so we hope we can play.”

Holdsworth has hit out at Chelmsford captain Dave Rainford and Woking’s Guiseppe Sole after both publicly tipped the Exiles to falter, despite holding a 14-point advantage in the Blue Square South.

“I have heard about the comments, if I was their manager I would be annoyed they are talking about another club to be honest,” he said.

“I’ve heard one say that we might fall away because Chelmsford did last year, but we’re not Chelmsford.

“It happened to them and he should be worrying about them, not us,” added Holdsworth.

“Of course it can happen, but I don’t understand why people want to embarrass themselves by speaking out against another club with silly statements.

“We’ve not lost for 11 league games, we’re confident as a group and we have to just let other people do the talking for us.”

South Wales Argus

 
Cardiff City's Adam Matthews considers Premier move (Jan 6) 15:20
Cardiff City's teenage defender Adam Matthews says he would have to consider a move to a big Premier League club should one come in for him.

Bluebirds chairman Peter Ridsdale has confirmed that Manchester United and Arsenal have been looking at the highly rated 17-year-old.

Wales full-back Matthews told BBC Sport Wales: "If that ever came about I'd have to think about it.

"But I'm just happy to be playing for Cardiff at the moment."

For the time being Matthews is happy to continue progressing with the Bluebirds and says the speculation linking him with a move is not a distraction.

He also believes he can reach the top flight with the Bluebirds, who are lying fourth in the Championship.

"I don't think the speculation is distracting," he said. "I'm quite a level-headed boy and obviously I'm very happy to get noticed.

"But I'm happy to be with Cardiff and play the rest of the season and I've heard nothing. It's just rumours.

"My ambitions are just to play as much as I can and play well and hopefully the team can get promotion to the Premier League.

"I think we've got as good a chance as any. We've got a good squad here and if we keep the key players fit, I think we can make a good push for it and I think we can do it. "Every player wants to play against the best players in the country so if that ever happens, I think that's a good motivation for us to get promotion."

BBC

 
Swans warn Burnley off Sousa (Jan 6) 12:50
SWANSEA City have warned Burnley they would be wasting their time trying to lure Paulo Sousa to Turf Moor.

Sousa has been mentioned as a potential target for the Premier League club with Owen Coyle on his way to Bolton Wanderers.

But Huw Jenkins insists there is no chance of Swansea seeing another manager defecting to the top flight following the departure of Roberto Martinez last summer.

"If a manager is relatively successful with a club in the Championship, he is always going to be mentioned when a vacancy comes up in the Premier League," the Swansea chairman said.

Swansea banked around £2 million when Martinez departed for Wigan Athletic, but they are not interested in saying goodbye to Sousa regardless of what compensation might be on offer.

That situation may change if the Portuguese expresses an interest in leaving, but Swansea are unconcerned at this stage. Coyle expressed his desire to leave Burnley for Bolton yesterday afternoon, leaving the two clubs to sort out a compensation deal which is expected to be worth around £3million.

"But I would say two things.

"One, I don't think Burnley will be getting in touch with me. And two, even if they do, I think you can state that I won't be letting any club talk to our manager."

Sousa has been mentioned as a candidate to take the reins at Burnley along with Alan Curbishley, Darren Ferguson, Ian Holloway, Mike Phelan, Gareth Southgate and ex-Clarets favourite Steve Davis.

And while he doesn't expect anything to come of the link, Jenkins regards the speculation as a compliment to Swansea.

"I think the biggest thing this shows is that we have a steady, stable football club which is well run," he added.

"We give every manager an opportunity to succeed if they have talent, and Paulo has shown he has talent.

Evening Post

 
Peter Ridsdale promises new players for Cardiff City (Jan 6) 12:20

CARDIFF CITY chairman Peter Ridsdale has vowed new players WILL be brought in this month – despite the financial uncertainty surrounding the club.

The Bluebirds chief made his pledge as concerned City fans leaders revealed they plan to call an emergency meeting to discuss the club’s financial situation.

Officials from the Supporters Trust want the chance to quiz Ridsdale and the board about City’s financial position and to seek assurances about the future.

The supporters can force the meeting with agreement of five per cent of the share-holding.

If the meeting takes place, Ridsdale will be obliged to produce an up-to-date set of accounts which the shareholders could scrutinise.

Despite the fans’ action, Ridsdale remains bullish about the immediate prospects.

He insisted: “We will be bringing in new players this month, I can guarantee that.

“I would go so far as to say that come January 31, we will be holding a press conference to parade the players we have brought in during the month.”

Among the Jones’ targets is Hull striker Caleb Folan. We understand City are tracking the 27-year-old Republic of Ireland striker, who cost the Tigers £1m from Wigan in 2007. He was loaned out to Championship rivals Middlesbrough in September, but a hamstring injury cut his time on Teesside short.

Steve Tucker

 
Brace looking forward to Saints Test (Jan 6) 12:20

After Carmarthen Town's New Years Day game against local rivals Llanelli was postponed, Manager Deryn Brace is now looking forward to the visit of league leaders TNS to kick start the second half of the season and get his side up into that vital top ten placing. Brace told the club's official website Y Dre ar Y We, "It's always disappointing when games are postponed but on the positive side it gives us an opportunity to get those who have been out recently, Nicky Palmer and Dyfan Pierce, that extra week. We would have been without Neil Smothers last week through illness so he's had an opportunity to recover." "So the scenario of rustiness comes into the equation like it did for the first half against Llanelli. We will have to make sure we do not have a repeat performance. I feel that they are probably the most complete side in the Welsh Premier this season. "Obviously Saturday is a major game. We knew it was going to be a difficult Christmas period but unfortunately the weather has been the winner. You never have an easy ride against TNS. Even when things aren't going for them they get the basics right. Brace added, "I feel that they are probably the most complete side in the Welsh Premier this season. I think if anybody is going to finish above them then they will probably win the league. It's as simple as that. We've played nearly every side at the moment and the Saints are by far the best side that we've played. We will have to be on top of our game." .

Welshpremier.com

 
Aberystwyth sign a Scot from the States (Jan 6) 12:20

Aberystwyth Town boss Alan Morgan has made his third acquisition since taking charge at Park Avenue with the arrival of Tom Shaw to Park Avenue.

The young Scottish midfielder has joined Aberystwyth Town from Houston Leones FC in the USA. The Aberdeen-born player spent time playing in the USA with the side based in Richmond, Texas. They were founded in 2007 and play in the USL Premier Development League (PDL), the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference.

Shaw joins Stuart Fraser and Joel Richardson as new arrivals at the club since the Window re-opened. Fraser returned to the club from Newtown, whilst ex-Tranmere Rover Richardson made his debut over the festive period as a substitute against Haverfordwest County.

Welshpremier.com

 
Rangers chasing Goytre hard for top spot (Jan 5) 14:20

PENRHIWCEIBER Rangers are one of only two teams still unbeaten in the MacWhirter Welsh League.

Goytre United head Division One but Cynon Valley club Penrhiwceiber have won nine and drawn three of their 12 league matches so far.

Rangers were involved in the only Welsh League match to beat the weather over the weekend, a 1-1 draw at Porthcawl Athletic.

Boss Steve Haggett said: “This was only our second league match in around eight weeks because of weather and cup commitments.

“We badly wanted to play Porthcawl and thankfully the pitch surface was in good condition despite the frost.

“Our aim is promotion this season and we’ve made a solid start, but there is a long way to go.”

Penrhiwceiber are at home to Uwic on Saturday and travel to Newcastle Emlyn on Saturday, January 16. They complete their January fixtures by playing Ammanford (home) and Llangeinor (away).

Terry Philips

 
Aaron Ramsey ahead of Arsenal schedule - Arsene Wenger (Jan 5) 14:00

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger hailed Aaron Ramsey after his man-of-the-match performance in the 2-1 win at West Ham. The Wales midfielder, who turned 19 on Boxing Day, scored the Gunners' equaliser in the FA Cup clash. With Alex Song to join Cameroon at the African Nations Cup and Cesc Fabregas sidelined (hamstring) the youngster is set for a sustained run in midfield. "He improves from game to game," said Wenger, who signed Ramsey for £5m from Cardiff City in June 2008. "I set him a target at the start of the season to play between 15 and 20 games. "It looks like he will get that very quickly."

BBC

 
Good start for new manager Tom Warren at Porthcawl (Jan 4) 12:30

POLICE officer Tom Warren has replaced former Cardiff City boss Eddie May as manager of Porthcawl Athletic.

And he saw his side take a much-needed point from the only match played in the MacWhirter Welsh League on Saturday.

Warren took over from May after the 3-2 home defeat to Llangeinor – the only team below them in the Division Two table.

And he got off to a good start with a deserved draw against unbeaten leaders Penrhiwceiber Rangers.

“Eddie stepped down and I put myself forward for the job,” said Warren. “I’m a local lad and have been with Porthcawl Athletic for 15 years.

“I took charge of the reserves last season and was still running that team until now. Our draw against Penrhiwceiber is a terrific result considering out preparations were disrupted.

“We were without five players and it was a difficult morning, but I brought a couple of lads up from the reserves and it was a big team effort.

“Our initial task is to make sure Porthcawl stay in Division Two and this is a start.”

Dean Burrows fired Penrhiwceiber ahead from a penalty after home defender Rhys Owen brought down centre-forward Howard Wiltshire.

But Owen made amends by going up the other end to grab the equaliser.

Terry Philips

 
Welsh Premier League champions Rhyl sign two to boost title defence (Jan 4) 12:20

RHYL FC have announced two new signings to boost their bid for honours in 2010.

Player-manager Greg Strong has captured striker Rob Turner, 20, from Eircom League of Ireland Premier Division club Sligo Rovers and teenage midfielder Michael Thomas, who has featured in three first team matches for Football League Two club Macclesfield Town this season.

Turner began his career with Burnley before signing for Preston North End where he made quite an impression in the reserves prior to joining Sligo in July 2009.

"He's a striker in the Neil Roberts mould, but bigger," said Strong. "He went to Sligo last season but didn't really settle being away from home (in Preston).

“So we're delighted to sign him and I'm sure he'll do a great job for us."

Turner played in a number of games for Sligo, including a substitute appearance in a notable 1-0 victory over champions Bohemian at the Showgrounds in September.

Thomas made his league debut on September 29 for Macclesfield Town in their 1–1 away draw with Burton Albion in League Two, replacing Paul Morgan in the 81st minute as a substitute.

He has since made two further substitute appearances for the Silkmen and arrives at Belle Vue with a formidable reputation.

"He's very highly thought of at Macclesfield and a lot of the lads I've spoken to there are surprised we've been allowed to get him," added Strong. "He's ambitious and wants to do well in football so I hope we can help him on his way."

Turner has signed on a permanent basis while Thomas joins on an on-loan deal until the end of the season.

DAVE JONES

 
Newtown swoop for Trio with Seven more on the Radar (Jan 4) 12:15

Newtown manager Darren Ryan has been the busiest boss since the transfer window reopened with the acquisition of three players to date and another four on the radar.

The Robins have confirmed the signing of Richie Harris who returns to Mid Wales Leisure Latham Park from Technogroup Welshpool. The midfielder played his last game for the Lilywhites against TNS on New Years Day and the 25 year old rejoins his former club for whom he played in the League 32 (+8) times in 2003/04 and 2004/5, scoring twice.

Harris will be joined by the talented winger Ryan Marriott who has been loaned to the club by The New Saints. Marriott has impressed continually for the Saints with his limited opportunities at Park Hall and more game time in the League will certainly improve his development. He is a skilful and quick winger, with a good eye for goal and will doubtless add to the quality at Latham Park.
Another TNS youngster John McKenna will also boost the Robins midfield once he has returned to full fitness. Like Marriott, McKenna is an Academy graduate and will benefit from more game time during his loan spell.

Next on Ryan's radar is experienced defender Mark Dodds, who will be allowed to leave the Richmond Park club. The former Newport County and Port Talbot Town 29 year old Semi-Professional International is also speaking to other clubs about a move away from the Old Gold.

The Robins boss is also in the market for a new goalkeeper and after an unsuccessful attempt to entice Elements Cefn Druids' Chris Mullock, Ryan has approached Aberystwyth Town about their second choice 'keeper Dave Roberts. The Liverpudlian was the incumbent for the Seasiders last season and played in the Welsh Cup Final, but the arrival of Steven Cann at Park Avenue has meant that his chances have been limited.

Ryan is also keen to bring another of Aberystwyth's out-of-favour players to Latham Park with striker Andy Evans a target. The Seasiders have allowed Newtown to speak to Evans but there is again interest from other clubs

Richard Williams-Cooke, the burly, popular midfielder who left Newtown two seasons ago could also return from Rhos Aelwyd and Chirk's promising youngster Jamie Williams is another target.

Ryan has also asked Bala for permission to speak to Ricky Evans and has given Prestatyn seven days notice of approach in a bid to bring Steve Rogers back to the club.

Newtown have received seven days notice of approach from Connah's Quay on Nicky Ward, so he could be one player leaving the Robins nest in what is certainly going to be a busy month.

WelshPremier.com

 
Cardiff City Chairman respond to winding up article (Jan 4) 12:15

Cardiff City chairman Peter Ridsdale issued the following statement in response to an article in today's News of the World.

Cardiff City Football Club are concerned at an article in one of today's national newspapers. Some of the information contained within this article can only have come from documents which have been stolen from officials at the Club and are currently the subject of a police investigation. We are also taking legal advice with regard to the damaging contents of this article. This information has then been used out of context, is not the latest position, nor does it contain all the current facts and is therefore inaccurate.

We are happy that Cardiff City Football Club's relationships with its creditors including HMRC are such that we will not have any financial issues that will affect the ability of the Club to continue to trade as normal in all aspects of its business.

Peter Ridsdale.

 
Hill-Dunt is hero for Prestatyn against Rhyl (Jan 3) 13:05

JOHN Leah’s 67th-minute thunderbolt salvaged a draw for Rhyl in a game where Prestatyn keeper Jon Hill-Dunt produced the performance of a lifetime to earn his team a well-deserved point.
In an end-to-end derby at Belle Vue, Town were first to threaten the target when Ian Griffiths’ right-foot strike was well held by new Lilywhites keeper Jack Cudworth.
The former Preston North End stopper was called into action again to keep out a Steve Rogers free-kick and it was not until the half hour that Rhyl forced Hill-Dunt to work, the agile custodian going down to grasp a Matty Williams drive.
Prestatyn took the lead on 34 minutes when an Andy Moran free-kick into the area picked out Dave Hayes, who made the most of being given too much space to fire home from close range.
Rhyl piled on the pressure towards the end of the half, Hill-Dunt concocting a magnificent full-length diving save to keep out Mark Connolly’s 20-yard free-kick.
Greg Stones’ volley was headed out from close to the line by Seasiders’ player-boss Neil Gibson, then Hill-Dunt almost defied logic to palm a Gareth Owen rocket on to the crossbar.
The hosts came out for the second half full of fire and soon after the restart Lilies player-manager Greg Strong blasted over from a goalmouth scramble.
Phil Doran’s left-foot stinger was parried by Hill-Dunt, but no home player was following up and Leah lashed a right-footer just wide.
The visitors were a danger on the break and could have made it 2-0 when Stones and George Horan made a mess between them of trying to clear and left Rogers in on goal, but Cudworth kept out his volley from point blank range.
Rogers then left Strong standing with a swift turn and was one-on-one with Cudworth, but again the keeper came out on top.
Rhyl finally got back on terms with a cross from the right was headed clear by Paul O’Neill but Leah’s right foot missile proved too powerful even for the heroic Hill-Dunt.
Town substitute Dan Evans clipped the bar with a deep right-wing cross, but the latter stages was mainly all pressure from the Welsh Premier champions.
In the last 10 minutes Hill-Dunt pulled off five top-class saves – denying Matty Williams with an outstretched foot, twice keeping out goalbound strikes from Leah, going down at his near post to thwart Tyrone Kirk and, in the final seconds, somehow preventing a Strong header finding the net.

Stephen Harrison

 
Fox's put Swans out of cup (Jan 3) 12:55

A close-range 89th-minute header from substitute Dany N'Guessan put Leicester through to the FA Cup fourth round.
David Cotterill gave Swansea an early lead with a wonderful strike from 30 yards - his first goal for the club.
The Swans dominated until Matt Fryatt set up Wales international Andy King for a goal from just outside the box that left Dorus De Vries flat-footed.
The Foxes took control and Yann Kermorgant headed a Ryan McGivern free-kick to N'Guessan who made no mistake.
It was a feeling of deja vu for the Swans who lost by the same score on their last visit to the Walkers Stadium in the opening game of the season, N'Guessan also coming off the bench in that match to score the winner.
David Cotterill opened his Swansea account with a stunning 30-yard strike
Leicester, into the fourth round for the first time in four years, have now won their last four games against the Swans and are unbeaten in eight matches against the Welsh club.
Swansea have not defeated the Foxes since a 6-1 triumph at the Vetch Field in March 1956 in the old Second Division.

  
Andy Legg hints long playing career could be at an end (Jan 2) 13:05

LLANELLI boss Andy Legg has given the strongest hint yet that this season may well be his last as a player, writes John Edwards. , Legg admitted: “I’m getting close to the moment when I’m thinking of finishing. “It’s not a lack of fitness but it’s taking longer to get over the aches and pains of playing week in, week out. “It’s doubly difficult when you are the manager also. “I’m nearly 43, so I can’t go on forever and being a player and manager can be a nightmare sometimes.” Legg, who was capped six times by Wales and started 163 times for Swansea and appeared on 175 occasions for Cardiff City, feels he and his management team are starting to find their feet. “ Taking over in the summer, it takes time to put a successful side together, but the lads have been superb as we have been badly hit by injuries,” he said.

 
Alex Darlington stars in New Saints’ victory (Jan 2) 13:05

A SUPERB, 16-minute hat-trick late in the second half by former Wrexham striker Alex Darlington gave The New Saints an emphatic 4-0 victory over Welshpool at Park Hall.

It extended Saints’ unbeaten run to 13 matches and took them two points clear of Llanelli at the top, although the Reds are in action later today.

Craig Williams found space in the eighth minute to fire the hosts ahead and Darlington outwitted the Welshpool defence to poach three typical striker’s goals to take the three points.

“I’m delighted for the lad as he has been so unlucky with injuries throughout his career,” said TNS assistant manager Mike Davies.

“There was a massive effort to get the game played by many people connected with the club, due to the snow that had fallen, and we are very grateful to everyone who has helped.”

Western Mail

 
Port Talbot denied derby double by the snow (Jan 2) 19:05

Port Talbot were 20 minutes away from completing a festive derby double over Neath by the elements.

Port Talbot got off to a flying start in the game when they took the lead in just the 3rd minutes, with a goal from Drew Fahiya. Victory would have seen the Steelmen climb to 3rd in the table, but the game was abandoned in the 70th minute due to the deluge of snow falling, which must have pleased the home crowd more than the travelling fans at the Gnoll in the 488 crowd.
Aberystwyth leapfrog Port Talbot and Rhyl and move into 3rd place after their 1-0 win at the New Bridge Meadow beating Harry West for the 2nd time over the xmas period.

 
Port Talbot aiming to make it all black again for Neath (Jan 1) 14:05

PORT TALBOT will be looking to deal another major blow to Neath’s Welsh Premier title aspirations tonight at The Gnoll (5.30pm).

A 2-0 victory at the GenQuip Stadium earlier this week took the Blues up to fourth spot and brought Neath’s 12-match unbeaten run to an end.

But the hosts have an impressive pedigree at home, not having lost for 11 matches.

Yet Mark Jones’ side have the upper hand in past matches having drawn 3-3 and won 2-0 in the only other league matches in Neath between the local rivals.

Jones has a selection dilemma as top-scorer Martin Rose is free of suspension, but he is not certain to regain his place.

“Rosey and Liam McCreesh have both netted seven times this season but Drew Fahiya and Daniel Thomas did brilliantly in the first match,” said Jones.

“It’s a difficult one, but it is a squad game these days.

“Whoever I choose to leave out will probably have a part to play at some stage of the game.”

Neath boss Andrew Dyer is looking for more from his men after seeing their unbeaten run ended.

“I’m looking for a bit more presence, but we have viewed the video and it wasn’t that bad from a defensive point of view,” he said.
BBC

 
Nick Yates aims for good start at Cardiff Corries (Jan 1) 14:05

NICK Yates, newly-appointed manager of MacWhirter Welsh League club Cardiff Corries, sends his team out against First Division leaders Goytre United at their Riverside Ground home tomorrow (2pm).

Yates, formerly with Taffs Well, has been with Corries for the last four years and has taken over from Mike Wadden. Darren Buttle is Corries’ assistant manager.

The battle to avoid relegation from Division One is close-fought with only two points covering six teams.

Caerleon are bottom on eight points, while Bettws, Ely Rangers and Corries all have 12. West End and Bridgend Town are on 13, Pontardawe Town 14.

Bettws entertain Taffs Well tomorrow, while Bridgend Town are at home against Bryntirion Athletic in a local derby. Ely Rangers face Cambrian and Clydach, whose scheduled midweek match against Afan Lido was postponed, at Station Road, Wenvoe.

Pontardawe Town are at home against Ton Pentre.

The future of Barry Town FC is still not clear with takeover talks continuing. Cardiff businessman Clayton Jones is keen to buy the club and is in talks with owner Stuart Lovering.

Manager Gavin Chesterfield and his players travel to face Garden Village tomorrow.

Afan Lido, who, along with Barry Town, have applied for promotion to the Welsh Premier League, travel to play West End. It’s the first time the two clubs have met in a league match.

West End are in Division One for the first time in their history having come into the Welsh League system from the local Swansea Senior League, earning promotion to Division Three in 2005-06.

West End include two former Lido players in their squad, defender Steve Crabb and striker Darren Griffiths.

Penrhiwceiber Rangers lead the way in Division Two and face Porthcawl Town away, while second-placed Cwmbran Celtic travel to AFC Llwydcoed.

In Division Three, leaders Pontypridd Town are away against Llantwit Fardre, while Aberbargoed Buds, who are in third, are at home against Risca United.
Terry Phillips

 

Holdsworth promises no let up for runaway leaders Newport (Jan 1) 14:05

CHAMPIONS-ELECT Newport County moved 13 points clear of their nearest rivals Chelmsford City over Christmas.

But Exiles boss Dean Holdsworth is still looking for perfection and refuses to take his foot off the gas.

With the club having more than 2,200 at Spytty Park when they beat Dorchester Town 3-0 earlier this week, Holdsworth is looking for a record finish for the club. Incredibly, County have only conceded nine league goals and, with a goal difference of plus 34, they are looking pretty good to break more club records along the way. “There is no let-up here, the lads know that things in football can change overnight,” said Holdsworth.

“All of a sudden you hit some bad form and you can’t get out of it.

“We will continue to prepare the best we can for every match, whether it’s a team near the bottom or team at the top trying to close the gap.

“The moment you take your foot off the gas in this game that’s the moment football has a habit of kicking you in the teeth. I will not allow that to happen here. “Yes, we are in a good position and some might think that we’re home and dry.

“But nobody has won anything in January and, as far as we’re concerned, its business as usual.

“The lads have been fantastic and they fear nobody in this division.

“Yes, we will have a couple bad days, but I am confident that complacency is not a word you will find at this club.”

County’s general manager Tim Harris feels that tomorrow’s visit of Worcester could beat the Dorchester crowd of 2,200.

“I’ve been with the club of a period of 10 years and it’s fantastic that the town has got behind its football team,” said former boss Harris.

“There is a great buzz around the place and the people of Newport are getting behind Dean and the lads.

“And when they see the crowds we are getting, it’s a great lift for the boys when they run out.

“Obviously there is a lot of talk among the supporters that the job is done.

“But that is not the case with the manager or the players. They will battle on to the last game.

“I just hope they get their just rewards because they have been brilliant.”

Wales Under-21 defender Aaron Morris – who made his debut against Dorchester – is on a month’s loan from Cardiff City and will figure again today.

On the injury front, Scott Rogers should be available for selection, while Dave Gilroy is making steady progress and hopes to return soon.
Mark Bloom

 
Merthyr keen to avoid fixture backlog (Jan 1) 14:05

MERTHYR Tydfil are sweating on today’s Zamaretto League game at Stourbridge going ahead. The Boxing Day visit of Evesham United fell foul of the cold snap and Merthyr do not want another postponement. The management duo of Garry Shepherd and Danny Carter have steadied the Martyrs ship through some choppy waters and are on a decent run. But assistant boss Carter is mindful of the problems that a backlog of fixtures could present. “The trouble with games that are postponed is they tend to be rearranged in the midweek instead of over the weekend,” said Carter. “That causes problems with our lads getting time off work. “It’s all right for some clubs who pay the players for their lost hours. “But, as everybody knows, this club is in no position to do that, so these games come at a price, especially the away fixtures.” Carter is also keeping a watching brief on the January window in a hope that nobody will prise away any Merthyr players amid rumours that three separate parties are interested in taking the club over. “Obviously we are easy pickings for clubs that want to take our players, so January is important to us,” said Carter. “We just hope the players have enjoyed working with us and stay with us. “What happens at the end of the season is another matter. “With a bit of luck the club will be in a better shape to hold onto its players and attract new ones. “But our target from the start of the season has not changed. “We must stay in this division and that would be a major plus and Garry and I have every confidence that can be achieved.”
Mark Bloom

 
Aaron Ramsey aiming for big 2010 (Jan 1) 14:05

Aaron Ramsey is ready for a big start to 2010 – and has every confidence he can prove himself worthy of a regular place in the Arsenal team. The midfielder, who turned 19 on Boxing Day, capped an impressive display with a fine goal in the 4-1 win at bottom club Portsmouth on Wednesday night, which keeps the Gunners title challenge on track heading into the new year. Alex Song is set to jet off to the African Nations Cup after Sunday’s FA Cup third-round tie at West Ham, while both Cesc Fabregas and Denilson are struggling for fitness, so the former Cardiff City trainee looks set for an extended run in the side. Ramsey, signed in a £5m deal during June 2008, has made 23 appearances already this season, but only three starts in the Premier League. The Wales international intends to improve those statistics as soon as possible. “I would not be here if I did not think I could fill the midfield roles, so it could be a big month for me,” he said. “I had to do the job against Portsmouth, and I think I did that. The goal was the best one I have scored so far for Arsenal, but it was not about me, it is about the team.” Ramsey declared: “I want to establish myself as a player in the starting XI and hopefully with opportunities like at Portsmouth, I can show that I am more than capable of playing in the Arsenal team. That is my target.”
Western Mail