Afan Lido Football Club

MERTHYR Tydfil manager Garry Shephard was extremely critical of referee Andrew Newell following the Martyrs latest defeat against promotion-chasing Leamington at Penydarren Park.
For the sixth game in a row Merthyr took the lead in a first half they dominated, Marcus Griffiths scoring after Kris Leek had set up the opportunity.
Andrew Thomas went close to adding to their lead just before the interval, whilst Leamington goalkeeper Tony Breeden was fortunate to receive just a yellow card when he ran from his goal to scythe down Leek.
If Merthyr were completely in control at the interval, they found themselves on level terms within three minutes of the re-start.
Awarded a free-kick on the edge of the box, Leamingtons Luke Corbett saw his free-kick take a huge deflection before rebounding off the Merthyr woodwork to Peter Faulds, who finished confidently.
The game swung full circle on 55 minutes when Merthyrs Cortez Belle was harshly penalised for a foul on substitute Mark Bellingham in the penalty area and  Corbett struck home the penalty.
And worse was to follow 14 minutes later when referee Newell awarded Leamington a second penalty after Bellinghams thunderbolt of a shot struck Merthyr defender Lee Hartshorn on the arm.
It was difficult to see how the defender could escape the shot but Corbett took full advantage once again.
Matt Trotman pulled a goal back for Merthyr on 88 minutes, but it proved too little too late for the Welsh side.

HAVING hit the bar three times and with two other efforts cleared off the goal-line, unlucky Bangor deserved at least a point from last nights clash at Park Avenue.
Neville Powells side dominated from the start, Lee Hunt heading against the bar on four minutes.
Eddie Jebbs strike was cleared off the line by Aneurin Thomas before on 31 minutes Town broke quickly from a City corner and Geoff Kellaway set up Ryan Fraughan to score.
Five minutes into the second half Jebbs cross was put into his own net by Bari Morgan, but Aber regained the lead in the 57th minute when Fraughan fed Conall Murtagh who fired into the top corner.
After that Citys Dave Morley and Sion Edwards rattled the bar and Jamie Reed had an attempt blocked on the line.

Peter Whittingham scored a stoppage-time penalty to give Cardiff City their first away win in five games.
A Martin Cranie handball gave Whittingham the chance to atone for an earlier glaring miss to snatch victory.
Coventry, who hit the bar in the dying seconds, took the lead on 32 minutes when Clinton Morrison headed home unmarked at the far post.
Chris Burke levelled moments before the break, before Whittingham and Ross McCormack wasted glorious chances.
But top-scorer Whittingham held his nerve admirably in the 92nd minute to give Cardiff a timely boost as they head into the final 10 games of the season.
The result ended Coventry's eight-match unbeaten run at home, and leaves them five points adrift of the Championship's top six.
It all looked far more promising for the Sky Blues when Morrison, who had the first sight of goal after 17 minutes, put them ahead as the Cardiff rearguard again looked indecisive under a high ball into the area.
The delivery this time came from a long throw, which was helped on by home defender James McPake.
Cardiff let the ball bounce and striker Morrison was alert to mark his 450th league appearance with his 11th goal of the season.
The Bluebirds should have levelled immediately but Darcy Blake blasted over near the far post from Burke's cross.
And there was further frustration two minutes later as the assistant's flag cut short Whittingham's celebrations after Cardiff's top-scorer had threaded the ball through the legs of Coventry keeper Keiren Westwood.
But a deserved equaliser followed six minutes later. Jay Bothroyd helped on a long ball into the home penalty area and Burke found the top-right corner from six yards.
Cardiff's pressure continued straight after the break and they should have scored at least once in the opening 10 minutes.
Whittingham was no more than three yards out when he put Mark Kennedy's driven low cross wide, and then McCormack scuffed his shot wide after running clear of the home defence.
Coventry slowly began to exert some pressure as the half wore on, but the real drama was reserved for a controversial final three minutes.
The home side were enraged when the assistant referee signalled for a penalty against Cranie after the defender had blocked Whittingham's cross.
Nuneaton-born Whittingham coolly converted, but there was still time for David Bell to head against the bar as Coventry pressed for a last-gasp equaliser.

A RECORD attendance of 4,221 spectators roared Newport County to the Blue Square South League championship at Newport Stadium last night.

County went into last nights match on 85 points a mighty 24 ahead of their nearest challenger. They needed only one point to make sure of the title.

Today, they are champions and their impressive home record is 15 wins and three draws from 18 games at their own stadium. County have scored 43 goals in that run, while the defence have kept 12 clean sheets and conceded a miserly eight goals.

Impressive stuff indeed and now Newport County can start planning in earnest for life in the Blue Square Premier, one step away from the big time. The question of whether County go full-time wont be addressed just yet. Too many of their players are currently combining jobs outside football with playing and, while Newport intend to go full-time eventually, it is likely to be a gradual process.

Man of the match Sam Foley scored both goals, one in each half, to take his personal tally for the season to 20. And when Foley thumped home his second of the match on 67 minutes he ran to the home dug-out, collected a lucky green hat and danced a little celebratory jig.

This was a night for Newport County and their fans, young and old, to savour.

Havant and Waterlooville had to attend, but this was Newports evening. Pure and simple. The visitors merely played a supporting role. The atmosphere was a little subdued for much of the first half, perhaps as spectators anticipated the celebrations to come, but once Sam Foley had nodded the home team ahead everybody relaxed and settled into the occasion.

Chants of Deano, Deano rang round Newport Stadium and there were ironic calls for manager Dean Holdsworth to take off his trademark baseball cap. But he didnt oblige!

He stayed focused on plotting the defeat of Havant, a club he used to play for.

The Principality Welsh Premier League Manager of the Month for February is Llanelli's Andy Legg. The former Wales International scoops the award for the first time in his career, as he sits happy at the top of the Principality Welsh Premier League with the Reds.

Llanelli were the only side to win all League games in the month and the West Wales outfit enjoyed two good wins on the road in February. They began the month with a 2-0 win over Newtown at Latham Park, with Stuart Jones and Jordan Follows scoring. They then won a difficult midweek encounter at Airbus UK Broughton 1-0, with Rhys Griffiths scoring the only goal. The Reds' only home league game of the month saw them record a comfortable 5-0 win over Porthmadog. Legg's side scored eight goals in the month to claim the maximum nine points on offer, without conceding a goal in the 270 minutes played.

PETER Ridsdale could leave Cardiff City as early as the end of this month ... if major investment from the Far East materialises.

Malaysian property tycoon Dato Chan Tien Ghee is set to fly in this week to try to finalise talks on funding for the Bluebirds, thought to be around 6m.

It could even be that tomorrow nights Championship clash with Coventry at the Ricoh Arena is the last game attended by Ridsdale as Bluebirds chairman.

If the talks are positive, Malaysian investors could even be in charge by the time Watford come to Cardiff City Stadium next Sunday.

Ridsdale and fellow club director Alan Whiteley have been in regular contact with Dato Chan. Over the last four days they have spoken to the Malaysian businessman three times and they will talk again today.

Ridsdale would not comment, but he has always said that once the new stadium is completed and major investors come in he will leave.

Ridsdale has been the target for a number of protests by fans, while the personal abuse he has received from texts and e-mails means he is ready to walk away.

If Dato Chan, known as TG, confirms an investment which would give him day-to-day control of the football club, Ridsdale is ready to go at once.

It is likely fellow director Steve Borley would step in to help on the football side of things should Ridsdale go.

A source close to the chairman said: Peter Ridsdale said from the start that his job was to help ensure the new stadium was completed and bring in new investment.

He will leave when those two factors are completed and that could be as early as the end of this month.

Ridsdale has been with the Bluebirds for five years and, while City have established themselves in the Championship during his tenure, they are also facing major financial problems.

If Dato Chan goes ahead with his investment, the outstanding tax debt should be paid.
Terry Philips

NEWPORT COUNTY manager Dean Holdsworth has labelled tonights possible championship-clinching match against Havant and Waterlooville (7.45pm) as the clubs most important occasion since they were fighting for Football League survival in the late 80s.

One more point will crown County as champions of the Blue Square South division, with no fewer than seven matches still remaining.

County go into the encounter a mammoth 24 points clear at the top of the table and with Holdsworth calling for clear heads to seal the silverware in front of a home crowd.

The former Wimbledon striker said: Tonights match is possibly the most important night in the last 21 years for the club.

Yes we will respect Havant and we will have to play the game not the occasion. But we want to try to get this title sealed in front of the home crowd.

It is in our own hands and the romantic side of football says that it would be just the occasion to win it at home and in front of a record crowd.

Holdsworth says the inevitable feelgood factor around County is no more than his hard-working group of players deserves.

Last Friday the game had to be delayed because of the volume of people trying to get in, he added.

Its been a long, long time since anybody at this club could have said anything like that.

I just hope the lads get what they deserve, they and the coaching staff have had to make sacrifices in the cold and the wet and also spend a lot of time away from home. Now they are about to reap their rewards.

If it does not happen tonight then we will do it elsewhere, but it would great to do it here.

However we must focus on the job first, otherwise we could get caught cold.

More then 3,000 watched a 1-0 victory over Bishops Stortford on Friday night.

Now tonight club officials are looking towards the 4,000 mark a figure that would represent another record for the club and the league.
Mark Bloom

THE pressure continues to mount on Merthyr, who desperately need to recapture their early-season form after taking just four points out of the last 30.

A decent display in Hampshire against runaway league leaders Farnborough probably deserved better on the day, but it has been at home in recent weeks that Merthyr have really let themselves down.

And, it is at Penydarren Park the Martyrs fate is likely to be decided with the cash-strapped club having three games at home in the next 10 days.

For manager Garry Shephard it has been a disappointing time, but he believes that his side have proved they are better than a bottom-four spot.

We overcame the 10 point deduction by not panicking and being patient through the season said Shephard, and the lads need to get back to that mindset.
South Wales Echo

TYRONE KIRK will now not be going on trial at St Johnstone this week due to an ankle injury.
The Scottish Premier League club have shown an interest in the Rhyl winger who was due to spend a week at McDiarmid Park, but Lilywhites player-manager Greg Strong reported today that Kirk will now not be travelling to Scotland as he does not consider himself fit enough.
Strong also pointed out that the scheduled visit to Perth would only have been a trial and that Kirk remains a Rhyl player until at least the end of this season.
The player-boss added that depending on his progress this week, Kirk will be in contention for next weekend's match at Llanelli.
St Johnstone returned to the SPL this season and their squad includes ex-Chelsea stars Jody Morris and Michael Duberry as well as Scottish scoring legend Dr Kenny Deuchar.
No doubt with a surname like Kirk, the Saints fans would soon christen the flying winger Tartan Tyrone.
Dave Jones

WITH games in hand, Port Talbot went into their encounter with a top-three finish in mind and a place in Europe beckoning.

But manager Mark Jones was left slightly downhearted following their 0-0 draw at Airbus UK as three points should have been well within their grasp.

Jones was left to bemoan: It was a game that was there for the taking really.

The windy conditions played havoc for both sides, but when you think our keeper Lee Kendall did not have to make one decent save in the 90 minutes, this tells its own story.

We created plenty of pressure and in the opening half with the wind at our backs we forced eight corners and Martin Rose should have done better with two close range headers.

I thought we had a great appeal for a penalty turned down.

From where I was positioned, Mark Allen clearly impeded Drew Fahiya, but the referee waived play on.

As the game went on, the wind got stronger, but even playing against the wind we coped well and Lee John and Lloyd Grist both had chances to score.

But full credit to Airbus though, they set their stall out to get a valuable point out of the encounter to achieve a top-10 finish so their manager Craig Harrison will be a touch happier than me.

But rest assured, a European finish is what were aiming for.
Wales On Sunday

A LAST-GASP goal by John McKenna gave TNS the points at the Gnoll yesterday and kept them on the heels of Welsh Premier leaders Llanelli.

McKenna scored following a goalmouth scramble six minutes into injury time at the end of a game of contrasting halves.

Neath - who have high hopes of claiming a European spot - had the better of the first half.

Spanish recruit Carlos Castan squandered a few gilt-edged opportunities, firing the ball wide, hitting the woodwork and blasting over the bar.

But Chris Jones was a constant threat to the visitors defence.

TNS goalkeeper Paul Harrison did well to keep Neath at bay and the only serious chance the former champions had came when Craig Jones fired the ball inches wide of the upright.

But the second period was a very different affair, with TNS starting to dictate the game.

The impressive Alex Darlington sent a header just wide soon after the break and Steve Evans and Scott Ruscoe also went close.

Ironically it was McKenna who came on in the 87th minute for Darlington and grabbed the winner, breaking Neath hearts.

Anthony Williams in the Neath goal was on song in the second half, saving several TNS shots, but in the end a draw would have been a fair result.

TNS were without their suspended top striker Chris Sharp, while Neath missed Stephen Pockett - sent off in the recent victory at Rhyl - and were also without the suspended Luke Morgan.

TNS are now second to Llanelli; just behind their rivals on goal difference but having played two games more.

The pair are well clear of the chasing pack headed by Aberystwyth and Rhyl.
Wales On Sunday

HIGH-FLYING Llanelli kept their noses in front in the chase for the Welsh Premier crown with a workmanlike victory at relegation-doomed Caersws.

An early penalty from Rhys Griffiths, his 20th league goal of the season, and a headed goal from Wyn Thomas after the break proved enough for the win that keeps the Reds ahead of chief title rivals TNS on goal difference.

Caersws battled hard but their lack of potency up front was again evident as they struggled to capitalise on any promising positions.

The closest the hosts came to finding the net came after five minutes when Llanellis Stuart Jones headed past his own post from a Geraint Lewis cross.

But the Reds were soon in front, with Griffiths converting an 11th-minute penalty after home defender Matt Prosser was harshly ruled to have handled a bouncing ball just inside the box.

It needed fine saves from Dave Jones midway through the half to keep the Bluebirds in range, with the home keeper saving one- handed from the advancing Griffiths before moments later diving to turn away Andrew Mumfords 30-yard volley.

Llanelli gave themselves some breathing space on 57 minutes when a deep free- kick from Andy Legg was met by defender Thomas who squeezed his far-post header into the net.
Wales On Sunday

NEWPORT County were tonight forced to put the champagne on ice.

Wins for Chelmsford and Braintree yesterday means County could still lose out on the Blue Square South title but only by a mathematical miracle.

However, County could clinch promotion to the Conference with eight games to spare by securing a draw at home to Havant and Waterlooville on Monday night.

Another record crowd is expected at Spytty Park after more than 3,000 watched the 1-0 victory over Bishops Stortford on Friday night.

Exiles chairman Chris Blight said: We had a record crowd on Friday and it would be super if we could get even more against Havant to hopefully see us clinch the title.

The supporters have been excellent all season and we are already planning for next season to hopefully take this club where it belongs.

Bath Citys 1-1 draw at Eastleigh yesterday removed their last lingering hopes of overtaking Newport.

But Chelmsford and Braintree managed wins and County boss Dean Holdsworth said: It was always going to be about Monday night.

I didnt think all three clubs would fail to win but its great that we have the chance to win the league in front of our home fans.

What better way to win the title? Of course, the job is not finished until the last kick of the season, but it could be quite an occasion against Havant.

And Holdsworth added: It will not stop there.

We have a chance to break the 100-point mark and that will be our goal.

If we win the title on Monday night, then great. We will celebrate it but we will be back in training this week to break some more records.

These guys could be history-makers and we will be as professional as we were on the first day of the season.
Wales On Sunday

TWO second-half goals from Farnborough Town leading goalscorer Bradley Bubb put paid to any hopes Merthyr had of returning from the high-flying  Hampshire outfit with some reward.

For the fifth league game in succession Merthyr got the first goal but, just as on three of those other four occasions, they were unable to hold on to the lead and ended up on the losing side.

Lee Hartshorn got the opener for Merthyr on 35 minutes, rifling in after a goalmouth scramble, only for Dean McDonald to restore parity just three minutes later with a super strike that gave Merthyr keeper Andrew Delve no chance.

But, with Merthyr well in the game, it was a mad few minutes midway through the second half that altered proceedings.

Bubb grabbed his first goal on 64 minutes, very much against the run of play, but the real killer for Merthyr was Simon Gregorys dismissal three minutes later for what was adjudged to be a reckless tackle on Farnborough defender Adam Doyle.

That proved to be a task too tough for Merthyr to overcome and with the visitors pushing up in the search for a point, Bubb and Farnborough were able to catch Merthyr again on the break and seal the victory with four minutes remaining.
Wales On Sunday

Kerry Morgan's first minute strike sealed victory for County and means they are now one point from clinching the Blue Square South title with 8 games left to play.

The crowd of 3,084 that saw County beat 16th placed Bishop Stortford was the highest of any game so far this season in the Blue Square South or North divisions, they can expect another high turn out on Monday night when they face 13th placed Havant & Waterlooville at Spytty Park when the could be crowned champions.

MERTHYR Tydfil travel to top-of-the-table Farnborough with manager Garry Shephard hoping his side can put a disastrous two months behind them.

With just one win from nine games, Merthyr now have some work to do to avoid a relegation dogfight.

Although still five points above the bottom three, Shephard has one eye on next season and possibly a fresh start at a new level of football.

We have had a disastrous couple of months, but the lads are more than capable of pulling off a result at Farnborough, he said.

After all, we drew with them 0-0 earlier in the season and we missed a penalty.

We play well against good sides and badly against bad sides, but it is vital we stay in this division for plans the following season.

Shephard and his assistant Danny Carter had a meeting with the clubs Trust this week to confirm that they would stay on if the club went into liquidation and dropped down two divisions.

There was a meeting this week where basically there were two options one is that a knight in shining armour drops in and places bagloads of money at the door, or the other is that we go into liquidation and drop two divisions.

That would mean starting afresh, similar to what Newport County did a few years ago, but at least we would not have a massive debt over our heads everywhere we turn.

It took Newport 12 years to get where they are now and best of luck to them because its great news for Welsh football.

But this is where we are now and if we dont stay in this division this season and go down, and then another two divisions, I understand we will play at a level of football where they dont even have linesmen.

IcWales

JOHN Hartson is still considering an offer to become director of football at MacWhirter Welsh Football League Barry Town.
It has now been a week since Hartsons representatives met prospective new Barry Town owner Clayton Jones, who is keen to buy the club from current owner Stuart Lovering, in London and negotiations continue.
Jones has not yet bought Barry Town, but the Welsh businessman is moving quickly to ensure he has everything in place if, as looks likely, a deal is concluded. Former Wales, Arsenal and Celtic target man Hartson is keen to break into football management and sees Barry Town as an ideal opportunity, but it would take up a lot of his time and he has a lot of media work in television, radio and newspapers.
If he does take up Barrys offer, Hartson says he would want to give it 100 per cent and that would mean giving up much of his media work.
Hartson, who has gathered a full set of professional coaching qualifications, is leaving negotiations to his representatives and they are making progress.
Moves to buy former Welsh premier League champions Barry Town are making progress and a source close to Jones said: We are keen on John Hartson joining Barry Town and firmly believe we can reach agreement with him.
Jones also sees Hartson as an ambassador for the club, working to build a strong rapport with businesses in and around the Vale of Glamorgan town.
Jones has business links with Macedonia and also wants Hartson to work closely with young footballers he wants to bring in from that country and play for Barry in their ambitious bid to get back to the top of Welsh football.
Hartson himself has described Barrys interest as a fantastic offer.
He is keen to be number one at a football club, but has also confirmed he would be willing to work alongside current manager Gavin Chesterfield.
Terry Phillips

AFTER the High Courts decision to wind up Chester City (2004) Limited, it is understood a receiver has been appointed to evaluate the clubs assets.
One problem he is likely to come across is that of the lease for the Deva Stadium. The Deva is the property of Chester Council to whom rent is owed, however the fixtures and fittings, including floodlights and turnstiles, are now the property of the receiver.
To add to the confusion, rates are outstanding to Flintshire Council because the majority of the complex lies within their boundaries, while the actual lease for the stadium is in the possession of Refresh Recovery, who handled the controversial sale last summer of the old Chester City FC to Chester City (2004) Limited.
It is understood the insolvency company are chasing outstanding fees from the summer transfer.
A member of Chester council said last night: The whole affair is a logistical nightmare, and at first glance it will not be a quick job to reassign the lease. It could well drag on for months.
The two groups who are proposing to create a phoenix Chester City club met last night.
City Fans United met the businessmen who are also proposing to keep professional football in the city, with both parties looking to investigate any common ground between them.
Daily Post

Striker Shefki Kuqi says Swansea are ready to go on a run to the Premier League after his goal earned them a battling 1-0 victory at Watford.
Saturday's controversial 1-0 loss at promotion-rivals Nottingham Forest ended a 12-game unbeaten run.
But Finn Kuqi says Paulo Sousa's team have moved on from the disappointment.
"We've put that behind us and want to get on another run, we'll finish the season on a high and see what happens," Kuqi told BBC Sport Wales.
Swansea remain fourth after the Vicarage Road win, seven points behind second-placed West Brom but nine ahead of seventh-placed Blackpool.
BBC

NEWPORT County boss Dean Holdsworth has put away his abacus and insists his squad is ready to enjoy their probable promotion party in the next four days.
The Exiles will wrap up the Blue Square South title if they take four points from their home games with Bishops Stortford tomorrow and Havant on Monday and know that their destiny is entirely in their own hands in terms of wrapping up the championship on their own turf.
With bumper crowds expected for both games Holdsworth is certain that each and every one of his players will cherish the experience every bit as much at the County faithful.
Trust me because Ive been in football a long time, some very talented people can go an entire career without experiencing moments like these, this is an incredible time for everyone associated with the club.
Honestly speaking, the most important task for me as the manager is to make sure the players enjoy themselves because theyve been deadly serious in training.
No one is talking about winning the league, none of the players are lowering their standard one iota and I can see the focus in the players, they want to win the league at home and know exactly what is needed to do that.
In my mind, three points tomorrow will mean its all over, because I simply cant see Braintree, Chelmsford or Bath winning every game until the end of the season.
Should the Exiles win and all three of those sides fail to take maximum points on Saturday, that will be it for Newport and they will be crowned champions.
However, the more likely scenario is needing a point against Havant on Monday in a historic clash for the amber army. Its in our own hands and there wont be any back patting tomorrow if we win, because thats only half the job, Holdsworth said.
We are keen to get it down at home and that would be most special for the supporters.
The Exiles are looking to go 20 games unbeaten in the league and to extend their own Blue Square South record, the first of many County could break before the season is over, including most wins, most clean sheets, most points, most goals scored and fewest goals conceded.
South Wales Argus

A LAST-MINUTE Mike Parker penalty for handball earned Prestatyn a crucial point against Haverfordwest in a thrilling 3-3 draw at Bridge Meadow.
Paul ONeill headed in Neil Gibsons corner to give the visitors a 28th-minute lead, but Jack Christopher hit back with a brace of headers before the break.
But Prestatyn were back on level terms in the 72nd minute through Jon Fisher-Cooke.
The Bluebirds appeared to have snatched it with four minutes left when Christopher scored from the spot.
Cefn Druids looked on course for their first win in 20 matches before Marc Lloyd Williams netted in the 90th minute for Airbus UK. Craig Whitfield had put the Ancients ahead.
ICWALES

WHILE the big boys of football struggle to weather financial storms one Merthyr Tydfil club has been thrown a funding lifeline.
Troedyrhiw FC have been embroiled in a battle at the bottom of the Welsh League Division Three, where eight teams will be relegated at the end of the season in a streamlining move.
But those who dont follow the league closely may not know they risked being thrown out of the league anyway for not having a spectator stand.
But with the Biffa fund now accessible to councillors again after being frozen before the New Year, a 7,000 grant has meant Troedyrhiws future will be decided on the field, not off it.
Secured by ward councillor Brent Carter, the 7,000 will now be used for constructing a purpose-build stand for the dedicated supporters.
Speaking from the football ground, Councillor Brent Carter said this funding would be a big boost to a community passionate about their club.
Troedyrhiw have an excellent football team and it would have been a crying shame if the efforts of the players, coaches and loyal fans were scuppered due to the lack of a stand, said Coun Carter.
I'm delighted that the supporters will soon be able to enjoy matches in the comfort of a new stand and hope it will see the team go from strength to strength.
Chairman of Troedyrhiw FC, Roger Howells, said the future of the club was looking a lot brighter.
We were all pretty worried for a time that we may be relegated from the Welsh league after working so hard this past season, he said.
Everyone involved with the Club is grateful for the help Brent has given us. He's certainly our man of the match!
Troedyrhiw FC is currently sitting in the last relegation spot of the Third Division, but have taken seven points from their last three games.
They only need to jump one place to ensure safety, and Pontyclun and Cwmamman United are just a point ahead.
Ian Caleb

LLANELLI extended a superb winning sequence to 11 matches with a gritty 1-0 home victory over Port Talbot at Stebonheath Park last night.
A goal by Lee Jarman 15 minutes into the match kept the Reds at the helm of the Welsh Premier.
Further west, main challengers The New Saints won 2-1 at Carmarthen.
Chris Sharp forged the lead for Saints in the 48th minute with a low shot, but Tim Hicks (54) levelled after a fumble by keeper Paul Harrison.
But the visitors surged forward and an Alex Darlington, Sharp one-two resulted in the latter crashing home the winner with eight minutes remaining.
In a fiery finale, Carmarthens Neil Smothers was red carded for an ugly head-butt and his manager Deryn Brace was also sent from the dug-out.
Bala Town and Newtown shared a 1-1 scoreline at Maes Tegid, home substitute Mike Thompson equalising an earlier Ross Stephens goal.
And Connahs Quay, thanks to Robert Jones 32nd minute goal, won 1-0 at Welshpool.
ICWALES

MERTHYR suffered another disappointing defeat in a game they will know they should have won.
Having looked like wiping the floor with their visitors during the opening 20 minutes, Merthyr only had the one goal to show for their efforts through Andrew Thomas header which found the net via the woodwork.
They did however find Clevedon goalkeeper Danny Greaves in inspired form and he made a string of early saves to keep his team in the game.
Scott Armitage, Marcus Griffiths, Cortez Belle and Paul Keddle were thwarted during that purple patch but a touch of good fortune gave Clevedon a way back into proceedings on 31 minutes.
Chris Hartlands harmless looking cross was directed past Merthyr goalkeeper Andrew Delve by defender Thomas despite not being under pressure and from there the West Country side grew in stature.
Even so, it was difficult to see their second goal coming which arrived midway through the second half, Hartland bursting through the Merthyr defence before unleashing a wonder strike from 25 yards that flew into the net.
Stung by that, Merthyr piled on the pressure and were almost caught at the back only for Joey Evans to scuff his shot in front of an open goal.
That looked like costing the visitors when Jamie Rewbury equalised for Merthyr with a half volley on 75 minutes and then another wonder save from Greaves from Marcus Griffiths denied Merthyr the lead.
The winner came eight minutes from time, Paul Michael racing down the left before sliding the ball past Delve although there were further chances at either end.
ICWALES

MERTHYR Tydfil go into tonights game against Clevedon Town (7.45pm) looking for back-to-back wins for the first time since January, writes Tim Lewis.
The Martyrs beat Tiverton Town on Saturday and boss Garry Shephard says a second victory in succession would be a big boost as they look to pull clear of the relegation zone.
Clevedon sit 20th in the Zamaretto Premier League, six places and five points behind Merthyr, who climbed four places to 14th following Saturdays win.
Shephard said: People talk about games being six-pointers but this is more like a 12-pointer for us, its a huge game.
A win would take us eight points clear of Clevedon near the bottom, but we know it will be a battle.
Saturday was a big result for us and has given the squad a lift. Over the last couple of months we have been playing well but not picking up results but we thoroughly deserved the win over Tiverton.
Shephard has no fresh injury worries after the weekends game and is likely to name an unchanged side.
ICWALES

League secretary John Deakin revealed that he had received an application from Chester that had been signed by club secretary Tony Allan.
And Deakin added that Chester Citys application would be discussed as an agenda item at todays scheduled Welsh Premier League Board Meeting.
He said: The Welsh Premier League have received an application from Chester City to join the league and the subject of whether to accept Chester will be on the agenda for todays League Board Meeting.
I am well aware of all the idiosyncrasies surrounding Chesters ground location, but the subject of whether to accept Chester into our league will be run past the board today.
I would prefer not to comment in detail about the application which was signed by Chesters club secretary.
But if Chester are accepted into the Welsh Premier League next season it would have an effect on the leagues plans to reduce the number of clubs in the division from 18 to 12.
Chester, who have won the Welsh Cup on three occasions 1907/08, 1932/33, and 1946/47 may also find themselves being a part of an FAW Premier Cup competition which may feature cross-border neighbours Wrexham.
If Chester are included in the new-look Welsh Premier League structure they will be unable to take part in the FA Cup and will not be able to progress back to the Football League system.
Chester Leader

SATURDAY'S disappointing home defeat against 10-man Neath has not done too much damage to Rhyl's chances of qualifying for Europe, believes player-manager Greg Strong.
The Lilywhites slipped to fourth in the Welsh Premier after suffering only their second home league loss of the season, but with eight games still to play Strong thinks third place remains up for grabs.
"There's a lot of twists and turns to happen before the end of the season," he said. "We'll keep remaining positive and keep aiming for what we believe we deserve.
"Hopefully we'll keep putting in the performances, cut out the silly mistakes which to be honest I've had enough of, and start finishing teams off."
Rhyl were beaten by an early second half goal from ex-Norwich City, Wrexham and Wales midfielder Chris Llewelyn, but after Neath were reduced to 10 men on 52 minutes the Lilywhites had ample chances to win the game only to find Eagles keeper Anthony Williams in inspired form.
"I'm really disappointed with the result," added Strong. "I thought we played some good stuff at times, had a lot of chances, but it just seems I keep saying the same thing. They've had three or four chances on goal in the full game and have scored one, while we couldn't take any of our many opportunities."
While Neath became harder to break down after putting 10 men behind the ball following the sending off of midfielder Stephen Pockett, Strong still feels his team should have done better.
"It's always difficult to break a team down in those circumstances, but I still think we had enough chances to go on and win it. Matty Williams had a great chance, Rob Turner, Andy Pearson, they all had great opportunities.
"Too many chances were missed and a sloppy goal was given away. It will get better, we've just got to work very hard."
Dave Jones

The New Saints have admitted they will not be switching their home venue next season from Oswestry to Chesters Deva Stadium.
The New Saints club secretary, Ian Williams, confirmed that his club had investigated the possibility of groundsharing with Chester in time for next seasons campaign.
He said: We were looking into the idea of playing our home fixtures at Chester next season and we had held initial discussions about the subject with Chester City FC and with the local council.
The whole process was subject to club licensing regulations and having to provide both the FA of Wales and the Welsh Premier League with a number of guarantees which included security of tenure.
The details of an agreement had to be in place for a March 1 deadline that had been set by the Welsh Premier League, but we werent able to provide the necessary details in time.
We made a formal request to ensure the use of the Deva Stadium facility for both domestic and UEFA fixtures, but we eventually ran out of time.
It is now fair to say that we have no option going forward other than to use our existing premises at Oswestry, because we needed to have a draft agreement in place to use Chesters ground.
Chester Leader

GOYTRE United suffered their first defeat in 22 MacWhirter Welsh Football League matches, going down 4-1 against Taffs Well.

That allowed Caldicot Town, 1-0 winners at Bryntirion Athletic, to move a little closer to the First Division leaders.

Gareth Cullimore fired Caldicots winner and they are now eight points behind Goytre.

Dinas Powys won 4-3 in their home match against Ton Pentre thanks to goals from Joe Hinds (2), Lloyd Davies and Mark Dunford.

Lloyd Toghill (2) and Leon Young replied.

Barry Town won 2-0 against Cardiff Corries, Jaymes Dixon scoring both goals.

Terry Phillips

COUNTY, who have nine matches left to play, are now just two victories away from wrapping up the Blue Square South title, having lost just once in 40 league matches over the last 12 months.

And, with home games to come against Bishops Stortford on Friday and Havant & Waterlooville next Monday, it could soon be party time at Spytty Park.

Around 700 fans followed Newport to Dorset on Saturday but bottom club Weymouth belied their league position to ensure County had to battle hard for the three points.

It all appeared straightforward as County, with top scorer Craig Reid rested, raced out of the blocks to establish a third-minute lead through Kerry Morgan.

The tiny winger, who is on loan from Swansea, was a regular threat as County threatened a goal feast, but some sloppy finishing and good goalkeeping from Tim Sandercombe kept Weymouth in contention.

Reid was introduced early in the second half as was Japanese winger Takumi Ake, who has been out since the opening day of the season with a cruciate knee ligament injury, and when Ake was chopped down by Weymouth full-back Andy Harris in the 64th minute County should have been awarded a penalty.

Weymouth stunned County when their only on-target effort of the game from Josh Llewellyn found the net for an improbable equaliser after a rare error from goalkeeper Glyn Thompson in the 75th minute.

But outstanding Sam Foley sparked into life and his cross from the right enabled Danny Rose to head County back in front within thirty seconds of the Weymouth goal.

Foley struck a superb third in the 84th minute and the County forward has 10 league goals in 11 matches in 2010.

South Wales Echo

THIS was just what we needed was Merthyr Tydfil manager Garry Shephards reaction after his teams single-goal victory ended a run of seven games without a win.

Some of those defeats have hurt as Merthyr sometimes fell apart after dominating games, but on this occasion they kept the clean sheet that secured the three vital points.

Andrew Thomas, a former Tiverton player, scored the all-important winner on 29 minutes, with a header from six yards, and Merthyr will feel they could have made the game safe during a second half that saw home goalkeeper Steve Book far busier than his Merthyr counterpart.

But, despite seven minutes of injury time, Merthyr held on comfortably relatively-speaking and for Shephard this must now start another good run of results.

Back-to-back wins can make a huge difference in this division which is extremely tight, he said.

Having won today we have moved from 18th up to 14th, but it is a couple of positive results together that will see us stave off worries of the bottom four for good.

And, that is the all-important goal as Merthyr near the end of another campaign during which uncertainty over the future of the club has been at the forefront.

The club are due to meet with both Garry Shephard and Danny Carter this week to discuss plans for the future after the administrator in control of the sale of the club announced recently that there are no potential buyers of the company in the wings to come to their rescue.

Therefore, the Martyrs to the Cause Supporters Trust, who have run the club under license since the summer, see an opportunity to progress their involvement and maintain football in the town but only on the basis of remaining within the English pyramid system.

To that end they have arranged the meeting with the clubs playing management to try and ease some of the uncertainty that must be felt amongst the playing staff. 

South Wales Echo

A CONTROVERSIAL injury-time goal by Luke Chambers gave Nottingham Forest their 10th successive home win in the Championship and left Swansea manager Paulo Sousa desperately seeking explanations.

Sousa had seen Swansea denied what looked a stonewall penalty against Darren Pratley and then not been given an offside decision which would have prevented the corner from which Forest scored the winner.

The Swansea boss said: "People who make mistakes are only human but what concerns me is that it is happening week by week with us.

"The stadium was in shock when we were not awarded the penalty. Everyone could see that it was but we didn't get what we deserved.

"If the decisions in our games had been the right decisions we would be close to the top of the division by now. It's happening too often and I hope someone can explain the situation to me.

"We are a team playing well, always looking to win games and gaining respect from the opposition but there is nothing we can do when we receive decisions like the ones we did.

"But we need to stand up our heads because we need to feel proud."

The win, which puts Forest back into an automatic promotion spot, came from a Lewis McGugan corner that Swansea felt should have been a free-kick in their favour.

But Chambers arrived at the far post to head home from close range after the otherwise faultless Swansea goalkeeper Dorus de Vries flapped at the corner.

The other flashpoint moment came in the 73rd minute when Chris Cohen bundled over Pratley from a cross by Mark Gower but the referee waved away Swansea's frantic appeals for the spot-kick.

It was a decision that Forest boss Billy Davies admitted would have upset him had he been on the receiving end of it.

Evening Post

Cardiff 1 Boro 0

CARDIFF CITY boss Dave Jones said his side had got the reward for their hard work against Middlesbrough.

The Bluebirds cemented their place in the Championship play-off places thanks to a third-minute goal from skipper Jay Bothroyd.

But Jones, who was missing top-scorer Peter Whittingham among a long list of injured players, was keen to praise his whole side.

If we had lost it would have meant we were out of the top six so that makes victory even better, said Jones. There is a lot of unity in this club and it was shown out there on the pitch because if you do the hard word you get the reward.

The crowd were behind the players and both deserve the plaudits for a tremendous victory. I give credit to all of our players today. They deserve it for going out and battling through.

There were only two Middlesbrough players out there who played us earlier in the season and none of their bench played against us so it shows you the turnaround theyve had.

Jays goal settled us and took away the nervousness from everybody. David (Marshall) had a bit more to do in goal in the second half and thats because Boro are a good side.

It was a big win for us.

But Jones did single out 21-year-old Darcy Blake for special praise. Blake was a late addition to the side and almost grabbed a second goal for Cardiff at the death when his shot hit the bar.

He was a full-back playing in the middle of the park and he was magnificent, said Jones.

Darcy was brilliant. He actually wasnt playing, we had young Aaron Wildig in, but Aarons still got a slight thigh injury.

Western Mail

CALDICOT TOWN reduced the deficit at the top of Division One to eight points with two games in hand after they won 1-0 at Bryntirion and leaders Goytre United went down to a shock defeat.

Gareth Cullimore netted the Caldicot winner while Goytre United lost for the first time in 22 league games, going down 4-1 at Taffs Well.

Pontardawe eased their fears of relegation with a 3-1 win over Ely.

Bedwas were 2-0 victors over Caerleon thanks to Lee Greenhall and Richard Ready while a hat-trick from Sam Brown led West End to a thumping 4-1 success over Leighton James Aberaman Athletic.

Meanwhile, Dinas Powys battled to a fine 4-3 triumph over Ton Pentre, with Joe Hinds (2), Lloyd Davies and Mark Dunford on target.

The Ton Pentre goal scorers were Lloyd Toghill (2) and Leon Young.

In the other games, Afan Lido were held 1-1 by Cambrian and Clydach, Nathan White scoring for Lido with Gareth Welsh equalising and Barry Town beat Cardiff Corries 2-0, James Dixon bagging both.

Treharris Athletic Western posted the biggest score of the day in Division Two with a 4-1 victory denting Newcastle Emlyns promotion hopes.

Jamie Rees (2) led the goal rush, with Ross Porter and Craig Reddy also on target. Alex Vincent netted for the West Wales visitors.

At the top, Penrhiwceiber Rangers won 3-1 at Cwmbran Celtic.

AFC Porth were also 3-1 victors at Newport YMCA thanks to Adam Wright, Craig Wells and Craig Davies. Ollie Beckett scored for the YMCA.

AFC Llwydcoed were 2-1 winners over the students of UWIC, Ross Williams and Matthew Reynolds on target.

At the bottom, Llangeinor had a rare good day beating Llanwern 2-0 through Jordan Martin and Josh Ellis.

Goals either side of the interval by Gethin Thomas and Matthew Fisher gave Ammanford a 2-1 triumph over Croesyceiliog, for whom Richard Perry netted.

In Division Three, leaders Pontypridd Town won 2-0 at Abertillery Bluebirds but nearest challengers Corus Steel were held 1-1 at Seven Sisters.

Aberbargoed Buds trounced Pentwyn Dynamos 5-0, Ross Fowler (2), Benny Preece, Iwan Aherne and Chris Lloyd all on target for the hosts.

Meanwhile, Garw scored through Nathan Rose and John Wile but goals from Steve Davey (pen), Daniel Trigg and Gareth Jones gave Briton Ferry Llansawel a 3-2 verdict.

Cwmamman United were 3-1 winners at Goytre and Cwmaman Institute won 3-2 at Risca United.

Wales on Sunday

WALES legend John Hartson has had extensive talks on becoming director of football at Barry Town.

Hartsons representative met businessman Clayton Jones, who is in the process of buying the football club, at Covent Garden in London last night.

The talks began in the early evening as Jones and his advisors outlined their plans for former Welsh Premier League champions Barry and Hartsons role in those plans.

Jones sees Hartson as the ideal man to help lead Barry Town back to the top flight of Welsh domestic football ... and back into European competition.

Barrys potential owner also sees Hartson as an ambassador for the club, who once were top dogs in the Welsh Premier, working to build a strong rapport with businesses in and around the Vale of Glamorgan town.

Jones, who has business links with Macedonia, also wants Hartson to work closely with young footballers he wants to bring in from that country and play for Barry in their ambitious bid to get back to the top of Welsh football.

Former Wales, Arsenal and Celtic striker Hartson, whose partner gave birth to their fourth child yesterday, confirmed his representatives have had talks with Jones.

Wales on Sunday

TEN-MAN Neath were indebted to goalkeeper Anthony Williams for ensuring they took maximum points from their visit to Belle Vue yesterday.

After Eagles midfielder Stephen Pockett received a straight red card early in the second half for making an obscene gesture to the crowd, the visitors had to contend with wave after wave of Rhyl pressure, but ex-Wrexham glovesman Williams pulled out some top drawer saves to deny the Lilywhites.

It was The Gnoll outfit that had the first chance of the afternoon, Chris Jones firm strike from 10 yards being well saved by Jack Cudworth.

Neath looked far the sharper in the early stages, but as the half wore on Rhyl began to find their feet and Andrew Dyers side were grateful to defender Liam Hancock for two fine blocks from shots by Andrew Pearson and John Leah.

From a Dale Evans corner, the visitors could have taken the lead, but central defender Ian Hillier headed just over.

Four minutes into the second period Neath went ahead when Jones pinpoint cross from the right was poked home from six yards in typical poachers style by Chris Llewelyn.

Soon after Pockett was given his marching orders by referee Huw Jones, and after that the Eagles were content to put 10 men behind the ball and defend for their lives.

Just past the hour Rhyl striker Matthew Williams found some rare space in the box but blasted wide of the target.

Jones went close with an audacious chip for the visitors before the Lilywhites first shot on target in the 68th minute saw Williams brilliantly tip away a rocket from his namesake.

Pearson then created a good opportunity in the box, but Williams went down superbly at his near post to keep the ball out.

Rhyl were piling on the pressure, but Neath were generally defending well and denying the hosts clear openings.

It could have been 1-1 with four minutes remaining, though, when Rob Turner turned smartly in the box but Williams was equal to his low drive.

The result gives Neath clear daylight in sixth spot, but damaged Rhyls hopes of qualifying for Europe for a seventh successive season with the Lilies dropping to fourth following Aberystwyths win at Newtown.

Wales on Sunday

Weymouth 1 Newport County 3

TOP met bottom in Dorset as County took another step closer to the Blue Square South title made to fight all the way by League back-markers Weymouth.

Dean Holdsworth, whose side has lost just once in 40 league matches in the last year, said: It was not the prettiest, but at this stage we will take everything we can and I am happy with the three points.

County made a blistering start when Stuart Douglas collected a long clearance from keeper Glyn Thompson and passed to unmarked Kerry Morgan.

The winger, on loan from Swansea, struck the ball crisply into the corner of the net to the delight of the 700 fans who had travelled down from South Wales.

Weymouth shocked County in the 75th minute when Josh Llewellyn found the net after Thompson was stranded outside his area, but the leaders immediately responded.

Within 30 seconds, Sam Foley crossed from the right for Danny Rose to restore Newports advantage.

And in the 84th minute, the magnificent Foley put the icing on the cake with a stunning goal from 25 yards.

Wales on Sunday

TOMORROW'S Principality Welsh Premier League match at the GenQuip Stadium between Port Talbot Town and Carmarthen Town has massive implications for both teams.

The visitors are in danger of missing out on next season's super league unless they find some consistency soon and the Steelmen could still finish in the top three.

Port Talbot boss Mark Jones is still on a high after last week's cup triumph at The New Saints, but acknowledges that his players will have to play with the same intensity against the Old Gold tomorrow.

"It was a great win but it's back to league points," he said.

"Carmarthen pose a great threat as they are unbeaten on the road in eight matches.

"That's a terrific record and I feel they are in a false position in the league. But our home record is impressive too so it should be a cracking encounter.

"My players are showing great spirit, the work rate is phenomenal and it's important we play at that tempo week in week out if we are to achieve anything next season.

"I always said we were targeting a top-10 finish as this is a crucial season, but now I have revised my thinking to a possible top-six place."

Liam McCreesh sits out the second of a five-game ban, but otherwise Jones has a full squad available.

An 89th-minute blunder by goalkeeper Neil Thomas cost Carmarthen a point against Airbus last week so they will be looking to make amends.

"I would have settled for a point but that goal changes the outlook on everything," said manager Deryn Brace.

"We are now in a dogfight, but I feel we have the calibre of player to get us into the top 10. But matches are beginning to run out.

"Consistency has been missing but a few wins would send us on our way. Port Talbot will be difficult as they are playing really well.

"They have a very effective game based on directness, tempo and winning the second ball and we will have to match them to get something from the game."

Carmarthen, who have everyone fit, will be looking to triumph at Port Talbot for the first time since 2002.

Evening Post

NEWPORT County boss Dean Holdsworth has told his title-chasing players to smash the Blue Square Division points record.

County could secure the Championship as early as next Friday and travel to bottom club Weymouth tomorrow confident of another win en-route to promotion.

Holdsworths side already hold a bumper 24-point lead over their nearest rivals and are shoo-ins to win the league title after wins over Braintree and Basingstoke this week.

But Holdsworth is a man on a mission and wants to set League history with more than 100 points.

If next Friday is the day we win the title, then great, said Holdsworth. But the season would be far from over for us, I want these players to make history by beating the divisions record of 98 points. We can make the 100 mark.

Its ifs and buts, and of course the first thing we have to do is beat Weymouth.

But if we can and set up a night at home, and a win will be enough to lift the title, then great.

That would be a terrific occasion, but there will still not be any switching off and cruising to the end of the season.

We will do nobody any favours. We will we will certainly not be taking our foot off the pedal.

In fact, we will probably be more determined to go on and try and be unbeaten until the end of the season.

As Newport bulldoze their way past club records and have league records in their sights, they have a further aim.

If they do beat Weymouth tomorrow and Bishops Stortford next Friday it will mark a full year unbeaten for the team.

It would be remarkable, admitted Holdsworth, who was named Blue Square South manager of the month for February this week.

But I can assure everybody that we are totally focused on tomorrow. When people keep asking me about this record and that record, Im only responding to their questions.

We have a team that have been superb the whole season and I just hope they get what they deserve.

Mark Bloom

WSFA Press release

DEFEAT it might have been at the Brewery Field in MacWhirter Welsh League Division One, but it was viewed as a step in the right direction.

New Bridgend chief Mark Sage highlighted the point after an early goal from Jimmy Simpson condemned the relegation threatened club to a ninth league defeat of the campaign.

This was a much more encouraging display against a well organised Barry side, stressed Sage. All that we lacked on the night was quality in the final third of the field and delivery into the box is something for us to work on.

Last week, the Brewery Boys brought in two new men - Ton Pentre captain Ryan Morgan and front-runner Jonathan Kift (Aberaman) - and both made encouraging debuts against the Dragons.

Both debutants did well for us but the search for new players does not end there, he continued.

Bridgend now have a run of three home fixtures in just eight days. These games will have a strong bearing on their direction in the coming weeks with regard to their league position.

Tomorrow night, they host Garden Village, then Cardiff Corries on Tuesday and Ton Pentre a week on Saturday.

A decent haul of points from this run of home games could make a very different complexion on the situation.

Our attitude and application must be spot on and a little bit of luck in front of goal wouldn't go amiss.
Glamorgan Gazette

BRYNTIRION Football Club chairman Emlyn Phillips has slammed Blue Square Premiership club Wrexham for a lack of hospitality.

His comments came after Bryntirion under-19's lost a Welsh Youth Cup quarter-final tie 2-0 at Colliers Park, Wrexhams training ground.

The previous week the Bridgend youngsters headed north only to find the tie was postponed due to snowy ground. They returned last Saturday the club forking out another 1,000 to cover accommodation and transport costs but there were no crumbs of comfort for the Bryntirion party afterwards.

The Dragons didnt see fit to put on any kind of food or light refreshments for the Bridgend youngsters. Ive always looked up to Wrexham and, at the very least, they could have laid on some food for a party that faced a four hour journey back to Bridgend, said Mr Phillips. Had the shoe been on the other foot, a full buffet and welcoming atmosphere would have been laid on in our clubhouse for the Wrexham party.

The attitude of the former Football League club left a nasty taste in the mouth and has given me food for thought.

Bryntirion are likely to complain in writing to both Wrexham and the Welsh FA. A goal in each half saw the young Dragons roar into the semi finals although Bryntirion made them fight every inch of the way.

Craig Davies and Max Morgan both missed chances that on another day might have gone in while Bryntirion defenders Jon Paul Budd and Rhys Llewellyn both stood out.
Glamorgan Gazette

MERTHYR Tydfil could be playing Western League or Hellenic League football in 2010-11.

That seems to be the certain outcome unless a new buyer for the club emerges and that looks extremely unlikely.

We could well have to take two steps back and play at a lower level, said club secretary Anthony Hughes.

But, if that happens, it may prove for the good of Merthyr Tydfil in the long term.

The Martyrs, who play in the Southern League Premier Division, went into administration at the start of this season and are being run by the Merthyr Tydfil Football Supporters Trust.

They are keen to keep the club running in the English pyramid season next season and Hughes said: That may mean the football club being dissolved.

If that happens our idea would be to carry on playing at Penydarren Park.

The football authorities would place us in a league two steps back, probably either the Western League or the Hellenic League.

Our plan then would be to work hard within our means to make progress again and take the club forward.

We are hopeful that our manager Garry Shephard and his staff would stay.

As we stand, the club is being run by the Supporters Trust and steps have been taken to ensure we break even. We will finish this season on schedule.

Clearly, we are in staying in close contact with the administrator and decisions about Merthyr Tydfils future will be made over the next few months.

Merthyr would take on West Country clubs in the Western League which could include Ilfracombe Town, Larkhall Athletic, Welton Rovers and Shelborne Town.

If they were placed in the Hellenic League, opposing clubs would include Shortwood United from Gloucestershire, Kidlington from Oxfordshire, Hook Norton, Wantage Town and Almondsbury Town.
Terry Phillips

SWANSEA City tackle Nottingham Forest this weekend knowing victory would put them within sight of automatic promotion to the Premier League.

Nothing will be decided on Saturday, of course, for there is still some way to go in the race to climb out of the Championship.

But the fact is that Swansea, as the form side of the division at this critical stage of the season, have given themselves a chance of finishing in the top two.

That is a remarkable achievement given that the campaign started with Swansea aiming primarily to stay up.

Paulo Sousa's pre-season suggestion that the top 10 was the target looked a little ambitious back then, yet now Swansea know that a spectacular end to their year will have spectacular consequences.

What exactly is needed?

The lowest points tally required to finish in the second tier's top two over the last 10 years was 76 in 2007-8.

The highest was 88, in 1999-2000 and again the following season.

The average for the decade is 83.4 points.

Swansea currently have 56 on the board from their 33 games, so an improvement in form is required if they are to match that total, which of course is only a guide anyway.

Around 27 points from 13 games looks a tall order, but a victory at Forest would add weight to the argument that Swansea's excellent season could come to an extraordinary climax.

"Anything is possible over the next couple of months," reckons chairman Huw Jenkins.

"We have got no idea how Nottingham Forest and West Brom are going to perform in that period, you just can't tell.
Evening Post

Caernarfon Town are working on a rescue plan which they hope will keep football alive at The Oval.
The club was suspended by the FA of Wales last week for the non-payment of fines but, after withdrawing from Saturday's fixture at Llanfairpwll, the Canaries have been given further breathing space by the Cymru Alliance, who have agreed to postpone next weekend's fixture with Penrhyncoch.
Chairman George Denham has indicated that there are no funds available to pay either the fines or the players and, in the absence of any formal announcement from the board, a statement has been issued by chair of the Friends of Caernarfon and the club's licensing officer Arfon Jones, club president John Watkins and secretary Geraint Jones.
"Albeit that it now looks inevitable that we will be relegated to the Welsh Alliance next season, we can retain our presence in the Cymru Alliance this season and start the work to rebuild and begin afresh in the Welsh Alliance next season," they say.
"We have been encouraged by a number of positive developments over the weekend: The League have confirmed their willingness to postpone our fixture with Penrhyncoch next Saturday to allow us time to get matters sorted. We consider this a very supportive and positive move on behalf of the league.
A number of existing players have expressed their willingness to play for nothing if needed.
A number of ex-players and officials have contacted us to offer any support they can (including ex-FA Cup star Russ Hughes).
Clubs across the breadth of Wales have made contact to offer similar support, from Welsh Premier clubs in the North to ex-League of Wales clubs in South Wales.
Ex-directors and officials have also offered help and support and there are now around fifteen people ready to meet and work together, and we expect that number to rise over the next few days.
"We have begun to work to draft a short term rescue plan and a business plan for the longer term, based on a new way of operating and going back to fundamentals as a football club for the whole of Caernarfon.
"We hope to present those plans at a public meeting within the next couple of weeks."
The statement adds that everything is dependent on receiving clarity from the board on their intentions.
"We are seeking an urgent meeting to discuss all of these issues. Once more clarity has been provided, a further statement will be released," the statement adds.
"In the interim, rest assured that we are working day and night to resolve matters in the most positive way and to get Caernarfon Town back on track and on to winning ways, on and off the field."
Non league daily

HAVING failed to win since August, Caersws have now won twice in four days following a deserved home victory over Connahs Quay.

But a dismal away record looks likely to scupper the super league hopes of Mark McGregors side, who trail 10th place Airbus UK by a massive 14 points.

The Caersws winner arrived three minutes from the break, Graham Jones cross met by Mark Griffiths, who swivelled and fired past Terry McCormick.
Western Mail

CORTEZ Belle fired Merthyr Tydfil ahead with a magnificent strike at Penydarren Park last night, but the home team were left down and out by a late winner.

The tall and dangerous Belle netted with a volley from 30 yards during the first half.

But the Martyrs could not hold on and their Cornish visitors equalised soon after half-time and then scored their late winner in this Zamaretto League Premier Division clash. This was a fiercely-contested contest with referee Kevin Morris a figure of controversy as home fans turned on him during the second half.

The defeat leaves Merthyr Tydfil still searching for an elusive win. Merthyr have now gone seven matches without a victory and have collected only one points from a possible 21. On Saturday they travel to play Tiverton Town.

Merthyr went in at half-time last night leading 1-0 and it could have been more.

Centre-forward Belle smashed home to put the Martyrs ahead and a minute later tried a left-foot shot which flew away for a goalkick.

Then Tarik Khalils corner picked out Belle and his header flew across goal and just wide with goalkeeper Martin Rice struggling to get there.

During first-half injury-time Scott Armitage produced a dazzling run which took him away from two defenders and his low shot from an angle hit the side netting.

The Martyrs took the game to Truro with captain Paul Keddle leading by example. Keddles commitment in the challenge broke down Truro raids and gave everybody around him a lift. There was a tenacity and spirit among the Merthyr players which unsettled their Cornish opponents.

Merthyr Tydfil attacked with pace and whipped in good crosses from wide areas, and Belle was always a danger.

Truro pressed hard after the break and almost equalised with a looping header which looked on the way into goal until Keddle appeared to head almost off the line and over the bar for a corner.

Keddles intervention only delayed the goal, though, and Truro equalised from the corner after 53 minutes. Aaron Brown was able to turn inside the penalty area and shoot into the corner from 12 yards.

Truros Andy Lindegaard was fortunate to escape without at least a booking after a poor challenge on Dean Clarke.

Goalkeeper Andrew Delve saved for Merthyr after 75 minutes when centre-half Brown, up for a corner, fired low across goal. Delve got down quickly to turn the effort away for a corner.

Merthyr deserved a draw from this hard-fought contest, but Truros Marvin Brown fired a late winner.
South Wales Echo

COUNTY extended their lead at the top of Blue Square South to a massive 24 points.

Midfield man Danny Rose set the ball rolling in the ninth minute when he pounced after a Stuart Douglas header had bounced off the crossbar and the former Manchester United player struck his second direct from a free-kick 25 yards out in the 14th minute after Sam Foley had been fouled.

Douglas grabbed a goal on his first start for County in the 39th minute in a goalmouth scramble after a header from Gary Warren had rebounded off the bar.

Basingstoke were handed some charity from referee Justin Amey a minute later.He harshly penalised Jamie Collins for what appeared accidental handball and Rob Rice reduced the deficit from the penalty spot.

But County reasserted their three-goal cushion four minutes in the second half when Sam Foley netted and the fifth came from Martyn Giles.

and left back Giles, making his first appearance for several months, put the gloss on a fantastic display by heading the fifth goal from a Kerry Morgan corner.
Western Mail

TOP two Cwmbran Celtic and Penrhiwceiber Rangers clash in a crucial MacWhirter Welsh Football League Division Two match at Celtic Park on Saturday.

Only one point separates the two teams with Celtic top and Rangers tucked in close behind.

Penrhiwceiber had to dig deep for their 1-0 win against Tredegar Town in their latest match with Howie Wiltshire netting the only goal of the game.

Leaders Cwmbran Celtic travelled to AFC Porth and battled to a 2-2 draw.

It was a spirited display from Porth, who fought back from two goals down to earn a draw.

Kristian Orchard and Craig Wells scored for Porth, but they also had Christian Burge sent off.

Even with 10 men, though, Porth raised a charge and put Celtic under pressure.

Substitute Adam Wright went close to winning it for Porth.

AFC Llwydcoed are still in the hunt for promotion and they won 5-1 at Porthcawl Town.

Llwydcoed manager Mark Harbord recalled Ryan Barry after his one-match suspension replacing Luke Davies.

Christopher Vardon (2), Craig Boulton, Tomos Morris and substitute Jonathan Mason scored for Llwydcoed, who were well served by defenders Leigh Phillips, Matthew Doherty and Brent Hewitt.

In Division One, Dinas Powys earned a 2-1 win against Taffs Wells and now turn to a home match against Ton Pentre on Saturday.

Dinas badly needed three points and worked hard for their victory.

David Biggs put Taffs Well in front, but in the second half Dinas midfield pair Jacob Rudman and Ricki Morgan worked hard to gain the upper hand.

Dinas equalised when Tom Huttons cross fell for Joe Hinds just inside the area and his effort ran through a crowd of players and just inside a post with keeper John Howe stranded.

Then Morgan did well to free Hutton and when he reached the bye-line he put over an excellent cross.

It was misjudged by the keeper and the ball bounced off the crossbar for Dunford to head in from close range.
South Wales Echo

MANAGER Garry Shephard is demanding a big reaction from his Merthyr Tydfil players at Penydarren Park tonight.

The Martyrs, without a win in their last six matches, lost 2-1 against Hemel Hempstead at home and now face another Penydarren Park test when Truro City visit South Wales this evening.

Cornish club Truro were without a League match last weekend and their last outing was a 5-1 win against Bedford Town, with top scorer Andrew Watkins netting his 13th goal of the season.

Truro will come to Merthyr full of confidence and we are coming off the back of our worst display this season, said Shephard. We have to show what we can do.

Former Yeovil Town manager Steve Thompson is the Truro manager, taking over from former Swansea City player Sean McCarthy, who left the job in December.

Truro earned three successive promotions in rising from the old South Western League up to the Southern League First Division West, winning the Western League title comfortably two seasons ago.
South Wales Echo

NEWPORT County manager Dean Holdsworth goes head-to-head with former Leeds United and Scotland defender Frank Gray at Basingstoke Town tonight, (Tuesday, 7.45pm).

Holdsworths County lead the Blue Square Conference South table by 21 points and are on a sensational run of 17 league matches without defeat.

That run started in October with victory against Basingstoke at home.

County travel to Weymouth on Saturday, who are adrift at the foot of the table, and Holdsworth said, after the1-0 win against Braintree Town: Weve shown we can win ugly as well as in style and were well placed for Basingstoke tonight and Weymouth.

By Saturday we might even have wrapped it up. Who knows?

Basingstoke are in mid-table, 34 points behind Newport, but Gray still believes his team can push on and qualify for the play-offs.

We know the way Newport play and might try a different system, said Gray. There is the possibility of putting an extra man in midfield, but we have to make sure we are positive as well as stopping Newport playing.

Newport have earned 14 wins and three draws during their 17 game run taking 45 points from a possible 51. That run includes 11 clean sheets.

They are closing in fast on the title and would love to think they might yet clinch promotion at home, with games against Bishops Stortford on March 12 (7.45pm), and Havant and Waterlooville on March 15.
South Wales Echo

CARDIFF City owe the Football Association of Wales a five-figure sum dating back to last November when they hosted the friendly international with Scotland.

The two organisations will meet today to discuss the exact sum owed. An FAW source last night said the situation was not helping the clubs cause at a time when officials are deciding whether to bring more internationals to the Cardiff City Stadium.

City chairman Peter Ridsdale last night confirmed money was owed, but that the delay was due to the club negotiating reconciliation the costs of items such as stewarding and stadium management.

FAW officials fly out to Zurich next week to thrash out dates and venues for Wales 2012 European Championship qualifying group.

Although fixtures at the 72,500-capacity Millennium Stadium are seen as a lucrative source of revenue, there has been growing support to take the majority of fixtures to a packed 27,000-capacity Cardiff City Stadium.

FAW sources said yesterday that although they have had a receipt for money owed, they have not been paid by the club for the Scotland game.

Cardiff City chairman Peter Ridsdale said last night: If you are asking whether we still owe money to the FAW from the Scotland match then yes, we do. But that is only because we have not done the reconciliation [on the gate receipts].

We did all the stewarding, were responsible for stadium management in terms of safety and security and we did all ticket sales.

The FAW has agreed to everything. Its all been done with the full knowledge, co-operation and approval of the FAW.

There is no dispute. It is exactly the same as Cardiff City playing Chelsea in the FA Cup. Reconciliation has to be agreed, costs sorted out and only then is the money paid.

The payment had taken longer, said Mr Ridsdale, in part due to the departure of club secretary Jason Turner and the arrival of a new FAW secretary-general.

In addition, it was also the first international to be played at the new Cardiff City Stadium.

A City spokesman added: We are surprised to hear there is concern over money owed to the FAW.
South Wales Echo

TWO extra-time goals ended the cup dream of Welsh League Afan Lido, who proved that a return to the top flight next season is very much on the cards.

Manager Mark Robinson emphasised his clubs ambition. It would be great to return to Bala next season in the new super league, he said.

Thats our aim and we showed today, despite several suspensions, that we can compete at this level.

I thought we were the better side but we could not put away the chances we created but the lads have done the club proud today.

The loss of skipper Chris Pridham early on through injury and defender Shaun Goldsworthy on the hour mark proved crucial.

Bala advanced to the semi-finals for the first time in their history when Osian Jones (98) received from a suspiciously offside Ross Jeffries to rifle home. And Neil Fisher finally ended Lidos resistance in the final minute.
Western Mail

BANGOR CITY, seeking their third successive Welsh Cup, have been paired with Prestatyn Town in the semi-finals.

Manager Neville Powell, when asked about how he viewed the treble said: Theres two games to go yet and we have had some tough games with Prestatyn this season. Its a derby and we look forward to the tie, but theres no easy games at this stage.

In the other tie, Port Talbot play Bala Town.

Bangors dream lives on after a pulsating clash with arch-rivals Llanelli at muddy Farrar Road.

Defeat ended the Reds hopes of a Welsh Premier and cup double, but they were the authors of their own misfortune.

Central defender Stuart Jones lasted just five minutes before he was red-carded, a mistimed tackle on Ashley Stott adjudged by referee Mark Whitby to be a clear last-man situation.

Jamie Reed lashed the resultant penalty past visitors keeper Ashley Morris and it was an uphill battle from that point for Andy Leggs side.

They still had the upper hand possession-wise, but a stout home defence held firm with Michael Johnson outstanding.

The main threat late on came from booming long throws from substitute Legg, but Bangor were in no mood to yield their precious advantage.

And, with the visitors pushing more of their limited resources forward, Bangor took full advantage of the extra space when Dave Morley fired home from the edge of the area three minutes into added time.

Hosts boss Powell was delighted with the win which extends a remarkable unbeaten Welsh Cup run to within two matches of a third successive triumph.

We still have two hurdles to overcome, but I thought the lads were magnificent today, Powell said.

The defence was outstanding, dealing well with long balls and long throws, but Llanelli battled despite losing a man so early.

I thought they shaded the first half, but we changed a few things at half-time and we were more in control after that.

Skipper Jamie Brewerton acknowledged the contribution of his fellow defenders.

The defence was superb. We are delighted to be through as the Welsh Cup is very special.

Western Mail

THE willingness of the bookmakers who sponsor the Blue Square South to pay out on all bets on County winning the title is an indication that the Champagne corks will soon be popping at Spytty Park.

The leaders can still theoretically be caught, but they travel to Basingstoke tomorrow on the back of a phenomenal run which has seen them lose just once in 38 league games in the past 12 months.

This win left them 21 points clear of closest rivals Chelmsford, with just 11 games left.

Braintree travelled down from Essex on Saturday determined to present a strong physical barrier and they had two important allies.

There was a pudding of a pitch, which stopped Countys attempts to play their usual fluent game, and a referee in Marc Perry who could not let more than three or four passes take place without finding a reason to blow his whistle.

It was almost inevitable that it would take a free-kick to produce a goal and it was a superb delivery from Danny Rose which provided the chance for Sam Foley to strike in the 63rd minute to delight the home fans in a 2,117 crowd.

The afternoon was an emotional occasion beginning with a minutes applause in tribute to the mother of Countys star striker Craig Reid who had died the previous day.

The leagues top scorer insisted on playing and might have added to his tally in the 65th minute if he was not tugged back on his way to goal by Braintree skipper Mark Jones.

To the astonishment of the fans, and the fury of the Newport forward, Mr Perry awarded the free-kick to the visitors.

South Wales Echo

DAVE JONES and Peter Ridsdale were at the heart of a post-match bust-up in the away dressing room at Deepdale following Cardiff Citys abysmal Championship performance against Preston.

Chairman Ridsdale, fuming at the abject display, told manager Jones, his staff and players what he thought after the 3-0 defeat.

Jones retorted that Ridsdale had no right to say anything like that in the dressing room and assistant manager Terry Burton was also embroiled in the stand-off.

Ridsdale always goes into the dressing room after matches, but this was the first time he had his say.

Many supporters who watched Cardiff City badly beaten at Deepdale would have loved the chance to have their own rant at the team.

Jones, incensed by the row, refused to attend the usual post-match press conference and went straight to the team coach for their journey home.

Club media manager Gareth Davies recorded the thoughts of manager Jones on his mobile phone and relayed those quotes a few words at a time to journalists from English national and Welsh newspapers

Western Mail

Ashley Williams hopes John Toshack retains him as Wales captain at his home ground in Wednesday's match clash with Sweden at the Liberty Stadium.

The Swansea City defender led a youthful Wales in their 3-0 triumph over Scotland in Cardiff in November.

Regular skipper Craig Bellamy is rested so Toshack will choose between Williams, Simon Davies and James Collins to lead Wales in Swansea.

He said: "It would be brilliant to be Wales captain at the Liberty Stadium."

Williams, who won his first cap in a 2-0 win in Luxembourg in March 2008, is set to win his 19th cap against the Swedes but is vying with two experienced Premier League regulars for the captaincy.

Collins, the Aston Villa defender who starred in their 2-1 Carling Cup final defeat to Manchester United on Sunday, and Fulham midfielder Davies have also led Wales previously.

But Williams, who did not train on Monday due to a dead leg, is set to partner Collins at centre-back for Wales on Wednesday and said: "I'd be really pleased and love to stay as captain.

"I am realistic as I know that, if other certain players are in the squad, they are going to be a captain before me - and that's fine.

"It meant the world to me to be captain last time against Scotland, so to be captain in front of my own fans would be amazing."

BBC