JUL-31

Chiverton hopes young guns will fire-up the Quins

Quins start the new season in Welsh League Division One, opening their fixtures at Newport YMCA on Wednesday, August 16, and there have been big changes.

The long-serving Steve May, who finished last season as manager, becomes club chairman in place of David Pinches, who stepped down after a tough ordeal during last season's struggles.

Quins have reformed their committee from a few seasons ago as they rose through the Welsh League and are looking to have a solid future.

Quins have signed striker Dave Sherman, a former England Under-19 international.

Matthew Ramadan from Barry Town is another new signing along with former Merthyr Tydfil, Newport County and Port Talbot player Mike Regan.

South Wales Echo

JUL-31

"Nicholas" ready for the Odense challenge

"I don't know much about them other than that they are managed by Bruce Rioch, but I'll soon find out," Nicholas told BBC Sport Wales.

"The Danish league is strong so they are one of the better teams we could have drawn.

"We will have learnt from the Gefle game. We were outstanding in the first half in Llanelli, but failed to score and so put ourselves under pressure.

"But we secured a fantastic result, and playing at Stradey Park made it a great event for the town."

BBC

JUL-31

Molby back Odense over Llanelli

"It'll be tough for Llanelli," the ex-Denmark midfielder told BBC Sport.

"By Danish standards Odense are a big, well-run, well-off club. They've had a short summer break so are in practice.

"Odense will know nothing about Llanelli but will be absolutely delighted with the draw, they will fully expect to win."

Should they overcome Odense, they will advance to the Uefa Cup first-round alongside Premiership sides Tottenham, Blackburn and West Ham.

BBC

JUL-30

New Saints mean business

WELSH Premier League champions the New Saints, formerly TNS, indicated yesterday they mean business once again in the forthcoming season.

The Llansantffraid club took on Northwich Victoria, now in the Conference, and fought out a 2-2 draw.

Alfie Carter scored after 16 minutes following a cross from Scott Ruscoe and 11 minutes later Mike Wilde fired in a ball from the left and John Toner chipped it over the keeper.

But, in the second period, Paul Brayson and substitute Chris Williams netted to level the scores.

Port Talbot drew 1-1 at home with Maesteg, who led after 16 minutes through Robbie Walters, but before the break Leigh de Vulgt netted from a free kick.

Porthmadog travelled to Bury and the North Walians took the lead on 17 minutes through a Jonathan Perris-Jones header. Bury came back to triumph 2-1 through a brace of second-half goals from Jordan Stetien.

Haverfordwest entertained a Bristol City academy side and it ended 1-1. The West Walians led after 10 minutes following an Adie Harris corner.

Wales on Sunday

JUL-29

Principality backs Welsh Premier League

Welsh Football has landed its 'best ever' sponsorship deal with the Principality Building Society pledging its support.

It has agreed a three-year deal to sponsor the Welsh Premier League.

'This is the best deal we've ever had in my time as secretary of the league,' said John Deakin.

'It was important to us to seek sponsorship from within Wales if possible and the Principality has enabled us to do that - a bonus for Welsh football.'

The Principality, Wales' largest building society, kicks off its sponsorship today, supporting the development of the top league in the country.

The exact amount agreed for the Principality to put into Welsh Premiership football will not be made public, but Deakin said: 'It certainly won't mean any less money filtering down to member clubs.'

South Wales Echo

JUL-29

Llanelli fancy a Danish

It may not be Newcastle United, but Llanelli captain Lee Phillips was delighted with last night's Uefa Cup draw. The Reds, the only Welsh club left in Europe, will face Danish outfit Odense in the second qualifying round of the Uefa Cup.

So when Llanelli go into battle next month, Nicholas will want his strike force's radar fine-tuned.

Odense saw off Scottish side Hibernian by the away-goal rule in the Intertoto Cup.

The first leg will be played in Denmark at the Fionia Park on Thursday, August 10, and the venue of the return leg is still to be decided as Stebonheath does not meet Uefa's requirement of 1,000 seats.

"They sound like they are decent side as they beat Hibernian in the Intertoto Cup," Phillips said.

"But Gefle were supposed to be a decent side and we could have been 5-0 up at half-time on Thursday.

"Everyone was looking to get Newcastle, but this could give us a good chance of making the first round proper."

Phillips, who is hoping to recover from his thigh injury in time for the first-leg clash, is hoping that the Reds can perform like they did in Sweden two weeks ago.

"It can work both ways when you play the first leg away," he said.

"If we can do what we did in Sweden then it would be fantastic.

"But if we go there and lose by three goals then it will be really flat for the second game."

"It is a shame that we are the only Welsh club left in Europe, but the league is making small steps forward."

Evening Post

JUL-29

Llanelli striker joins Nationwide outfit

Centre forward Richard Harris has signed for Nationwide South Sutton United he is Ian Hazel's first new contract signing since he became manager. 

The 25-year old made eighteen first-team appearances with Crystal Palace before joining Wycombe Wanderers, but his career has been halted by many injuries. 

Harris spent the best part of last season playing for Merthyr Tydfil and then moved to Llanelli.

Harris made just one start for Llanelli and eight as a sub scoring one goal.

Tony

JUL-29

Danish test for the Reds

Llanelli's reward for their first ever UEFA cup victory is a tie against Danish side Odense.

They travel to Denmark for the first leg an August 10th, with the return home leg on August 24th.

Odense finished 3rd in the Danish league last season, behind champions FC Copenhagen and Brondby. Some small consolation for Llanelli is that only the two relegated teams in the league suffered more home defeats than Odense.

Tony

JUL-28

Danish test for the Reds

Llanelli's reward for their first ever UEFA cup victory is a tie against Danish side Odense.

They travel to Denmark for the first leg an August 10th, with the return home leg on August 24th.

Odense finished 3rd in the Danish league last season, behind champions FC Copenhagen and Brondby. Some small consolation for Llanelli is that only the two relegated teams in the league suffered more home defeats than Odense.

Tony

JUL-28

EX Newtown player lands top soccer job

A FORMER Newtown footballer, Lee Robinson - brother of Wales international Carl Robinson - has been installed as Cardiff City’s new youth academy manager.

And the appointment of Robinson could be good news for potential Mid Wales football stars, with the new boss pledging to scour the area as he looks for the Bluebird’s next big talent.

The club has a reputation for bringing on young players, and Mid Wales’ best could be following in the footsteps of the likes of Rob Earnshaw and Joe Ledley, if they catch Robinson’s eye.

Robinson has been appointed to the position, to fill the post left vacant by the death of John Kerr, during a family holiday in France earlier this month.

But despite the sad circumstances, Robinson said he is delighted with his promotion.

County Times

JUL-28

Ex Town keeper Ovendale setting his sights high

Ovendale, 32, a former Bournemouth and Luton Town player who has changed clubs for nearly £500,000 in his career, left Tiverton Town this summer - due to budget cuts - and was ready to slide even further down the football pyramid.

However, he is now signed up with County following Tony Pennock's horrific leg-break at Port Talbot last weekend and while he admits at his delight at joining Peter Beadle's charges at Spytty Park, he is upset about Pennock's unlucky break.

Tony

JUL-28

Llanelli march on in Europe

BBC

JUL-27

Rhyl go out after defeat in Lithuania

Rhyl went out of Europe after they suffered a 2-1 defeat in Lithuania.

They fell behind in the 19 minute when Tim Edwards gave away a penalty and Darius Maciulevicius put the home side ahead. Things got doubly worse on 25 minutes when Tomas Mikuckis added Suduva's 2nd goal.

Rhyl had several chances with an improved 2nd half showing, and Andy Moran reduced the deficit to 2-1 on 80 minutes.

Rhyl's Chris Sharp was taken to hospital after receiving a bad injury not long after coming on as a sub, and Gareth Wilson was shown the red card on 90 minutes for his 2nd yellow card of the game.

Tony

JUL-27

Welsh duo looking to Euro progression

Llanelli and Rhyl aim to score an historic double for Welsh football by marching into the UEFA Cup second qualifying round with second leg victories tonight.

Llanelli are favourites to become only the fourth Welsh Premier League club to win a European tie as they take a 2-1 lead over Swedish side Gefle into their Stradey Park clash.

Meanwhile, Rhyl are bulging with confidence despite having to travel to Lithuania to face Suduva, with whom they battled out a first leg goalless draw a fortnight ago.

Peter Nicholas' men grabbed two late goals to score a stunning win in Sweden but the former Welsh international warned: 'People may think because we are leading coming into the home leg we are through - but that is rubbish.

'Gefle are a good side. They came back from 3-0 down against Malmo at the weekend to win 4-3.

'The lads know they cannot be complacent and if they are then they won't stay on the pitch very long - I won't stand for it.'

Rhyl boss John Hulse believes his side have every chance of completing the job on foreign soil, insisting: 'They have played 21 games this season but we have finished stronger and that shows you how far we have come.

'We can go to Lithuania and score goals.

'We know Suduva are a good side, but we have nothing to fear.'

South Wales Echo

JUL-27

Bangor wait on 17 year old Jones

BANGOR City are still waiting to discover whether 17-year-old winger Carl Jones will sign for them again for the new season.

The exciting prospect who joined Bangor when he left Cardiff City last season has been training with Bolton Wanderers.

Bangor manager Clayton Blackmore is hopeful Jones - who will line up in City's side against his home town club Pwllheli on Saturday - will look to continue his development at Farrar Road next season.

He rates the Wales schoolboy international as a potential successor to Welsh legend Ryan Giggs in a few years time.

He said: "He's quite welcome to continue to play with us but that is up to him.

The Herald

JUL-27

Houston no problem for Crows

Indeed Houston showed Coed Eva what they could be missing if he eventually joins Cwmbran because he actually top scored for the Gwent County League outfit in 2005-06.

Following up his recent goal double against Newport Corries, the marksman took just five minutes to make an impression by flinging himself forward full-length to head home a right-wing cross.

On the evidence of this match, several of the trialists should be give another chance, including Houston, who could replace the banned Chris Pearce when Cwmbran open their league programme by hosting Welsh Cup winners Rhyl on August 12.

South Wales Argus

JUL-27

Carmarthen open new stand

Before last week's match, Carmarthen officially opened their new Clay Shaw Butler stand.

In recognition of the support provided by Carmarthen Town Council and Carmarthenshire County Council, the opening was performed by county council chairman, Councillor Roy Llewelyn and Carmarthen Mayor, Councillor Richard Evans

Also present were David Butler, principal partner in Clay Shaw Butler, county council chief executive Mark James and Welsh Premier League secretary John Deakin.

Work is currently being carried out to bring the stand up to European criteria.

Carmarthen Journal

JUL-27

Jeff Eckhardt appointed new Risca Utd Coach

Jeff is now working as a tiler and lives a few miles down the road in the Bassaleg area. At the end of last season he played several games for Gloucester City and before that had spells at Merthyr Tydfil and Newport County. He is best remembered in South Wales though for the six seasons he had with Cardiff City where he was a favourite of the Bluebirds’ fans.

JUL-26

Nicholas demands full Reds focus

Llanelli boss Peter Nicholas has warned his players that complacency will not be tolerated as they enter the biggest game in the club's history at Stradey Park tomorrow night (7.30).

Leading 2-1 after the first leg of the first qualifying round of the Uefa Cup against Swedish side Gefle, the Reds are just 90 minutes away from setting up the possibility of a lucrative tie against the likes of Newcastle United, Auxerre, Marseille or Hertha Berlin. But while those clubs are a welcome incentive to the Stebonheath side, it is the Swedes who have Llanelli's full attention.

"It is only half-time and that is what we have been saying for the past two weeks," said Nicholas.

"People may think that because we are leading coming into the home leg we are through - but that's rubbish.

"Gefle are a good side. They came back from 3-0 down against Malmo at the weekend to win 4-3.

"The lads know that they cannot be complacent.

"If they are then they won't stay on the pitch very long - I won't stand for it."

Nicholas, who led Barry Town to a famous victory over FC Porto in the Champions League, predicts the visitors will try to hit Llanelli on the counter attack.

And while Gefle must win by two goals at Stradey to progress - Stebonheath does not meet Uefa's minimum requirements - Llanelli are not planning to sit back and defend the lead Rhys Griffiths and Jacob Mingorance handed them in the first leg.

"That is not the style of football we play here at Llanelli," Nicholas added.

"We play an all-out attacking game - the best form of defence is attack.

"Gefle already have to win by two clear goals and in Europe that is no mean feat.

"If we can get another goal it will make their task even harder."

A further boost for Nicholas is that he can prepare for the encounter with no injury worries.

"I have been told that between 1,200 and 1,400 tickets have been sold already and hopefully we will be able to get a lot more through the turnstiles on the day," he said.

"The crowd can really be our 12th man at Stradey."

Evening Post

JUL-26

West End keep up the fight

The League Secretary and the Chairman of the Welsh Premier League are holding a Media Conference on Friday 27th July 2006, where they will announce a new Headline Sponsor for the League for the forthcoming Season.

FAW

JUL-26

Welsh premier league to unveil new sponsors

The League Secretary and the Chairman of the Welsh Premier League are holding a Media Conference on Friday 27th July 2006, where they will announce a new Headline Sponsor for the League for the forthcoming Season.

FAW

JUL-25

Carmarthen skipper forced to quit

Carmarthen Town captain Rhodri Jones has been forced to retire because of a serious knee problem. 

Jones, 24, who was a trainee at Manchester United before spells with Rotherham and Cwmbran, switched to Richmond Park in June 2004. 

"I picked up the original injury in my first pre-season at Old Trafford," Jones told the Welsh Non-League Paper. 

"I was 16 at the time and I've had five or six operations since - but nothing has solved it." 

It is a huge blow to Carmarthen's build-up for the new Welsh Premier season, as well as devastating for the player himself. 

Carmarthen have already started competitive action this term, having bowed out of the Intertoto Cup 8-1 on aggregate to Finnish side Tampere United last month. 

"I've had the same knee cartilage operation as (Manchester United and Norway striker) Ole Gunnar Solskjaer," Jones added. 

"The difference is he's been able to hire some of the world's best surgeons, while it's a bit difficult for a semi-professional player to do that." 

Manager Mark Jones paid tribute to his captain's contribution to Carmarthen. 

"We're all gutted and so sorry for Rhodri, who has had some really bad luck," said the manager. 

"He's been a great captain and you couldn't wish to deal with a better person than him."

BBC

JUL-24

West end lose points deduction appeal

West End's appeal against a Welsh Football League decision to dock three points for fielding an ineligible player has once again been turned down.

It has resulted in the Townhill side being relieved of the Welsh League division three title, but they will nevertheless be promoted together with new champions Cambrian & Clydach and third-placed Treharris. West End attended a Welsh FA hearing in May regarding the inclusion of Scott Thayer as an ineligible player during a 5-2 home win over Cwmamman on February 25.

The Welsh League management committee went on to impose a fine of £100 along with a three-point deduction.

An unsuccessful appeal led to last week's independent inquiry, but once more West End's case fell on deaf ears.

It has not only left the Swansea side to pick up a hefty bill, but they will also now miss out on the third division championship purse.

Tony Poole

JUL-24

Div 1 newcomers Pontypridd mean biz

Division one newcomers Pontypridd Town, showed they will be a force to be reckoned with this season in their quest to gain promotion to the welsh premier, with a strong squad that took division 2 by storm last season plus several new signings, they embarked in a friendly against div 3 side Chepstow Town.

PONTYPRIDD, romped to a 7-1 victory with the evergreen and prolific striker Chris Summers scoring five of the goals, Ryan Jenkins scored their other two goals.

Tony 

JUL-24

Ex Carmarthen keeper suffers bad injury

THERE was a serious setback for Newport County - and Swansea City - when veteran goalkeeper Tony Pennock was badly injured in County's friendly away against Port Talbot.

The County No 1 and Swansea City goalkeeping coach sustained a fractured tibia and fibula in his left leg in a sickening collision with home striker Dean Johnston in the final act of the first half.

Johnston beat the 35-year-old by a fraction to the ball which found its way into the net, but the second half could not commence for 40 minutes after an ambulance had been driven on to the pitch to take the stricken keeper to Morriston Hospital in Swansea. 

JUL-24

Euro boosting wins for the Reds and Rhyl

LLANELLI will bid to become one of the few Welsh Premier league clubs to make progress in European competition on Thursday.

So Saturday's 2-1 home victory against Havant and Waterlooville was the perfect preparation as they seek to defend the same lead against Swedish side Gefle in their Uefa Cup preliminary round tie.

Llanelli fell behind to an early Tony Taggert goal, but Spaniard Jacob Mingorance, who scored the winner in Sweden, struck the equaliser and Nick Harrhy settled the issue in the 65th minute.

Rhyl are also preparing for European action this week and they beat Salford City 2-1 with George Horan and Conner Murtagh on target.

Western Mail

JUL-22

Ex Cardiff player signs for Port Talbot

KIRK Huggins has joined Port Talbot Town from Welsh Premiership rivals Llanelli Town.

It is a significant signing for Blues boss Wayne Davies - the 21-year-old's arrival not only adds strength in depth in defence but the youngster comes with the bonus of tasting Championship football at Cardiff City.

Former Bluebirds boss Lennie Lawrence worked with him at Ninian Park, but new boss Dave Jones released the Cardiff-based player at the end of the 2004-5 season.

Huggins linked up with Llanelli, who had become only the second current Welsh Premiership side to become full-time professionals.

He started 15 games for Peter Nicholas last season, scoring once.

"Kirk has joined us from Llanelli and we are glad to have him." beamed Port Talbot boss Wayne Davies.

"Left-sided defence is an area we have been looking to strengthen and we feel we have now done that.

"He has previously been with Cardiff City and players can only learn from mixing with players at a Championship club."

Davies said the Blues have not finished with the chequebook and are keen to sign more players before the end of the week.

He said: "We have got over the loss of losing Rhys Griffiths and Gareth Phillips and we are meeting two players this week - the show goes on." 

JUL-22

Summer soccer talk again

Commenting on the League Managers' views, Deakin said, "I am somewhat mystified by these comments, given the fact that we undertook a long consultation period, prior to the decision to reject summer football was taken by the clubs last season. During the process, we invited a number of managers to attend a seminar on the issue and none bothered to turn up, which I found to be more than disappointing.

A clearly angry Deakin, repeated his calls for change saying "I am told now that the summer football issue is dead and buried, but I can't accept that this is the case. I have argued for change on this and other initiatives, which would in my opinion take our League forward, until I'm blue in the face, but it is very difficult to change the entrenched views of many clubs. Perhaps these statements from the Managers will re-ignite the debate and that their views will hold more sway with their clubs than was the case last season."

J.C. Deakin,
Secretary, Welsh Premier. 

JUL-22

Harris to sue FAW over reserves decision

County Times 

JUL-21

Rhayader are a club in crisis

JUL-20

New Saints Euro exploits are Finnish-ed

But they did have their chances, Michael Wilde, Greg Stones, and Nicky Ward all went close either side of half time and Steven Beck missed a last-minute penalty.

Saints Manager Ken McKenna rightly pointed out that his team would have been a different proposition had they had half a dozen competitive games under their belt, and again pointed out the benefit welsh clubs would have by having a summer league, even if they had beaten the Finns, no welsh premier team would have a cat in hells chance of beating FC Copenhagen summer soccer or not. Unfortunately the under lying truth is the standard of welsh domestic soccer at the moment isn't strong enough to make an impression in Europe as our record in Europe to date shows, hopfully that will not always be the case.

Tony 

JUL-20

Jones backs side to make it a Euro hat-trick

CARMARTHEN manager Mark Jones believes the attitude of his side gives them every chance of making it a triple for Town in Europe.

Jones, whose team held Swansea to a pre-season draw on Tuesday, has seen the Richmond Park outfit qualify for European competition for the past two seasons.

The plan is to make it three in a row as work gets under way on bringing the ground's main stand up to strict Uefa criteria so it means future big nights against continental opposition aren't switched elsewhere.

And, although the work shows the measure of Town's ambitions, Jones insists he is not concerned by the pressure to deliver for a third straight season.

'There's always pressure in football,' Jones said. 'Even a manager of a pub team is under pressure to be successful. We've had two good years here since I've been here. We've got into Europe two years running when three years ago we stayed up by a point.

BBC 

JUL-19

Swansea made to work hard by Carmarthen

The League One side found themselves two goals down, Martyn Giles pouncing after the ball spun back off a post, then Mark Dodds curling in a beauty.

Lee Trundle pulled one back for Swansea from a cross, only for Nathan Cotterall to restore Carmarthen's two-goal lead.

But Kevin McLeod and Leon Knight nipped in late to rescue Swansea's blushes.

The six-goal entertainment was a fitting way for Carmarthen to open their new Clay Shaw Butler Stand.

That work is part of an extension plan that will eventually lift capacity at Richmond Park above 1000 places and allow Carmarthen to stage European matches at their home ground.

BBC 

JUL-19

Harris upbeat but McKenna cautious

WELSH hopefuls New Saints seek to make Champions League progress tonight with manager and owner at odds over the merits of Finnish opponents MyPa 47.

The Finns carved out a slender 1-0 lead in Scandinavia last week - an advantage Welsh Premier champions TNS aim to overturn at Newtown's Latham Park (7.30pm).

But football's enduring ability to be a game of divided opinion was perfectly illustrated as manager Ken McKenna and owner Mike Harris began to sing from very different song-sheets.

"I'm always upbeat, but we've got to respect them," said the cautious McKenna (pictured).

"They've got a good pedigree. They beat Dundee United last season, so they are no mugs.

Harris, however, was seething after the Mid Wales side had failed to take advantage of their first-leg superiority and put one foot in the second qualifying round where the Danes of FC Copenhagen await.

"We should have battered them," stormed Harris. "We could easily have won 7-0.

"MyPa are not a very good side, they've not had a good start to the season.

"I'll be very angry if we don't win the return by enough."

Western Mail 

JUL-19

Crows new boys on show

Houston scored twice - and could have had a hat-trick - for Welsh Premier League Crows in their opening pre-season work-out against Gwent County League side Newport Corries last night.

Triallist Houston, Coed Eva's top scorer last season, was one of a number of hopefuls who appeared in the second third of a warm-up and it was certainly that match which was split into three half-hour sessions.

Cwmbran manager Sean Wharton, seeking to encourage local talent, said: "They gave me food for thought."

And with Chris Pearce out until the turn of the year, serving a drug ban, the sharp-finishing Houston could fit the replacement bill.

It was a good first workout for Cwmbran and undoubtedly Wharton will want to watch Houston in action against higher flight opposition.

Jody Jenkins was the only one of the three players returning after helping Croesyceiliog climb the Welsh League ladder, and he had a big hand in creating Crows opening goal for American Steve Loverso.

South Wales Argus 

JUL-18

Crows striker slapped with drug ban

Traces of the stimulant ephedrine were detected after a random test last season and the 20-year-old has been banned by the Football Association of Wales until December 31.

The shock news is a hammer blow to Cwmbran's preparations for the new season.

Pearce was charged with a doping offence after examination of a sample given following the Crows' 3-2 win over Carmarthen Town on March 17.

A FAW spokesman said: "We can confirm that Chris Pearce did fail a drugs test. The matter was considered and dealt with at a hearing in June.

"As a result he has been given a suspension running to December 31 and a fine of £150. There was no appeal and he will be banned from all aspects of football."

Pearce is on holiday and unavailable for comment.

Crows boss Sean Wharton did not want to discuss the matter in detail but felt that Pearce had been "a little naive."

But Wharton admitted that the presence of Pearce would be missed during the first half of the Welsh Premier season.

"Chris is a proven goal scorer, particularly in the league below, and he was showing that he can score in this league as well," he said.

"He has scored at every stage he has played at and has aspirations to keep improving and play at a higher level, maybe even in the football league.

"I'm sure he will get back to the level he was at and he will only come back stronger from this."

Pearce, capped by the Gwent County youth team last season, became an integral part of the Crows line up towards the end of the campaign, forming a formidable partnership with American Steve Loverso.

He made an immediate impact at Cwmbran Stadium, scoring on his debut for the club after coming on as a substitute in the clash with Aberystwyth Town in December.

It was his goal scoring exploits with Caerleon in Welsh League Division One that triggered the breakthrough to the Cwmbran squad, with Pearce playing a major role in the club maintaining their top flight status.

South Wales Argus 

JUL-18

Marc Lloyd Williams back at Bangor

Marc Lloyd Williams has re-joined Bangor City, the club he spent six season's at. 

He joined Bangor in the 1994-95 season having been with Porthmadog the previous two seasons, He joined Aberystwyth from Bangor in 2003-04 season, and then spent two record breaking seasons with TNS, before being released at the end of last season. Lloyd Williams is the leagues all time top scorer with 236 goals.

Tony 

JUL-18

Harris expects New Saints to progress 

JUL-17

Two new signings for Carmarthen 

They have signed defender Liam Hancock, Hancock who has jumped between Port Talbot and Neath Ath for the past 3 seasons, Hancock made 50 appearances for Port Talbot scoring one goal.

The second new signing is Terry Evans, a former full time pro with Barry Town making 164 appearances for Barry. Last season he made 14 starts for Grange Quins.

Tony

JUL-16

Nicholas playing it oh so cool 

Evening Post

JUL-13

Excellent results for welsh clubs 

Both Llanelli and Rhyl pulled of great results in Europe tonight.

Llanelli came from 1-0 down to overhaul Swedish side Gefle in the national stadium.

Llanelli went behind in the 20th minute, and it looked like they were holding out for a 1-0 result, but Rhys Griffiths had other ideas when he equalised for the reds on 82 minutes.

Not content for a draw Llanelli went onto grab a 2nd away goal and clinch the game when Jacob Mingorance on as a sub scored in the 86 minute.

Rhyl were held to a 0-0 draw at home to Suduva in front of almost 1,500 fans at Belle Vue, and they are also in a good position to progress if they can beat Suduva next time out.

Well done to both teams. 

Tony

JUL-13

Andy Legg set for Llanelli after cancer battle

Former Swansea City full-back Andy Legg could make a dramatic return to football after battling back from cancer. The ex-Wales international, who turns 40 this month, is training with Uefa Cup qualifiers Llanelli.

Legg, whose career included stints at Swansea, along with Cardiff, Reading, Birmingham, Ipswich, Notts County and Peterborough, found a cancerous lump in his neck last year which looked to have called time on his career.

Legg is now training with the Welsh Premier League side, managed by former Swansea assistant Peter Nicholas.

Gifted with a huge throw and tireless work rate, Legg would prove a welcomed addition to Llanelli's playing staff.

Reds chairman Nitin Parekh said: "Andy's a very talented player and someone we are interested in. He has huge experience, and that is something we are lacking a bit of at the moment.

"At the moment he is just training with us, so we will have to wait and see what happens."

Legg, who has chalked up more than 500 professional games, would join new signing Dale Griffiths at the club.

The former Merthyr Tydfil centre-half spent last season at Penydarren Park after his release from Swansea City.

But he will not be playing in Stockholm tonight in Llanelli's Uefa Cup clash with Gefle.

The ex-Martyrs defender just missed Uefa's registration deadline.

Evening Post

JUL-13

Nicholas and men face top opposition

LLANELLI will record a new chapter in the club's history tonight when they play their first ever European fixture against top-flight Swedish outfit Gefle in the UEFA Cup.

The Welsh Premier side's opponents regularly pit their wits against Sweden's best-known sides like IFK Goteborg and Malmo in the country's premier league or Allsvenskan and Llanelli manager Peter Nicholas knows his team face a stern test.

He said, "It's a massive game for the club and we're playing against a very good team, but that is what you expect in the UEFA Cup.

"It's important for us to stick together because it's going to be a very tough game."

Llanelli will play the first qualifying game at Sweden's 37,000-seater national stadium in Stockholm. The first leg of the tie was switched because Gefle play on an artificial pitch.

Swedish sides are already eight games into their domestic season and Gefle are currently lying in eighth place in the 14-team league.

But the Galve-based club's recent form has been better than their mid-table position suggests.

They triumphed 2-0 over league leaders Hammarby in a friendly on Sunday and beat Halmstad 3-0 in a cup game last week.

But Nicholas has tasted European success before with Barry Town and believes Rhyl's triumph over Atalantas in the same stage of the competition last year proves Welsh Premier sides can make an impact.

"I got through to the second qualifying round of the UEFA Cup in 2003 with Barry before we lost to Porto. So you cannot write us off, but you have to be ready for them, which we are. We're hoping to get a result over there to set us up for a big gate at Stradey."

Western Mail

JUL-13

Roar us on says Rhyl boss

"COME out and cheer the lads to victory" is the rallying cry from Rhyl manager John Hulse on the eve of his team's UEFA Cup home clash with Lithuanian full-timers FK Suduva.

The Lilywhites can set themselves up to reach the second qualifying round two seasons running by establishing a first leg lead over the team from Marijampole.

And Hulse believes a vociferous home support can make a big difference to his team's hopes in tomorrow's all-ticket tussle at Belle Vue. "I've always said we've got the best fans in the (Welsh Premier) league," said the Lilies boss.

"They can give the players another 10% or make them grow another foot or two when they get behind us. We thank them for all the support they have given us in the past and hope they can come out on Thursday and do it again."

Although Suduva are 20 matches into their league campaign and Rhyl have played just two friendlies, Hulse believes his team still has a great chance. "In Welsh football it seems to be the trend to moan and groan about.

this sort of thing (lack of games before a European campaign), but there's nothing we can do about it," he said. "All we can do is prepare as best we can and go out and try to win the tie. I'm quietly confident we can do it, not overly confident because I'm not that sort of person. Ideally, it would have been nice if we'd had a few more friendlies, but the players are ready and I think we've got a realistic chance."

Hulse added every man in his 20-plus squad is in contention to play against Suduva. He said he and assistant Neil Young have an idea of the starting line up, but were playing their cards close to their chests. "We'll have a light training session on Tuesday and work on a few set pieces. We'll also have Marcus Orlik, Chris Sharp and Mark Powell (all unavailable for Saturday's friendly against West Kirby) coming into contention.

"A year on we're a little more experienced in Europe and I think we'll give a good account of ourselves."

Rhyl Visitor

JUL-12

New Saints in with a fighting chance

The Saints held the Finnish champions goalless for almost an hour, they were finally breached on 58 minutes when Brazilian striker Adriano scored from a through ball and rounded Saints keeper Doherty.

Doherty helped keep the Saints in the tie with several fine saves.

They now have an excellent chance to put the Finns away when they host them next Wednesday at Newtown's Latham Park.

Well done Saints and good luck in the return leg.

Tony

JUL-12

Former Cardiff striker signs for Aberaman

Nogan has been around the block a bit, and spent most of his career playing in the football league, his clubs include Brighton, Burnley, Preston North End and latterly Cardiff City.

He has joined Aberaman from Southern League club Tiverton Town.

Nogan is one of a few new signings Aberaman have made as they aim to make their mark on their return to Division One of the Welsh League.

Tony

JUL-12

Carmarthen push Cardiff all the way

CARDIFF CITY jet off on their two-week, four-match pre-season tour to North America today on the back of a narrow victory over Carmarthen Town at Richmond Park.

It was a worthwhile workout for the Bluebirds, who were fully stretched by a lively Carmarthen outfit, who look on course for another productive Welsh Premier season

The visitors unveiled four of the summer signings, goalkeeper Mark Howard, defenders Roger Johnson and Malvin Kamara with Nick McKoy occupying a central midfield berth.

Howard looked solid, pulling off several fine saves, while Johnson was ice-cool in central defence, saving City at the death with a fine cover tackle on home veteran striker, Mattie Davies.

But it was young striker Andrea Ferretti, who stole the show with an industrious display that was rewarded five minutes from time.

Sweeping down the flank, Ferretti fired over a superb cross to Paul Parry and the Welsh international cooly picked his spot to give his side a confidence-boosting success.

If Cardiff needed reminding of last season's shock 2-1 FAW Premier Cup defeat to Mark Jones' side, the first half would have shaken them out of any complacent thoughts.

Kris Thomas and Sacha Walters were influential for the hosts and both went close, as did former Ninian Park striker Danny Thomas.

But Cardiff created the best opportunities, Parry going inches wide with a free kick and also seeing his goal-bound effort brilliantly saved by home keeper Andrew Delve.

Promising Ferretti was also thwarted by another superb Delve save.

Frequent substitutions meant that the second half failed to flow too well, but there were still some good chances to both sides.

Thomas was inches wide with a fine strike for the home side, who exerted considerable pressure on the Cardiff goal before Ferretti broke away to deny the host side a deserved share of the spoils.

Western Mail

JUL-11

Former Barry player Jeanne's last chance

Jeanne wasted opportunities at Queens Park Rangers and Cardiff City through drink and drugs, while he has played for several Welsh clubs including Barry Town.

But Martyrs' manager Paul Sugrue is backing Jeanne to make the most of this latest chance.
'It's Leon's last chance, no doubt about that,' says Sugrue.

'He has great skill and, at 24, plenty of time, but he has to apply himself and make the most of his ability.

'I've had a long chat with Leon and he knows he must get his act together.

'He has worked hard in training, but he must get fitter.

'If he does that and finds form over a significant period of time then Merthyr Tydfil can be as big a shop window as you can get for him.

'It's all down to Leon - we will help him, but he must do it.'

Jeanne will play at least some part against City tonight as one of around 20 players who are likely to appear for the Martyrs.

South Wales Echo

JUL-10

New managers and new ground for Ponty

Tony Poole

JUL-9

New Saints chase dream

BBC

JUL-9

Both Euro hopefuls win final friendlies

BBC

Rhyl 2-1 West Kirby

Andy Moran's penalty and a neat volley from Alex Hay ensured Rhyl's win in the hard fought Friendly.
The Lilywhite's were trailing by the single goal at half time, but a much improved second half performance showed the small crowd what is to come.

www.rhylfc.com 

JUL-7

Llanelli ready for Swedish mission

Llanelli Star

JUL-7

No fear for TNS or for MyPa-47

Meanwhile MyPa-47 head coach Ilkka Makela has greeted the draw with caution.

MyPa are currently third in the Finnish top flight - 15 points adrift of pole position.

County Times

JUL-7

No go Ivan set for Spain return

Llanelli Star

JUL-7

Port Talbot carry on with Remax

Town chairman Andrew Edwards said he was thrilled with the deal. He said: "After a great year last year, we are pleased to be able to move forward together for another year. "All our players and supporters were delighted when such a renowned company as Remax came on board, so everyone is thrilled our partnership will be able to bring more good news for the club over the coming year." 

Rob Morgan, owner-manager of Remax Professionals Plus in Port Talbot said: "We are delighted to announce the ongoing support of our local football team. We are all keen supporters of the club in the Remax office, and are looking forward to another successful year together, with many more achievements to come." 

Last season ended in a real coup for Port Talbot Town with the first international match to be held in the Remax Stadium, between Wales and Cyprus under 21s. 

JUL-7

Fans step in to ease city crisis

THE Farrar Road faithful have bailed their beloved Bangor City out after a financial crisis threatened their Welsh Premier League future.

City supporters will fork out a minimum of £1,000 a month in order to meet increased debt repayments to the Inland Revenue.

The debt - which stands at £68,043.16 from an original £45,000 - dates back to the late 1990s and the repayments have gone up dramatically, incurring a daily interest penalty of £7.14.

In a statement released on Monday, the Bangor City FC Supporters' Association confirmed it had met with club officials including chairman Ken Jones last Friday night when it was made clear the club had just three options for the future.

Bangor City FC Supporters' Association stump up a minimum of £1,000 a month for the next six months to satisfy repayments to the Inland Revenue. After six months the clubs case can be reviewed. This would ensure the retention of playing staff and give City a chance on the park for the new season.

Caernarfon Herald

JUL-7

Graham Evans goes home

Evans who left Caersws to join Hereford Utd on a full time contract, but had few opportunities due to injury and failing to make his mark, he left Hereford to sign for TNS. He left TNS after he failed to agree terms on a new contract and is back at his home club managed by his father.

Tony

JUL-5

Neath respond with 3 new signings

"All in all, the events of the last month have united players and committee, resulting in the emergence of a closer-knit club."

Neath have also signed the ex-AFC Llwydcoed pairing of Chris Vardon and Richie Jenkins, while goalkeeper Chris Curtis has switched from Pontardawe Town.

Tony

JUL-5

Welsh referees 'to strike' over insurance

Football in South Wales faces major disruption just six weeks before the start of the domestic season because of a planned strike by referees.

Officials who operate under the umbrella of the South Wales Football Association are up in arms about a lack of insurance cover.

It means matches in the Welsh Premiership, Welsh League, Welsh Cup, Welsh Premier Cup as well as Welsh youth league fixtures could all be badly affected.

'These officials are at great risk and the bottom line is that their livelihoods and homes are at risk for the sake of a couple of pounds a year in cover,' said chairman of the Referees' Association of Wales, Pedr McMullen.

But John Deakin, the Football Association of Wales head of competitions, played down the furore.

South Wales Echo

JUL-5

Burnell signs up to help manage Barry

Richie Burnell has been appointed assistant manager at Barry Town.
The former Cardiff Corries manager is linking up with Gavin Price to take charge of Barry team matters.
'Richie and I are friends who play veteran football together,' said manager Price.
He has a great attitude and can get things across to players.'

Burnell was considering a role as under-19 team manager at Pontypridd Town when the offer came up to join Price at Welsh League Barry.

Burnell started his playing career with Brentford and Wimbledon before extensive experience in the Isthmian and Ryman Premier Leagues with Ruislip Manor and Lewes.
He joined Cardiff Corinthians, playing for them for several seasons before becoming manager last season.

Terry Phillips, South Wales Echo

JUL-4

Neath fail to gain promotion again

The Appeal was dismissed and therefore the Welsh Premier League will comprise of seventeen clubs for 2006/2007. The fixtures for the Loosemore's Cup Group stages will be published later this week.

FAW Press release

JUL-2

New reds signing Rhys shines

Llanelli Star

JUL-2

League sponsorship deal in pipeline

Ken Tucker, league secretary, told the annual meeting at Maesteg Park's Tudor Park clubhouse on Saturday afternoon: "We have been in negotiations with several companies and a deal could be in place by the first week of next month. We have been working hard and will try to get it as soon as possible.

"But we will have sponsorship for next season, come what may."

Macron ended their relationship with the league on a sour note, claiming that some clubs were not using their match balls as agreed. 

JUL-2

Bad boys boost league coffers

Kieran O'Connor, treasurer and assistant secretary, said in his annual report: "Fines within the league continue to grow at an alarming rate.

"The league would obviously like to have no fines imposed on any club and seek an improvement by all clubs to reduce this volume of disciplinary problems."

The league showed a profit of of £8,346, a reduction of £837 from the previous year. 

JUL-2

Football's coming home!