MAR-30

Ian Rush to take Merthyr post

MERTHYR Tydfil FC have pulled off one of the biggest footballing coups of the season with the news that former Wales and Liverpool legend Ian Rush is join the Southern Premier outfit.

Rush, aged 44, is set to take up a position as technical football adviser at Penydarren Park, a year to the week since he left his first managerial post at League Two Chester City.

Vice-chairman and caretaker manager Paul Sugrue said:

"This is tremendous news for our football club.

"Everything has been agreed verbally between ourselves and Ian's agent.

"We're just waiting for both parties to sign the official agreement and to finalise the details."

MAR-29

Buy Barry Town FC for £400,000

Barry Town are now officially up for sale and can be bought for the small sum of £400,000. 

Stuart Lovering has been trying for for months to sell the club but the stumbling block has been the rent dispute with the council over rent arrears and the proposed annual rent of £42,000. The lack of a home for Barry Town has made the sale unattractive as they are now playing their home games at the White tips stadium in Treforest. But the dispute with the council is trying to be resolved. If so and they can get back to Jenner park then Barry Town could see a take over similar to the Jesco involvement in Llanelli AFC.

MAR-28

Quins' fight continues

Grange Quins face a former Cardiff City defender as they continue their increasingly desperate fight for Welsh Premier League survival.

Quins host Port Talbot Town (7pm), who have ex-Bluebirds defender David Hughes as their first-team coach.

Hughes, who helped the Bluebirds to promotion in 2001, now works alongside Port Talbot manager Wayne Jones.

Tonight's match will go ahead despite the strike which affects council workers. Quins, though, have agreed to kick-off half an hour earlier than usual.

Terry Phillips, South Wales Echo

MAR-27

Welsh league round up

BRIDGEND TOWN'S charge up the Macron Welsh League first division table was halted at the weekend as they slipped to their first defeat in nine matches, going down 2-0 at Newport YMCA, writes Chris Smart.

Aaron Stewart and Daniel Heath netted for the Gwent side after Bridgend had suffered a major blow with the early sending-off of Ryan Barry.

In the only other top-flight match which reached a conclusion on an appalling day weather-wise, the students of UWIC battled to a 1-1 draw with Dinas Powys - a result which took them into second place in the table.

Dinas Powys took the lead four minutes into the second half through Kurt Bettles and Rob Blatchford levelled matters late in the game.

Four first division games were abandoned.

Goytre United were denied the opportunity to narrow the gap on leaders Neath as their match with Ely Rangers was called off with them leading 2-0.

Pontardawe were 2-1 up on Ton Pentre; Maesteg Park led AFC LLwydcoed 2-0 and Bettws and Afan Lido were goalless when play was halted.

Pontypridd Town kept their iron grip on the second division leadership with a 3-1 home victory over Troedyrhiw. Chris Summers, Andrew Hughes and Peter Cheeseman were on target.

Morriston's good run continued as they won 2-1 at Abertillery, Dean Rosselli and Carl James scoring while relegation-threatened Porthcawl Town beat bottom club Gwynfi 1-0, thanks to a Gareth Duffy goal.

Western Mail

MAR-27

Welsh Premier Round-Up

Connah's Quay 2-2 Cwmbran

DESPITE a plucky performance against fellow relegation candidates Connah's Quay, time is running out for Cwmbran, who could still face a points deduction.

This week, league secretary John Deakin announced the £100 fine on each count of fielding ineligible players was not the end of the matter and on Wednesday, the Premier League board will consider a deduction of points.

That would signal the death knell to the Crows' survival hopes, although manger Sean Wharton said, "It's been a massive shadow over us but I've put it to bed now.

"My players can't be faulted for effort today and they performed really well and for the last two to three weeks I've felt we've started moving in the right direction."

Josh Collins (2) put the visitors ahead, but a brilliant Stuart Cooke volley and Tommy Mutton's persistence put Nomads ahead. But Chris Pearce (79) grabbed an away point with a far-post effort.

Carmarthen 2-1 Airbus UK

WITH three successive league and Welsh cup defeats behind them, it looked bleak for Carmarthen, who trailed out-of-sorts Airbus 1-0 at the break in miserable conditions at Richmond Park.

But super sub Mattie Davies netted within a minute of his introduction, courtesy of a superb Nathan Cotterrall pass, and Cotterrall crowned a fine display with a magnificent 68th-minute winner.

"It was attack, attack, attack from us in the first half, so it was a massive body blow when their lad (Craig Jones) put them in front," said Carmarthen manager Mark Jones.

"But we told the players to be really positive in the second half and they responded well. In fact, we missed further good chances to have made it four or 5-1.

"This, hopefully, will be the boost we have been looking for as we are still in touch with the top six, so there's still plenty to play for before the season ends."

Bangor 3-2 Port Talbot

AN 88th-minute Kyle Jones header gave Bangor their second home victory in four days, edging them ever closer to FAW Premier Cup qualification.

Jones was thrilled by his rare success. "I'm not usually that far up the pitch," he said. "I was just in the right place at the right time."

Chris Pridham had deftly lobbed the visitors into a 26th-minute lead before Carl Lamb (43) levelled with a terrific volley on the swivel.

Paul Roberts lashed the Citizens back in front with a brilliant left-foot drive before Rhys Griffiths fed off a post rebound from Tom Hooper's free-kick, to again equalise.

Port Talbot manager Wayne Davies blamed himself for the loss. "We needed three points, so I pushed players forward and it cost us in the end. In retrospect, perhaps we should have settled for a point, but that's not what we came for."

Western Mail

MAR-22

Deakin vows to get tough on criticism

WELSH Premier league chiefs are to clamp down on club officials who publicly criticise referees, writes Chris Smart.

Recent comments by Rhyl supremo John Hulse and Cwmbran secretary Ian Greaney have brought the situation to a head - and now league secretary John Deakin is on the warpath.

Both Hulse and Greaney slammed decisions by match officials in games this season.

The Cwmbran man said referees should be held accountable for their decisions, a comment that brought an angry reaction from Deakin.

"It is time to call a halt to this sort of thing - it is unacceptable," said Deakin.

"Referees have a tough enough time of it as it is without people who should know better making derogatory remarks."

Deakin may hold a meeting with clubs on the situation.

Western Mail

MAR-22

Rhyl hoping to end an unwanted 40-year record

AFTER an astonishing 40 years without a victory at first team level over Colwyn Bay, Rhyl will feel they are long overdue a success.

If the Lilywhites can break the jinx tonight they will reach the semi-finals of a competition they have won 14 times.

"It's a cup I've won twice as a manager - once with Rhyl and once with Bangor City - and I'd like to win it again," said Rhyl boss John Hulse.

"Obviously with this being the most local of local derbies, it should be a great occasion for the fans."

Although targeting a UEFA Cup spot in the Welsh Premier is his priority, Hulse plans to field a strong side for the visit of Bay, who are managed by ex-Rhyl boss Adie Jones.

Rhyl Visitor

MAR-22

Llanelli on rampage to boost Euro bid

LLANELLI consolidated second spot in the Welsh Premier with a crushing 5-0 victory over struggling Grange Quins at Leckwith Stadium last night.

The Reds now lead Welshpool by five points and Europe beckons for Peter Nicholas' side, who laid the foundation for their success with first-half goals from Craig Williams and Cortez Belle.

Quins were then hit by a second-half Spanish blast, Ivan Nofuentes posting his first hat-trick for the visitors with goals in the 50th, 62nd and 73rd minutes.

It was the Cardiff side's 17th successive match without a win and with just six matches to play and eight points from safety, their plight looks hopeless.

Western Mail

MAR-21

Bridgend reward staff for success

A run of eight successive wins have swept Bridgend Town back up the Division One table.

And that hot streak of form, which leaves Town with an outside chance of breaking into title contention, has helped joint-managers Drew Phillips and Ryland Morgans secure their position for next season.

The duo took over when Nicky Tucker quit.

Town remain 19 points behind leaders Neath Athletic, but have four games in hand and have yet to host Neath.

While the management team are in place, Bridgend are not so sure about where they will be playing.

A supermarket is due to be built on their Coychurch Road ground and the club have been looking for a temporary home, but could be staying put for another season.

A final decision is expected within the next few weeks.

Western Mail

MAR-21

Garw face investigation over an ineligible player

Garw are facing an investigation over allegations of fielding an ineligible player.

The Division Two promotion chasers face a Football Association of Wales investigation into a player who was registered with more than two clubs.

Garw are currently in 3rd place in division 2 and a possible points deduction could scupper their plans for promotion back to division 1

MAR-20

Dyer saves Neath while Barry hold Goytre

TONY POOLE

MAR-20

Cup dates announced

Evening Post

MAR-20

Cwmbran and Grange come up empty

Cwmbran 0-1 Caernarfon

AFTER winning for the first time in 14 league attempts just two days earlier, Cwmbran were given a harsh reality check in the Gwent sunshine as they went down to the resurgent visitors.

The Crows were sunk by a 36th-minute strike from former Wrexham and Swansea City striker Steve Watkin, who pounced on a through ball to lob advancing keeper Fitzroy Hutchinson in the home goal.

In a dour contest of few clear-cut goal-scoring chances, Cwmbran had an early opportunity that Chris Pearce blasted over the bar.

Then, in the second half, Danny Clare had a free header which he ruefully put wide as Caernarfon eased their relegation fears with a second win in two days.

The result leaves the inaugural League of Wales champions in deep relegation trouble with the trap door getting perilously close and time running out.

Grange Quins 0-3 TNS

CHAMPIONS TNS extended their unbeaten sequence this season to 25 matches with a routine victory over troubled Grange Quins that edges them ever closer to the retention of their crown.

On a hard, bumpy pitch which made good football very difficult, the visitors took half an hour to break down stubborn home resistance.

Martin Naylor's corner found Steve Evans at the far post and his header across goal was met by a fierce Tommy Holmes volley.

A defensive error set up Michael Wilde (40) for the second.

Wilde's 15th goal of the season was followed in the second period by substitute Marc Lloyd Williams' 23rd of the campaign when he headed in Chris King's far post cross.

Western Mail

MAR-17

Points decision boost for Crows

The Crows appeared before a Football Association of Wales disciplinary commission last night and were fined £100 on two charges of fielding ineligible players - Nicky Ward and Michael Binning. They must also pay a percentage of the costs.

But the fact that no points - they feared losing up to seven - have been taken from them has given them a fighting chance of survival.

And with two home games in the space of three days the decision could not have been better timed.

Secretary Ian Greaney, who attended the hearing with chairman Mike Lewis, put the club's case .

Greaney said: "We are absolutely delighted with the outcome. We put a very good case and we received a very fair hearing."

South Wales Argus

MAR-17

Welsh league preview

Pontardawe Town have signed Briton Ferry midfielder Sam Brown ahead of tomorrow's derby clash between the clubs at the Recreation Ground. But Brown will not figure in tomorrow's encounter because of a wedding.

Pontardawe have also ruled out Geza Hajgato, and Paul Davey is suspended.

On the plus side, returning to the squad are former West End striker Darren Griffiths and ex-Ferryman Michael Chaves.

Ferry are without the suspended duo of captain Leigh Morgan and Richard Colwill.

Striker Layton Thomas is rated doubtful with an ankle injury, but back into the squad come Dan McGrath, Daniel Thomas together with Ashley Stevenson, who has been sidelined since before Christmas with a groin injury.

Leaders Neath Athletic resume league duties at relegation-haunted Ely Rangers, and will be without Ryan Frankcom and Chris Miller.

Frankcom could well miss the remainder of the season, having sustained a hairline fracture to an ankle during last Saturday's 2-0 cup defeat at Pontardawe.

Neath's closest challengers for the title, third-placed Goytre United, face Barry Town at Treforest with Jonny Walkley and Steve Healy both back in their squad.

However, top-scorer Richard Ryan is rated doubtful, having come off early in last Saturday's Welsh Cup exit at Rhyl with a recurring hamstring problem.

The Port Talbot side trail Neath by 15 points, with six games in hand.

Afan Lido, who visit improving Bridgend Town tonight, launch the weekend's programme.

The Seasiders still have an alarming injury-list, and the latest bulletin contains Brian Thomas, Carl Evans, Phil Holmes, Paul Reid, Shaun O'Leary, Stephen Parry, Greg Hurley, Craig Martin and Craig Jones.

Fourth-placed Maesteg host struggling Taffs Well, with the Old Parish side set to introduce former Wales Under-18 international Kyle Morris from Ton Pentre.

Goalkeeper Gary Wager, Steve Conaty, Kieran Howells and Paul Evans, who all missed last Saturday's 3-1 cup defeat against Morriston, are now available for selection.

But rated only 50-50 are striker Gareth Davies and defender Lee Michael.

Evening Post

MAR-17

Crows keeper flying in for game

And the thumbs up from Hutchinson would prevent another crisis at the new-town club who have suffered enough this season both on and off the field.

Wharton wants the stopper to make his Welsh Premier League debut at home to Carmarthen tonight (kick-off 7.30pm) and then play in the home match with Caernarfon on Sunday (kick-off 2.30pm).

Cwmbran first choice 'keeper Richard Lancaster is unavailable and academy keeper Rob Watkins, who plays in the Macron Welsh League with Cwmbran Celtic, is working.

Wharton said: "We had a friendly earlier in the season at Caldicot, `Fitzy' playing for us in that match, and I know that Caerleon (his Welsh League club) think highly of him."

Despite their precarious league position Crows' players are still under close scrutiny from other clubs and yesterday they received seven days notice of approach for one of the squad.

South Wales Argus

MAR-17

Hulse gears up for 'cracker' with Pool

RHYL manager John Hulse will summon his entire first-team squad to Belle Vue tonight before deciding his line-up to face second-from-top Welshpool in one of the season's key clashes.

Down in fifth place after being on Welsh Cup duty last Saturday and hit by postponements, Rhyl currently trail Welshpool by six points but have a game in hand, so Hulse knows this is a big game in their quest for Uefa Cup football.

"They beat us at their place 3-1 and I can honestly say that of all the points we've dropped, that was the only time we deserved to lose on the day," he recounted..

"We never competed and they made us pay for it, but this time we are fully prepared and looking forward to what should be a cracking encounter."

Hulse, who supervised a rigorous training session in midweek, is boosted by the return of suspended pair Gaz Wilson and Chris Evans.

Daily Post

MAR-15

Lennart Johansson gives backing to WPL

Lennart Johansson the Uefa president has questioned, why Wales top three clubs don't play in the Welsh Premier League.

He said they can't have their cake and eat it, by using the welsh cup as an avenue into Europe while they are part of the English football league system. 
He understands why the teams want to play in England .

Johansson also stated that the Welsh Cup was not a easy route for them to return to play in Europe as long as they select to play their football in the English system.

They can't say now we want to be in Wales to represent them in the welsh cup, but in the league we will continue play in English football league.

MAR-15

Last night's WPL round up

CARMARTHEN TOWN'S last, lingering hope of an end-of-season surge towards Europe virtually ended last night when they were comprehensively beaten 3-0 at Porthmadog.

Good work by Jason Saddler set up Carl Owen in the 15th minute and he beat a static visitors' defence to plant the ball home. Owen netted his second on the stroke of half-time with a near-post flick from Les Davies' cross.

And livewire Davies recovered from the disappointment of hitting the woodwork when he thundered home a superb 20-yard drive.

Aberystwyth continued their recent improvement, beating Newtown 3-1 at Park Avenue. Tom Billings provided Luke Sherbon with the opener on 17 minutes and a fine Barri Morgan shot (42), doubled the advantage.

The Robins were briefly back in contention via a Gareth Hughes header, but Glyndwr Hughes sealed Aber's victory with a powerful far-post header.

Goals from Craig Jones and Chris Moores in the opening quarter of an hour formed the backbone to a superb 2-1 victory for Airbus UK at Bangor City. Michael Linnacre hit back for the home side with 10 minutes left.

Western Mail

MAR-15

Tomorrow is d-day for the Crows

TOMORROW is D-day for struggling Cwmbran Town, who are facing the very real threat of being relegated from the Welsh Premier league, writes Chris Smart.

That is the day they face a Football Association of Wales disciplinary hearing charged with fielding two players in contravention of the rules.

It is alleged defenders Michael Binning and Nicky Ward played for more than two Saturday sides in the season.

But this week there was better news that gives the Crows hope they will be reprieved and not face a hefty fine and a loss of points.

Caernarfon and District League has won a crucial appeal against the FAW after being fined for taking a one player one club stance. The appeals panel found against its own body after Fifa confirmed the FAW was in breach of international regulations.

Western Mail

MAR-15

Port Talbot league round up

Royal Mail are through to the Harris Printers division one Challenge Cup semi-final. They knocked out league leaders Old Surgery in the quarter-final on penalties.

The match finished 1-1 after extra time, with Mail's goal coming from Steve Owen and Gareth Thomas on target for the Surgery.

Royal Mail took the match 4-3 in the penalty shoot-out.

Trefelin and Margam's match went to extra time, with Margam winning 2-0 thanks to goals from Sean Hill and Simon Nurse. Gwynfi United also lost out in extra time to Cornelly United 2-1. Scott Robinson scorerd for Gwynfi and Luke Callam and Chris Mitchell for Cornelly.

Glyncorrwg Hall made it into the semi-finals after soundly beating Cwmafan Welfare 6-1 thanks to goals from Kane Smith (2), Gareth Rees, Mike Lloyd, Mark Taylor and John Kahill. Welfare's consolation goal came via Richard Williams.

In the league FC Cornelly are now in pole position after a 1-0 victory at Port Talbot Town.

Porthcawl Town and Croeserw shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw, while Blue Stars lost at home 8-0 to Abercregan Refresh.

Premier Division Challenge Cup Group A leaders Glyncorrwg Hall made it two wins out of two after beating visiting Port Talbot Town 7-2.

Ryan White (4), Steve Fry, Greg Davies and Chris Lee netted.

Croeserw edged out Newton Wanderers 3-2. Craig Tryer, Nicky Walton and Richard Thomas were on target for Croeserw, with Nicky Evans and Steve Hauvell netting for Newton.

Baglan Red Dragons went down 5-3 at home to Market Tavern. Jeremy Thomas, Lee Pockett and Dai Charles scored for Baglan, while Steve Taylor (2) Chris Parsons (2) and Clifford Jones were on target for Tavern.

In Group B Four Winds beat Grove Park 2-0 thanks to a brace from Andrew Thorn.

Cornelly United defeated Corus 2-1 thanks to Dale Owen and Dave Clark. Colin Herman scored Corus's consolation goal.

Evening Post

MAR-14

FAW defend £1.1 million on premises

"We're using the money in exactly the way Uefa are asking us to do," said FAW secretary general David Collins.

"The Uefa HatTrick money has to be spent for office structures, national stadia and training facilities."

Uefa president Lennart Johansson opened the new headquarters in Cardiff on Monday.

The new premises close to Cardiff Bay replaces the FAW's previous 100-year-old city centre headquarters, and Johansson gave it a ringing endorsement.

He told BBC Wales Sport: "The premises and technical equipment tells us that we have done something to the benefit of the Football Association of Wales.

"Without a new building there is no space for those who are employed to do a proper job and to serve football. This is a must.

"I can understand fans asking why not spend the money on pitches, but we do both.

"But to develop football for the future, it needs people to work day-to-day in premises with the necessary communication tools. And here they have it.

"It's quite elegant, with good materials without being snobby. It's just what we wanted to see."

Collins refused to divulge how much the FAW has spent on the project, only to describe it as a "sizeable sum of money".

But he said the critics are "wrong" to accuse the FAW of ignoring the needs at grassroots level.

"We are spending money at grassroots on 44 mini pitches, again assisted by Uefa through their HatTrick programme, the foundation for the sports and the arts and our own money," said Collins.

"We are halfway through that programme and I was able to take Mr Johansson to one of the pitches in Butetown (in Cardiff)."

He added: "We are developing a new national training facility, but in this case with the help of Fifa.

"We're putting a sizeable sum of our own money aside to assist the ground improvements of the Welsh Premier, the Welsh League and the Cymru Alliance.

"Last year we were able to develop Carmarthen and Rhyl with very large sums of money.

"We are continuing that programme - as we have been doing for the past 15 years, but of course that doesn't always grab the headlines."

Western Mail

MAR-14

Welsh league round up

SHOCKS were the order of the day in the quarter-finals of the Shamrock Travel Welsh League Cup, writes Chris Smart.

Leading the way were second division Morriston Town, who journeyed to the Llynfi Valley and recorded an excellent 3-1 success at high-flying Maesteg Park.

Carl James, Mark Baker and Mark Carlyle netted for the Swansea side after Andrew Davies had given Maesteg the lead.

Pontardawe caused raised eyebrows as well as they sent league leaders Neath Athletic crashing out of the competition with a 2-0 verdict, despite playing more than an hour with only 10 men after the sending-off of Paul Davies. Steve Cox, from a corner, and Jamie Rickard were on target for the Swansea Valley side.

Penrhiwceiber were another surprise packet as they won 3-2 at UwiC. Richard Beale bagged two of the goals and Brendan Cropley put the ball into his own net.

Garden Village complete the semi-final line-up after they beat Llanwern 3-2 in Gwent. Paul Dickie scored two of their goals and Marc Lloyd got the other.

In the league, Bridgend Town continued their rise up the first division table by completing the double over AFC Llwydcoed with a 2-0 win. Martin Rose and Christopher Varden scored in the second half.

Current champions Ton Pentre went on the rampage, hammering Ely Rangers 6-1

Western Mail

MAR-13

Goytre get off to a flyer against Rhyl

Rhyl 5-2 Goytre

RHYL had to battle back from 2-0 down at half time in this Welsh Cup quarter final to kill off Goytre's plucky challenge in the second period with a five-goal salvo.

The Welsh League minnows enjoyed a dream start when after seven minutes a left-foot strike from outside the box by right back Kevin Davies found the net aided by a deflection.

It got worse for the Lilywhites when on 21 minutes a poor clearance by Stuart Graves fell to Ryan Penney who made it 2-0 from 12 yards.

Buoyed by a half time team talk from manager John Hulse, the shaken Lilies reduced the arrears on 51 minutes when a Ricky Evans free kick was headed home by Greg Stones

Five minutes later Stones chested down a Limbert free kick and Andy Moran drove in the equaliser from close range.

Rhyl completed the turnaround on 65 minutes when Hunt's persistence won a penalty which Moran dispatched for his 22nd goal of the season.

Second half substitute Chris Sharp made it 4-2 on 73 minutes with a superb right foot strike from 20 yards and he added a fifth eight minutes from time.

The hard-earned victory secured Rhyl a semi final meeting with Port Talbot.

Wales on Sunday

MAR-13

Carmarthen go out to late Bangor strike

Bangor City 1-0 Carmarthen

SCORING ace Paul Roberts popped up with the dramatic 88th minute goal which was just what Bangor City wanted to book their passage into the Welsh Cup semi-finals.

Now in prospect is a mouth-watering clash with Llanelli, the Welsh Premier League's second-from-top outfit, who boast an array of full-time players.

The date for the big showdown is set at Saturday, April 1, and the choice of venue by the cup organisers is expected to be announced in the next few days.

The moment that separated the Farrar Road combatants came when City's player-manager Clayton Blackmore swept over a cross-field pass from left to right towards Chris Priest.

And Priest's vicious half-volley from an angled 20 yards proved to be too hot to handle for Carmarthen keeper Andy Delve, who spilled the ball towards the on-rushing Roberts - and he fired home from five yards.

Roberts, who was recently presented with an award to mark his 100 goals in the Welsh Premier, has hit the target 20 times this season, including the two goals that destroyed Carmarthen at their own ground last month.

But this unrelenting mud-spattered battle could have gone either way, as both sides cancelled each other out and numerous escapes occurred in the respective goal zones.

Extra time was certainly in prospect when Carmarthen's Mattie Davies powered a six yard header that could have made it but Bangor's keeper Andy Price reacted with a brilliant save down at a post.

In follow-up attacks, Town team-mates Stephen Hughes and Sasha Walters powered good-looking shots that flashed close to the home goal.

Bangor's player-manager said: "Very few clear-cut chances were created by both teams but we did just about enough to achieve what we needed.

"Our lads worked hard in muddy and sticky conditions, which were far from easy, and the tension out there was obvious all the way through."

Blackmore was credited with producing the game's first explosive shot, a tremendous rocket from 20 yards, after a Carl Lamb lay-off, and the outcome was a matching super save by Delve.

Bangor got within inches of taking the lead on 75 minutes, when Linnecar cut loose down the left and fired from eight yards but Carmarthen's Martyn Giles cleared off the line.

Wales on Sunday

MAR-13

Grange Quins lose in Welshpool

Welshpool 2-1 Grange Quins

WELSHPOOL boosted their claims for European football by returning to second spot in the Welsh Premier with a battling victory over relegation-haunted Quins at Maesydre.

With several of their rivals without any league action, Pool managed to capitalise although they were given plenty to ponder against their resilient visitors on a sticky surface.

An early Gethin Lloyd strike followed by a second goal on the half hour from winger Justin Wickham appeared to have set the hosts on course for a comfortable afternoon.

But the youthful Quins proved a handful through their incisive movement going forward and stayed in the hunt with a headed reply from Ramos Karvouniaris in the second half.

Missed chances added to Welshpool's frustrations as the encounter became increasingly niggly, but Tommi Morgan's men were not to be denied against their basement visitors as their European dream this summer remains very much alive.

Having seen their last two outings wiped out by the weather, the Mid Wales hosts made the perfect start when left back Lloyd turned the ball home from close range on four minutes after John Keegan's low strike from the edge of the box had been parried.

Top scorer Steve Rogers then headed wide from a Mike Thompson cross while Aden Shannon drilled a low strike across the goal following a Rogers cross field pass.

A second goal that threatened arrived on the half hour when Wickham cashed in on a poor pass from Quins skipper Ben Tingley and ran through before neatly lifting the ball over keeper Chris Golton.

Karvouniaris proved to be a particularly lively customer for the Quins, sending one shot over the bar. But he got his reward on the hour when meeting Baah's right wing cross to head past diving keeper Gerard McGuigan.

Pool were kept on their toes by the Quins' quick counter-attacks but had enough chances to have made the game safe.

Wales on Sunday

MAR-10

MP BACKS NEATH'S BID FOR TOP FLIGHT

Neath MP Peter Hain is backing Neath Athletic Football Club's bid to secure Vauxhall Masterfit Welsh Premiership status.

The Welsh Premiership grounds inspection panel has recently inspected their headquarters at Llandarcy Park - along with the two other southern applicants Afan Lido and Goytre United - and all made favourable impressions. However, in the case of Neath they will be successful only if their ground is upgraded.

As club president and a keen soccer fan, Mr Hain is looking at ways to find the necessary sponsorship to kick-start ground improvements.

The main need is for proper fencing and a hard standing on the cricket side of the ground to meet league regulations.

While continued sponsorship is always welcome, that is not the issue, more a case of one-off investment to make the ground compatible.

''It would be fantastic if the club did make into the Welsh Premiership,'' said Mr Hain.

He added: ''It would be an equivalent boost to Neath's name, recognition, profile and reputation for success as we have with rugby."

The Macron Welsh League leaders are planning to place improved dugouts and accommodation for a fourth official on the cricket side of the ground, making it a non-spectator area.

However, the hard standing they hope to lay will then be covered in Astroturf, in order for Llandarcy Cricket Club to carry on playing.

They also have to install two turnstiles while the cricket scoreboard is set to incorporate a press box and television camera gantry.

TONY POOLE

MAR-10

Stop the ref justice

MANAGERS of all Welsh Premier clubs could be summoned to a meeting as the league looks to finally clamp down on public criticism of match officials.

There have been a series of incidents throughout the season concerning a breakdown in communication between bosses and referees, often leading to managers venting their frustrations through the Press.

Rhyl's John Hulse last month admitted he felt there a "them and us" relationship now existed between the two factions and John Deakin now believes the issue has been brought to a head following remarks attributed to Cwmbran secretary Ian Greaney.

He said: "I've just read about another verbal attack on referees and I am totally fed up with this kind of behavior and it's about time we called a halt to it.

"Ian's quotes say that referees must be held accountable for their decisions, but these sort of statements are just not acceptable.

MAR-10

Carmarthen and Goytre hoping for 2nd time lucky

Carmarthen and Goytre United hope it will be second time lucky when they travel north to play their res- cheduled Welsh Cup quarter-finals tomorrow.

Snow caused the postponement of last week's scheduled encounters but now heavy rain that has lashed the country all week could threaten both matches. Carmarthen travel to Bangor City, with Town boss Mark Jones saying: ''This is a gigantic game for us. We will give it our all to try to reach the semi-final, but it won't be easy.''

Carmarthen are without the suspended Neil Smothers and will also travel minus cup-tied Craig Lima, Kaid Mohamed and Wayne Jones.

The winners of the tie meet Llanelli for a place in the final while Goytre, who travel to Rhyl, will play neighbours Port Talbot in the last four should they win.

''People outside the club are coming up to me all the time asking where the match against Port Talbot would take place, but it's a bit premature that sort of talk,'' said United's assistant manager Andrew Radford.

''You won't hear anyone inside the club talking that far ahead as we have a massive challenge on our hands against one of the top Welsh Premier clubs.''

The extra week has certainly been a blessing in one respect as ace goal scorer Richard Ryan and John Meacock should now make the starting line-up.

MAR-10

Llanwern on a mission

Third Division Llanwern are the surprise team in tomorrow's Macron Welsh League Shamrock Travel Cup quarter-finals.

The team, who now play at Newport Stadium, are the only representatives from outside the top two divisions in the last eight.

Llanwern, who lie fifth in Division Three, are at home to Garden Village, who have scored 10 goals and conceded one in beating Barry Town (3-0), Pontyclun (1-0) and Caerau Ely (6-1) on their way to this stage.

Village, Morriston Town and Penrhiwceiber are Second Division teams who have made it to this stage.

Quarter-final ties, all being played tomorrow, are: Llanwern v Garden Village, Maesteg Park v Morriston Town, Pontardawe v Neath Athletic, Uwic v Penrhiwceiber.

MAR-10

Pontardawe cup hopes take a hit

Semi-final places will be up for grabs tomorrow in the league's Shamrock Travel Cup, with top billing going to Pontardawe Town at home to Neath Athletic.

Table-topping Neath will be missing only striker Chris Miller, but Pontardawe are hit by defender Ian Morgan's wedding where Michael Chaves is best man. West End recruit Darren Griffiths is cup-tied while fitness tests will be run on both Rob Folland (thigh strain) and Jamie Rickard (eye injury).

However, Steve Crabbe is set to return, following a six-week absence, with a leg injury that required an operation.

Morriston boss Michael Ellery makes a first return to Maesteg Park since standing down as manager at the Old Parish club back in 1995.

However, Ellery will be missing four key men in defenders Scott Horton, Leighton Connor and John Williams while another ex-Maesteg man, assistant manager Dean Beniamous, is ruled out with a calf strain.

However, Maesteg will not be at full strength either with goalkeeper Gary Wager, Paul Evans, Kieran Howells, Steve Conaty and Ian Shepherd all ruled out while there is also a fitness doubt-surrounding striker Gareth Davies.

MAR-09

Rhyl can reach second Welsh final in three years

RHYL look to be favourites to reach the final of the Welsh Cup for the second time in three years following last weekend's televised draw for the semi-finals.

If they beat Goytre United in this Saturday's rescheduled quarter-final tie they will play Port Talbot Town, who they have beaten 11 times in their last 13 meetings.

Rhyl will have been delighted to have avoided cup favourites Llanelli, but with his side facing a mounting backlog of games, manager John Hulse said this week: "Port Talbot isn't even in my thinking at the moment. First we've got to beat a Goytre side who have knocked out Haverfordwest and will be determined to try and cause another upset."

Weekly News

MAR-09

Manager fancies the chances against Haverfordwest

CAERNARFON Town face one of the Welsh Premier League's teams of the moment on Saturday but their manager is calling on his players to raise their game and make the Oval a fortress that teams fear to visit.

Wayne Phillips is preparing his side for the visit of Haverfordwest County and the Canaries have had a few days extra respite after their league trip to Rhyl, scheduled for Tuesday night, was called off because of an unfit Belle Vue pitch.

Phillips knows just what a test is awaiting his team on Saturday as County are managed by his former Wrexham team-mate Deryn Brace and are unbeaten in the last eight league games.

He said: "They're the in-form team at the moment. "I know what to expect. They're organised but we've got a decent chance. "We were unlucky to only get

a 2-2 draw down there earlier in the season. "We've had a good month and we've given ourselves a chance of getting ahead of some of the teams around us."

Phillips knows he needs his squad fit and firing as Caernarfon enter the most crucial stage of the season.

Caernarfon Herald

MAR-08

Port Talbot league round up

Port Talbot Town won 8-2 at Market Tavern in the Ace Window Systems Group Cup.

Nathan Hodgson netted four, with the other goals coming from Gareth Couch, Gareth Powell, Steve Davies and Dean O'Brien, Tavern's goals came from Richard Mason and Steve Taylor. Newton Wanderers lost 4-0 at home to Glyncorrwg Hall with Ryan White (3) and Greg Davies on target.

Baglan Road Dragons lost 4-0 at home to Croeserw.

In group B, Four Winds blew away Kenfig Hill 9-0. Mike Cooling (5), Justin Ravenhill (2) and Anthony Lovell (2) were the marksmen.

In division one, leaders Old Surgery could only manage a 2-2 draw with lowly Porthcawl Town.

FC Cornelly got close to the leaders thanks to a 12-0 victory at Blue Stars. On target were Mike Bevan (3), Shaz Kaliq (3), Nathan Tandy (2), Simon Williams, Byron Powell, Leon Williams and Craig Jones.

Afan Lido lost 4-2 at home 4-2 to Margam YC. Lee Evans and Liam Gregory netted for Lido and Phil Taylor, Dave Jones, Paul Wagstaff and Shaun Hill for Margam.

Croeserw beat Royal Mail PT 3-2 with goals from Greg Francis, Dwayne Reynolds and Geraint Ferguson, Mail's scorers were Matthew Borkett and Aaron Bosworth. Cornelly Utd lost 6-3 at home to Glyncorrwg Hall.

Evening Post

MAR-07

Barry Town in buy out talks

Barry Town owner Stuart Lovering is in talks with a potential buyer for the club.

Macron Welsh League Barry have been up for sale over the last few months, both the football club and the Jenner Park social club.

'There has been interest, but nothing is finalised,' said Lovering. 'We are having talks, but we will have to wait and see how they go.'

Barry Town continue to play their home matches at AFC Treforest, while their traditional home at Jenner Park is being used by Vale of Glamorgan League AFC Barry.

The stand-off with Vale of Glamorgan Council continues, but Lovering is still hoping to find common ground.

'We are keen to talk to the council and sort the situation out,' said Lovering. 'We cannot keep playing away from Barry.'

South Wales Echo

MAR-07

Legg on board to help save County

Legg, 39, spent much of 2005/06 undergoing treatment because of a cancerous tumour in his neck, which forced him to leave Peterborough United and retire as a professional footballer.

However Legg has not been having treatment for six months and despite fears from doctors that the tumour may led to restricted movement in his neck, shoulder and arm feels fit enough to play competitively and signed for County on Friday night.

He made his debut for the Conference South basement boys in Saturday's drubbing against Weymouth, but is delighted to be playing for a club he holds in such high esteem.

"I have had loads of offers, mostly from League clubs, but I had no interest in getting back into it to be honest," he said.

"It is only six months on from me ending my cancer treatment and I am struggling for fitness, but a call to arms to help out a Welsh club was something I couldn't resist.

"When I played for Cardiff City I lived in Newport, I have seen them play in the days when they were at Somerton Park and it is a club that deserves better.

South Wales Argus

MAR-06

Davies eye's Goytre in semi-final

Evening Post

MAR-06

A 2 horse race to get to WPL