West End and Ragged School two of the most successful Swansea senior league sides in recent years, clash in the second round of the FAW Trophy next month. West End have been admitted this season to the Macron Welsh League and have got off to a flying start, while in the first round of the trophy they romped to a 9-1 victory over Blaengwawr.

Ragged, meanwhile, be at Barry FC 6-1.

Another Swansea side, Maltsters Sports, have landed a mouthwatering round two game at home to Welsh League Abertillery while Baglan Red Dragons can look forward to a home match against Cogan Coronation. South Gower also have home advantage.

Full FAW Trophy 2nd rd draw: Abercwmboi v Cwmbach Royal Stars, Baglan Red Dragons v Cogan Coronation, Berriew v Llanrhaeadr YM Mochnant; Caerwys v Llangollen Town; Conwy United v Brickfield Rangers; Coedpoeth Utd v Llanrug Utd; Corus Steel v Llanrumney Utd, Cwmamman Inst v Osborne Ath; Kerry v Waterloo Rovers; Llandrindod Wells v Four Crosses; Maltsters Sports v Abertillery; Penycae v Cefn United; Rhyd Ymwyn v Denbigh Town; Sealand Rovers or Hawarden Rangers v Llandudno Junction; South Gower v Lizvane; West End v Ragged School.

Matches to be played on Saturday September 17.
 

Afan Lido picked up a point against the odds in the first division derby clash with Neath Athletic at Princess Margaret Way. The Seasiders had striker Karl Reynolds dismissed for a second bookable offence in the 54th minute, and at that point they were a goal down.

Andy Hill headed unbeaten Neath in front from Jock Fairbairn's fourth-minute corner, but they created precious little after that.

The Lido equaliser came in the 72nd minute when an angled drive from Liam McCreesh was partially saved by Huw Liddell, only for the ball to creep in at the far post.

The game marked the 350th appearance of Lido goalkeeper Brian Thomas.

It wasn't a good day for the other local clubs in the top flight, with only Maesteg Park showing a win.

The Old Parish side beat Barry Town 5-3 in a game of shifting fortunes at White Tips. Two goals from Barry's Portuguese striker Owen Na Quinhare were cancelled out by a Paul Jones brace, making it 2-2 at the break.

But Jones went on to complete a hat-trick, while two goals from Lee O'Brien completed the Maesteg win.

Briton Ferry took the lead against UWIC at Old Road via Derek Jenkins in the 20th minute, only to lose 3-1.

Chris Collins equalised just before the break, and second-half goals from Liam Walsh and Rob Latchford saw the students home.

Despite dominating the second half, Pontardawe lost by a similar margin at Dinas Powys. Goals from Phil James and Liam Jones put Dinas in the box seat at the interval, but they then had to batten down the hatches.

It was against the run of play that Ramos Karvouniaris shot them three goals clear, and all Ponty had to reflect on was a late effort from Paul Davey.

Goytre Utd were the victims of a smash-and-grab raid from AFC Llwydcoed during a 2-0 setback at Glenhafod Park.

Though the Port Talbot side, who have re-signed Richard Ryan from Port Talbot Town, dominated for long periods, late goals from Paul Price and Chris Vardon carried the Cynon Valley side to victory.

Bridgend Town won 2-1 at Caerleon thanks to goals from Ryland Morgan and Mattie Davies.

In the second division, unbeaten Morriston are proving the surprise package, underlining the point with a 2-1 victory at Tredegar.

Though a goal adrift at the break, Michael Chapman headed Morriston back on terms. And just when it seemed as if the game was destined for 1-1, perseverance by Paul Sweeney reaped dividends when he knocked in a late winner.

But there was no joy for either Garden Village or Porthcawl, both beaten 2-0 away by Caerau Ely and Aberaman respectively.

Village finished with just nine men after Steve Evans and Dave Rimmer received their marching orders in separate incidents.

A patched-up Ammanford lost 3-1 against Troedyrhiw at the Willows, but the score was 1-1 for much of the game, Nathan McNeil netting for the Rice Roaders.

In the third division, unbeaten West End maintained their 100 per cent record with a 3-0 success over Chepstow at Larkfield.

It proved a day to savour for much-travelled striker Rob Shannon, who registered a second-half hat-trick.

He volleyed them ahead in the 57th minute, doubled the lead 13 minutes on, while his third near the end was down to a scrambled effort.

But at 2-0 the Pryderi Park side were grateful to goalkeeper Liam Adams for saving a penalty.

Seven Sisters recorded their first win of the season courtesy of a 3-1 home victory over Gwent side Goytre.

The return of experienced Nigel Westall provided the home attack with some zip, and their first goal in the 34th minute was down to a Richard Herdman penalty.

Nicky Moore doubled the lead, and they put maximum points to bed via a 65th-minute strike from Huw Pascoe.

Timothy Hendra and Steve Williams were both on target as Cwmaman conceded late during a 2-2 outcome at Llantwit Fardre.

Ystradgynlais lost 3-1 at newcomers Cambrian & Clydach in a carbon copy defeat to the one at Chepstow the week before.

Two goals adrift at half-time, Ystrad clawed their way back with a 55th-minute Craig Hopkins penalty.

Adam Alexander rattled the woodwork late on, but it was the Rhondda side that completed the scoring.

TONY POOLE
 

Former Llanelli manager Nicky Tucker has taken over at Macron Welsh League division one club Bridgend Town. The ex-Taffs Well boss, who last season saved the Reds from an immediate return back to the Welsh League, is taking over at a club with Welsh Premiership aspirations.

Bridgend are hoping to close a deal with supermarket giant Asda in the near future that would give them a new ground in the town.

However, for the time being Tucker will be looking to take Bridgend to the top of the Welsh League.

"I wouldn't have taken over at a Welsh League club if they didn't have ambitions to climb into the Welsh Premiership," said Tucker, who was replaced as manager at Stebonheath by Peter Nicholas.

"Bridgend has been a club in decline for too many years but it has one of the biggest catchment areas in Wales.

"The current squad needs strengthening in order for us to make a promotion push this season and I will be looking to introduce up to five players.''

Tucker takes over at Coychurch Road from ex-Briton Ferry player Francis Ford, who took over as player-manager three seasons ago.

Ford, in harness with former Cardiff City player Cohen Griffith, managed to keep Bridgend in the top flight on a low budget.

Ex-Garw manager Drew Phillips, who joined Ford at Bridgend in the close season, will be Tucker's assistant, with Griffith likely to remain as coach.

TONY POOLE
 

Afan Lido throw down the gauntlet to Neath in the day's big derby at St Margaret Way in the first division. The Llandarcy Park side go into the game on the back of a below-par display in a goalless draw with Goytre United on Wednesday.

Neath have Billy Timothy back from a one-match suspension, but will be without both Martyn James and Jason Hislop.

Lido, who have lost successive home games against Pontardawe and Ton Pentre, still have Carl Evans, Chris Piper, Paul Reid and Lee Shrimpton suspended.

However, Phil Holmes is back from suspension and manager Mark Robinson has added strikers Karl Reynolds and Carl Lewis to his squad.

Goytre, buoyed by a classy display against Neath on Wednesday, host fancied AFC Llwydcoed.

The Port Talbot village side will be without striker Darren Lyons against a side defeated at both Neath and Briton Ferry within five days.

Ferry, who have won back-to-back games against Newport YMCA and AFC Llwydcoed, welcome Uwic to Old Road.

Marcus Evans has completed a three-match ban, but skipper Leigh Morgan remains doubtful.

The return of Derek Jenkins pepped up a young side against AFC Llwydcoed and he celebrated in getting the 68th-minute winner in a 1-0 success.

Unbeaten Pontardawe Town will run fitness tests on both Layton Thomas and Rob Folland ahead of their away clash with leaders Dinas Powys.

However, back in contention are Richard Smith, Marc Otten, Richard Lewis and Carl Mainwaring, who has yet to make a club debut since switching from Skewen in close season.

Meanwhile, Bridgend are rumoured to be showing an interest in former Llanelli manager Nicky Tucker.

In the second division, Garden Village will be looking to make it four wins on the trot when they take on Caerau Ely.

Ashley Richards, who was sent off during the 3-2 midweek win at Ammanford, is suspended while Richard Uffendale and Mark Lloyd are both unavailable.

However, manager Robert Lloyd has Paul Bromage back from a calf injury.

Ammanford, who make a first visit to Troedyrhiw, lose Liam Preece to suspension.

Morriston head for Tredegar and Dingle boss Michael Ellery hopes to welcome back Michael Gammon, Jamie Lydiard and Dean Rosselli.

But assistant manager Dean Beniamous, who has once again hit top form this season in attack, is an absentee

Third division newcomers West End, who have already accounted for Seven Sisters and Llantwit Fardre, place a 100 per cent record on the line against Chepstow at Larkfield.

The Pryderi Park club are able to name an unchanged squad following the 4-0 win at Llantwit Fardre on Wednesday.

Cwmaman, who surrendered an unbeaten tag at Newcastle Emlyn in midweek, look to bounce back against Llantwit Fardre at Central Park.

Three late goals at Parc Emlyn condemned Cwm to a 5-2 defeat, but they will be looking to Nathan Davies to plug gaps in defence.

Still ruled out of contention are newcomers Alex Whitehead and Alex Rybicki.

Seven Sisters are hoping to coax striker Nigel Westall out of semi-retirement for their home game with Gwent high fliers Goytre.

The Dulais Valley side have yet to fire on all cylinders and their scorer in Wednesday's 1-1 home draw with Ystradgynlais, Owain Llewellyn, is a doubtful starter along with Huw Keenan.

Ystradgynlais will have Andrew Miller missing for their away clash against newly promoted Cambrian & Clydach.

The Ynyscedwyn side, who picked up a first point of the season at Seven Sisters last Wednesday, also have Lance Davies suspended.

TONY POOLE
 

Briton Ferry pulled off the result of the night in the Macron Welsh League division one, defeating AFC Llwydcoed 1-0 at Old Road. Ferry snuffed out the attacking threat posed by the Cynon Valley side, and struck in the 68th minute through Derek Jenkins after a mistake by ex-Ferry goalkeeper Lee Ibbs.

The big derby clash between Neath Athletic and Goytre Utd at Llandarcy Park finished goalless.

Goytre were the hungrier and better-organised side throughout.

Two goals from Jonny Cuss earned unbeaten Bryntirion the double over Betws while second-division Garden Village also beat Ammanford.

Goals from Dave Rimmer, Steve Evans and Ashley Richards sent Village clear, with Cerison Davies bagging a second-half brace.

Ammanford's Liam Preece and Village's Ashley Griffiths both saw red.

In the third division, West End gained an emphatic 4-0 victory at Llantwit Fardre with Darren Griffiths netted twice while Carl Smitham and Rob Shannon were also on target.

Seven Sisters and Ystradgynlais played out a 1-1 stalemate in the Dulais Valley with a strike from Ystrad's Liam Soroka being cancelled out by Chris Herdman.

Cwmaman surrendered their 100 per cent record, losing 5-2 at Newcastle Emlyn, with Steve Williams and Roy Tomlinson the Cwm marksmen.

TONY POOLE
 

Briton Ferry achieved the result of the day in the first division, winning 3-0 against Newport YMCA at Mendalgief Road. Having lost their opening fixtures against Afan Lido and AFC Llwydcoed, the Old Road side hit peak form in the Newport suburbs.

They went ahead as early as the fifth minute when Sam Brown drove home a 30-metre free kick.

It was then the turn of St Joseph's import Jonny Chellew to hit the target, and suddenly Ferry were on the way to victory.

The home side did have a little flurry on the resumption with goalkeeper Nicky Pritchard making a few telling stops, but the game was all up for them in the 78th minute.

Former Bonymaen player Jonathan Copp latched on to ball played out of defence, and he got the third Ferry goal.

This formed Ferry's third win at the ground in as many seasons as they had previously triumphed there in cup competitions.

They will now be looking to reverse a 3-0 defeat at Llwydcoed last week when the Cynon Valley side travel to Old Road tomorrow night.

Goytre Utd came within a whisker of opening their campaign with a victory over Taffs Well at Rhiw Ddar.

But in the end the Port Talbot village side had to be content with a 1-1 draw - Neil Hennessy heading home in the 94th minute.

Goytre, who included just one new player in ex-Neath midfield man Ryan Penny, were without both Thomas Meiring and Jonny Walkley.

Former Maesteg Park goalkeeper Adrian Tucker, who was with Grange Quins last winter, was soon called into action to deal with a shot from Goytre's Ian Jones.

The visitors were looking composed on the ball, and eventually turned pressure into a goal a minute from half time.

Michael Waters pumped the ball into the penalty area, and a powerful header from Darren Lyons got the better of Tucker.

However, during the second half Taffs Well came on strong, and the home camp felt they received their just desserts when Hennessy equalised.

Goytre now face a tough week with an away fixture at Neath Athletic tomorrow followed by Saturday's home game with AFC Llwydcoed.

Pontardawe Town once more mustered a late equaliser to pick up a point in a 2-2 stalemate with UWIC at Cyncoed.

Seven days earlier they came late to earn a 3-3 draw at Newport YMCA, and on this occasion Ryan Fahey provided them with a 15th-minute lead goal.

But they trailed 2-1 at the break, and it wasn't until the 85th minute that Paul Davey registered an equaliser.

Pontardawe will be in action next on Saturday at Dinas Powys, who opened up with three straight wins and are the early season pacesetters.

Maesteg Park opened their campaign with a derby clash at newly promoted Bryntirion - 6-0 midweek winners over Betws - and had to be satisfied with a 2-2 draw.

This extended Park's unbeaten run in the league to 15 games, but they looked a little unsteady when trailing 2-0 after quarter of an hour.

Brandon Walters shot the Bridgend side ahead with ex-Bluebird Sean Cronin doubling the lead.

Matthew Ray pulled one back in the 19th minute, but Bryntirion went on to carve out the best chances during the remainder of the half.

However, the Old Parish side equalised in the 48th minute when Ray and Steve Conaty were the architects of a Rob Walters strike.

Big-spending Bridgend, who have signed striker Mattie Davies from Carmarthen, could only manage a 1-1 draw at Ely Rangers -- Bevan Humphries the Bridgend marksman.

Another Carmarthen player, Nicky Burke, got the only goal of the game as Betws beat Barry Town 1-0 at Betws Park.

In the second division, Morriston gained a barnstorming 5-2 victory over new boys Troedyrhiw at the Dingle.

Mark Baker and former Bonymaen player Paul Sweeney both bagged first half braces as the Swansea side eased into a 4-1 interval lead.

The Willows team then put the wind up Morriston in pulling back to 4-2 only for Baker to complete a hat-trick on 65 minutes.

Porthcawl were twice ahead only to suffer a 3-2 defeat against Garden Village at Stafford Common.

Christian Pascoe shot the Seasiders ahead with ex-Pontardawe and Skewen front man Ashley Richards squaring matters before the break.

Pascoe once more took Porthcawl ahead but two wickedly driven free kicks from Dai Rimmer saw the Village people home.

Seven Sisters went down 2-0 at Pentwyn Dynamos while Ystradgynlais suffered a 3-1 setback during their opener against Chepstow at Larkfield.

Two goals adrift after 24 minutes, Ystrad responded when a flick on by Craig Hopkins created a goal for Andrew Miller.

But the Swansea Valley side were once more caught napping on the restart, and were now staring at defeat.

However, they then took the game to Chepstow with Hopkins and Craig Jones almost turning things around.

Ystrad make the short trip across to Seven Sisters for tomorrow evening's eagerly anticipated derby meeting.
 

Neath Athletic stormed to victory over AFC Llwydcoed during an eventful Llandarcy Park encounter in Macron Welsh League Division One. Neath had two players sent off and two carded while Llwydcoed had a man dismissed and four booked.

However, the game could never be described as physical it was more a case of assessor Roger Gifford being in attendance, leading to Cardiff referee Kevin Morgan doing everything by the book.

The tone was set in the first minute when Neath's David D'Auria was cautioned, and soon after Billy Timothy followed suit.

But in the 13th minute an under-hit back pass led to final defender Timothy bringing down Paul Price in the box.

Timothy received his marching orders, and Jarred Price went on to convert the subsequent penalty.

But it was the 10 men who hit back hard and they went on to outplay their opponents who had already beaten both Ton Pentre and Briton Ferry this term.

Neath were more creative in attack, and in the 26th minute ex-Swan Jonathan Keaveny drilled home a D'Auria flag kick.

Better followed in the 42nd minute when a perfectly weighted pass from Liam Hancock caught the Cynon Valley side out at the back.

Although Keaveny was driven wide, his shot from a tight angle got the better of Dean Lee in the Llwydcoed goal.

Neath continued to pose a threat from corners and on several occasions the visitors failed to pick up Hancock at the back post.

In the 62nd minute Steve Evans somehow failed to head home at the back post, and soon after ex-Maesteg man Dale Gardiner was forced to head a shot from Llwydcoed's Ryan Barry off the goal line.

However, Neath celebrated the great escape in carving out the goal in the 70th minute that decided the destination of the three points.

From a third successive corner, Jock Fairbairn played it into the near post and Carl Shaw nodded home.

However, there was still time for Neath substitute Martyn James to be sent off - after only 12 minutes on the field - along with Llwydcoed's Chris Davies.

"Taking into account we played for most of the game a man short, this was an excellent display," said Neath manager Andrew Dyer.

"Everyone rolled up their sleeves and considering Jonathan Keaveny's father had died the day before, his display was outstanding.''
 

Under-strength Afan Lido were battered into submission by title holders Ton Pentre in Macron Welsh League Division One. The Seasiders who were without six first choice players constantly surrendered ground during the early stages and could have gone three down after just seven minutes.

A dreadful back pass from Karl Roberts almost let in ex-Maesteg Park and Port Talbot star Alyn Jones after four minutes while soon after an Andrew Sebburn header was nodded off the goal line by impressive teenager Craig Jones.

In the seventh minute, a shot from Dale Price, formerly of Gwynfi and Carmarthen Town, was palmed over the cross bar by Brian Thomas.

Things then tended to even themselves out, but that said Ton's heavyweight goalkeeper Steve Hall could have hired a deckchair off the seafront.

The Bulldogs went ahead on the half-hour mark after a Price corner hung around in the box and ex-Betws man Sebburn volleyed home.

Lido then had player-coach Paul Reid dismissed for a challenge that you would feel lucky to escape with a yellow or miffed to receive red.

It wasn't until the 50th minute that Lido tested goalkeeper Hall and the ground shook when he dived superbly across goal to keep out a Craig Jones effort.

Lido were now asking some questions of Ton and after skipper Paul Evans just missed out on the end of a Craig Martin free kick, the Seasiders levelled.

From a 66th minute Jones free kick, Greg Hurley popped up on the back post to head firmly past Hall.

Lido's cameo continued when Liam McCreesh almost netted on the end of another Jones free kick but significantly they were only back on terms for three minutes.

Ton won a free kick 25 metres out that Carl Thomas curled just inside a post.

Though Lido kept plugging away to the end, there was no way back for the 10 men.
 

Afan Lido suffered a second consecutive defeat - losing 2-1 against champions Ton Pentre at St Margaret Way in the Macron Welsh League first division's match-of-the-day. The Bulldogs showed their teeth early on, but missed three great openings inside 10 minutes.

They eventually went ahead on 30 minutes when ex-Betws man Andrew Sebburn drilled home a Dale Price corner.

Five minutes later, Lido had player-coach Paul Reid dismissed, but they came more into the picture with 10 men.

Greg Hurley headed home a Craig Jones free-kick in the 66th minute, but they were only on terms for three minutes. Carl Thomas curled in a low free-kick to secure Ton a three-point return.

Unbeaten Pontardawe Town mustered a late equaliser during a 2-2 draw with Uwic at Cyncoed.

Though Ryan Fahey shot Ponty ahead after 15 minutes, by half-time they were 2-1 in arrears. But with just five minutes to go, Paul Davey's second goal of the season secured them a deserved share of the spoils.

Briton Ferry got off the mark with a morale-boosting 3-0 victory over Newport YMCA at Mendalgief Road.

Ferry, who had won cup-ties at the ground over the past two seasons, took the lead through Sam Brown and never looked back. Jonny Chellew made it 2-0 at the interval and, though YMCA attempted to rally, Ferry signed off with a good strike from Jonathan Copp.

Goytre United opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Taffs Well at Rhiw Ddar.

Darren Lyons gave the Port Talbot village side the lead on 44 minutes when heading home on the end of a Michael Waters cross.

That seemed to be it, but four minutes into injury time home centre-back Mark Hennessy rose above the Goytre defence to head home.

Maesteg Park found themselves 2-0 down after 15 minutes at Bryntirion, but they hit back to earn a 2-2 draw.

Goals from Brandon Walters and ex-Bluebird Sean Cronin left the Bridgend side in the driving seat with Matthew Ray pulling a goal back. The equaliser came in the 48th minute when Ray and Steve Conaty set up Rob Walters, who fired past goalkeeper Rob Cronick.

A goal from Carmarthen Town's Nicky Burke in the 70th minute shot Betws to a 1-0 home win over Barry Town while big-spending Bridgend were held to 1-1 at Ely Rangers. Bevan Humphries was the Bridgend marksman, with Nick Hooper responding.

In the second division, Ammanford bounced back from Tuesday's 2-0 loss at Garden Village to beat visiting Aberaman 2-0.

The Rice Roaders hit the front in the 25th minute through Nicky Dawson with Cerison Davies doubling the lead just before the break.

During the second period, a penalty save from goalkeeper Neil Thomas thwarted an Aberaman revival.

Morriston stormed to a 5-2 win over Troedyrhiw at the Dingle with Mark Baker rising to the occasion.

Baker delivered twice inside the first 10 minutes, while Bonymaen recruit Paul Sweeney followed suit as the Swansea side went in with a 4-1 advantage.

A defensive blunder led to Troedyrhiw pulling back to 4-2, but Baker went on to complete a hat-trick and make things safe in the process.

Garden Village left it until injury time to wrap up a 3-2 win over Porthcawl at Stafford Common.

Christian Pascoe shot the Seasiders ahead with Ashley Richards equalising, making it 1-1 at the interval.

Pascoe once more sent Porthcawl ahead, but two well-struck free kicks from Dave Rimmer carried the Village people to victory.

Cwmaman made it three wins in as many starts courtesy of a 1-0 success over Risca & Gelli at Grenig Park.

In an encounter that failed to hit the heights, the goal that separated the sides arrived in the 65th minute with Nathan Davies netting on the end of a Mickey Evans corner.

There was no joy for Seven Sisters, who lost 2-0 at Pentwyn Dynamos, or for Ystradgynlais - beaten 3-1 during their opening fixture by Chepstow at Larkfield.

Two goals down after 24 minutes, a strike from Andrew Miller threw Ystrad a lifeline.

But Chepstow stretched the lead on the restart and although the visitors finishing strongly and Chris Jones hit the cross bar, the damage had been done.

TONY POOLE
 

Swansea side West End went on the rampage to reach the second round of the FAW Trophy. Just admitted to the Macron Welsh League, they crushed Blaengwawr Inn 9-1 with Carl Smitham and Robert Shannon each scoring a brace and individual goals for Jeff Aspell, Andy Tyrell,Rory Smitham and Darren Griffiths.

Former winners of the trophy, Ragged School comfortably progressed with a 6-1 win at Jenner Park against newly-formed Barry FC.

Corus Steel triumphed 5-1 at Ton and Gelli Boys Club and Maltsters Sports made it through in extra time against Tongwynlais and Cwmaman Institute moved into round two but Bonymaen Colts fell by the wayside.

Port Talbot and District team Bluestars crashed to a 20-0 defeat by Llanrumney United - believed to be a record score in the competition.
 

Neath Athletic triumphed 3-1 over AFC Llwydcoed at Llandarcy Park last night to maintain an unbeaten start to the season in the Macron Welsh League division one. However, the Llandarcy Park side played for most of the game with just 10 men following the dismissal of Billy Timothy in the 13th minute.

Having been cautioned after five minutes, Timothy was then sent off for holding back Paul Price in the box.

Jarred Price converted the penalty, and Neath also had Martyn James sent off by Cardiff referee Kevin Morgan in the 79th minute.

Llwydcoed's Chris Davies became the third player to be dismissed when he received a red card for dissent in the 87th minute.

But Neath outclassed the Cynon Valley side with just 10 men and deservedly levelled in the 23rd minute when Jonathan Keaveny drove in a David D'Auria corner.

Better followed for the home side just before the break when a defence-splitting ball from Liam Hancock found Keaveny, who beat goalkeeper Dean Lee from an acute angle.

Ahead 2-1 at the break, Neath's Steve Evans missed with a point-blank header in the 62nd minute, while at the opposite end Dale Gardiner headed a Ryan Barry shot off the goal line.

Neath eventually sealed victory in the 70th minute when Carl Shaw headed home a Jock Fairbairn corner at the near post.

TONY POOLE
 

The season might only be a week old but eyebrows have already been raised on several fronts. Pontardawe gained a stunning 1-0 midweek victory at Afan Lido, the first management casualty of the season has been unearthed via Chris Holmes (Porthcawl), while Garw have temporarily survived by bringing in players en bloc from Brynna.

Ponty built on last season's second division championship success throughout the summer.

They strengthened the squad considerably and on Tuesday former Llanelli left-back Steve Crabbe made a club debut.

Having drawn 3-3 against Newport YMCA last Saturday, the Swansea Valley side went one better at Princess Margaret Way.

The goal that separated the sides came in the 28th minute from Paul Davey, , with Carl Edwards and Layton Thomas setting it up.

"We played well, especially in the first half, and although Afan Lido rallied, our keeper Chris Curtis only had to pull off one real save," said Pontardawe spokesman Jonathan Wilsher.

Ponty, who visited UWIC this afternoon, complete a fourth successive away fixture at Dinas Powys a week today.

Cricket commitments at the Recreation Ground meant they played all their August fixtures away and incredibly their home campaign won't be launched until October 1 when Betws visit.

On similar lines to the removal of Nicky Tucker as manager of Llanelli, there was also great sympathy attached to the departure of Holmes from Porthcawl.

The Seasiders have brought back secretary Steve Harris as manager after just a year away from the Lock's Lane helm.

Holmes did a grand job and guided the Seasiders into ninth place last season.

He was well respected on the South West Wales circuit and news of his departure took everyone by surprise.

Harris was manager during a golden period for the club that saw them rise from the ranks of the South Wales Amateur League to the Welsh League first division by the mid-1990s.

"My brother Steve has got the football bug back for a couple of reasons," said Porthcawl chairman Norman Harris.

"The opening of new changing facilities and the possible elevation of his son Dan into a first-team player are his reasons for wanting to return to club management.

"However, the move has caused me embarrassment as Chris Holmes did great job for the club and we cannot thank him enough for his unstinting efforts.''

Holmes, was bitterly disappointed with the situation.

He said: "I brought players to the club last year and through sheer hard work it resulted in a sound finish to last season.

"But to be given the news on returning from holiday that I had been replaced as manager was a bitter pill to swallow.

"But I have to accept that Porthcawl Football Club is the baby of the Harris family.

"It will take time for things to sink in, but no doubt I will bounce back and before long look for another post.''

Holmes is being linked with a possible move to second division rivals Garw, who have bought themselves time in temporarily recruiting 15 players en bloc from Brynna.

But what happens to Garw once Brynna's season gets under way in the South Wales Senior League remains the burning issue.

Having lost 4-0 at home to Caldicot on the opening day, things took a turn for the better when the Blandy side won 2-0 at Gwynfi on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Neath Athletic launched their campaign in fine style, winning 2-0 at Taffs Well. Goals from ace marksmen Carl Shaw and Jonathan Keaveny provided the Llandarcy Park club with an ideal launch pad.

Goytre Utd were making a similar journey to Rhiw Ddar this afternoon ahead of Wednesday's eagerly anticipated clash with Neath at Llandarcy Park.

Ahead of this afternoon's programme, Goytre and Maesteg Park were the only two first division clubs yet to play.

Goytre adopted a softly-softly approach during the close season and their only recruit is Neath midfielder Ryan Penny.

Keeper Gareth Scantlebury was tipped to return to the club, but has since opted to go back to Port Talbot Town.

However, Goytre still have Andrew Sparkes and Cornelly-based youngster Ross Williams to call on in goal.

Darren Lyons and John Meacock both resisted temptation from Bridgend Town and the pair might well form key cogs in the Glenhafod Park machinery.

Extra spice is always attached to matches between Neath and Goytre and next Wednesday's showdown is set to follow that pattern.

Maesteg Park, managed by ex-Afan Lido defender Andrew Rickard and Nigel Casey, got things under way today with a derby clash at newly-promoted Bryntirion.

The Old Parish side clung on to hot properties like Paul Jones and Rob Walters in the summer and they were looking to carry on where they left off at the back end of last season.

During the closing weeks of the campaign, Maesteg took the first division by storm, going 14 games without defeat.

However, Bryntirion's stunning 6-0 home win over Betws on Tuesday made pundits sit up and take notice.

Granted, Bryntirion will have to knock over better opposition than Betws to gain respect, but the manner in which they dismantled the former champions was impressive.

They introduced three former Cardiff City players in wide man Leigh Pratt, centre-back Sean Cronin and midfield player Michael Hartley, while ex-Swan Damian Lacey was on the bench.

Lacey, who made 88 starts for the Swans, was forced out of the game two years ago through recurring foot problems.

He had been a physio at Vetch Field until this summer.

Though still not 100 per cent fit, the Cornelly-based player will be a useful acquisition and provide the newcomers with an essential dose of experience.

Another interesting Bryntirion substitute was Port Talbot Town's Jason Bertorelli. He exploited a tiring Betws defence, while the goal of the night belonged to ex-Port Talbot player Ian Gearie.

Last Saturday Townhill- based side West End launched their Welsh League career with a 2-0 success at Seven Sisters.

Though too much cannot be written into one display, first impressions suggest that West End will be a major force in the third division.

They were a little tentative during the opening half, but once Andrew Tyrell and Rob Shannon were added to the attack things began to happen.

Just a minute after entering the fray Tyrell netted, while Shannon carved out a peach of a goal for striker Darren Griffiths.

Players who caught the eye were wide man Rory Smitham, who created problems for Seven along the left flank, while the work rate of Jeffrey Aspell was impressive.

Seven could have scored first through James Griffiths, but his shot came back off the crossbar with keeper Lee Adams beaten.

The Dulais Valley side might take time to find their feet, but captain Richard Herdman read the game well and was easily their best player.

Cwmaman have got off to a flier, twice bagging four goals during victories over Cwmbran Celtic and Newcastle Emlyn.

Since joining the league in 2002, the Amman Valley side haven't exactly set the place on fire. During all three previous campaigns they have recorded 11 wins, while their best run has been two draws and three victories.

Cwmaman, who hosted Risca this afternoon, face a busy week, with the rematch at Newcastle Emlyn on Tuesday followed by a trip to Llantwit Fardre a week today.

Should they remain unbeaten during this sequence, a little bit of club history will be made that will surely encourage managers Eirian Davies and Colin Haines.

TONY POOLE
 

Neath Athletic get this weekend's programme underway tonight with an attractive clash against AFC Llwydcoed at Llandarcy Park (7.15pm). Both teams will take 100 per cent records into the game with Neath having won at Taffs Well while the Cynon Valley side beat champions Ton Pentre away and then accounted for visiting Briton Ferry.

The Llandarcy Park side expect to field an unchanged team as Andy Hill and Ryan Frankcomb are still both unavailable.

Meanwhile, tomorrow's top billing goes to the clash between Afan Lido and reigning champions Ton Pentre at St Margaret Way.

The Seasiders will once more be without the suspended quartet of Lee Shrimpton, Phil Holmes, Chris Piper and Carl Evans while Shaun O'Leary and Carl Lewis are also unavailable.

But Mark Robinson, who is well aware that performances against the Bulldogs are used as a yardstick, has striker Karl Reynolds back in his squad.

Pontardawe Town will be looking to build on the midweek win at Afan Lido when they challenge UWIC at Cyncoed.

Rob Folland and Richard Lewis, who both missed the victory over Lido, return to the squad and ex-Llanelli left-back Steve Crabbe is also retained.

Goytre Utd get things underway against Taffs Well at Rhiw Ddar without midfield ace Jonny Walkley.

But in a strong-looking squad, they have included new signing Ryan Penny from Neath.

It remains to be seen whether the departure of Nicky Tucker from Llanelli sparks a return of players to his former club Taffs Well.

Another eye-catching fixture is the derby clash between Bryntirion and Maesteg Park at Bryntirion Park

The Bridgend side will be on a high, having humbled neighbours Betws 6-0 on Tuesday.

But it will form a first outing of the season for Maesteg.

Though Park boss Andrew Rickard has decided to hang up his boots, they have retained the services of their feared front two - Paul Jones and Rob Walters.

They are hoping more will be seen this season of both ex-Goytre Utd captain Andrew Davies and Andrew Wright while ex-Bridgend defender Rogan Matthews is on board, and Scott Conaty will be seen in tandem with his brother Steve.

Briton Ferry will be looking to get off the mark against Newport YMCA at Mendalgief Road.

The Old Road side will run fitness tests on captain Leigh Morgan, who missed the midweek defeat at AFC Llwydcoed, and teenager Daniel Thomas.

But Daniel Triggs is available for selection and Kieran Howells will return to cricket with Ynysygerwn.

In the second division, Garden Village hope to include Neath goalkeeper Mark Snell for their clash with Porthcawl at Stafford Common.

Ammanford, who lost 2-0 at Village in midweek and had both substitute Rob Griffiths and John Garland sent off with nine booked, will look to bounce back at home to Aberaman.

The Rice Roaders have signed wide man Emyr Jones from Carmarthenshire League side Drefach, and he goes straight into the team.

Morriston challenge newly promoted Troedyrhiw at the Dingle but West End's third-division fixture at Llanwern has been called off, owing to the Pryderi Park club's involvement in the FA Trophy at Blaengwawr.

Cwmaman will be placing a 100 per cent record on the line at home to Risca while Seven Sisters will be understrength for their encounter at Pentwyn Dynamos.

Chris Herdman, James Griffiths, Simon Isaac, Richard Herdman and Huw Preece are all attending Leon Thomas's wedding, but Lee Sullivan and Shaun Lambert return to the side.

Finally, Ystradgynlais open their campaign at Chepstow without Gareth Evans, captain Dave Miller and Lancelot Davies.

But manager Andrew Hopkins is set to hand a debut to goalkeeper James Newman while he has Neath recruit Chris Jones in his squad.

TONY POOLE
 

Pontardawe Town produced the result of the night in the Macron Welsh League division one, triumphing 1-0 at Afan Lido. The goal that did the trick for Ponty arrived in the 28th minute when Carl Edwards and Layton Thomas set up a goal for Paul Davey that gave the visitors the points at the relegated Premier League side.

Lido pressed on the resumption and goalkeeper Chris Curtis was forced into making a hurried save, but Ponty clung on.

However, there was no joy for Briton Ferry, who followed up a home defeat against Afan Lido on the weekend in losing 3-0 at AFC Llwydcoed.

Newly promoted Bryntirion gained a stunning 6-0 home win over former champions Betws on the back of goal braces from Jonny Cuss and Michael Hartley together with strikes from Sean Cronin and Ian Gearie.

In the second division, Garden Village took the derby clash with Ammanford at Stafford Common, running out 2-0 winners.

Striker Ben Brown shot Village ahead during the opening half, and they wrapped things up on the strength of a Steve Evans goal.

Garw gained a morale-boosting 2-0 victory over Gwynfi Utd at the Cape - Gareth James and Jonathan Morgan their marksmen - while Morriston played out a goalless draw with Porthcawl at the Dingle.

Dean Beniamous and Mark Baker both went close for the Swansea side, but it wasn't to be.

And third division Cwmaman built on a 4-2 win at Cwmbran Celtic on the weekend in defeating Newcastle Emlyn 4-0 at Grenig Park.

All the goals came during an action-packed first half with Nathan Davies, captain Steve Williams, his brother Chris and Mickey Evans all on target.
 

Neath Athletic made a winning start in the first division, triumphing 2-0 over Taffs Well at Rhiw Ddar. Much has been written about the Llandarcy Park side's summer recruitment drive and it bore fruit first time out.

Neath boss Andrew Dyer paraded his new strike-force of ex-Swan Jonathan Keaveny and Carl Shaw (Port Talbot - and both made a goal-scoring start.

The deadlock was broken in the 35th minute when a ball played over the top of the home defence by Keaveny fell to Shaw.

He didn't require a second invitation to take aim and a well-taken goal from Shaw separated the sides during the interlude.

In the 65th minute it was the turn of Shaw to act as architect and a one-two with Keaveny resulted in the latter doubling the lead.

Some probing passes from midfield by ex-Briton Ferry man Martyn James unsettled the home defence, while Steve (Ginger) Evans and Liam Hancock were outstanding at the back.

However, Neath anticipate sterner opposition when they host AFC Llwydcoed, 2-1 opening day winners at champions Ton Pentre, on Friday night (7pm).

Also 2-0 away winners were Afan Lido, who struck twice during the second period to overcome Briton Ferry at Old Road.

Ferry had Marcus Evans red-carded just before the interval and Lido went in ruing a hatful of missed chances.

However, they got the big break on the hour when Craig Jones crossed for Shaun O'Leary to give them the lead.

Ten minutes later Jones and O'Leary unlocked the home defence and Greg Hurley ensured the Seasiders were off to a flying start.

However, there was still time for Ferry to have another man ordered off - Sam Brown taking an early shower on this occasion - and a side containing seven newcomers kept battling to the end.

Ferry now travel to cock-a-hoop AFC Llwydcoed tonight, minus the injured duo of goalkeeper Nicky Pritchard and skipper Leigh Morgan, while Ferry host newly promoted Pontardawe.

The Swansea Valley side got locked into an exciting dual with former second division colleagues Newport YMCA.

Last season they played out a 2-2 draw at Mendalgief Road and this time around it ended 3-3.

Trailing to an early strike from Craig Jeavons, Ponty clung on and went on to take a 2-1 interval lead.

Rob Folland got their equaliser, while ex-Ferry front man Layton Thomas sent them ahead in the approach to half-time.

But having battled their way back, Ponty went 3-2 down - Philip Tranter getting both goals - and looked to be heading for defeat.

But they refused to throw in the towel and got their just desserts when substitute Ryan Fahey - formerly of Llanelli - drilled in a late equaliser.

Much-changed Bridgend Town went down 3-1 against Barry Town at White Tips, while a two-goal contribution from Chris Vardon set up a 2-1 win for AFC Llwydcoed at Ton Pentre.

In the second division, Porthcawl have surprisingly parted company with manager Chris Holmes ahead of the start of their season at Morriston tonight.

The Seasiders have brought back former manager and secretary Steve Harris in a surprise move that coincides with the imminent opening of a new pavilion.

Holmes was obviously disappointed to have been ousted, especially as he had brought players in and lifted Porthcawl into ninth spot last term.

"Steve Harris wanted managerial duties back and in all honesty Porthcawl Football Club is the baby of the Harris family," said Holmes.

Morriston picked up a useful point at Aberaman with two goals from Michael Chapman cancelling out lead goals.

Garw recruited 14 players en bloc from the Brynna club in order to buy time and fulfil their home game with Caldicot.

However, it ended in a 4-0 defeat and they had Lee Stuckey sent off into the bargain.

In the third division, Cwmaman gained a 4-2 win over league newcomers Cwmbran Celtic at the Cwmbran Stadium.

Celtic had 10 ex-Welsh Premiership men on view and although they opened the scoring, Cwm weren't to be denied.

Captain Steve Williams levelled from the penalty spot while a Paul Pugh strike gave them a 2-1 half-time lead.

Williams made it 3-1 straight from the second-half restart, and they rounded off a grand day in Gwent on the back of a long-range Timothy Hendra effort.

Meanwhile, Bryntirion and Port Talbot Town played out a goalless draw in the Bridgend suburbs.

At times the Bridgend side looked just as capable as their Welsh Premiership opponents.

And the Bridgend side are set to parade ex-Swan Damian Lacey during tonight's derby clash with Betws at Bryntirion Park.
 

Afan Lido and Neath Athletic launched their seasons in fine style in the first division while Pontardawe came late to earn a point. Lido took the Old Road derby clash with Briton Ferry, 2-0, and Neath won by the same margin at Taffs Well.

Ferry had Marcus Evans sent off just before half-time, and it was not until the hour mark that Lido hit the front via Shaun O'Leary.

Greg Hurley sealed victory with a 75th-minute strike, and soon after Ferry had Sam Brown dismissed for a second bookable offence.

A goal in each half did the trick for the new Neath club in the Cardiff suburbs.

Carl Shaw latched on to a 35th-minute ball from Jonathan Keaveny to send the Llandarcy Park side ahead while roles were reversed midway through the second period.

Keaveny and Shaw exchanged passes, resulting in Keaveny making things safe.

Pontardawe endured a rollercoaster ride during an exciting encounter with Newport YMCA at Mendalgief Road.

In a battle between two of last season's promoted clubs, YMCA hit the front through Craig Jeavons.

But Ponty took a 2-1-interval lead courtesy of goals from Rob Folland and Layton Thomas.

Back came the Newport side to go 3-2 up, Philip Tranter getting both, and it wasn't until near the end that Ponty clawed their way back.

Substitute Ryan Fahey popped up to get the equaliser, and for a second year on the trot the sides played out a Mendalgief Road stalemate.

AFC Llwydcoed earned a surprise 2-1 win at champions Ton Pentre - Chris Vardon striking twice - while fancied Bridgend received a 3-1 setback against Barry Town at White Tips in Treforest.

In the second division, Porthcawl Town have surprisingly reinstated secretary and former manager Steve Harris ahead of tomorrow night's opener against Morriston at the Dingle.

He takes over at the Lock's Lane helm from Chris Holmes, who did a great job at the seaside club last season.

Morriston opened their campaign with a deserved point at much changed Aberaman.

The Dingle side, who paraded four new signings in Dave Thomas, Paul Sweeney, Michael Gammon and Liam Todd, fell behind to a third-minute goal.

However, it failed to dampen enthusiasm and Michael Chapman struck, making it 1-1 at the break.

The Cynon Valley side went back ahead on the hour mark only for Morriston to provide them with a sting in the tail.

Substitute Liam Todd cut back a telling ball, allowing Chapman to steal in and secure the Swansea side a share of the spoils.

However, Garden Village came a cropper against Pontypridd at Ynysangharad Park, losing 3-0, but the scoreline didn't do them any favours.

Dale Selvedge had a stormer for the Village people, who were two goals behind during the interlude, and they were left to reflect on some charitable defending.

Threatened Garw signed players en bloc from Brynna in order to buy time only to lose 4-0 against visiting Caldicot while West End and Cwmaman got off to barnstorming starts in the third division.

Swansea side West End hit the ground running in winning 2-0 against Seven Sisters in the Dulais Valley.

Following a disappointing opening half, the game sprang to life in the 66th minute once Andrew Tyrell and Rob Shannon were introduced into attack.

Within a minute of coming on, Tyrell drilled a Richard Mansell free kick past home goalkeeper Adrian Barnsley.

And the game was all up for Seven once they failed to cope with a superb touchline run from Shannon on 84 minutes.

Shannon got to the by-line and crossed for striker Darren Griffiths, son of ex-Swan Jeff, to head past a helpless Barnsley.

Cwmaman turned on the style to win the day, 4-2, against newcomers Cwmbran Celtic at the Cwmbran Stadium.

Though conceding early, the Grenig Park men soon equalised via a Steve Williams penalty.

They went 2-1 up when Paul Pugh turned in a Timothy Hendra shot that came back off the cross bar, and struck again on the resumption.

Straight from the restart, Carl Discombe and Hendra set up Williams to make it 3-1, and they rounded things off with a lobbed goal from Hendra.
 

TONY POOLE

First division new boys Neath Athletic have seen their squad trimmed to 19 players ahead of tomorrow's Macron Welsh League opener at Taffs Well. Ex-Cardiff City player Leon Jeanne has moved on after discovering he was only on bench duty at Rhiw D'dar, and goalkeeper Mark Snell is being linked with second division Garden Village.

Andy Hill and Ryan Frankcomb are both unavailable while Steve Davies is doubtful with a groin strain.

But the Llandarcy Park side might well parade six newcomers in the Cardiff suburbs - Huw Liddell, Liam Hancock, Martyn James, Jason Hislop, Jonathan Keaveny and Carl Shaw.

Simon Dyer, brother of manager Andrew, has also made a full recovery from the broken leg of two seasons ago that threatened to bring a premature end to his career.

Dyer has been in cracking form during the pre-season friendly matches, highlighting his sharpness in front of goal in netting six times.

Pontardawe Town might well have five new players on view at Newport YMCA in a battle between two of the promoted clubs.

The Briton Ferry trio of goalkeeper Chris Curtis, centre-back Steven Cox and sweeper Michael Chaves are likely to make club debuts.

With former Skewen front man Carl Mainwaring and Ryan Fahey (Llanelli) are also set to make the starting line-up.

Last season's second-division champions completed pre-season matches against Haverfordwest County last Tuesday, losing 1-0 at Bridge Meadow, with former Llanelli midfield player Steve Crabbe in their team.

Seven of the nine intended top-flight fixtures go ahead, including the derby encounter between Briton Ferry and Afan Lido at Old Road.

Lido, relegated from the Welsh Premiership last season, have managed to cling on to the bulk of that squad with only Chris Pridham (Port Talbot Town) and Sacha Walters (Carmarthen Town) departing.

Former Pontardawe goalkeeper Nicky Pritchard, midfield players Jonathan Copp (Bonymaen) and Jonny Chellew (St Joseph's) together with strikers Ashley Stephenson (Neath) and Matthew Dowling (Brunswick) have all put pen to paper at Ferry.

The Old Road club had previously announced the arrival of the ex-Neath duo of Keith Phillips and Dan McGrath.

Morriston open their campaign at Aberaman while Garden Village face a Pontypridd side at Ynysangharad Park bolstered by some high-profile signings.

However, Village have also been busy in the transfer market over the summer with Steve Evans, Ashley Richards, Richard Uffendale and youth product Dale Selvedge set to be introduced.

All eyes in the third division will focus on the Dulais Valley as league newcomers West End test the temperature at Seven Sisters.

The Pryderi Park club, who have handed Wayne Jones the captaincy, will be looking to make a winning start against a side who suffered relegation last season.

Manager Donny Smitham has a fit squad at his disposal, including Jeffrey Aspell, who was with Carmarthen Town last term.

Cwmaman, captained this season by striker Steve Williams, travel to last year's Gwent League runners-up Cwmbran Celtic.

TONY POOLE
 

The future of another Macron Welsh League club is in doubt ahead of the start of the new season on Saturday. Second-division Garw could fold unless some of their former players return to Blandy this week.

Kevin Day, father of snooker star Ryan, was hoping his return to the club as manager would trigger a return of players.

But the only player who has agreed terms is stalwart keeper Mark Elliott.

This has cast a huge doubt over the future of the club and they are set to follow the likes of Porth Tywyn Suburbs and Fields Park Pontllanfraith into oblivion.

Garw, relegated from the top flight last season, are due to host Caldicot in their opening fixture on Saturday.
 

Barry Town will continue as members of the Macron Welsh League division one. The former Welsh Premiership giants came up with a letter of authority from Taff Ely Council, allowing them to continue using the facilities at the White Tips ground in Treforest.

It was feared that Barry would be expelled if they failed to produce written permission.

The problem arose after Barry chairman Stuart Lovering was unable to settle differences with Vale of Glamorgan Council, regarding unpaid raid of £42,000 on their former headquarters at Jenner Park.

TONY POOLE