PENNOCK RULED OUT OF BIG ONE

30 March 2007

Leaders Neath Athletic will be without goalkeeper Tony Pennock for tonight's top-of-the-table clash with Pontypridd Town in the first division at Ynysangharad Park (7pm). Pennock is suffering from a recurring leg problem that may require surgery, and Craig Morris reclaims the goalkeeping spot.

Other than that Neath, who head Pontypridd by one point with a game in hand, will be at full strength.

This forms the first of two key meetings between the championship protagonists within a month with the rematch being staged at Llandarcy Park on April 27.

Goytre United play Taffs Well at Rhiw D'dar.

A Gwent double last weekend over Newport YMCA and Caerleon lifted Goytre into third place and they remain contenders to retain the title.

Maesteg Park host ENTO Aberaman, and the Old Parish side will be hoping to put behind them last week's 2-1 defeat by Pontardawe.

The Swansea Valley side host Bridgend in a basement battle.

Pontardawe add Luke Michael to their squad as Paul Dickie and Richard South are both unavailable.

Bridgend have slipped towards the drop zone over the last fortnight and have failed to score in their last five defeats.

In the second division improving Briton Ferry have Ross Howells back for the derby clash with Morriston at the Dingle.

Howells missed Tuesday's 2-0 home win over West End, but Jonny Evans is missing through a reckless challenge that ended in him going to hospital.

Morriston have re-signed Neil Simon from Pontardawe, and manager Paul Lewis has an option to recall Derek Jenkins.

Garden Village visit Tredegar, and the Stafford Common side are without both Sam Brown and Cameron Hopkins.

However, Dayle Selvage, who impressed during last Sunday's 2-0 home win over St Joseph's in a West Wales Senior Cup semi-final, is retained in the squad.

West End, who have dropped out of the promotion race over the last month, welcome Treharris to Pryderi Park.

The Townhill side lose top scorer Neil Phillips to suspension, following a sending-off during Tuesday's 2-0 defeat against Briton Ferry at Old Road.

Ammanford have home advantage over Troedyrhiw, but manager Neil Rees has already ruled out Paul Jones.

Richard Lewis is rated only 50-50 because of a shoulder injury, but both Jamie Evans and Dean Jenkins return to squad duties.

Last weekend the Rice Roaders went down to a 6-0 defeat at Cardiff Corries only to hit back on the Sunday and hold high-flying Caldicot to a 2-2 draw.

Cwmamman boss Michael Ellery has a fit squad, and will looking to get something out of the third-division basement battle at Risca.

Having sat out last weekend's programme, Ellery is hoping momentum is now with Cwm - and that they can avoid the drop.

Seven Sisters take on Ystradgynlais in a derby clash at the Welfare Ground.

However, Seven have been hit hard of late by suspensions, and will be without Nigel Westall, Nick Moore and Huw Pascoe, but they have signed striker Rob Shannon from second division Garden Village.

Ystrad await a decision on Michael Whapham, who is still troubled by a foot injury, while Carl Evans is suspended and Dave Miller doubtful through family commitments.

Llansawel, buoyed by last week's key 4-2 win at Abertillery, face a more demanding task at promotion-chasing Llanwern.

And managers Wyn Evans and Mickey Evans are further boosted by the return of Wayne Holloway. Scott Mahon, however, is suspended.

TONY POOLE

VILLAGE BOOK CUP FINAL PLACE  

27 March 2007

Garden Village booked their place in the final of the Tony Nakonecznyj West Wales Senior Cup with a 2-0 victory over St Joseph's. Steven Evans and Gary Davies were the heroes for the home side as their strikes set up a cup final date with Welsh Premiership hopefuls Neath Athletic.

Both goals came during the first half but it could have been more had it not been for visiting keeper Chris Didenko, who enjoyed a fine match for the Pic-Up Spares Swansea Senior League side.

Village did have chances early on before breaking the deadlock in the eighth minute when Steven Evans beat Didenko from close range.

Lee Restatter reclaimed possession from St Joseph's and played a defence-splitting pass through to Evans, who struck the ball into the roof of the net.

After numerous amounts of chances, including an Ashley Richards strike which rattled the crossbar, Village added a second shortly before the break.

Cameron Hopkins played the ball deep into the heart of the Saints' box from a corner and player-coach Gary Davies was quickest to respond as he found the bottom corner of the net from eight yards.

St Joseph's looked a different side in the second half as they kept possession and forced Norman Ward into making a few fine saves.

But last season's Swansea League champions were unable to turn their dominance into goals and Garden Village went on to win, confirming their place in the final for the first time.

MAGNIFICENT SEVEN PUT NEATH BACK ON TOP

26 March 2007

Neath Athletic returned to the top of the first division on the strength of a magnificent 7-0 victory over Barry at Llandarcy Park. Having surrendered leadership to Pontypridd last week, Neath put themselves in great heart for Friday's clash with Pontypridd at Ynysangharad Park (7pm).

Liam Hancock, Jarred Price (penalty) and Carl Shaw all netted during the opening half with Mattie Rees collecting the goal-of-the-game on the resumption.

Jonathan Keaveny came off the bench to score twice, and Hancock collected a second goal.

Ton Pentre and Pontypridd played out a second goalless draw of the season while reigning champions Goytre stormed to a 5-0 win at Newport YMCA.

John Meacock and Ryan Penny made it 2-0 at half time and although goalkeeper Gareth Yeoman pulled off a string of fine saves, further goals from Richard Ryan (penalty), Meacock and Darren Lyons rounded off an emphatic victory.

On Sunday, Goytre maintained that good form in winning 3-1 at Caerleon thanks to goals from John Meacock, Ian Turner and top scorer Richard Ryan.

Afan Lido kept their title aspirations alive with a 2-0 win over fast-fading Bridgend in Porthcawl.

John Felton sent Lido on their way in the 28th minute while a 68th-minute penalty from Ian Jones sealed victory.

Pontardawe gained a much-needed 2-1 home victory over Maesteg Park to give themselves some breathing space.

In a game packed with controversial decisions, leading to Pontardawe boss Dai Rees being sent off, Maesteg's Ryan Morgan fluffed a first-half penalty.

Jonny Owen put Pontardawe in front in the 55th minute and although Maesteg levelled from the spot via Robbie Walters, a late own-goal from Nicky Cole gave the home side the points.

In the second division Briton Ferry pulled off a deserved 4-2 home victory over Treharris. The Old Road side led 2-1 at the break thanks to goals from Ross Howells and Steve Davey , and they went on to complete an excellent victory on the back of two quality goals from 16-year-old Richard Evans.

West End bounced back from recent disappointments in triumphing 2-1 over Merthyr Saints at Penydarren Park.

Neil Phillips gave the Pryderi boys the lead and although it was 1-1 at the break, Richard Jones produced a stunning 65th-minute winner.

Garden Village eased relegation fears with a 1-0 win over bottom-placed AFC Llwydcoed at Stafford Common.

The goal that settled the issue arrived in the 10th minute when Cameron Hopkins was felled in the box, and Dave Rimmer obliged from the spot.

Village set up a West Wales senior Cup showdown with Neath on the back of a 2-0 home win over St Josephs with Steve Evans and Gary Davies both netting.

But Ammanford suffered a crushing 6-0 defeat at Cardiff Corries while Morriston went down 5-0 at Caldicot.

However, the Rice Roaders hit back with an excellent 2-2 home draw against Caldicot on Sunday with top scorer Luke Fayres and Richard Lewis netting.

Garw were held to a 1-1 draw at Troedyrhiw with Thomas Hopper producing an injury-time equaliser for the leaders.

In the third division, both Llansawel and Porthcawl produced victories that improved their chances of avoiding the drop.

Llansawel did the damage during the first half in a 4-2 win at Abertillery with Layton Thomas, Anthony Walsh and Craig Catterson all on target.

But although Sawel had substitute Scott Mahon dismissed on the hour, a 75th-minute strike from Michael Walsh sealed the win.

Porthcawl came from a goal behind to pip fellow strugglers Chepstow, 2-1, at Larkfield with Matt Mohammod and Marc McKee their marksmen.

Ystradgynlais bounced back from a shock defeat at Risca to account for visiting Goytre FC 4-2.

Two from top scorer Craig Hopkins allied to strikes from Dave Griffiths and Nicholas Maggs kept Ystrad on the fringes of the promotion race.

TONY POOLE

NEATH SET TO RING THE CHANGES

23 March 2007

Championship-chasing Neath Athletic are likely to make changes for tomorrow's home game with Barry Town in the first division. Having won 1-0 at Haverfordwest on Tuesday to reach the West Wales Senior Cup final, they have an option to bring back Tony Pennock, Rob Folland, Jack Jenkins, Liam Hancock, Chris Pridham, Chris Miller and Mattie Rees.

They all missed the victory over the Bluebirds, while long-term injury victims Ryan Frankcom and Chris Vardon are also fighting for places in a side unbeaten in 15 league outings.

However, all eyes tomorrow will be on the Rhondda Valley derby, with Ton Pentre hosting new leaders Pontypridd Town.

Ton Pentre remain a threat after winning 2-0 at Bryntirion on Wednesday thanks to goals from Jamie Michael and Kristian Orchard.

Goytre United have a Gwent double this weekend, visiting Newport YMCA tomorrow and Caerleon on Sunday.

Set to return are Jonny Walkley and Michael Chaves.

Top-scorer Richard Ryan is troubled with a hamstring pull, and fellow striker Dwayne Strong has a shoulder injury.

Afan Lido will be looking to improve on a two-point return from three matches against struggling Bridgend at Porthcawl.

The Seasiders hope to have striker John Felton back, along with Shaun O'Leary and Stephen Parry. Liam McCreesh sits out a final suspension.

Pontardawe, who host Maesteg Park, welcome back Steve Crabbe, who missed the 1-0 midweek defeat at Grange Quins.

Maesteg, who gained a 1-0 home win over Uwic on Tuesday, have Lee Michael back.

In the second division, Briton Ferry entertain Treharris, and the Old Road side should have senior striker Keith Phillips back.

Work commitments ruled Phillips out of the 4-1 win at West End last week, and captain Dan McGrath is likely to have recovered from a hamstring pull.

Garden Village have a Stafford Common double-header this weekend.

They play AFC Llwydcoed tomorrow and St Joseph's in the West Wales Senior Cup semi-final on Sunday (2.15pm).

Village boss Robert Lloyd will be without midfielder Sam Brown and goalkeeper Stuart Lloyd, but Chris Morgan is back.

Ammanford also have a double booking, away to Cardiff Corries tomorrow ahead of Sunday's home game with Caldicot.

The Rice Roaders are boosted by the return of Luke Fayers, Dean Jenkins, Steffan Hughes and Richie Walton, but Jamie Evans is available only for the Caldicot clash.

West End, who visit Merthyr Saints, will again be without suspended Rory Smitham.

Morriston have a difficult assignment at promotion-seeking Caldicot, but are encouraged by the return of both Leighton Connor and Derek Jenkins.

Michael Gammon is expected to have recovered from illness while manager Paul Lewis will be looking to defenders Kevin Melville and Scott Horton to maintain the form shown against Betws the week before.

In the third division, Ystradgynlais will be hoping to get back on track at home to Goytre FC.

Having lost at Risca, Ystrad hope the return of top-scorer Craig Hopkins, along with Liam Soroka and Nicky Watkins, will pep them up. But Michael Whapham is doubtful with a foot injury and there are also injury worries surrounding Dai Miller and Carl Evans.

Llansawel visit Abertillery in a key basement battle, and the Cwrt Herbert side add new signing Craig Harris to their squad. Andrew Cann also returns.

Seven Sisters still have Huw Pascoe, Nicky Moore and Matthew Harris suspended at Pentwyn Dynamos.

TONY POOLE

PRICE PUTS NEATH IN FINAL

22 March 2007

Neath Athletic triumphed 1-0 at Haverfordwest County to book a place in the Tony Nakonecznyj West Wales Senior Cup final but lost the leadership of the MacWhirter Welsh League at the same time. The Llandarcy Park side now await the outcome of the other semi-final between Swansea Senior League side St Joseph's and Garden Village.

A fast and skilful Neath side had the better of this game, and only fine goal-keeping from Lee Kendall kept the score to one goal.

The issue was settled in the 20th minute when Neath's best player, Jarrod Price, cut in from the left and drove a shot past Kendall from a narrow angle.

During the second period, Kendall denied Jonathan Keaveny, Carl Jenkins and Lee Bevan, but close to time the Bluebirds almost forced extra time through substitute Jack Christopher.

Meanwhile Pontypridd replaced Neath at the top of division one, following a 2-0 home win over Bridgend.

First-half goals from Chris Summers and Nathan Hosgood did the trick for Pontypridd, who now head Neath by a point but the Llandarcy Park side have a game in hand.

Afan Lido's title hopes received another setback with a 1-1 draw at Taffs Well.

The Cardiff side went ahead in the 68th minute through Lee Denner, but soon after a 31st goal of the season from top scorer Ian Jones evened things up.

Maesteg Park dealt Uwic's revival hopes a blow on the back of a 1-0 victory at Tudor Park.

The Old Parish side were the dominant force for much of the game, and settled the issue in the 83rd minute with Ian Shepherd and Robbie Walters setting up the winner for Lee O'Brien.

Pontardawe got sucked into the relegation battle after losing 1-0 at fellow strugglers Grange Quins.

Pontardawe failed to mount much of a threat, and a Nathan White strike on the hour settled the destination of the points.

TONY POOLE

NEATH MAINTAIN TWO-POINT LEAD OVER PONTYPRIDD

19 March 2007

First division pacemakers Neath Athletic beat Bridgend Town 3-0 at Porthcawl to maintain a two-point buffer over closest challengers Pontypridd Town.Neath, who handed a debut to much-travelled goalkeeper Tony Pennock, took the lead after just 70 seconds.

Bridgend goalkeeper Lee Idzi allowed a Chris Pridham through ball to bounce over his head, resulting in Carl Shaw walking the ball home.

And in the 22nd minute Shaw diverted a Stephen Evans shot past Idzi, while Carl Jenkins rounded things off with a 71st-minute strike that was down to another goalkeeping error.

Pontypridd beat Ely Rangers 4-0 and will go top if they beat Bridgend at Ynysangharad Park tomorrow evening.

However, Goytre United and Afan Lido both dropped points in disappointing fashion after being held to goalless draws at home by Caerleon and Maesteg Park respectively.

Lido now move on to Taffs Well tomorrow night, Maesteg Park host improving Uwic and Pontardawe head for Grange Quins.

And in a busy midweek programme, third-placed Ton Pentre go to Bryntirion Athletic on Wednesday evening.

In the second division, West End crashed to a fourth successive home defeat, going down 4-1 against Briton Ferry.

The Old Road side were in the driving seat once Rob Cann headed them in front after a quarter of an hour.

Further goals from Daniel Thomas and Richard Howell made it 3-0 at the break, and a second goal from Thomas on 70 minutes put Ferry out of sight.

Though Darren Griffiths pulled a goal back, the Townhill side's promotion hopes are now in tatters.

Garden Village eased relegation fears with a 2-0 victory over Penrhiwceiber at the Glassbrook.

A superb solo goal in the 25th minute from Paul Bromage sent Village in front, only to concede a penalty on the hour.

But Morriston import Matt Martin, deputising for injured goalkeeper Stuart Lloyd, kept out Matthew Smart's spot-kick.

Village celebrated the let-off by sealing victory with a 75th-minute goal from Ashley Richards.

Ammanford halted a poor run of form in coming from a goal down to beat Caerau Ely 3-1 at the Recreation Ground.

A 67th-minute equaliser from teenager Matthew Jones got the Rice Roaders going, and soon after Reds striker Richard Lewis took them in front. Young Jones then sealed the victory, converting an 86th-minute cross from Jamie Evans.

Leaders Garw trailed early on to a Kevin Crook goal against Cardiff Corries but went on to take the Blandy meeting 2-1.

Goals in each half from Thomas Hopper and Sam Bradburn kept them three points clear of Cambrian & Clydach.

Despite only losing 1-0 against high-flying Betws at the Dingle, relegation is now staring Morriston in the face.

In the third division, a weakened Ystradgynlais side suffered a shock 1-0 defeat at relegation-threatened Risca, sucking Porthcawl into the relegation dogfight.

The Seasiders had Paul Atkinson sent off during a 3-1 home defeat against Aberbargoed Buds.

Though Matt Mohammed fired Porthcawl into a third-minute lead, two goals from Ross Fowler and a Ross Mazerack strike earned Aberbargoed the points.

Seven Sisters failed to make hay against promotion-seeking Cwmbran Celtic, despite playing with an extra man for an hour.

Daniel Evans gave Seven a fifth-minute lead, but Nigel Westall along with two Celtic players were shown red cards during a flare-up.

Kevin Payne got the Celtic equaliser in the 63rd minute, while Seven's Richard Herdman went close to producing a winner.

And promotion-chasing Llangeinor dropped more points following a 3-3 home draw against lowly Abertillery, Dai Lewis, ex-Swan Damian Lacey and Jonathan Quigley all netting for the Bridgend village side.

TONY POOLE

KEAVENY BACK FOR LEADERS AFTER BAN

16 March 2007

Leaders Neath Athletic will be without Ryan Frankcom, Chris Miller and Chris Vardon for tomorrow's clash with Bridgend at Lock's Lane, Porthcawl. But the Llandarcy Park side have Jonathan Keaveny back from suspension, while Jarrod Price has overcome injury problems.

Bridgend, who stage a second game at their temporary base in Porthcawl, have transferred top scorer Andy Mainwaring to Ton Pentre.

Goytre United, who host Caerleon, will be without the unavailable Jonny Walkley, while Dwayne Strong is rated only 50-50.

But Andrew Pearson, who missed the 2-0 midweek win at Barry Town, returns to the squad.

Afan Lido entertain Maesteg Park and will be without both Carl Evans and Liam McCreesh, who was dismissed during a 3-0 midweek defeat at second-placed Ponty- pridd.

The Seasiders also have fitness doubts surrounding Shaun O'Leary and Brian Thomas.

Doubtful for Maesteg is midfield operator Kieran Howells, who suffered a head injury during last Saturday's defeat at Neath.

West End are banking on the return of main strikers Neil Phillips and Darren Griffiths turning their fortunes around, starting with the Pryderi Park clash against Briton Ferry.

Phillips returns from a five-match suspension, while Griffiths has recovered from a chest problem.

The pair last teamed up during the 4-1 victory at Tredegar Town back on January 27, but starting another period of suspension is Rory Smitham.

Ferry boss Neil Morgan has a fit squad, and includes Steven Morgan, a recent acquisition from Cimla.

Morriston host high-flying Betws without the injured pairing of Leighton Connor and Marc Baker, with Andrew Shaw doubtful.

But Dingle boss Paul Lewis welcomes back Michael Gammon, Derek Jenkins and Peter Osborne.

Ammanford, who crashed to a 6-1 defeat at second-placed Cambrian & Clydach in midweek, have home advantage over Caerau Ely.

Since winning 2-1 at AFC Llwydcoed last month, the Rice Roaders have gone five games without a win while last weekend Caerau Ely surprisingly accounted for leaders Garw.

Ammanford have Scott Davies back in their squad, but that is countered by both Dean Jenkins and Steffan Hughes both being unavailable, while Richie Walton is suspended.

In midweek, Garden Village went down to a 2-1 defeat at Merthyr Saints, with Dave Rimmer, the Village marksman.

Village have both Paul Bromage and Chris Thomas available for tomorrow's trip to Penrhiwceiber.

The weekend programme is launched tonight with Llansawel and Cwmamman scrapping for survival points at Cwrt Herbert.

Llansawel have Steve Pugh and John Jones back from suspension, but David Mills is unavailable with Dan Triggs and Lee Fleming both rated doubtful.

Cwmamman, buoyed by last Saturday's 5-1 home win over Llangeinor, have goalkeeper Adrian Barnsley back.

He suffered a groin injury during the warm-up against Llangeinor, while John Jones is also available.

Seven Sisters will be looking to put last week's 1-0 defeat at lowly Chepstow behind them when they tomorrow host promotion-seeking Cwmbran Celtic.

Seven could do neighbours Ystradgynlais a good turn if they take anything off Cwmbran.

Ystradgynlais resume league duties at lowly Risca and have Nicky Watkins suspended and Dave Miller doubtful.

TONY POOLE

NEATH FEELING HEAT

15 March 2007

Neath Athletic saw their lead at the top of the MacWhirter Welsh League division one cut to just two points after Pontypridd beat Afan Lido 3-0 at Ynysangharad Park. The second-placed side did the damage in the first half with Chris Summers knocking in a hat-trick.

And to make matters worse, Afan Lido had Liam McCreesh dismissed during an eventful opening half.

Ton Pentre clung on to third spot on the back of a 2-1 win at Taffs well while Goytre United remain fourth, following a 2-0 success at Barry.

Richard Ryan squared the ball for Michael Waters to give the Port Talbot side a 12th-minute lead.

But they didn't make things safe until Luke Bowen converted a Ryan Penny pass in the 88th minute.

In the second division, Ammanford's poor run continued, losing 6-1 at promotion candidates Cambrian & Clydach.

The league's management committee has decided to extend the season from May 12 to May 20.

TONY POOLE

NEATH VICTORY OPENS UP FIVE-POINT GAP AT TOP

12 March 2007

Leaders Neath Athletic came from a goal down to beat Maesteg Park 2-1 and open up a five-point gap over Pontypridd in the first division. Robbie Walters gave the Old Parish side an early lead, but was then guilty of missing an open goal just before the break. 

Neath bucked up their ideas on the restart, with captain Andy Hill levelling in the 63rd minute while Carl Shaw came off the bench to knock in a late winner.

All the goals came in the second half at Goytre United who beat Croesyceiliog 3-2 to go fourth.

Top-scorer Richard Ryan missed a penalty in the approach to half time but, during the second period, Michael Waters turned on the style and scored twice.

A goal from Chris Pritchard kept Croesyceiliog in the hunt until Luke Bowen made it 3-1 in the 75th minute.

Though Croesyceiliog had the last word via Chris Watkins, Goytre extended their unbeaten run to 10 matches.

Pontardawe Town turned in one of their poorest showings of the season in losing 1-0 against visiting Bryntirion.

Town felt they should have been awarded a first-minute penalty after the Bridgend side's goalkeeper Ross Hooper-Nash felled Luke Rees in the box.

The winner arrived in the 12th minute, with Gavin Thomas converting an Ian Gearie cross.

In the second division, it proved another poor day for local clubs with only Garden Village banking maximum points.

Village accounted for relegation-threatened Morriston 4-0 at Stafford Common, but had Chris Thomas sent off late on.

Ashley Richards sent Village in with a one-goal lead, and he scored again on the resumption.

Within a minute it became 3-0, Sam Brown chipping Morriston goalkeeper Dale Hulland, and a late goal from substitute Lee Restater rounded off an emphatic victory.

For long periods, Ammanford looked the better side against Merthyr Saints at Penydarren Park only to suffer a 2-1 defeat.

The Rice Roaders had goalkeeper Richie Walton dismissed on the hour, and the only crumb of comfort was a late consolation goal from Steffan Hughes.

West End lost 3-2 at second-placed Cambrian & Clydach, and in all probability their promotion hopes are now at an end.

Despite taking an early lead through Jonathan Eames, the Townhill side had Rory Smitham sent off in the 65th minute.

Andrew Marsh saved another penalty, but Cambrian constructed a 3-1 lead.

However, the Pryderi boys rallied with Anthony Wright pulling a goal back and they went close to salvaging a point.

The big shock of the day on the circuit was the 2-0 demise of leaders Garw at unfancied Caerau Ely.

In the third division, bottom-placed Cwmamman at last came good, carding a 5-1 win over promotion-seeking Llangeinor at Grenig Park.

The hope now in the Cwm camp is that this result will form the turning point of their season.

The day started badly when goalkeeper Adrian Barnsley was injured in the warm up, forcing 45-year-old David Looney to come out of retirement.

Goals from Michael Chapman and Mark Carlyle made it 2-0 during the interlude, while Gareth Morgan and Dean Rosselli then struck to take the Carmarthenshire side clear.

Though Llangeinor retaliated through Steve Boydell, Cwm rounded off a watershed victory via Ian Waldie.

Seven Sisters suffered a surprise 1-0 defeat at lowly Chepstow while Llansawel slipped into deeper relegation trouble after losing 2-0 at Llantwit Fardre.

Finally, a 10th-minute goal from Matt Mohammed earned Porthcawl a 1-0 victory over Newcastle Emlyn in a drab Lock's Lane clash.

TONY POOLE

TRIO RETURN FOR ATHLETIC AGAINST BOGEY CLUB

09 March 2007

First division leaders Neath Athletic have Jock Fairbairn, Jarrod Price and Carl Shaw all back for tomorrow's home clash with bogey club Maesteg Park. However, the Llandarcy Park side, whose West Wales Senior Cup semi-final at Haverfordwest County on Tuesday was called off, are still missing Jonathan Keaveny, Ryan Frankcom and Chris Vardon. 

There are fears that Vardon's season is already over, while Frankcom faces a lengthy spell on the injury-list because of a leg injury.

Maesteg, who last Saturday gained a morale-boosting 1-0 home win over Ton Pentre, have both Chris Lee and Rhys Owen back from suspension but Richard Stevens is sidelined with two broken toes.

The Old Parish side were last beaten at Llandarcy Park back in December 2000 when going down to a 4-2 defeat.

Goytre United have defender Ian Morgan back for their home game with Croesyceiliog, but lose John Meacock to a one-match ban.

The reigning champions might well have a point to prove against Croesyceiliog, having surprisingly gone down to a 2-1 defeat at Woodland Road back in October.

Pontardawe will be at full strength for their home clash with Bryntirion.

In the second division, Garden Village and Morriston have dipped into the transfer market ahead of their meeting at Stafford Common.

With both clubs trying to avoid relegation, Village boss Robert Lloyd has re-signed defender Paul Bromage from Llansawel - he is also hoping to sign two others - while Chris Morgan and Chris Thomas are set to return from the side beaten 5-1 at Treharris last time out.

Morriston manager Paul Lewis, who is returning to one of his former clubs, has brought in three players from Swansea Senior League division one club CRC Rangers - defender Kevin Melville, midfielder David Cann and striker Robert Hidle.

Paul Bacup, Leighton Connor and John Williams return to the side, but two recent captures, Geraint Jones and Peter Osbourne, are both unavailable.

West End will be looking to make up lost ground in a top-of-the-table clash at Cambrian & Clydach, who last season pipped the Townhill club for the third division title.

Ammanford have Adam Dart back for their clash with Merthyr Saints at Penydarren Park, and will be hoping to place some indifferent form behind them.

Two clubs battling to stay in the third division, Cwmamman and Llansawel, will be scrapping for points against Llangeinor and Llantwit Fardre respectively.

Cwm managers Michael Ellery and Dean Beniamous are hoping that the point they picked up at promotion-seeking Llanwern last weekend will form the turning point of a troubled season.

Llangeinor will be without player-manager Damian Lacey.

The former Swansea City player is serving a final suspension, while striker Jonathan Tossell is likely to miss the remainder of the season because of injury problems.

Llansawel lose three players - John Jones, Steve Pugh and Lee Thomas - to suspensions while Andrew Cann, Lee Fleming, Scott Mahon and Richard Weller are all ruled out.

But David Mills, Wayne Holloway and Anthony Walsh are due to return while Llansawel boss Wyn Evans is hoping to get both Gwilym Ball (Briton Ferry) and ex-Port Talbot Town midfielder Lee Evans to put pen to paper ahead of the Central Park encounter.

Seven Sisters could do both Cwmamman and Llansawel a good turn if they return with the points from relegation-threatened Chepstow.

TONY POOLE

MORE CUP JOY FOR LUCKY LIDO

09 March 2007

Afan Lido made heavy weather of overcoming Tredegar Town 2-1 at Ton Pentre to reach the Shamrock Travel Cup final. Just four days after eliminating Port Talbot Town from the Welsh Cup, it proved a case of after the Lord Mayor's show for the Seasiders. 

They fell behind to a 12th-minute goal from Phil Blackmore, but within four minutes Liam McCreesh equalised.

What turned out to be the winner arrived in the 26th minute when Craig Jones went in on goal and pulled off a good finish.

The nearest Lido came to increasing the lead was midway through the second half when top scorer Ian Jones went close.

Lido now await the outcome of the delayed semi-final between Goytre United and Betws on April 3.

TWO-GOAL RYAN PUTS GOYTRE ON RECOVERY ROAD

05 March 2007

Goytre United came from a goal down to beat Grange Quins 3-1 in the MacWhirter Welsh League at the Leckwith Stadium in Cardiff. A fifth-minute penalty from Ramos Karvouniaris sent Grange in front with Richard Ryan equalising five minutes later. 

Just before the break, Luke Bowen converted a cross from Michael Waters while in the 67th minute, a 28th goal of the season from Ryan confirmed the Goytre victory.

Maesteg Park turned the form-book upside down with a 1-0 victory over Ton Pentre.

The Old Parish side, who introduced goalkeeper Gareth Scantlebury from Afan Lido, had lost their last six matches. But after ex-Maesteg man Steve Conaty was sent off in the 57th minute, a goal a quarter of an hour later from Gareth Davies set up the morale-boosting win.

In the second division, it proved a disastrous day for local clubs with only Ammanford emerging with a reward.

Though the Rice Roaders held high-flying Cambrian & Clydach to a 0-0 draw, they were miffed at having a Steffan Hughes goal disallowed.

Morriston's plight at the bottom worsened after losing 5-0 against Pontyclun with Garden Village suffering a 5-1 beating at Treharris.

Cameron Hopkins gave Village a first-minute lead, but by the 20th minute Treharris were 3-1 up and on their way to victory.

Briton Ferry went down 2-0 at improving Betws, and West End slipped to a third successive home defeat.

Despite goalkeeper Andrew Marsh pulling off a penalty save during the first half, the Pryderi side nevertheless lost 2-1 against promotion rivals Caldicot.

All that West End had to reflect on was a late consolation goal from Lee Morgan.

In the third division, Ystradgynlais triumphed 3-2 over Llansawel in a nine-card derby clash at Cwrt Herbert.

David Griffiths gave Ystrad the lead in the 18th minute, but soon after Tenby referee Adrian Wilson sent off Nicky Watkins for handball and awarded Sawel a penalty.

Lee Fleming restored parity, and it remained that way until the 63rd minute when Craig Hopkins mustered a cool finish.

Two minutes later, Ystrad were awarded a contentious penalty that Hopkins converted, making it 3-1. They were awarded another penalty in the 72nd minute, but this time keeper Mark Hopson saved Hopkins's shot.

In the 77th minute, the home side reduced arrears when Lee Thomas converted a Michael Walsh corner, but late on Sawel had both Steve Pugh and John Jones sent off for second bookable offences.

Seven Sisters relied on a late Barry Herdman winner to bring about a 3-2 home victory over Aberbargoed Buds.

Owen Llewellyn sent Seven in front after just three minutes with Barry Herdman doubling the lead on the hour. Despite having Tony Rees sent off, Aberbargoed clawed back on terms via Rob Shorney and Ross Mazerack but with time running out, Barry Herdman rifled home a free-kick to give Seven the points.

Bottom-placed Cwmamman gained an excellent point in a goalless draw at Llanwern.

TONY POOLE

 

LEWIS THE LIDO HERO

05 March 2007

Karl Lewis, Afan Lido's attacking full-back, made a vital impact, to guide the Seasiders into the semi-finals of the Welsh Cup with an early second-half match- winner at the Remax Stadium. That victory now pairs them with Welsh Premiership opposition for a second successive tie, with Welshpool, who gained a convincing 5-1 victory at Holyhead.

For Lido, it will be only their second appearance in the last four of the competition, having previously qualified seven seasons ago.

"I'm ecstatic, with the ideal outcome,'' said Afan Lido's joint coach, Phil Holmes.

"Obviously we came into the game as clear underdogs, but over the 90 minutes, I think that we were the much better side.

"Despite creating a series of chances, Port Talbot didn't capitalise on them, but we had an opportunity five minutes into the second half, and it really was not a surprise to me that we managed to go in front.''

There was little to differentiate between the two sides currently operating a division apart in this cup clash between local rivals during the early exchanges.

Following a cautious beginning, it was Ian Jones, the MacWhirter League's top scorer with 30, who attempted to make impact, only for his 30-yard shot gathered by goalkeeper Kristian Rogers.

Port Talbot gradually came into the picture and a promising opportunity from Lee John was wasted, with him sending a 15-yard shot curling away from the near upright.

On the half hour, Matthew Rees found the support of Martin Rose, but the chance of moving in front was denied by keeper Brian Thomas, who got down sharply to his left to turn the ball around the upright.

Scoring opportunities continued to arrive in the Steelmen's favour and when John probed the Lido back line, his cross from the left side was somehow scooped over the top by former Afan Lido front-runner Johnston.

Three minutes before half-time, Stephen Parry sent a precision defence-splitting pass between Matthew Rees and Craig Hanford. Liam McCreesh pounced on the opportunity to take the ball into the penalty area, but it was Rogers who denied him the opener with the ball going behind after the two players accidentally collided.

Five minutes into the second half, Lido were awarded a free-kick after Johnstone had attempted on several occasions to dispossess O'Leary, his former Afan Lido team-mate.

O'Leary flighted the ball to the far post, and Lewis reacted well, sending a looping header across the face of the goal, for it to drop and deflect in off the inside edge of the goalpost.

Port Talbot saw their lingering hope of snatching an equaliser fade away midway into the second period when Lee Surman found John in space, but he was unable to make the most of the opportunity with a left-footed effort from 10 yards flying wide.

BAN PUTS MORGAN ON SIDELINES

02 March 2007

Goytre United will be without powerful key defender Ian Morgan for tomorrow's first division clash at Grange Quins. He is banned for one match. Other than that, managers Craig Duggan and Andrew Radford have a full-strength squad.

The Port Talbot side were disappointed that Tuesday's Shamrock Travel Cup semi-final clash with Betws at Maesteg Park was lost to a waterlogged pitch.

The league have announced a re-arranged date - April 3 - at the same venue while the other semi-final involving Afan Lido and Tredegar is due to be settled at Ton Pentre on Wednesday.

With leaders Neath Athletic sitting out the programme and Afan Lido in Welsh Cup action at Port Talbot Town, this forms an ideal opportunity for Goytre to make up lost ground.

However, the defending champions will be on their guard as Grange gained a shock 1-1 draw at Glenhafod Park in October.

Pontardawe host Dinas Powys and manager David Rees is set to hand former Garden Village striker Paul Dickie a delayed debut.

Pontardawe's midweek match at Ton Pentre was called off.

Dickie pulled out of last Saturday's 3-0 defeat at Taffs Well because of a recurring ankle problem while teenage frontman Luke Rees is retained in the squad.

Maesteg Park have both Chris Lee and Rhys Owen suspended for their encounter with Ton Pentre at Tudor Park.

The Old Parish side, who have lost their last six games, will also be without Dale Gardiner, but Ryan Morgan and Gareth Davies are set to resume.

Bridgend Town are due to play a first game at a temporary base at Lock's Lane, Porthcawl, against Ely Rangers.

But league officials will inspect the pitch, and the game will only go ahead provided league ground criteria is in place.

Ammanford, who entertain second-placed Cambrian & Clydach in the second division, will be looking to place last Saturday's 5-0 loss against West End behind them.

Rice Road boss Neil Rees introduced two new players against the Swansea side - sweeper Lee Stone (Seaside) and striker Jordan Follows (Bwlch) - and they are retained in the squad.

Liam Preece returns from suspension, but goalkeeper Richie Walton is doubtful because of a ear infection.

Briton Ferry have a tough assignment against in-form Betws at Old Road, but manager Neil Morgan welcomes back both Rob Cann and Ross Howells.

Added to the squad is recent Llansawel acquisition Craig Cole, but a groin strain has claimed veteran Richard Howell with Jonathan Davies hoping to shake off flu.

Relegation-threatened Morriston will be desperate for points against Pontyclun at the Dingle while Garden Village head for Treharris Athletic.

Village chief Robert Lloyd is banking on both Dave Evans and Lee Rastatter returning, but Chris Thomas and Chris Morgan are both unavailable.

Goalkeeper Alex Davies has completed a suspension, and goes into the West End squad for the divisional match-of-the-day against promotion rivals Caldicot at Pryderi Park.

However, his return is countered by the loss of Danny Kavanagh to a one-match ban.

Llansawel and Ystradgynlais go head to head in a third division derby at Cwrt Herbert.

While Llansawel hope to pick up the points to move away from the drop zone, Ystrad are beginning to mount a promotion push.

Seven Sisters hope to have Chris Herdman back at home to Aberbargoed Buds with bottom-placed Cwmamman facing a stiff test at second-placed Llanwern.

Matches this weekend revert back to 2.30pm kick-offs.

TONY POOLE