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Archived News
NEATH ATHLETIC REQUIRE A RESERVE TEAM COACH Neath Athletic welcome offers for a Reserve Team coach of suitable experience to assume duties immediately upon appointment. Please telephone Andrew Dyer 07967 215957 for further info. Tony Melding, Secretary 14 August 2007
Saturday 11 August 2007 from http://www.cwmbrantownafc.co.uk Cwmbrân Town got off on the wrong foot in their first Welsh League fixture, suffering a 1-0 defeat to a resolute Taffs Well side that will be overjoyed with the 3 points. The home side got off to a flyer, taking the lead in the fifth minute with an opportunistic strike. A free kick was sent in from the right, and striker Kevin Crocker headed in from close range. From the re-start, it was all one-way traffic as the Crows went searching for an equaliser. Some well-worked free kicks, and attractive and successful wing play from Hodge and Omuta kept the Taffs Well defence very busy. But no goal was forthcoming. The best chance of the half fell to Martin Houston, but his point-blank shot from an Omuta cross went inches wide. The first half ended with home keeper Howe left untested, and visiting keeper Jeffries resigned to spectating from the edge of the centre circle. The second half continued in much the same way: flowing and attractive football from the Crows, with neat build-ups and deft touches, but ultimately no end product. With the Crows pushing forward, and a high line being maintained by the defence, Taffs Well produced the best chance of the second half, but Jeffries did well and beat away the shot in a one-on-one situation. Substitute Mark Shadrach had a shot late on, but Howe pushed the shot out for a corner, and the Crows were to be denied a share of the spoils as the game came to an end not long after. Former Crow, and current Well boss Adam Moore will no doubt be pleased with the three points, but the Cwmbrân management team, players, and fans were left wondering what could have been. Next up is the first home game of the season, versus Pontypridd Town, who were thumped 9-0 by Goytre United on the weekend!
13 August 2007 by Phil Blanche, Western Mail ENTO ABERAMAN hit the jackpot on the opening day of the Welsh League season. They blasted an incredible 10 goals past hapless Garw as Jon Phillips led the charge with a double hat-trick. Kurt Nogan bagged three and Paul Dawes was also on target. Garw could face an uncertain future after the departure of manager Chris Wells and almost their entire squad. Goytre, runners-up in the league last season, also went on the rampage scoring nine without reply at Pontypridd, who have also suffered a summer of turmoil. Richard Ryan hit four and Paul Lenihan (2), Michael Walters, Luke Bowen and Paul Wiseman also on target. Dinas Powys made a confident start to the season, beating Croesyceiliog 2-1 thanks to late goals by Shelton Payne and Geza Hejgato from the penalty spot. Newly-promoted Llanwern opened the Division Two campaign well with a 2-1 win over West End, Steve Perszewski and Michael Vaux netting. Revitalised Barry Town overcame Garden Village 3-0 with Jeff Maclean scoring after three minutes with Rob Blatchford also netting to add to an own goal. A Richard Herdman goal was enough to give Seven Sisters a 1-0 triumph at Cwmamman United in Division Three and Newcastle Emlyn opened with a 5-1 trouncing of Porthcawl.
13 August 2007 by Terry Daley, South Wales Argus SATURDAY'S opening-day MacWhirter Welsh League programme spelt disaster for Gwent football, with only Llanwern and Goytre of 11 clubs in action recording victories. Llanwern's 2-1 Division Two win over Swansea-based West End at Newport Stadium was quite remarkable considering they were minus nine of their 24-strong squad for their first game following last season's promotion. "West End are a good team and they had us under the cosh at one stage, although their goalkeeper made several outstanding saves," said manager Laurence Owen, who led Llanwern to runners-up spot in Division Three in 2006-07. "But to win a game such as this against quality opposition without so many players available to us is a great achievement." Striker Steve Perszewski scored 28 goals last season, and it took him just 15 minutes to get going again, with a second coming before the interval from Michael Vaux, while Marcus Power and Troy Quarterly both struck the woodwork. Since being relegated from the top-tier Welsh Premier League at the end of last season, Cwmbran Town have appointed Spanish manager Guillermo Ganet. He has stabilised the club's finances, as well as bringing in an army of players, mainly from Africa and Portugal, directly via his London-based football academy. However, despite dominating for long periods at Taffs Well, it was the same old story for Cwmbran - a defeat. The home side won 1-0, but had to be thankful for a great defensive display to earn them the three points after Kevin Crocker settled the game after only 10 minutes. The Crows have a good chance of getting off the mark on Wednesday when they host a Pontypridd Town side in obvious crisis after getting beaten 9-0 at home by Port Talbot-based Goytre United on Saturday. Croesyceiliog were Gwent's highest-placed side in the league last season, eighth, but they got off to a losing start by going down 2-1 at Dinas Powys - although the winning goal only came five minutes from time. Midfielder Michael Pattimore struck with a long-range effort to put Croesyceiliog ahead, only for the home side to eventually overall them. "We had a poor pre-season for many different reasons, but I can take several positives out of this match," said manager Chris Evans, who confirmed that although Chris Watkins would be back for Wednesday's away clash with not-in-action Caldicot Town, leading goalscorer Jody Jenkins will be unavailable. Caerleon took the lead against visiting Bryntirion Athletic, managed by former Cwmbran Town striker Francis Ford and coached by ex-Crow Matthew Bishop, through Luce Cueto. However, they had to rely on a late Matthew Hearne penalty to gain a hard-fought point from a 2-2 draw. "I'd have taken the 2-2, and I suppose one point from a game we looked like losing is certainly better than nothing," said Caerleon chief Brendan Dowd. Newport YMCA opened with a trip to face Ton Pentre, and although Dan Chamberlain grabbed a 30th-minute leveller, the former multi-champions went on to record a 3-1 success. "We were still in it at 1-1 with 18 minutes left," explained YMCA boss Mark Coldrick. "But their second goal knocked the stuffing out of us, to be honest." Goalkeeper Gareth Wesson, who has rejoined from Cwmbran Town, must undergo treatment to an injury which forced him off late in the game before he can be declared fit to face visiting Caerleon at Mendalgief Road tomorrow. Cwmbran Celtic, last season's Division Three champions, began with a 0-0 draw at Briton Ferry, while Tredegar Town lost 2-1 at home to Ammanford, whose winner, after Craig Burgess had scored for the Gwent club, came with the very last kick of the match. In Division Three there were defeats for Abertillery Excelsiors, Aberbargoed Buds and Risca United, but a point for debutants Monmouth Town. The Excelsiors had only a goal from Matthew Fowler in a 4-1 reverse at Llantwit Fardre, the Buds' goalscorer in their 3-1 home loss to Pentwyn Dynamos came from namesake Ross Fowler, while Risca goalkeeper Ryan Mackerness was sent off after an own goal accounted for his side's effort in a 2-1 home defeat by Ystradgynlais. Monmouth, though, earned a 2-2 home draw at Llansawel. The home side had taken a 2-0 advantage, but Matthew Bowen struck before and after the interval to gain parity for Monmouth: "We began with boys in our side and ended up with men," said club chairman Lee Robson. Goytre gained a fine 3-0 success at Morriston Town, where debutants Gareth Willis (2) and Paul Melville scored the goals. Midweek games involving Gwent clubs (6.30pm kick-offs, except where stated). Tuesday - Division One: Newport YMCA v Caerleon. Wednesday - Division One: Caldicot Town v Croesyceiliog (7.00pm); Cwmbran Town v Pontypridd Town (7.30pm). Division Two - UWIC v Llanwern. Division Three - Abertillery Excelsiors v Aberbargoed Buds; Goytre v Monmouth Town; Pentwyn Dynamos v Risca United.
RYAN ON THE RAMPAGE FOR EX-CHAMPS 13 August 2007 Tony Poole, South Wales Evening Post
Former champions Goytre United went goal crazy on the opening
weekend of the season, triumphing 9-0 over
Pontypridd Town at
Ynysangharad Park. Richard Ryan netted four times with Paul Lenihan on
target twice.
Pontardawe Town battled hard before going down 3-2 at newly-promoted
Cambrian & Clydach. PHILPOTTS MAKES MONMOUTH TOWN WELSH LEAGUE DEBUT…AGE 50 12 August 2007 Monmouth Town stalwart Andy Philpotts continued his proud record of making a first team appearance every season for the past thirty-two years when he came on as a second half substitute for badly injured ‘keeper Robin Pick in the Kingfishers first ever Welsh League match against Llansawel, writes Lee Robson, Monmouth Town FC.
Pictured: Monmouth Town's Andy Philpotts Philpotts who has been with the club since he was eighteen had long held a dream to appear in the Welsh league for the town but would rather it had been in better circumstances and probably twenty years ago. “To be honest I had long given up thinking I’d ever get a game at this level but two years ago we made a fresh effort get better organised and plan for Welsh league football. I was delighted when we were promoted last season but would have been content to just carry out my normal duties as assistant manager. I always put myself on the bench though as you never know what might happen and in the welsh league we can name five subs. When Robin was injured I was administering the first aid and the next thing I know I had gloves and a keeper’s shirt on! It was great but even better to get a point after being two nil down." Benny, as he known at the club, refused to rule out another appearance adding “Next time, who knows, I might get on and get the winner!”
GARW CRUMBLE IN 10-0 HAMMERING 12 August 2007 by Staff Reporter, Wales On Sunday GARW and Pontypridd, who have both endured close seasons of turmoil, found the opening day of the MacWhirter Welsh League campaign like a nightmare yesterday as they suffered emphatic defeats. Garw, who have recently lost player-manager Chris Wells and almost the entire squad, were on the end of a 10-0 hammering by ENTO Aberaman. Jon Phillips led the way with an incredible haul of six goals while Kurt Nogan bagged a hat-trick and Paul Dawes was also on target. Ponty, who lost financial backer Leighton Samuel and a whole host of players during the summer, were given a 9-0 roasting by Goytre who last season chased Neath all the way to the wire in the race for the Welsh League crown. Richard Ryan was top scorer here, grabbing four goals while Paul Lenihan bagged a brace and Michael Walters, Luke Bowen and Paul Wiseman were also on target. It was not until the 21st minute that Goytre opened the scoring but they were then 6-0 up by the break. Cwmbran Town, relegated from the Welsh Premier League last season, made a disappointing start to life at the lower level as they lost 1-0 at Taffs Well but Ton Pentre defeated Newport YMCA 3-1.
TOWN BOSS COOKS UP A MOTIVATION 11 August 2007 by Gareth Griffiths, South Wales Echo GAVIN Chesterfield came up with a novel way to get his Barry Town players working together – along the lines of TV show “Ready, Steady, Cook”. The Dragons’ new manager called his squad together in Barry’s newly refurbished clubhouse lounge at Jenner Park and split them into two groups. Chesterfield gave each side Ł10 each and gave them the task of buying the ingredients and then cooking the best meal they could. It worked well. The players had fantastic fun shopping and then coming up with their meal. I’m not sure whether Chesterfield merely wanted somebody to cook his tea, but I’m told a pasta dish was declared the winner. Chesterfield then took the team out for an evening socialising together – and they start their MacWhirter Welsh League Division Two fixtures at home to Garden Village today. Barry travel to play Grange Quins at Cardiff Athletic Stadium on Tuesday.
QUINS SET FOR A SWITCH TO PASTURES NEW 11 August 2007 by Gareth Griffiths, South Wales Echo GRANGE Quins will be on the move this season. They start their MacWhirter Welsh League fixtures at Cardiff Athletic Stadium, but will only play there for a few weeks. The stadium is being demolished to make way for Cardiff City’s new stadium and when work starts, Quins will switch to a groundshare with Caerau Ely at their Cwrt-y-Ala home. Then, when the new athletics stadium opens later in the season, Quins will move into their new home.
Afan Lido 2, Bridgend Town 2 Friday 10 August 2007 Bridgend twice came from behind to gain a deserved point from their MacWhirter Welsh League, First Division, game at Afan Lido last night - the first game of the new season, writes Ray Parker. It was a special occasion for Afan Lido striker Mark Jones, scoring twice for his home town club after being released by Cardiff City. Jones, who lives only a good kick from the ground, came through to youth ranks before he was spotted by Cardiff. Jones has attracted the attention of clubs in the Conference and Afan Lido official Alan Howells said: "We are hoping to put him in the shop window so that a professional club will pick him up again. We will not stand in his way and would be delighted to see him go back into the professional game." Jones gave Afan Lido, looking to regain a place back in the Welsh Premier League, the perfect start when he rounded off a neat move involving Steve Davies and Carl Edwards with a close-range header after 28 minutes. And only minutes from the interval he brought an excellent save from Bridgend keeper Brendan Cropley. Bridgend made a bright start to the second-half and equalised after 47 minutes through Mike Parkin, also a former Cardiff City player. But six minutes later Jones restored Afan Lido's lead as the home side looked to make the perfect start to a new campaign. However, Bridgend had the final word in spectacular fashion as Parkin struck a stunning free-kick beyond the reach of Afan Lido keeper Wyn Walters in the 73rd minute. Drewe Phillips, Bridgend manager, said: "It is always difficult at Afan Lido who have a good pedigree. We showed a lot of character to come back twice but we probably had enough chances to have won the game."
Pictured (above) from left to right: The Mayor of Neath Port Talbot, Councillor Anthony Taylor ceremoniously kicks-off the new season accompanied by Bridgend Town captain, Ryan Barry; and Afan Lido captain, Andy Pearson. Pictured (below) from Left to right: assistant referee, Hayden Griffiths; referee, Kevin Russell; assistant referee, Colin Discombe; Lady Mayoress, Annette Taylor; Mayor Anthony Taylor; Ryan Barry and Andy Pearson. Pictures
courtesy of Grahame Perry of Afan
Lido's Disability and Special Needs Football, Afan Lido Dragons.
The game was a special occasion for the Mayor of Neath Port Talbot, Councillor Anthony Taylor who was accompanied by his wife Annette, the Mayoress. Mr. Howells explained: "Anthony is a life-long supporter of the club. After our achievements last season, reaching the Welsh Cup final and winning the Shamrock Cup, we were invited to the Mayor's parlour. We presented him with a season ticket because we knew this club means so much to him. We approached the council to ask if he could kick-off our new season, an invitation he accepted." Afan Lido (4-4-2): Wyn Walters; Carl Edwards, Carl Evans, Luke Harrington, Dan Williams; Steve Davies, Matt Lavis (Carl Payne 77 minutes), Damon Thomas, Karl Lewis; Mark Jones, Andy Pearson (Wright, 77 minutes). Substitutes (not used): Paul Evans, Corey Thomas, Brian Thomas. Bridgend Town (4-4-2): Brendan Cropley; Geraint Frowen, Ryan Barry, Scott Hillman, Kirk Huggins (Paul Carro, 55 minutes); Gethin Jones, David Truan, Mike Parkin, Kristian Hanbury; Tom Billings, Raith Plant (Chris Vardon, 55 minutes). Substitutes (not used): Mike Hartley, Rhys Jones. Referee: Kevin Russell (Cardiff).
FOUR GWENT SIDES CHASING PROMOTION 11 August 2007 South Wales Argus THE MacWhirter League season kicks off today with four Gwent teams going head-to-head in Division One. Caerleon, who finished mid-table last season, have enjoyed a good run in pre-season games, winning two, losing one and holding Blue Square Conference South’s Bath City to a draw at home. They kick off the season with a home game against Bryntirion Athletic. They will be boosted by having top striker Chris Pearce ready to start a new campaign - a drugs ban ruled him out for much of last season - and the signing of goalkeeper John Chorley from Garw. Chairman Dave Griffiths said: “Our goal this season is to finish in the top six and what was missing from last season was that consistency to turn draws into wins. “We’ve got a good side on paper and real strength in depth.” Croesyceiliog are hoping to put their pre-season blues behind them when they travel to Dinas Powys this afternoon. They lost to Tredegar, Abertillery, Chepstow and Swansea's West End in friendly matches. Croesyceiliog will be without Gareth Pattimore who is suspended and keeper Patrick O’Hagan who is having recurring problems with his leg after breaking it last season. The club has lost central midfielder Dale Edwards to last year’s champions Neath Athletic. Joint manager Chris Evans said: “We’ve had a poor time of it pre-season so I’m keeping a low profile! But the last time we lost all our pre-season games, we went through the season unbeaten back in 2004-05.” The club have signed Llanelli centre back Danny Clare, although he is unlikely to be able to play today. Newport YMCA face a tough trip to Ton Pentre and will be hoping to put their 1-0 midweek Gwent Senior Cup away defeat to newly promoted Caldicot Town behind them. As if that defeat wasn’t bad enough, red cards shown to skipper John Pardue and Steve Edwards mean they miss today’s game. Manager Mark Coldrick said: “We’re looking for a top half finish. Last season we were involved in a relegation battle and it’s not a nice feeling to play when your confidence is rock bottom.” They have good reason to be optimistic with the return of centre forward Chris Egitto and centre Craig James, both coming back from long-term injuries. YMCA have also signed Newport Civil Service right back Dan Chamberlain. Relegated from the Welsh Premier League last season, Cwmbran Town are hoping to bounce straight back to the big time. They take the first step on that road when they travel to Taffs Well today. With former La Liga midfielder Guillermo Ganet, who played for Valencia, in command, the Crows are confident the Spaniard can re-create the glory days at Cwmbran Stadium. New players have been brought in with only left back Gareth Mouncher and striker Martin Houston remaining from last season’s squad. Secretary Ian Greaney said: “Guillermo’s brought in some experienced players and we are very optimistic we can return to the Welsh Premier League.” Caldicot Town sit out today’s matches. They kick off their season when they entertain Croesyceiliog in Wednesday’s Gwent derby. In Divison Two, last year’s Division Three champions Cwmbran Celtic travel to Briton Ferry, while promoted Llanwern host West End. Tredegar Town have a home game against Ammanford. In Division Three Monmouth Town travel to Llansawel, Abertillery Excelsiors are at Llantwit Fadre and Goytre head west to Morriston Town. Risca United are the only side not on the road as they entertain Ystradgynlais.
DRAGONS LOOKING TO BREATHE FIRE INTO NEW SEASON 10 August 2007 by Terry Phillips, South Wales Echo BARRY Town are looking good for the start of the new MacWhirter Welsh League season. The Dragons have transformed the Jenner Park bar and lounge with a makeover to attract new customers, particularly during and after matches, and they have new manager Gavin Chesterfield in charge. Cardiff-based Chesterfield, who is head of sports coaching and Academy football coach at Hartpury College in Gloucestershire, sends his Barry team out to face Garden Village at Jenner Park tomorrow (2.30pm). Barry were relegated last season and lost 5-0 in a pre-season match against Merthyr Tydfil in midweek, but showed enough to suggest they have the ability to mount a promotion challenge. Zak Misbah went on as a late second half substitute against Merthyr as he nurses a swollen knee, but looks certain to start against Village. Barry have also signed Jamie Bradford, who was with Merthyr and Ton Pentre during last season. Welsh league First Division football starts tonight when Afan Lido play Bridgend Town at home (7.30pm). Bridgend manager Drewe Phillips has signed Josh Collins, Michael Parkin and Kristian Hanbury from Cwmbran Town, Brendan Cropley from Uwic, Geraint Frowen of Pontypridd Town, Tom Billings from Haverfordwest County and Dinas Powys player Paul Carro. Phillips has also re-signed Jason Davies, Drew Fahiya, Mike Hartley, Scott Hillman, Kirk Huggins, Gethin Jones and Raith Plant. Former Cardiff City full-back Simon Heal has made the move to Weston-super-Mare. Winger Leon Jeanne has signed for Ton Pentre, who are at home to Newport YMCA tomorrow. The future of Maesteg Park remains in the the balance, but Park have been given permission to start their season late, on Saturday, August 25. Don’t miss the first Welsh Football page of the new season in tomorrow’s South Wales Echo.
NEW SIGNINGS LOOK TO GET LIDO'S SEASON OFF TO A WINNING START ON HOME SOIL 10 August 2007 Tony Poole, South Wales Evening Post
Afan Lido launch the new season at home to Bridgend Town in
division one tonight (7.30pm).Although the Seasiders have lost the top
scorer Ian Jones, Liam McCreesh and Craig Jones, joint-managers Phil
Holmes and Paul Evans have brought in Darren Bodenham, Steve Davies,
Kieron Howells, Andrew Pearson, Wyn Walters and Andrew Wright. CAMBRIAN & CLYDACH REQUIRE A COMMERCIAL MANAGER Cambrian & Clydach, under the Chairmanship of Terry Venables, are seeking a Commercial Manager. The club has achieved three successive promotions and now compete in the MacWhirter Welsh League (MWL), Division One. The club also has teams in the MWL’s Reserve and Youth Divisions. Further, the club has boys and girls teams from age nine upwards and a ladies team. In total the club has over 300 football participants. The club requires an enthusiastic individual to play an important part in the club’s future development. Terms are negotiable. If interested please contact Phil Williams on 01443 440510 (business) or 07980 558495 (mobile), or Keith Jenkins on 01443 420905 (business) or 07786 523984 (mobile). 9 August 2007
URGENT - CROESYCEILIOG FC REQUIRE RESERVE PRE-SEASON FRIENDLIES Croesyceiliog FC require Reserve pre-season friendlies from Saturday 11 August 2007. Interested clubs should contact Andy Havelot, telephone: 01633 838283 (work) or 07810 296641 (mobile). PLEASE NOTE THIS CONTACT INFORMATION IS FOR PRE-SEASON FRIENDLIES ONLY. 8 August 2007
GARW AFC SEEK FIRST TEAM MANAGER Garw AFC are seeking to appoint a first team manager to take on the responsibilities associated with this Welsh League First Division side. The person we are looking for must be enthusiastic, looking for a challenge, experienced in coaching (though previous experience at Welsh League level is not essential) and would preferably hold coaching qualifications. A player/Manager would be considered. The Manager will be fully responsible for a playing budget, details of which will be discussed at interview, and will have the full co-operation of other qualified coaches within the Club and of the Reserve Team coach, with match day support from the Chairman, Secretary and other senior Committee members. To apply please contact MICHAEL LAMBERT (Chairman) on (01656) 872032. CLOSING DATE: 6 SEPTEMBER 2007 Michael Lambert, Chairman 6 August 2007
TOWN LAND FORMER WALES YOUTH STARLET 3 August 2007 MAL Camilleri, the new manager of Pontypridd Town, has made a good start to rebuilding the club's MacWhirter Welsh Football League team, writes Terry Phillips, South Wales Echo. He has signed former Wales Under-16 captain Dominic Dwyer. Still only 18, Dwyer was rated highly enough by Cardiff City to be offered a two year trainee contract, but after only three months he decided to pursue a career away from the full-time game. Other players signed are Wayne Antoniazzi, Peter Evans, Tommy Saleh, Kyle Johnson and Gareth Lidden.
MARTYRS ON WAY TO JENNER PARK DATE 3 August 2007 BARRY Town are at home to Merthyr Tydfil in a pre-season game at Jenner Park on Tuesday 7 August (7.30pm), writes Terry Phillips, South Wales Echo. The Martyrs take a full strength team to the coast which includes player-manager Garry Shepherd and Barry boy Kristian Diamond, who is a former Cardiff City professional. The Dragons, with new manager Gavin Chesterfield now in charge, include striker Jamie Bradford, signed from Merthyr, despite many other offers from big spending teams. After Tuesday’s friendly against Merthyr Tydfil, Barry Town open the MacWhirter Welsh League Division Two season with a home match against Garden Village at Jenner Park on Saturday, August 11 (2.30pm).
DATE AND VENUE CHANGE FOR MONMOUTH TOWN ANNUAL FIVE-A-SIDE TOURNAMENT Monmouth Town are hosting their annual ‘pubs clubs n vets’ tournament at Monmouth Sportsground on Sunday 12th August. Ł25 per team from 12 noon. A good family day out and some fairly relaxing five-a-side football. Contact lee.robson62@btinternet.com for details. This will now be held on Sunday 19th August at 12 noon at Rockfield Community Centre Monmouth. Sorry for any inconvenience. Other details still apply
URGENT PENTWYN DYNAMOS REQUIRE PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY URGENT Pentwyn Dynamos require a friendly on either Tuesday 7th, Wednesday 8th or Thursday 9th August (we have a pitch booked). Anyone interested contact Lee Stephens on 0797 0739494 or 02920 735903. 6 August 2007
CELTIC FINISH FRIENDLIES WITH FINE WIN OVER CAMBRIAN & CLYDACH Saturday 4 August 2007 Cwmbran Celtic 4 - 1 Cambrian & Clydach Cwmbran Celtic completed their friendly programme with a fine 4-1 win against First Division newcomers Cambrian & Clydach. Whilst not too much importance can be given to results in friendly games, this was, nevertheless, an excellent performance against strong opponents. Celtic completely dominated the first half and surprised their opponents with their work rate and pace. They took the lead after 15 minutes with a fine goal from Shane Williamson and increased the lead on the half hour when Williamson scored again after some fine work by Joey Carless. Carless himself then converted a penalty right on the stroke of half time after he had been brought down inside the box. The second half was more even and goalkeeper, Nicky Church, was called upon to make a couple of good saves. Celtic went further into the lead after 60 minutes when Sammy Winter scored from close range after the Cambrian goalkeeper failed to hold on to a powerful free kick from Shane Williamson. Cambrian scored a consolation goal a few minutes from the end. There were some excellent performances from the Celtic squad and newcomers Ryan Hillier and Ben Evans certainly staked their claims for a starting spot next week. Youngsters, Simon Prangley, Owen Llewellyn and Lee Newman also impressed when they were given a taste of football at this level late on. Management team Micky Copeman and Della Cheedy will have a strong squad available to them and there is a confidence about the team that augurs well for the new season. In other friendlies, Celtic beat South Wales Senior League newcomers, Llanbradach 3-0 and drew 1-1 with Welsh League First Division neighbours, Newport YMCA.
Wednesday 1 August 2007 Pre-season friendly CAERLEON’S MacWhirter Welsh League Division One preparations continued on a positive note with a 1-1 home draw against newly-promoted Blue Square Premier outfit Bath City, writes Terry Daley. Manager Brendan Dowd paraded several new signings including much-travelled central defender Jason Price, who last season won a Welsh League Division Three championship medal with Cwmbran Celtic. Price, though, was powerless to prevent striker Mark McGiever from putting the visitors ahead on 20 minutes with a low shot past goalkeeper Richard Lancaster. However it didn’t take Caerleon too long to draw level as forward Luke Cueto skilfully headed home Simon Trueman’s deft chip into the danger area. Both sides went close to grabbing a winner, substitute goalkeeper Danny Bradfield making a fine save to deny Bath, managed by former Newport County defender and Newport AFC boss John Relish, before Jamie Sherry nearly clinched victory for the home side but saw his effort go narrowly wide. Caerleon, who previously defeated Spar Mid Wales League outfit Presteigne 2-1 and Bath ’s under-19 side 3-2, wrap up their pre-season programme by hosting Cadbury Heath at Cold Bath Road on Saturday, kick off 2.30pm.
ELY RANGERS GETTING ON BOARD WITH CAPITOL TRUCKS 25 July 2007 ELY Rangers, from the MacWhirter Welsh Football League, are joining forces with the Capitol Trucks junior section. Talks have been held over the last couple of years about the seniors and juniors combining and they will be together for 2007-08. Ely Rangers have been looking to form a junior section and club secretary Bob Fry said: “It’s perfect that we are able to combine with the Capitol Trucks club. “They were looking for ways to enable their under-16 players to stay together and we found the solution.” The juniors played under the title Ely Rangers Colts last season and will now simply be Ely Rangers, playing in the Cardiff and District League. Ely will run teams from under-eight minis to under-16 in the boys’ league plus a girls’ team. Rangers will field 14 teams in total, including the Welsh League Division Two side, managed by Wayne Matthews, and the reserves. All teams play in the club’s blue and black stripes, black shorts and black socks. Ely Rangers own their Station Road, Wenvoe ground, sitting between the Vale of Glamorgan and Cardiff. Current chairman Graham Clark bought the ground in the late 1970s and it has been updated from a market garden into a stadium with a stand, dressing rooms and clubhouse. “We need to move forward and improve,” said Fry. “We need floodlights if we are to play at a higher level. “Then we are also planning new dressing rooms, a medical room and covered seating. “In stage three we are keen to enlarge the clubhouse both for members and supporters. What we really need are sponsors and partners to help us.” It was Clark who started Ely Rangers in 1963. He was playing for Ely YMCA and they did not have enough players. He moved to Heath Park Rangers and then decided to form Ely Rangers. The club joined the Cardiff Combination and quickly made progress. They achieved Welsh League status after winning the South Wales Amateur League in 1997. They spent three seasons in Division Three, finishing fifth twice before being promoted as runners-up and going straight on to Division One after finishing third. “We have loyalty and a good club spirit said Fry “That’s what keeps us going.” Capitol Truck Colts were formed in 1995 and the club grew formed in to their current 200 members aged between six and 16. The Ely Rangers junior committee will be chairperson Mark Richards, secretary Debbie Griffiths and Treasurer Simon Azzopardi. The club will run 12 teams and the managers are: Peter Fordham (under-eight, David Pugh (under-nine), Clint Ridout (under-10), Peter Edwards (under-11), Angie Milic (under-11 girls), Paul Cleverdon (under-12), David Griffiths(under-13) Lloyd Mayer (under-14A), Alan Lane (under-14B), Mark Owens (under-14C), Paul Francombe (under-15), Greg Wilcox (under-16A) and Roy Champion (under-16B). Ely Rangers are seeking sponsorship at all levels and Bob Fry can be contacted on 029 2056 6762. TERRY PHILLIPS, SOUTH WALES ECHO
CAMBRIAN & CLYDACH YOUTH REQUIRE A HOME PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY THIS FRIENDLY IS NO LONGER REQUIRED Cambrian & Clydach YOUTH are looking for a HOME pre-season friendly on Sunday 12 August 2007. If interested please contact Dane Facey on 07816 538645 or e-mail: danefacey@hotmail.com. PLEASE NOTE THIS CONTACT INFORMATION IS FOR A YOUTH PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY ONLY. 1 August 2007
CAMBRIAN & CLYDACH REQUIRE A HOME FIRST-TEAM PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY Cambrian & Clydach are looking for a HOME first-team pre-season friendly on Tuesday 7 August 2007. If interested please contact Phil Williams on 07980 558495. PLEASE NOTE THIS CONTACT INFORMATION IS FOR A PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY ONLY. Phil Williams, Commercial Manager 28 July 2007
TON PENTRE YOUTH REQUIRE PRE-SEASON FRIENDLIES Ton Pentre are looking for youth team friendlies. If interested please contact Stuart Jones, Secretary on 07772 313563 or e-mail: stujones221259@aol.com. Stuart Jones, Secretary 28 July 2007
CWMAMMAN UNITED REQUIRE A RESERVE TEAM MANAGER Cwmamman United AFC have a vacancy for a reserve team manager for their side in the MacWhirter Welsh League, Reserve Division West. Any person(s) interested should contact the Club Secretary, Alun Rees on 01269 824364 or 07977 925808. Closing Date for any applications is Monday 13th August 2007. Alun Rees, Secretary 28 July 2007
BRIDGEND TOWN REQUIRE A PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY THIS FRIENDLY IS NO LONGER REQUIRED Due to a late cancellation Bridgend Town are looking for a friendly on August 4th. Pitch booked. Contact Drewe Phillips, Manager on 07736 716507. PLEASE NOTE THIS CONTACT INFORMATION IS FOR A PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY ONLY.
BRYNTIRION ATHLETIC REQUIRE A COMMERCIAL MANAGER AND A WEB SITE MANAGER Bryntirion Athletic require a commercial manager and a web site manager. If interested, please contact Emlyn Phillips, Chairman on 07785 530483. Emlyn Phillips, Chairman 28 July 2007
ELY RANGERS REQUIRE A COMMERCIAL MANAGER Ely Rangers require a commercial manager, terms negotiable. If interested, please contact Bob Fry, Secretary on Home: 02920 566762, Business: 02920 880222, or Club/Ground: 02920 598725. Bob Fry, Secretary 28 July 2007
PENTWYN DYNAMOS REQUIRE PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY THIS FRIENDLY IS NO LONGER REQUIRED Pentwyn Dynamos require a friendly on Saturday 4th August with pitch already booked at University Fields, Cardiff. Anyone interested contact Lee Stephens on 0797 0739494 or 02920 735903. 26 July 2007
Swansea Dockers AFC of the Swansea Senior League require a friendly, home or away, from 4th of August onwards. If interested please contact David Alder on 07837 965467. 26 July 2007
LLANTWIT FARDRE REQUIRE AWAY PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY THIS FRIENDLY IS NO LONGER REQUIRED Llantwit Fardre looking for a friendly fixture away from home: Saturday 28th July, Tuesday 31st July, or Wednesday 1st August. Interested club(s) please contact me on 07974098159. Gary Lord, Secretary 25 July 2007
BETTWS REQUIRE AWAY PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY FOR SATURDAY 28 JULY 2007 Due to late cancellation, Bettws FC are looking for an away friendly on Saturday 28th July. Please ring Neil McEachen on 07887 530804 if anyone can oblige. Neil McEachen, Secretary 23 July 2007
"Garw SBGC announce today that their player/manager, Chris Wells, who has been a tremendous asset to the Club for the past two years, has resigned from his post with immediate effect. “Garw Chairman Michael Lambert said "Chris has resigned in order to move abroad for work. He has been very successful here and of course we are very shocked and saddened at his departure, but he is a young man who needs to further his career. He has found an excellent position in the Caribbean and so, regretfully, he must leave the Club. He leaves with the very best wishes and the sincere thanks of everyone connected with the Club. "Garw have been forced to cancel several pre-season friendly fixtures while we re-organise, but the bulk of last years' squad have agreed to re-sign for the Club and two of our former players, Paul Samuel and Kevin Day, will manage the side in the interim until a manager can be appointed. We will be fielding a side for our first match at Aberaman on August 11th and are confident that this young side will give a good account of themselves, despite the obvious blow of Chris' departure. "Individuals who might be interested in the manager's position should contact me on 01656 872 032 or michael@garwafc.co.uk" Michael Lambert, Chairman 22 July 2007
CWMAMAN INSTITUTE ANNOUNCE PRE-SEASON FRIENDLIES
Philip Northey 19 July 2007
MONMOUTH TOWN ANNOUNCE PRE-SEASON FRIENDLIES AND OTHER INFO Pre-season friendlies:
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