First division leaders Neath Athletic gained a narrow 1-0 home win over Betws to forge further ahead of nearest challengers Goytre United.

Although the Llandarcy Park side dominated for long periods, they missed chances and that almost came back to haunt them. In the end a solo run from Jock Fairbairn in the 35th minute did the trick, with Carl Shaw collecting his 12th goal of the season.

Goytre were held to a 1-1 draw by Bridgend Town at Glenhafod Park and now trail Neath by 14 points but have five games in hand.

The Port Talbot side started brightly, with Darren Lyons capitalising on Chris Ashley's under-hit back pass on 10 minutes.

Both sides played better into the teeth of the wind and Bridgend levelled in the 80th minute via ex-Llanelli man Martin Rose.

Bottom-placed Briton Ferry sunk into further relegation trouble, losing 2-1 against Barry Town at Old Road.

Former Ferry player Francis Ford, now Barry's assistant manager, shot them ahead, and another ex-Bridgend man, Nana Baah, made it 2-0 at the break.

A 67th-minute penalty from Sam Brown gave Ferry hope, and towards the end Layton Thomas and Cameron Hopkins both went close.

Also on the receiving end were Afan Lido, who went down to a surprise 2-0 defeat against lowly Newport YMCA at the Marston Stadium.

A month after gaining a shock 1-0 win at leaders Neath, goals from Dan Heath and Leonne Spargo set up the YMCA win.

Pontardawe rose to fifth spot with a 1-0 victory over Ely Rangers at the Recreation Ground.

Carl Mainwaring came off the bench to deliver an 80th-minute winner with a wind-assisted volley from 35 metres.

Maesteg Park gained a deserved 2-1 win at falling giants Ton Pentre to keep within striking distance of the top two.

This was the second win at Ynys Park in a year for the third-placed Old Parish side.

Gareth Davies headed them into a 23rd-minute lead and struck again on 74 minutes, and although Kyle Morris pulled a goal back, Maesteg hung on.

The result of the day belonged to second division Morriston, who came from 3-0 down to force a 3-3 draw against leaders Pontypridd at Ynysangharad Park.

Goals from Peter Cheeseman, Liam Grant and Kerry Harding left Ponty in charge, with Neil Simon responding just before the break.

Paul Sweeny then set up a 10th goal of the season for Dean Rosselli, while in the 68th minute ex-Swan Jonathan Coates restored parity.

And right on time, Morriston's Michael Chapman headed straight at home goalkeeper Mark Poole from point-blank range.

Garden Village's game at Tredegar was called off, bottom-placed Gwynfi lost 2-0 against Merthyr Saints at the Cape, while Ammanford were never at the races during a 3-0 defeat against Pontyclun at Ivor Park.

They trailed to a Gary Thomas goal after just three minutes, but Luke Fayers and Steve Devonald then went close.

However, second-half goals from Adam Davies and Geraint Williams sealed a home win to relieve their relegation worries.

Goals from David Brewer and David Pugh carried Aberaman to a 2-0 victory at Garw in the top-of-the-table clash.

Meanwhile, Paul Evans stood down as Seven Sisters manager following a 2-1 home victory over bottom-placed Penrhiwfer.

His departure was for personal reasons, and Julian Fry will take charge for the rest of the season.

Barry Herdman shot Seven into a sixth-minute lead, and although Nathan Williams equalised, Leon Thomas hit a 43rd-minute winner.

There were goals galore at Pryderi Park as promotion-seeking West End defeated struggling Cwmamman 5-2.

But the game was tighter than the scoreline suggested, and Cwm rued having a Stephen Williams effort ruled out at 3-2.

The Townhill side led 3-2 at the break with Andrew Tyrrell (two) and Neil Phillips on target, while Craig Maloney and Gareth Morgan netted for the Carmarthenshire side.

Two goals in the space of five minutes from Anthony Wright and Phillips then wrapped things up for West End.

Ystradgynlais accounted for struggling Treowen 3-1 at Ynyscedwyn Road.

They were a goal adrift at the break but Nicholas Maggs equalised on the hour, with Michael Whapham taking them ahead on 75 minutes.

An 18th goal of the season from top scorer Hopkins then made things safe as Ystrad climbed into seventh position.

TONY POOLE
 

Second-placed Goytre United are set to give striker Richard Ryan another week to recover from a hamstring pull.

The 22-year-old Swansea University history student is looking towards a return in the Welsh Cup quarter-final clash with Rhyl at Belle Vue a week tomorrow. Assistant Goytre manager Andrew Radford will look after team matters at home to Bridgend Town tomorrow, as manager Craig Duggan is running the rule over Rhyl at Newtown.

However, utility player Kevin Davies, a recent signing from Bridgend, is set to start against his former club while Jonny Walkley has recovered from a foot injury.

But John Meacock is still troubled by an ankle injury, and is doubtful.

Leaders Neath Athletic, who were toppled last time out by visiting Afan Lido, have defender Liam Hancock suspended.

Striker Chris Miller is likely to be out for a month with a hamstring pull, while a late fitness test will be run on defender Steve Evans (rib injury).

Afan Lido manager Mark Robinson has Paul Evans suspended for their encounter with Newport YMCA at the Marston Stadium, while there are also injury problems to consider.

Briton Ferry, who have appointed new joint-managers in Paul Barrow and Gareth Colwill, take on Barry Town at Old Road.

Dan McGrath has declared himself available, while Ferry are set to continue with a youth policy that has seen Scott Barrow, Cameron Hopkins, Daniel Thomas and Lee Parfitt all show immense promise over the last month.

However, time is not on Ferry's side in the battle to avoid the drop, and they will be looking to put one over former club favourite Francis Ford, who is now joint-Barry manager.

Pontardawe Town have signed West End top-scorer Darren Griffiths ahead of tomorrow's home game with improving Ely Rangers.

Ian Morgan and Michael Chaves, who both missed last Saturday's 2-1 away defeat against Barry, are both set to return.

Maesteg Park, who visit falling giants Ton Pentre, will be boosted by the return of Richard Stevens from a one-match ban.

In the second division, Garden Village will again be without top scorer Ashley Richards for their trip to Tredegar.

Richards is serving a three-match ban picked up in a Sunday League fixture earlier in the month.

Morriston will once again call on former Swansea City player Jonathan Coates for their showdown at table-topping Pontypridd.

Coates is likely to concentrate on the Dingle side during the remainder of the campaign, and the move has provided Michael Ellery's side with a massive boost.

The downside is the loss of Michael Gammon with a lung infection.

Gwynfi United host Merthyr Saints, while Ammanford will still be without John Garland for their clash with Pontyclun at Ivor Park.

However, the Rice Roaders are boosted by the return of top-scorer Cerison Davies, who missed last week's exciting 4-3 home win over Cardiff Corries.

Porthcawl are without a game, having lost to a controversial late winner from Jason Bourne in a 2-1 midweek loss at Caldicot.

Tyrone Tucker shot Caldicot ahead in the 23rd minute, with Luke Bowen equalising on the hour.

In the third division, West End are home to Cwmamman.

Centre-back Danny Kavanagh returns for the Townhill club, while Cwm have both Michael Hodges and Steve Francis back in their squad.

Ystradgynlais, who entertain Treowen, lose both Andrew Miller and Liam Soroka to suspensions.

Lancelot Davies is unavailable, and Dave Miller rated 50-50 with a chest strain.

Seven Sisters will be without striker Nigel Westall against Penrhiwfer at the Welfare Ground.

But manager Paul Evans is hoping that both Owain Llewellyn and Nicholas Moore will return.

TONY POOLE
 

TONY POOLE
 

Relegation-threatened Briton Ferry battled back from two goals down to force a 2-2 draw at third-placed Maesteg Park.

The omens looked gloomy for Ferry when they trailed to goals from Paul Jones after just 23 seconds and Ian Shepherd. But the Old Parish side's top scorer Robbie Walters missed a penalty, leaving the door open for a Ferry revival.

Their hopes were boosted by a 70th-minute Sam Brown penalty, and better followed when Layton Thomas equalised.

However, they should have won, but substitute Richard Howell fluffed two late chances.

But a surprise 4-1 home victory by Betws over champions Ton Pentre, sunk Ferry back to the bottom.

Neither leaders Neath Athletic or nearest challengers Goytre Utd were in action while Afan Lido were held to 3-3 at Bryntirion.

The Bridgend side seldom got out of their half during the opening period, and fell behind to a 38th-minute Ian Jones penalty.

He struck again before the break, but in an amazing turnaround Bryntirion clawed their way back to lead 3-2 by the 88th minute.

Jonathan Cuss ended a goal drought with a hat-trick - one coming from the penalty spot - but Jones also completed his treble late on.

Pontardawe Town lost for a second successive time, going down 2-1 against Barry Town in Treforest.

Ponty started brightly enough with Marc Otten firing them into a fifth-minute lead but while Chris Harry levelled.

Recent Bryntirion import Brandon Walters went on to fire home the winner just before half time.

Once again Garden Village's promotion push in the second division is faltering through a lack of goals.

The Gorseinon-based side were held to a goalless draw by Caldicot.

But there was no lack of goals at Rice Road with Ammanford coming from behind to win 4-3 during a topsy-turvy encounter with Cardiff Corries.

Luke Fayers and Nathan McNeil both scored as the Rice Roaders went in with a 2-1 half-time lead.

But by the hour mark they found themselves 3-2 down and it looked that a draw was beckoning.

But an eighth goal of the season from Fayers restored parity while McNeil drove in the winner on 72 minutes.

However, Ammanford then won an 80th-minute penalty, resulting in the visitors having their goalkeeper dismissed.

But Fayers saw his spot kick safely pouched, and Ammanford goalkeeper Rob Thomas was then forced to pull off a good save to protect the 4-3 advantage.

Morriston pieced together an improved second-half showing to triumph 3-1 over lowly Pontyclun at the Dingle.

Assistant manager Dean Beniamous headed Morriston in front but half time arrived with the score on 1-1.

But ex-Swansea City star Jonathan Coates then lit up the Dingle, and set up a lead goal for Beniamous on the hour.

That proved the turning point, and they sealed the win with a ninth goal of the campaign from top scorer Dean Rosselli.

Garw took the derby clash against Porthcawl at Lock's Lane, 2-1, with ex-Bluebird Tony Wallis scoring twice.

However, the Seasiders made a fist of it with Lawrence James responding near the end.

A lone goal from striker Craig Hopkins set up a 1-0 victory for Ystradgynlais over Cwmamman at Grenig Park.

Hopkins struck after quarter of an hour with his 17th goal of the season recorded on the end of an Andrew Miller pass.

But Ystrad finished the game with just nine men after Liam Soroka was sent off for two bookable offences, and Andrew Miller got a straight red.

That led to Cwm applying late pressure, and only a fine interception from Ystrad centre-back Carl Evans thwarted the unmarked pairing of Stephen Williams and Luke Rice.

Seven Sisters lost 1-0 at AFC Porth, and had James Griffiths sent off in the 40th minute.

This had a significant bearing, as up to that point the Dulais Valley side had been the dominant force, and the winner arrived in the 62nd minute.

TONY POOLE
 

The final of the FAW Trophy will be a South-North affair, with Swansea side West End meeting Wrexham-based Cefn United.

West End, who now play in the Macron Welsh League's third division, overcame Llandudno Junction 3-0, all the Townhill side's goals coming in the second half. Darren Griffiths bagged a brace and Neil Phillips got the third to send West End through.

Cefn United proved far too strong for Swansea Senior League side Maltsters Sports and ran out convincing 4-1 winners.
 

Macron Welsh League leaders Neath Athletic have been paired away to Pontardawe Town in a derby tie in the Shamrock Travel Cup quarter-finals.

It forms the match of the round next month, while Maesteg Park entertain Morriston Town. This will form a first return to Tudor Park for former Maesteg player- manager Michael Ellery, now supremo at the Dingle.

The other ties involve Llanwern at home to Garden Village while Uwic host Penrhiwceiber.

Full draw: Llanwern v Garden Village, Maesteg Park v Morriston Town, Pontardawe Town v Neath Athletic, Uwic v Penrhiwceiber.

Ties to be played on or before March 11-12.

Two other Welsh League draws have been announced.

Harris Printers Reserve Division Shield semi-finals: Neath Athletic v Maesteg Park, Croesyceiliog v Chepstow.

MacWhirter Youth Cup semi-finals: Haverfordwest County v Dinas Powys, West End v Cambrian & Clydach.

TONY POOLE
 

Goytre United are showing an interest in Bridgend Town utility player Kevin Davies ahead of tomorrow's first division match at Dinas Powys.

The Port Talbot side, who hope to include the former Swansea City youth player in their line-up, will be attempting to get within nine points of leaders Neath Athletic whose game at Bridgend has been called off. The death earlier in the week of Neath vice-president Malcolm Judd, a former Skewen Athletic stalwart of 40 years, has caused the postponement, but Sunday's West Wales Senior Cup tie at Briton Ferry will go ahead.

Goytre, who gained a 4-2 home win over Newport YMCA in midweek, could again be without the injured trio of Richard Ryan (hamstring), John Meacock (ankle) and Johnny Walkley (foot).

Going into tomorrow's round of fixtures, second-placed Goytre trail Neath by 12 points with five games in hand.

Afan Lido, who held Maesteg Park to 2-2 at the Marston Stadium in midweek, visit Bryntirion Athletic for a first time.

However, manager Mark Robinson has a lengthy injury-list and is bracing himself to be without coach Paul Reid, Karl Roberts, Carl Evans, Karl Lewis, Greg Hurley, Shaun O'Leary, Chris Piper and Craig Jones.

To make matters worse, teenager Corey Thomas broke an ankle in school this week with the only bright spot provided by the return of Liam McCreesh from suspension.

Briton Ferry will be looking to build on a 2-1 victory over fellow strugglers Betws last Saturday at Maesteg Park.

However, Ferry face a much sterner test against an Old Parish side that has risen to third position, and are boosted by the return of Scott Conaty.

Pontardawe Town travel to Barry Town, who have recently signed Brandon Walters from Bryntirion Athletic, and will again be without injured Steve Crabbe.

In the second division, Garden Village have Chris Thomas back from suspension to face promotion rivals Caldicot at Stafford Common.

Having lost last time out at Troedyrhiw, this is a must-win situation for Robert Lloyd's side, who will run a late fitness test on defender Lee Waite.

However, striker Ashley Richards is ruled out by a three-match suspension picked up in a Sunday League match.

Morriston, who host relegation-threatened Pontyclun, are hoping to once more include ex-Swansea City midfielder Jonathan Coates on dual registration from Port Talbot Town.

Coates did not figure in last Saturday's 3-1 win over Cardiff Corries at the Riverside that kept the Dingle men in striking distance of the promotion race.

Ammanford, who host Cardiff Corries, have Nathan McNeil, Liam Preece and Liam Williams back in their squad.

But the Rice Roaders will be without Cerison Davies and John Garland, while Jason Cousins faces a fitness test on his groin.

Third-placed Garw will be favourites to keep their promotion push on an even keel in the derby clash with Porthcawl Town at Lock's Lane.

In the third division, West End sit out another programme because of a Welsh Trophy semi-final clash with Llandudno at Latham Park, Newtown.

Ystradgynlais, who travel to Cwmamman, saw their midweek match at Llanwern called off after the wet weather took its toll on the Spytty Park pitch.

Manager Andrew Hopkins is still without Mark James, and Andrew Miller has pulled out because of work commitments.

Cwmamman will be without Steven Francis, while a knee injury looks like Rob Griffiths must face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Seven Sisters, meanwhile, will be hoping to complete a league double over AFC Porth at Dinas Park.

The Dulais Valley club took the reverse fixture 3-2 back in October, and could be boosted by the return of midfield ace Richard Smith from a hamstring pull.

TONY POOLE
 

Goytre United gained an excellent 2-1 home victory over Uwic to keep the pressure on first division leaders Neath Athletic.

The Port Talbot side, who previously lost to the students on penalties in the Shamrock Travel Cup, took the spoils on the back of first-half goals from Ryan Penny and Michael Waters. The win left Goytre 15 points behind Neath with six games in hand going into tomorrow night's home game with Newport YMCA.

Neath regained their poise - following a 2-1 midweek defeat against Afan Lido - with a crushing 4-0 home victory over Dinas Powys.

Andy Hill headed them ahead in the 20th minute, with Jonathan Keaveny doubling the lead right on half-time.

And the return of Ryan Frankcom coincided with him rounding things off via a two-goal contribution.

Maesteg Park triumphed 2-1 over Pontardawe Town at the Recreation Ground to climb into third spot. Paul Jones fired the Old Parish side into a second-minute lead with ex-Maesteg man Mark Dunford equalising.

It was 1-1 at the turnaround and Park, who visit Afan Lido tomorrow evening, went on to fashion a 70th-minute via Ian Shepherd.

Briton Ferry hauled themselves off the bottom with a 2-1 victory over fellow strugglers Betws at Old Road. Second-half goals from strikers Richard Howell and Richard Gaye improved the chances of them avoiding the drop.

But Afan Lido failed to build on the midweek victory at Neath - losing 2-1 against AFC Llwydcoed in the Cynon Valley.

Goals from Chris Vardon and Mattie Phillips sent the Aberdare side clear before Ian Jones pulled one back just before the break.

However, the Seasiders thought they had salvaged a point near the end, but Phil Holmes's effort was ruled out for off side.

An Andrew Mainwaring hat-trick, along with a Martin Rose strike, set up a surprise 4-0 victory for Bridgend Town at Ton Pentre.

Another hat-trick man was Frenchman Ben Tholma, of Ely Rangers, in their 4-0 home win over Bryntirion. Gareth Cummins was also on target.

In the second division, Garden Village saw their promotion push falter during a 2-0 set-back against Troedyrhiw at the Willows.

Goals in each half from Richie Collins and Julian Bartley condemned Village to defeat during a disappointing display.

But Morriston returned to winning ways with a 3-1 victory over Cardiff Corries at the Riverside.

Though going a goal down within a minute, a stunning strike from Mark Carlyle restored parity.

Paul Sweeny sent the Dingle men in with a 2-1 lead, but they did not seal victory until the 80th minute when Michael Chapman struck.

Garw maintained third position with a 2-0 victory over Ammanford at Blandy.

Lewis Williams gave them a 20th-minute lead with Thomas Hopper lobbing goalkeeper Rob Thomas on the restart.

The Rice Roaders were awarded a 70th-minute penalty, but John Chorley made a brilliant to save to frustrate Cerison Davies.

Goals from Luke Bowen and Dan Harris saw Porthcawl twice ahead at second-placed Croesyceiliog, but the Seasiders lost 3-2.

In the third division, Ystradgynlais got back in the groove with a 3-2 home victory over Monmouthshire side Goytre.

Andrew Miller eased Ystrad in front and after Joe Carlos levelled a well-taken goal from Michael Whapham made it 2-1 at the interlude.

They wrapped things up when Liam Soroka hit the target on the end of an Ioan King cross.

A 70th-minute winner from James Griffiths set up a 3-2 home victory for Seven Sisters over Blaenrhondda.

A Richard Herdman penalty, together with a Barry Herdman goal, had left the Dulais Valley side in a sound position until Blaenrhondda launched a fightback.

Finally, Cwmamman had substitute Robert Griffiths taken to hospital with a serious knee injury during a 3-2 defeat against Chepstow at Larkfield.

Striker Stephen Williams opened the scoring in the 10th minute but, midway through the second half they were 3-1 in arrears.

Paul Pugh hit back with a 10th goal of the season - and a 50th team goal in all competitions - but the die had long been cast.
 

TONY POOLE

Leaders Neath Athletic will be looking to get back on track in the Macron Welsh League first division tomorrow when they entertain Dinas Powys.

The Llandarcy Park side fell to only their third defeat of the season when they were beaten 2-1 by Afan Lido. This left Neath 15 points ahead of Goytre Utd, who have six games in hand, but the slip-up has certainly encouraged the chasing pack.

Lido included Andrew Pearson on dual registration from Port Talbot Town, but it has yet to be decided if he will figure tomorrow at relegation-threatened AFC Llwydcoed.

Phil Holmes covered the bench against Neath, having been on the sidelines since the autumn.

Top billing goes to the Glenhafod Park meeting between Goytre Utd and Uwic, a fortnight after the students eliminated the Port Talbot side from the Shamrock Travel Cup.

Fitness tests will be run on top scorer Richard Ryan (hamstring) and midfield operator Jonny Walkley (foot) but centre-back Steve Healy returns to the squad, having been cup-tied last weekend.

Striker Kevin Bartley completes his suspension, making him available for Goytre's Tuesday night's clash with Newport YMCA.

Two sides who could mount a late challenge - Pontardawe Town and Maesteg Park - meet at the Recreation Ground.

Ponty have Steven Cox back in their squad while Maesteg are set to welcome back Lee O'Brien, who has been missing through a back injury.

Maesteg are also in league action next Tuesday, challenging Afan Lido at the Marston Stadium.

Briton Ferry entertain Betws in a real six-pointer in the battle to remain in the top flight.

Meanwhile, Ferry boss Steve Price is up before a commission at the Welsh FA next Wednesday to appeal his touchline ban.

In the second division, promotion-seeking Garden Village have defender Chris Thomas suspended for their clash with Troedyrhiw at the Willows.

Morriston, who challenge Cardiff Corries at the Riverside, lose dual registered Jonathan Coates back to Port Talbot Town.

Ammanford have Cerison Davies, Liam Preece, Terrance Ward and Liam Williams back in their squad for a difficult assignment with Garw.

The Rice Roaders are also hoping to sort things out with Aberystwyth Town to have Matthew Roberts in their line-up.

In the third division, Ystradgynlais will be hoping to place back-to-back defeats against West End and Pentwyn Dynamos behind them at home to Monmouthshire side Goytre.

Ystrad boss Andrew Hopkins has centre-back Carl Evans available again.

Cwmamman have declared a fit squad to take on Chepstow Town at Larkfield, but West End are without a game.

Seven Sisters will be looking to cement a mid-table position at home to Blaenrhondda.

Manager Paul Evans hopes to welcome back Owain Llewellyn, Shaun Lambert and Chris Herdman.

TONY POOLE
 

Division one leaders Neath Athletic left it late to wrap up a crucial 2-1 win over championship rivals Uwic at Cyncoed.

The Llandarcy Park side should have killed the game off long before Carl Shaw headed home a 90th-minute winner. Shaw nodded Neath ahead after just 10 minutes, and they went on to dominate the half without increasing the lead.

A hatful of chances were missed before the students levelled in the 75th minute through Jamie Bradford, sparking a late revival.

But just when it looked as if Neath were resigned to just a point, Shaw's 11th goal of the season sealed another vital win.

That left Neath, who host Afan Lido this Wednesday, a massive 15 points clear of Goytre Utd, who have five games in hand.

The chances of Afan Lido making an immediate return to the Welsh Premiership finally evaporated during a 1-0 defeat against Taffs Well at the Marston Stadium.

A 25th-minute goal from Lawrence Davies separated the sides, while Lido's Liam McCreesh and Taffs Well player-manager Mark Evans were both sent off in the 44th minute.

Pontardawe dropped points in disappointing fashion against relegation-threatened Betws, the Recreation Ground clash ending 1-1.

A week after Ponty eliminated the Bridgend side from the Shamrock Travel Cup, Richard Llewellyn gave the visitors a 28th-minute lead on the end of a Dean Simmons free-kick.

Ponty equalised two minutes into the second half via a 25-metre Jamie Bowen effort but failed to muster a winner.

Fourth-placed Maesteg Park, who were held 1-1 by visiting Caerleon, were another team to drop two points. The Old Parish side trailed to a Craig Joliffe strike after six minutes, the equaliser eventually coming in the 72nd minute when Lee Michael headed home an Andrew Davies corner.

Two minutes later Caerleon had Chris Pierce sent off, but Paul Jones then missed two good chances to set up a Maesteg victory.

Bottom-placed Briton Ferry dug themselves into more trouble with a 4-2 defeat against Bridgend Town at Coychurch Road.

Morgan Harris provided Bridgend with a 1-0 interval lead, and further goals from ex-Ferry man Gavin Guy, Andrew Mainwaring and substitute Kevin Davies made it 4-0 on 79 minutes.

Ferry saved some face late on through a Sam Brown penalty and a Richard Howell strike.

Bryntirion gained a first league success in nine league starts with a 2-1 home victory over AFC Llwydcoed. Though Chris Vardon gave the visitors the lead, second-half goals from Ian Gearie and Marc McKee gave the Bridgend side a much-needed win.

In the second division, despite being off colour, promotion-seeking Garden Village accounted for visiting Gwynfi 3-1.

Paul Dickie netted after three minutes, with John Edwards levelling in the 43rd minute. A minute later Mark Lloyd put Village back in front, but they weren't assured of victory until Steve Evans headed home right on time.

Morriston's promotion hopes received a setback with a 2-1 defeat against Garw at the Dingle.

Ex-Swansea City player Jonathan Coates produced a goal for the home side, only for second-half strikes from Jamie Morris and Tony Wallis to set up victory for the Blandy boys.

Ammanford missed some key performers in a 3-1 defeat by second-placed Croesyceiliog at Rice Road.

Defensive errors allowed Croesy to sweep into a 3-0 lead, but the home side crafted a decent response when Matthew Fisher engineered a goal for Matthew Roberts.

Porthcawl Town sunk into further relegation trouble, a 65th-minute goal from Paul Reid setting up Tredegar's 1-0 away win.

In the third division, West End's top-of-the-table clash at Cambrian & Clydach was called off, while Ystradgynlais were twice ahead during a 3-2 defeat at leaders Pentwyn Dynamos.

Two goals from top scorer Craig Hopkins, one a penalty, left Ystrad in control, but defensive errors cost them the game.

Seven Sisters also came unstuck on the road, losing 2-1 at Treowen. Barry Herdman cancelled out an early Treowen goal, but there was no way back after they conceded again before the break.

Llanwern, 1-0 winners at Merthyr Saints, claimed the final place in the next round of the Shamrock Travel Cup.

The quarter-final draw will be made at the league management meeting a week tomorrow.

TONY POOLE
 

Remarkably, all four South West Wales clubs have been kept apart in the quarter-finals of the Welsh Cup.

The most difficult task faces Welsh League Goytre United, who have been drawn away to former winners Rhyl. But, having disposed of Welsh Premier Haverfordwest County in round two, the Glenhafod Park side will be underestimated by the Lilywhites at their peril.

Llanelli's reward for beating cup holders TNS is a home tie with struggling Caernarfon Town, a pairing that will make the Reds firm favourites for a semi-final berth.

And Port Talbot manager Wayne Davies, on hearing that his side had been drawn at home to Cymru Alliance Llangefni Town, conquerors of Caersws, said: "It gives us a great chance to get into the semis.''

Carmarthen Town are on the road to North Wales again, this time to Bangor City. "We have a good record in North Wales this season, but obviously a home draw would have been preferable,'' said manager Mark Jones.

Not for the first time in recent seasons, Carmarthen had to work hard to see off a spirited challenge from lower league opposition, Cymru Alliance, Prestatyn.

Only a great strike by Neil Smothers 15 minutes from time, won the day after the home side drew level midway through the second period.

But the visitors still had to endure some very uncomfortable moments near the end, with goalkeeper Andrew Delve pulling off two brilliant point-blank saves, while Prestatyn youngster Jack Lewis rattled the Carmarthen woodwork with a free-kick.

Carmarthen took the lead in the 30th minute, Luke Hardy providing the cross that enabled Mark Dodds to head home in superb fashion.

Sloppy defending allowed Neil Gibson to equalise in the 70th minute before Smothers, three minutes later, settled the tie with a fine shot from the edge of the box which went in via a deflection.

"Prestatyn made it very difficult for us in the second half and came strongly at the end,'' said Carmarthen boss Mark Jones.

"I felt we were very comfortable at half-time, but an error at the back made for a tense finish. We're just pleased to be through to the next round.''

Although still not firing on all cylinders, Port Talbot enjoyed a 3-1 success at Cwmbran Town despite making heavy weather of it in the second period.

"I thought we were much too good for Cwmbran, but we took our foot off the gas in the second half and made it difficult for ourselves,'' said Town manager Wayne Davies.

"It never felt uncomfortable, though, and Lee John, coming back from injury, made us tick more like our normal self.''

Rhys Griffiths, a former Crows striker, put Town ahead in the 11th with a neat header and industrious John added the second with a 21st-minute volley.

But Cwmbran put themselves back in contention with a penalty midway through the second half after it was adjudged that Craig Hanford had fouled Rhys Carpenter, and Kristian Hanbury made no mistake from the spot.

Griffiths then secured victory when he fired past Richard Lancaster with five minutes remaining.

Despite being badly hit by injuries, Goytre United enhanced their reputation as giant-killers with a very impressive 5-0 win at Welsh League division two promotion hopefuls Pontypridd Town.

The home side were much fancied following their 1-0 victory over Aberystwyth Town in the previous round.

But once the visitors had broken through a few minutes from the interval, the outcome was never really in doubt.

"Considering how depleted we were, this was an excellent win,'' said Goytre assistant manager Andrew Radford.

"We're really chuffed to be representing the Welsh League in the last eight of the competition.

"To score five was a bonus as Pontypridd have only conceded eight goals in the league this season.''

Paul Lenehan unlocked the home defence in the 43rd minute and Paul Wiseman doubled the advantage eight minutes into the second period.

Goytre were in no mood to let Ponty off the hook, and Ryan Penny ensured an emphatic win with a second-half brace and Darren Lyons completed a thrilling four goals in 12 minutes spell midway through the second half.

The shock of the round came at Caersws where Cymru Alliance high-flyers Llangefni Town secured a superb 3-1 victory thanks to two goals in the final 11 minutes.

A 75th-minute Carl Lamb header earned Bangor City a 2-1 home success over Newtown, while Caernarfon Town cruised through 4-0 against Bala Town.

In the remaining tie, new cup favourites Rhyl won a 5-3 thriller at Newi Cefn Druids after going 3-2 down with 25 minutes remaining. An Andy Moran treble secured the Lilywhites' passage.
 

Leaders Neath Athletic enter a stage that could make or break their prospects of lifting the first division title.

The encounter with third-placed Uwic at Cyncoed forms tomorrow's Welsh League match-of- the-day, while on Wednesday they host Afan Lido in a derby clash. Manager Andrew Dyer welcomes back strikers Jonathan Keaveny and Chris Miller against the students, along with defender Steve Evans.

Neath took the reverse fixture 3-1 at Llandarcy Park in December, but Uwic have improved since then.

Going into tomorrow's showdown, Neath head Uwic by 13 points, but the students have two games in hand.

An Uwic victory would take them second as Goytre United are involved in the Welsh Cup at second division Pontypridd Town.

Lido, who challenge Taffs Well at the Marston Stadium, will be without Ian Jones, former Goytre player Carl Evans, coach Paul Reid and Justin Williams but, on the credit side, Carl Edwards and teenager Carl Evans return.

Maesteg Park moved up into fourth spot in midweek following a 2-0 win over Betws at Tudor Park.

Paul Jones set up a 43rd-minute strike for Ian Shepherd and they sealed victory midway through the second period on the back of a 26th goal of the season from Robbie Walters.

Former Swansea City player Andrew Legg was introduced as a 73rd-minute substitute, but it is likely to be a one-off appearance.

For tomorrow's home fixture with Caerleon, the Old Parish side have a fitness doubt surrounding Kieran Howells, who picked up a leg injury against Betws.

Bottom-placed Briton Ferry, boosted by last Saturday's 2-0 home win over Dinas Powys, will be bidding for a first victory at Bridgend since a 4-1 success back in February, 2001.

Pontardawe Town could do Ferry a big favour if they prevail against lowly Betws at the Recreation Ground.

Last Saturday, Pontardawe required extra-time before eliminating the Bridgend village side from the Shamrock Travel Cup.

For the swift rematch, the Swansea Valley side are strengthened by the return of Geza Hajgato, but they will be without Steve Crabbe for a month. He faces a leg operation.

In the second division, Morriston are able to call on ex-Swansea City midfielder Jonathan Coates for their home game with Garw.

Coates, who is on dual registration from Port Talbot Town, is ineligible for the Welsh Premier club's Welsh Cup tie at Cwmbran.

Dingle boss Mike Ellery is also likely to have his assistant Dean Beniamous back in the squad along with Leighton Connor.

However, they will run a fitness test on top scorer Dean Rosselli, while the game will form a swift return to the ground for Garw centre-back Dai Thomas.

Fifth-placed Garden Village welcome Gwynfi Utd to Stafford Common, and manager Robert Lloyd is set to bring in Lee Waite for suspended Chris Thomas.

Dale Selvedge is also likely to return, having recovered from glandular fever.

Ammanford have three key defenders - Liam Preece, John Garland and Terrance Ward - all suspended for their home game with promotion-seeking Croesy- ceiliog.

Top scorer Cerison Davies is also missing, leading to manager Neil Rees drafting Jamie Evans, Matthew Fisher, Rhodri Robinson and Liam Williams into his squad .

Third division West End also have major injury worries ahead of their top-of-the-table showdown at Cambrian & Clydach.

Captain Wayne Jones along with David Brain, Richard Mansell and Rob Shannon are all injured, while David Brown and Danny Kavanagh are both banned.

There are also fitness doubts surrounding Neil Phillips and Ashley Wright, while Nigel Hole is on standby.

Ystradgynlais, who saw a nine-match unbeaten run end against West End last time out, visit table-topping Pentwyn.

Ystrad boss Andrew Hopkins will be without injured duo Mark James and Carl Evans.

Seven Sisters hope to have Leon Thomas back at Treowen but Cwmamman's home game with Llanwern has been called off because of Llanwern's involvement in a delayed cup-tie at Merthyr Saints.

TONY POOLE