CROESY AIM FOR A COMEBACK

28 August 2006

CROESYCEILIOG could have been right up there in the early front-runners of the MacWhirter Welsh League Division One had it not been for the woodwork in their last two matches.

Nevertheless, they are in mid-table despite going down to successive defeats in those couple of matches, the latest being a 5-4 loss at Bryntirion Athletic on Saturday.

Croesy actually found themselves almost down and out at one stage as Bryntirion went 4-1, striker Chris Watkins getting an early goal to level at 1-1 during the first half.

But an own goal from Bryntirion’s centre-half sparked a remarkable revival that almost led to a draw. Centre forward Mark Jones cracked home a screaming 25-yard drive to pull Croesy back to 4-3 down before their opponents got another goal to extend their lead again to two.

Nevertheless, Andrew Pritchard, who came on as a late substitute, scored the ninth goal of the game and, right at the end, Watkins agonisingly hit the woodwork for a strike which would have completed his side’s remarkable recovery and earned a share of the points.

The game was good for goals but the defending was poor from both teams. And there was another sour note as well to the match as Croesy centre-half John Rees had to go to hospital with an injury.

Caerleon’s youngsters, though, seemed to feel the effects of a hectic start to the campaign as they went down 4-0 at home to Ton Pentre.

Boss Brendan Dowd admitted his side got what they deserved as Caerleon were always up against it, especially as Ton Pentre had, according to Dowd, “one of the best midfields in the league” playing.

Caerleon held on until a hammer blow just before half-time, when a 25-yard shot crept into the net. That hurt the players, said their boss, and Ton Pentre just ran rings around them afterwards.    

Dowd said: “I know I won’t have another performance from my players like that again this season. We were always up against it because Ton are a good side. We had chances but these youngsters are used to getting 20 in a game at the level they have been playing, where here you only get two or  three.”

Dowd has ordered his players in for two training sessions this week rather than the usual one so they can re-adjust and get things right ahead of another big match with high-flying Neath Athletic.

And, just to complete an afternoon of losses from Gwent clubs, Newport YMCA went down 1-0 at home to Dinas Powys and suffered the loss of Aaron Stewart with a hamstring injury

Manager Mark Coldrick said: “They went 1-0 up at half-time when their centre-half headed the ball  into the net, but our boys felt badly about it because it was the only header he won all match.

“We huffed and puffed in the second half and created a few chances but we didn’t really have a shot at goal. We are a bit of a Jekyll and Hyde side at the moment and we thought we had got over that at Taff’s Well on Tuesday We will have to put a stop to this inconsistency”

Lee Brooker grabbed two goals to help Tredegar Town to a 2-1 home victory over Morriston Town, much to the relief of manager Rob Ellis.

Brooker got his strikes either side of half-time to give Town a cushion. But they gave away a penalty to allow Morriston back into it, yet hung onto the end.       

Ellis said: “I hope that kick-starts our season now We were a far better side in the first half, and going 1-0 at halftime flattered them a bit, I think. We have not had the best of luck to date and, hopefully, we can go on from here.”

Gareth Cullimore grabbed Caldicot Town’s goal right at the end at Cambrian and Clydach but it was nothing more than a consolation as the Monmouthshire outfit went down 2-1.

Llanwern, meanwhile, remain unbeaten at the top of division three after a 4-2 away win at Porth.

That is five wins out of five, but manager Laurence Owen warned his squad: “It’s still early days.”

Mike Vaux set the ball rolling for Llanwern after 15 minutes before Porth equalised just before the interval. However, a Steve Perszewski goal and a brilliant far-post header by Richard Shier put the Newport team 3-1 up.

Greg Taylor scored a marvellous diving header, said Owen, but, unfortunately it was into his own net but Matthew Curry got the final goal with a 20-yarder.

There was a blow for Llanwern, however, as Perszewski was dismissed for a second yellow card and will miss next weekend’s trip to Porthcawl.

Abertillery Excelsiors managed to score a second-half penalty from right-back Lee Bull in their home match with Porthcawl Town, but it wasn’t enough to claim the three points as Porthcawl won 2-1. Club secretary Keith Williams said: “There was not a lot of quality football in the game from both sides, really”

Cwmbran Celtic enjoyed a 3-2 home win over Ystradgynlais, while Risca United finished with the same score but away at Pentwyn Dynamo. Aberbargoed Buds drew 2-2 with Cwmamman United, while Chepstow Town went down 2-1 at home to Llantwit Fardre.   

(Correction - Risca United won 3-0 at home to Gwynfi United)

DOWD PLEASED

25 August 2006

IN a roller coaster start to the new season, Caerleon bid for a third straight win in Division One of the MacWhirter Welsh League tomorrow when they entertain Ton Pentre. Caerleon have gained victories over Newport YMCA and Ely Rangers after falling to Croesyceiliog and Pontypridd, writes Ray Parker.

And in the two wins James Bubella has scored three times - politely texting manager Brendan Dowd pointing out that he got two against Newport YMCA and not just one, the other credited to Ben Davies.

Dowd said: “The other lads said that James scored twice so I’ll go along with that.”

The Caerleon boss has a real headache with team selection for the Bulldogs visit, only central midfield player Paul Shepherd not available.

Dowd was impressed with the team performance at Cardiff side Ely Rangers, adding: “The team applied themselves really well, a good performance and no-one had a bad game.”

Newport YMCA will be without Kristian Avery and Robbie Painter for the visit of Dinas Powys while injury may keep out Aaron Stewart and Faris Yafai, both hamstring strains, and Leon Spargo (groin).

YM are looking to build on the midweek draw at Taffs Well after suffering a four-goal drubbing at Caerleon last Saturday. Mark

Coldrick, YM manager, said: “There are times when you have to take results like that on the chin.”

BULL HELPS EXCELSIORS DOUBLE UP

24 August 2006

ABERTILLERY Excelsiors gained a rapid MacWhirter Welsh League, Third Division double over Goytre with a hard-earned 2-1 away win last night, writes Ray Parker.

Excelsiors, 3-1 winners a week ago. took a tenth-minute lead through Shaun Smith, an advantage they held at the break. The tempo of an entertaining game increased after the break. Goytre skipper Steve Collett close to an equaliser.

Goytre, without a point after three games, wasted a glorious chance to equalise in a good spell. Craig Joliffe clipped the crossbar with a penalty after the lively Lea Grimes was brought down.

Chris Penny missed an opportunity to extend the lead before Goytre deservedly equalised, a powerful header by central defender Dean Taylor from Joliffes corner.

Excelsiors gratefully accepted a gift to regain the lead, Lee Bull converting spot-kick after Richard Minor, playing his first game in goal this season for Goytre, needlessly fouled the industrious Penny.

Llanwern maintained their place at the top with a 3-2 home win over Risca. Steve Perszewski scoring twice and Richard Shier converting a penalty after a handball.

Darren Williams equalised six minutes into the second half and Kharim Haddu got a second for Risca in the closing stages, another side still without a point.

Cwmbran Celtic striker Joe Carless, set for a trial with Accrington Stanley scored four times in a 5-1 win at Chepstow. Celtic ran away with the game after the hosts equalised early in the second-half, Shane Williamson scoring Celtic’s other goal.

Aberbargoed Buds maintained their unbeaten start with a 3-3 draw at Pentwyn Dynamo. Buds, who led three times, scored through Nathan Edwards, Wayne Antoniazzi and Ross Fowler.

Nicky Vassallo scored Caerleon’s winner in their Division One success at Ely Rangers, who equalised after James Bubella put the visitors in front.

Croesyceiliog lost their first game, beaten 1-0 at Dinas Powys, visitors to Newport YMCA on Saturday.

Caldicot gained a Division Two double over Tredegar with Lloyd Stone heading a last-gasp winner in a 2-1 away success.

Richard Langley scored Tredegar’s goal while Peter Little got Caldicot’s opener.
 

IMPROVEMENT PLEASES COLDRICK

23 August 2006

The hurt suffered by Newport YMCA losing at neighbours Caerleon on Saturday went very deep.

But they displayed remarkable resilience, manager Mark Coldrick raising his side to gain a point at Taffs Well last night in the MacWhirter Welsh League, Division One.

Coldrick did a fine job lifting YM, shuffling his battered squad, some by choice, some enforced.

They went two goals up only to be pegged back by the hosts, the first of Taffs Well’s strikes on the stroke of half-time.

Coldrick said: “It was obviously a disappointing result, particularly after going two up. After the nonentity of a game on Saturday, I asked them to show me what they were all about.

“Instead of going in at half-time and asking for more of the same, the game suddenly changed. Football can be a cruel game at times.

“They were in the same boat as us after getting turned over by Croesyceiliog, but we got more positives from this game than Saturday.”

The home side had a great deal to prove – as much as the YM. But, like many sides, they were troubled by the aerial threat posed by towering striker Lewis Sommers.

He had a major role in both goals, first setting up Kristian Avery after 37 minutes and the visitors’ celebrations had hardly subsided when he carved out a second for skipper John Pardue.  Sommers, since his return to the YM from Merthyr Tydfil and recovering from a cartilage operation, has made quite an impression to such an extent that rivals Ton Pentre have already run the rule over the front runner.

But Sommers will be disappointed that he didn’t give YM, who came under heavy second-half pressure, victory when he broke clear of the home defence, keeper John Howe reacting very quickly to block the well-struck effort.

YM conceded a goal on the stroke of half-time and when Taffs Well equalised in the second-half it was no more than they deserved, Barry Gunstone and Lee Denner their marksmen. 

ECKHARDT TO PUT THE BOOTS ON

23 August 2006

New Risca United coach Jeff Eckhardt has now signed as a player and makes his debut at Newport Stadium against MacWhirter Welsh League, Division Three leaders  Llanwern tonight (kick-off 6.30pm).

It is a challenging debut for 40-year-old Eckhardt as Risca look to end their bleak start - three games, three defeats and nine goals conceded. 

The much-travelled defender hopes his experience gained from a Football League career spanning two decades at Sheffield United, Fulham, Stockport County and Cardiff City will help Risca steady the ship.

Eckhardt took charge along with reserves team manager Simon Woodsford last Saturday in the 3-1 home defeat against AFC Porth in the preliminary round of the Welsh Cup and, although there was a slight improvement, is not happy with the way things are going. 

Manager Michael Colcombe returns from holidays this week and will be hugely disappointed with his side’s dismal opening, already bottom of the league and out of the Welsh Cup is not what he and the club expected after such a promising pre-season.

Llanwern, in contrast, have maximum points from three games and progressed in the Welsh Cup. Michael Aviss is still missing with a back injury while Michael Vaux, impressive in the Welsh Cup success over Abertillery Excelsiors on Sunday, is absent because of work.

Caerleon, after their stunning success over city rivals Newport YMCA on Saturday, look for a second successive First Division win when they travel to Ely Rangers. Tredegar have a home return Division Two clash with Caldicot who are seeking the double.

CAERLEON ROCK CITY RIVALS YMCA

21 August 2006

CAERLEON manager Brendan Dowd went to bed happy on Saturday evening as a worrying two losses in his side’s opening MacWhirter Welsh League Division One games was emphatically reversed in their local derby against Newport YMCA.

Dowd’s team turned in a superb display,  Luke Cueto hitting the back of the net twice, once in both halves, to storm to a 4-0 home win over the YM who were outgunned from the start, and could have gone down to two early goals before Cueto fired home his first after 30 minutes. Just after the hour, midfielder Ben Davies fired home a 20-yarder into the top corner of the net before his midfield partner Cueto added his second and centre forward James Bubella completed the win with an 85th minute goal.

Dowd said: “It was not a question of panic stations but we needed to get the points on the board. We have Ely Rangers on Wednesday and hopefully we can do the same again. We should have got something out of the last two games we lost – even if it was a draw – so we will settle for three points from this one. It’s my first win as a manager and I slept well afterwards.”

YM manager Mark Coldrick was naturally disappointed by the loss and it did not help that his team suffered a goal-keeping crisis before the kick-off that led to centre-half Craig James, recently back from a knee operation, filling in.

Coldrick said: “We got exactly what we deserved which was zilch. We were struggling for a goalkeeper as well before the match and we cannot blame the goalkeeping crisis.  Take nothing away from Caerleon, though, they deserved the three points and we never got out of the traps.”

The YM’s task is made all the more tough as Taffs Well are looking to bounce back themselves from a home defeat after going down 3-1 on Friday night to Croesyceiliog who scored through Mark Allcock, Daniel Jenkins and Chris Watkins (penalty), all the goals scored in the second-half.

Caldicot, twice behind and down to ten men, came back to gain a 3-2 Division Two home win over Ammanford who went a goal up and were still in the lead at half-time. Striker Jason Thorn pulled one back for Caldicot before the visitors went 2-1 in front and David Lloyd was sent off for two bookable offences. Yet, down to ten men, Thorn struck again and forward partner Mark Walton added another to claim the points.

Tredegar drew 1-1 at Treharris on Saturday, with Darren Bennett slotting their goal through a penalty. However, they missed another spot-kick through Lee Brooker and, later in the second-half, allowed Treharris to grab an equaliser.

Llanwern have made an excellent start in Division Three and now top the table after a 4-0 win at Seven Sisters, scoring all the goals in the second-half through Marcus Power (2), Matthew Currie and Michael Vaux. 

PERSZEWSKI BRACE SEALS SUCCESS

21 August 2006

Llanwern, early leaders of the MacWhirter Welsh League, Division Three, maintained their fine start to the season with a Welsh Cup home win over Abertillery Excelsiors yesterday afternoon, writes Ray Parker.

Llanwern, four wins from as many starts, gained a 4-1 success and are now at  home again in the first round to league newcomers Aberbargoed Buds.

Michael Vaux gave Llanwern the perfect start after 16 minutes, displaying exquisite finishing from the right with an angled shot over the bemused Mark Barnett in the Abertillery goal after being set up by a long Tony Shier pass.

Hard-working Abertillery got back into the tie early in the second-half with the game’s second quality goal, scored by Shaun Smith. But an impressive finish from Ivan Poncak restored Llanwern’s lead and hopes of another Abertillery recovery faded when substitute Steve Perszewski struck twice.

Nathan Edwards scored Buds extra time winner from the penalty spot after Alan Furber had scored an equaliser over Ystradgynlais.

Goytre gained an excellent 1-0 win at Llansawel, skipper Steve Collett scoring the winner after ten minutes direct from a free-kick. But Goytre owed a great deal to 17-year-old keeper Craig Williams who made a couple of late excellent saves.

Cwmbran Celtic made it into the next round with a 2-1 home win over Newcastle Emlyn, taking a two-goal lead through Sam Winter and former Llanwern player Kieron Porter in the first-half.

EVANS ENJOYING START TO LIFE IN THE TOP FLIGHT

18 August 2006  

Croesyceiliog manager Chris Evans was delighted for a number of reasons with his side’s victorious start to life in the top flight of the MacWhirter Welsh League in midweek, writes Ray Parker.

They won at Caerleon and now face a demanding test at Taffs Well tonight (kick-off 7.15pm).

Evans, after watching his side win 2-0, said: “It was an outstanding performance, especially after losing so many players from last season. We have worked hard in pre-season and it has paid dividends. We looked a solid side and I think we will surprise a few teams.

“After conceding so many goals last season we have worked very hard on defence. We have a new central defensive partnership in Craig Cheedy and John Rees and I think we look more solid than we did last season. I felt that our two wide midfield players were outstanding, Chris Pritchard and Danny Jenkins.”

Croesyceiliog’s long-serving keeper John Bailey played with a badly bruised foot, forcing Rees – a signing from West Pontnewydd along with Mark Jones – to take the goal kicks.

Bailey, talking of making this his last season, has been thrust into the limelight because of a long-standing injury to Pat O’Hagan whose return may not be too far away.

Caerleon, at home for seven matches out of their opening eight games, arguably face an even tougher task at their Cold Bath Road ground on Saturday when they take on Newport YMCA, unbeaten in their first two encounters.

Brendan Dowd, Caerleon’s new manager, said after the defeat by Croesyceiliog: “We seem to be an in-between side at the moment. We are either good defending and not going forward or vice versa. We cannot find the happy medium at the moment.

“But, it will come, we just need that bit of fine tuning. We were well on top in the second half and when we hit a post they were going. I am sure if that had gone in we would have gone on to win.”

Caerleon have improved off the field and their hard work has already been reflected in the attendances for the first two games,

showing a marked increase. Now all that remains is for the right results to be achieved.

YM are facing life without midfield player Ryan Durham, who is expected to chance his arm with Southern League side Merthyr Tydfil and renew his links with John Lewis who is now part of the management team at Penydarren Park.

Lewis and Durham were together at Tredegar and he appeared in a Martyrs friendly against Haverfordwest a week ago.

Durham has been troubled by a hamstring injury and his place against Grange Quins in midweek was taken by Steve Edwards. Daniel Cueto, a substitute in that game, is not available while goalkeeper Andrew Cueto damaged a finger but is expected to be all right. Manager Mark Coldrick has added Shaun Pearce, Alex Stewart and teenage striker Lewis Owen from the youth team to the squad.

Coldrick said: “We didn’t play well in the first-half – I just hope the team which performed in the second-half against Quins turns up at Caerleon!” 

Caldicot, at home to Ammanford in Division Two, have added David Lloyd, Andrew Wenzel and Mark Williams to the squad that was on parade for their 3-1 midweek win over Tredegar, who will still be missing a few of their front line players at Treharris tomorrow.

However, making a return are two central defenders - Darren Bennett, out with a back injury, and Gareth Stevens, serving a one-match ban after his dismissal at Briton Ferry in the opening game. Central midfield player Sam Goulding, who played so well at Caldicot is missing, attending a wedding.

Rob Ellis, Tredegar manager, said: “We played a lot better at Caldicot than in the first game of the season and deserved something out of the game – a draw would have been fair.”

Llanwern, getting promotion from Division Three their number one priority this season, have made an impressive start with two wins and not conceding a goal. But in a hectic start they face a demanding weekend with a league game at Seven Sisters tomorrow and then at home to Abertillery Excelsiors in the Welsh Cup on Sunday.

Michael Binning will be hoping to finally make his debut having missed the first two matches because of a neck injury.

There is only one league match being played in division three because of preliminary round matches in the Welsh Cup.

CROESY OFF TO FINE START

17 August 2006

CROESYCEILIOG made the perfect start to life in the top flight of the MacWhirter Welsh League, winning their opening Division One game at Caerleon last night, writes Ray Parker.

Caerleon, beaten at home by Pontypridd last Saturday, went down 2-0, a goal scored in each half.

Chris Pritchard, back with Croesyceiliog after a spell at Caerleon, gave his side the lead after 15 minutes, the home defence backing off and his long-range shot deceiving goalkeeper James Cairns.

Caerleon came back well and dominated for long spells but Croesyceiliog's defence was strong and well organised. The best the home side could offer was an excellent header from Steve James, his well-timed effort striking a post from Ben Davies' corner.

Stubborn Caerleon's cause, on a quite dreadful surface, was not helped when they lost debut-making central midfield player Martin Phillips, sent off after collecting a second yellow card for a challenge on goal scorer Pritchard.

The pitch had more of an end-of-season look than the start of a new campaign. But all things considered it was an entertaining game in front of a well-sized attendance.

Substitute Mark Jones made the game safe for Croesyceiliog, who face a tough test at Taffs Well tomorrow night.

Jones, making his debut, was one of two players signed from West Pontnewydd, the other being John Rees, a powerful figure in the centre of defence.

Newport YMCA battled back from a two-goal deficit against visitors Grange Quins to earn a point from a 2-2 draw. Quins led 2-0 at the break through Tomas Lubuski and Mike McDonagh. Daniel Heath started the YM revival and then Aaron Stewart had an effort disallowed for handball.

In an enthralling finish, Lewis Sommers headed just over the bar from a corner but the time running out he came to the rescue with his fourth goal in two matches.

Caldicot got off to a perfect start in Division Two with a 3-1 home win over Tredegar. They held a two-goal half-time lead through Paul Harris and Andrew Edwards, with Jason Thorn scoring close to full-time before the visitors pulled a goal back with very little time remaining.

Jason Pritchard, Caldicot manager, said: "It's just what I wanted. We didn't play particularly well but it was a good derby battle and although we went two up it did flatter us a little."

Three goals in the final 20 minutes gave Cwmbran Celtic a 3-0 home win over Chepstow, Jason Price breaking the deadlock. Joe Carless, set for a trial with Accrington Stanley who have just won their way back into the Football League, scored a second Celtic goal and the third was from Sam Winter. Carless will be joined by goalkeeper Nicky Church for the trial.

Llanwern maintained their good start to the season with a 3-0 win at Risca, all the goals scored in the first half through the recalled Steve Perszewski and two from Richard Shier.

Laurence Owen, Llanwern manager, said: "It was an excellent win and we have kept another clean sheet."

League newcomers Aberbargoed Buds couldn't quite hold on to their lead against Pentwyn Dynamo, the game ending in a 1-1 draw. Chris Duggan gave Buds a second-half lead but the Cardiff visitors equalised late.

Goals from Shaun Smith (2) and Lee Coburn gave Abertillery Excelsiors a 3-1 home win over Goytre.

PHILLIPS TO MAKE CAERLEON BOW

16 August 2006

Caerleon’s new signing Martin Phillips will make his debut in their MacWhirter Welsh League, Division One, home derby clash with Croesyceiliog tonight (kick-off 6.30pm).

It is Croesyceiliog’s first game in the top flight after promotion while Caerleon are looking for a first win, losing by the odd goal at home to Pontypridd last Saturday.

Phillips, whose previous clubs include Cwmbran Town and Newport YMCA, will take the midfield place of Dave Howden who was dismissed late in the Pontypridd game, collecting two yellow cards.

Caerleon conceded a late goal to suffer a 3-2 defeat against Pontypridd and manager Brendan Dowd said: “I couldn’t believe it, the defence caught out, claiming their player was offside when the ball was knocked back in after we had cleared a free-kick.”

Andy Gay and Gafin Griffiths were both injured and won’t play while right back Craig Stevens is a doubt. Dowd hopes striker Robbie Howells will be available.

League newcomers Aberbargoed Buds look for a second successive home Division Three victory, this time at the expense of Pentwyn Dynamo after their 3-0 win over Ystradgynlais on Saturday.

Abertillery Excelsior, who gained a point at Seven Sisters in their opening game, are at home to Goytre, smarting from their 2-0 home defeat by Llanwern.

YM GLAD FOR CUETO

15 August 2006

ANDREW Cueto turned the clock back and did the YM a big favour at UWIC on Saturday, the opening day of the MacWhirter Welsh League season, answering a SOS keeper call with Julian Phillips (working) and Marcus Ardle (injured) out of the reckoning.

YM chairman, Viv Edwards, said: "He pulled us right out of the mire by agreeing to play for us."

And Cueto has the bit between his teeth after such a good win (3-0) and will be facing Grange Quins at Mendalgief Road tomorrow night (kick-off 6.30pm).

It is a long time since Cueto, now 40, first played for YM. He said: "Lewis Sommers was in the team on Saturday but when I first played for the YM his father Brian was playing!

"I started playing with Pill when I was 14 and went to the YM before moving to Mangotsfield with Andrew Beattie and then to Caerleon with his brother Alex. I did the rounds of the Welsh League clubs and now I see the fathers I knew as players standing on the touchline.

"I will help out at the YM as much as I can, it is a nice set-up, or as much as my body will stand it. I certainly felt it after playing on Saturday."

YM manager Mark Coldrick is hoping that new signing Ryan Durham will make his home debut. Durham, who dashed from Swansea to Newport to get his registration completed in time to make his debut at UWIC, suffered a hamstring injury and played only half the game. Coldrick said: "He came off as a precaution and he is our only doubt."

Durham, partnered John Pardue in the centre of midfield and Coldrick added: "He is an excellent signing for us - just what we needed."

The YM manager expects a big challenge from the Quins. He said: "It will be tough because they have just come down from the Welsh Premier League"

YM will be looking for striker Sommers to dish out the same treatment to the Quins that he inflicted on UWIC, scoring a hat-trick. Coldrick added: "He is yet yet fully match fit and there is a lot more to come from him - but it is not just about Lewis."

Caerleon, who lost at home to Division Two champions Ponty-pridd on the opening day of the season, are at home again, entertaining promoted neighbours Croesyceiliog who are playing their first game in the top flight.

Division Three side Llanwern will have new signing Michael Binning in their squad for the game at Risca along with front man Steve Perszewski, who both missed the opening win at Goytre on Saturday. Binning was ruled out with a neck injury while Perszewski was unavailable.

SOMMERS' DAY

14 August 2006

MARK COLDRICK was left delighted by his Newport YMCA players as they hit the ground running in the MacWhirter Welsh League, Division One with a superb 3-0 away victory at UWIC.

And it was quite a day for Lewis Sommers, who got a hat trick, with two goals in the first half and another after the break. In addition, YM were about to go to Cardiff for their opening-day clash with the students without a goalkeeper before Andrew Cueto stepped in to help out in their hour of need.

Coldrick said: "It was a very pleasing result. There's still a lot left in the locker, though. Lewis had a well-worked first goal where he hit a volley from 18 yards and then he hit a free kick with his left foot. The funny thing was we were practising free kicks on Thursday night in training and he didn't hit the target once, then scored in the match.

"We were 2-0 up and comfortable but, in fairness to them, they came at us just before half-time and hit a post, which was a bit of a wake-up call. We had a chat about it at half-time and, when Lewis headed the third goal, it was a case of keeping possession and stopping them having the ball."

As for Cueto's late inclusion, the manager added: "He didn't have much to do but he was organising in the game and it was great to have an experienced 'keeper in the team."

But there was heartache for Caerleon, who went down to a late winner from Pontypridd Town after drawing level in the dying moments of the match. The teams went into the break at 1-1 after Nicky Vassallo grabbed Caerleon's opening goal. Their opponents took the lead again after the break and the home team had to wait until the 90th minute before substitute centre-half Richard Snook went up for a set piece and scored the equaliser. Unfortunately, as Caerleon were hoping to cling on to a draw, Pontypridd restarted the match and immediately struck the winner.

Manager Brendan Dowd said his young side were a bit naive, but added: "They came off the pitch and started talking about the match for 20 minutes instead of other things, which was good to see. They put 90 minutes of hard work in and they spoke about the odd mistake they made."

But Dowd added: "You need a good start over the first five or six games before you begin thinking about targets for the season.

"We have Croesyceiliog at home on Wednesday and then the YM next Saturday. We will be fine but we're just a bit disappointed at the moment."

The other problems are that Caerleon lost two players with injuries during their loss. Left midfielder Andy Gay was the most serious, as he suffered ligament trouble. Centre forward Gafin Griffiths also had to limp off with a thigh problem, but Dowd is bringing two new recruits in for the match against Croesyceiliog.

Robbie Howells could play a half before leaving for a prior engagement, but Martin Phillips is set to sign for the club and slot into the midfield vacancy left by Gay.

Tredegar Town, though, were left "very disappointed" by their 3-1 home loss to Briton Ferry in their opening Division Two fixture. Tredegar trailed 1-0 early in the first half but managed to draw level when centre forward Lee Brooker found the back of the net.

However, matters went downhill from then on. Briton Ferry had a player sent off, which resulted in a penalty for the Gwent side. However, they failed to convert that into another goal and soon saw the West Walians hit two more strikes before Tredegar themselves had Gareth Stevens sent to the dressing-room for an early bath.

Manager Rob Ellis said: "We have no complaints about it. The result was very disappointing."

Chepstow Town fought out a five-goal thriller against Pentwyn Dynamo before coming out on top 3-2 in their Division Three game, while centre forward Jason Price grabbed a 70th-minute equaliser to give Cwmbran Celtic a 1-1 home draw with Newcastle Emlyn.

Celtic had chances to win the game, as did their opponents towards the end, but the entertaining fixture has nicely set up a return between the pair when they play in the Welsh Cup next weekend.

Llanwern were happy, though, with a 2-0 away win over Goytre despite missing Michael Binning with a neck problem before the match.

The Steelmen went ahead when Denis Spiteri took a free kick on the left and put it into the box. Midfielder Tony Shier rose high and headed it into the net with a powerful effort.

And, after the break, Ivan Poncak went past two players before putting a lovely through ball into the path of centre forward Mike Vaux to net.

Risca, though, will have to bounce back from a 3-1 home defeat to Llangeinor if they are to topple Llanwern on Wednesday. Aberbargoed Buds got their season off to a flying start with a 3-0 victory over newcomers Ystradgynlais while Abertillery Excelsiors finished all square at Seven Sisters with a 1-1 draw.

SOCCER DISUNITED

12 August 2006

THE Football Association of Wales run soccer in Wales... well nearly!

FIFA, the world’s governing body have introduced a one player-one club system but granted Wales dispensation for another season, starting in 2007-08.

But not the Gwent County FA. They had to be different - along with the North Wales Coast and West Wales - and their decision to implement the ruling this season is bound to bring problems during the course of the season. 

And it seems there is not a great deal the FAW can do about their go-it-alone approach. 

Mark Evans. head of the FAW registrations department, said: “We are disappointed that three area associations in Wales have gone their own way. It is a recipe for problems later in the season. lt is not a satisfactory situation."

But despite clarification of what is happening in Welsh soccer there are quite a number of clubs who find it an utterly confusing situation and cannot understand why county associations can have decided to fly in the face of the country’s governing body. 

At pre-season friendlies in the weeks building up to today’s kick-off in the MacWhirter Welsh League it was the main topic of conversation.         

It will require the judgement of Solomon to walk through what has been described by one high-ranking FAW councillor as “going into a minefield” and also said it was “absolutely farcical” for some associations to paddle their own canoe. 

But perhaps the FAW should have brought down the iron fist and taken action against the area associations.

RAY PARKER

NEW SPONSORSHIP BOOST FOR LEAGUE

11 August 2006

THE Welsh League have landed a new sponsorship deal on the eve of a new season and they will be strengthening links with the long-established air conditioning company MacWhirter, writes Ray Parker..  

Last season the company backed the league’s youth division but have now extended their support into the senior level.  Arnie Gibson, on behalf of MacWhirter, said: “We sponsored the National Youth League for 15 years until its cessation at the end of the 2004-05 season. We were extremely pleased the Welsh League stepped in to form its own youth division last season and were pleased to sponsor last season’s youth cup.  “This new agreement gives us the opportunity to sponsor a league of long standing.”

Ken Tucker, Welsh League secretary said: “We are delighted to have MacWhirter as our main sponsor and their backing will greatly benefit the league.”

Newport YMCA manager Mark Coldrick will be looking for his side to carry the pre-season form shown in their friendly win over Merthyr Tydfil this week into the opening Division One game at UWIC tomorrow afternoon.        

YM will be relying largely on a familiar-looking squad but they have made one important capture - the return of striker Lewis Sommers. He was impressive against Merthyr Tydfil on Monday night, his former club, setting a standard that manager Coldrick will be hoping he can maintain. 

If Sommers, at 6ft. 5in., can profit from his time at a club from a higher standard, then First Division defences are in for a hard time. 

Gareth Lynch, central defender, has returned to the Mendalgief Road club after a season’s break. Coldrick said: “He went off to play rugby for a season because he wasn’t enjoying the football but now he’s back looking fitter and stronger and has looked on top of his game in pre-season.”        

The major worry for Coldrick is the goalkeeping position. Julian Phillips cannot play because of work, Marcus Arden has suffered an ankle injury so he’s pinning all hope on Gareth Yeoman, last season’s youth team keeper, returning from holiday in time to play.        

Caerleon, with a new-look squad, have a tough opening fixture, taking on promoted Pontypridd who won the Division Two title while Croesyceiliog, who also gained promotion, have a delayed start, playing at Caerleon on Wednesday.        

Goalkeeper James Kearns has been handed an early chance to stake a claim to the number one spot. Kearns, who played a handful of first-team games last season, gets his opportunity because Matthew Long, with Risca last season, suffered a back injury.        

Laurence Owen, Llanwern manager, has strengthened his squad with the signing of central defender Michael Binning who will make his debut in the opening game at Goytre.  New arrivals Paul Tanner (Chepstow) and Tony Shier (Lliswerry), linking with brother Richard, are also in the squad along with Lee Pattison who did not play in the midweek friendly against Albion Rovers because of an ankle injury, and Michael Vaux, making a return to the game after an absence of several seasons. Pattison has been signed from Cardiff club St. Joseph’s.         

However, striker Steve Perszewski misses the start of the season because of a previous engagement.         

League newcomers Aberbargoed Buds open with a home Third Division game against Ystradgynlais.       

Cwmbran Celtic have entered a team in the Reserve Division (East) but UWIC and Cardiff Corries have withdrawn. 

Merthyr Saints have linked with Southern League side Merthyr Tydfil and will now play their home fixtures at Penydarren Park.     

LLANWERN'S FINAL PRE-SEASON FIXTURE

10 August 2006

Martin Elwick is back with former Welsh League club Albion Rovers after spending four seasons with Newport Civil Service, both as manager and coach.

And he has brought five players in from Civil Service to the Kimberley Park club – and more may follow before the Welsh Autoparts Gwent County League campaign starts at Undy a week today. Albion’s aim is to regain Welsh League status but Elwick’s feet are firmly on the ground.

“This season will be a case of settling down – and then, maybe, next season,” he said after  watching his side beaten 2-0 at home by city rivals Llanwern in a pre-season friendly last night.

Llanwern missed a string of good chances before Matthew Currie broke the deadlock following a goalless first-half.

Paul Tanner, signed from Chepstow Town, got a second when he took a return pass from Richard Shier, whose brother Tony is back with the club after signing from Lliswerry.

There is little doubt that Llanwern boss Laurence Owen will be looking for better finishing in their opening Division Three game at Goytre on Saturday, while new-look Albion could cause a few surprises.

Keeper Craig Maggetts certainly had a good work-out, making one glorious save from Marcus Power just before Llanwern went in front.

DOWD SPOILT FOR CHOICE

9 August 2006 

FOUR of Caerleon’s opening five First Division matches in the Welsh League are at home, opening with promoted Second Division champions Pontypridd on Saturday, writes Ray Parker.

But Caerleon’s new manager Brendan Dowd will have a near full strength squad available, only central defender Luke Chorley missing. 

And to help in the tough start to the season Dowd has called on the vastly experienced Andrew Beattie - who watched Newport YMCA’s impressive win over Merthyr Tydfil, one of the former clubs he managed, on Monday night - to help out, particularly with set piece work.

Caer1eon’s next two matches will be against Gwent rivals Croesyceiliog, playing in the top flight for the first time, and YM.        

Striker Nicky Vassallo, after a spell with Chepstow, has returned to the Cold Bath Road club and scored in a 5-1 home win over Welsh Autoparts Gwent County League side Undy last night. Andy Gay was also on the mark along with Tyrone Gibbs, Luke Cueto and Ryan Cueto.

All midweek matches next week will be on Wednesday evening because Wales play  Bulgaria on Tuesday night at Swansea. And games include a number of local derby clashes with Caldicot entertaining Tredegar in Division Two. 

Tonight’s game: Albion Rovers v Lianwern (kick-off 6.3Opm).

SOMMERS SHINES IN YM UPSET

8 August 2006

Striker Lewis Sommers, who started pre-season training with Southern League Merthyr Tydfil and found he didn’t figure in their plans, made a return to Newport YMCA, the club where his career began as a youngster, writes Ray Parker.

And the 6ft 5ins 22-year-old, of whom much has been expected over the seasons, led his former club a merry dance as the Welsh League side gained a three-goal margin of victory against their opponents from a superior league at Mendalgief Road last night.

On this showing a good season could lie ahead for the YM, but manager Mark Coldrick is facing a king-size headache sorting out a starting line-up for the First Division opener at UWIC on Saturday.

It was a shining show from Sommers on a glorious summer evening and if he continues with such good form he could be in for quite a season.

Sommers, who had a cartilage operation towards the end of last season after being injured while on loan to Cwmbran Town, gave YM the perfect early start, winning aerial possession from a free-kick and first to the loose ball.

He then hit a snap shot wide and a free-kick was deflected for a corner before YM increased their lead just before the break. A near-post corner by Kristian Avery was helped on its way by Faris Yafai, giving YM a thoroughly deserved lead.

The Martyrs had much of the second-half possession but rarely showed signs of breaking down a well-organised YM defence. The home side always looked threatening on the break, substitute Daniel Cueto completing a satisfying success.

Tonight: Caerleon v Undy (6.30pm). 

COLDRICK PLEASED WITH WORKOUT

7 August 2006

NEWPORT YMCA face their toughest pre-season test when they take on Southern League Merthyr Tydfil at Mendalgief Road tonight (kick-off 6.30pm), writes Ray Parker.

But Mark Coldrick, YM boss, doesn’t want his side to peak against their illustrious opponents! He is hoping for that a top-drawer show will be reserved for the opening Welsh League, First Division game at UWIC on Saturday.

Coldrick, after a 1-1 draw with Lydbrook in the Forest of Dean on Saturday, said: "We were well in control for much of the game and had three good first-half scoring chances.

"It was a very good workout against a tidy side.

"As the game went on we were not tiring but getting stronger. I want us to build on that against Merthyr and then turn in a 100 per cent show against UWIC."

Mike Nelson gave Lydbrook the lead with a free kick just after the break, and with almost the last act of the game he nearly gave his side a win with an excellent low shot from the left which brought an equally fine save from Julian Phillips.

Faris Yafai equalised for YM with a quality strike following a well-constructed move, Louis Walsh heavily involved in the neat build-up on the left. Coldrick added: "It was the best bit of football we played and it brought a deserved goal."

Mark Ingles suffered a right heel injury which could cause him to miss tonight’s game.

Goytre drew 1-1 at home to South Wales Amateur League side Cwmbach Royal Stars, Graham Mason scoring for Goytre when a loose ball fell to him after Lee Grimes had closed down on the ’keeper’s clearance.

Goytre, at home to Clydach Wasps on Wednesday evening (6.30pm), had their chances to win the game, Steve Collett hitting the crossbar with an effort with another chance falling to Craig Joliffe, whose effort struck a post.

SOMMERS RETURNS TO YM

3 August 2006

STRIKER Lewis Sommers is returning to former club Newport YMCA from Southern League side Merthyr Tydfil and will face the Martyrs in a pre-season friendly at Mendalgief Road on Monday night (kick-off 6.30pm), writes Ray Parker..

But 22-year-old Sommers' first run out for the YM will be on Saturday when they travel to Lydbrook for another warm-up game.

Sommers played for the YM as a youngster and moved on to Newport County's academy and spent time with the senior squad before being released, returning to the YM before moving on again to the Martyrs.

Llanwern face a hectic start to the season, playing six matches in a 14-day spell starting with a Third Division trip to Goytre a week on Saturday, followed by a short journey to Risca four days later.

Llanwern have a double header the following weekend, playing Seven Sisters (August 19) for a third successive away match, and their first game at home is the following day to Abertillery Excelsiors in the Welsh Cup. The return Risca league game is on August 23 and the month ends with a trip to the Rhondda, facing AFC Porth (August 26).

First Division Caldicot continue their run of high-profile friendlies when they entertain Welsh Premier League side Cwmbran Town on Saturday (kick-off 3pm).

Caerleon are set to hand youth team keeper James Kearns his first team opportunity after newcomer Matthew Long from Risca suffered a training injury.

In a new-look squad, striker Nicky Vassallo has returned from Chepstow and Andy Gay is back after a spell with Risca.

Caerleon, at home to Newport Civil Service tonight, have won their four pre-season matches, including a success against mid-Wales club Presteigne. They are at home to Cromwell on Saturday and entertain Undy on Tuesday.

CELTIC BACK AT HOME

2 August 2006 

CWMBRAN Celtic marked a return home to their new-look ground with a friendly against neighbours Croesyceiliog last night. 

Celtic now have new dressing rooms and a stand, the facilities officially opened by Torfaen Borough councillor Mike Gough before the game which resulted in a 1-0 win for Celtic. 

Gavin Pinch scored the all-important goal, reacting smartly after John Bailey had saved Shane Williamson’s penalty. 

Malcolm Jarrett, Celtic secretary, said: “It was a good work-out for us, a good competitive game — as you would expect between two neighbours — and we had a good crowd.” 

Now Celtic have returned home after playing at Cwmbran Stadium they would like to rename the ground. 

Jarrett added: “We have written to the council asking for a specific name which would distinguish our ground from the stadium. 

“We have asked to call it Celtic Park. It would be nice to have a ground with a proper name instead of Cwmbran Stadium outfield.”

FACILITIES TO BE UNVEILED

1 August 2006

CWMBRAN Celtic have a special friendly with neighbours Croesyceiliog tonight (kick-off 6.30pm), writes Ray Parker.

The two teams meet on the outer ground at Cwmbran Stadium to mark not only Celtic’s return home, but also ground improvements including the provision of a stand and new dressing room facilities.

Councillor Mike Gough will perform the opening ceremony at 6pm.

Newport YMCA figured in a 1-1 draw with Tredegar on Saturday, their goal coming from Leon Spargo, an impressive effort from 25 yards.

Ashley Ford equalised for Tredegar late in the game.

Darren Bidgood, YM assistant manager, said: “It was a decent work out in the conditions and during the second-half I made a few changes.”

Rob Ellis, Tredegar manager, said:  “I was a bit thin on the ground for numbers as often happens at this time of the year. The boys who were there acquitted themselves quite well - it was a worthwhile workout.”

YM reserves are at home to Cromwell tomorrow evening while Tredegar’s next encounter is at Cwmbran Celtic on Saturday. YM travel to Lydbrook on Saturday and entertain Merthyr Tydfil on Monday.

Llanwern, 3-1 losers at Broadwell on Saturday, play Christchurch at Caerleon tonight (6.3Opm) and travel to Undy on Thursday. They play at Treowen on Saturday and conclude friendly matches with a local clash at Albion a week tomorrow.

Goytre, who gained a 1-0 home win over First Division Ely Rangers on Saturday with a second-half goal from Andy Walsh, are at home to Cwmffrwdoer tomorrow night.

Goytre have appointed midfielder Ian Rosser as their new player-manager, stepping up from the second team. Scott Taylor, who captained the second team last season is now their player-manager.

Caldicot Town, after a 2-1 win over Portishead on Saturday courtesy of goals from Wayne Morley (penalty) and Paul Harris, were all set to entertain Bristol Manor Farm tonight but they have pulled out.

Jason Pritchard, Caldicot manager, said: “We are very disappointed because we were not told until Saturday morning. We had made arrangements to entertain them and we had turned down other clubs.”

Their next friendly is at home to Cwmbran Town on Saturday (3pm).

Caldicot reserves lost 4-2 against Portishead reserves, both goals scored by Joe Martin, one a penalty.