Pontardawe Town squandered a two-goal lead during a 2-2 draw with Bridgend Town in MacWhirter Welsh League division one at Coychurch Road.In heavy conditions, Ponty were 2-0 up at the break after Bridgend mounted little in the way of a threat.

They were awarded a penalty in the 28th minute after Leigh Pratt brought down Pontardawe's Jamie Rickard in the box, and Steven Cox converted the spot kick.

And 10 minutes later a deflected cross from Steve Davies reached Mark Napieralla, who shot past Lee Idzy in the home goal.

The visitors looked well on their way to claiming three points, but they were pegged back in the 63rd minute when Bridgend launched their recovery, with Andy Mainwaring turning in a cross from Pratt.

And two minutes later substitute Drew Fahiya equalised.

Both sides had chances to take the points with Richard Cleverly and substitute Andrew Stokes going closest for Ponty.

TONY POOLE
 

Neath Athletic secured a 2-1 victory over Croesyceiliog at Llandarcy Park to return to the top of the first division.Only two matches in the top flight survived inclement weather over the weekend with former leaders ENTO Aberaman crashing to a surprise 4-0 home defeat at the hands of Bridgend.

Croesy mounted a strong challenge with both goals coming under threat during the opening exchanges.

Neath's Stephen Pockett and Jarrod Price had shots blocked while Chris Watkins went close for the first-division newcomers.

But the visitors made the breakthrough in the 20th minute when Dale Evans crossed for Jamie Jenkins to guide a header wide of Craig Morris in the home goal.

However, the lead lasted just four minutes as Jonathan Keaveny began to ask questions of the Croesyceiliog defence down the right flank.

He rounded Paul Belski and found Chris Vardon with Stephen Pockett hitting the target from just inside the penalty area.

Another Keaveny cross soon after should have been converted by Jarrod Price.

Neath got their big break in the 43rd minute when Keaveny was felled by Belski on the edge of the box.

Referee Wayne Stephens pointed to the spot, and Andy Hill sent Croesy captain Patrick O'Hagan the wrong way with a well-struck penalty.

But just before the break Hill was sent off for a rash challenge on Gareth Pattimore, ending the player's role in the match.

Vardon missed a great chance to send Neath two goals clear in the 51st minute, but close to time a goal-line clearance from Rob Folland saved the day for Andrew Dyer's side and send them two points clear at the summit with two games in hand.

Bridgend, who released defender Bevan Humphries to Pontardawe in midweek, handed a debut to former Llanelli midfield player Gethin Jones for the clash in Aberaman.

And despite going into the game without their two main scorers - Drew Fahiya and Andrew Mainwaring - two goals in each half set up a resounding victory for the Coychurch Road side.

Former Carmarthen man Nicky Burke sent Bridgend ahead in the 10th minute with Sam Small doubling the lead on the half-hour mark.

Four minutes into the second period a long-range effort from Darren Robinson made it 3-0, and they rounded things off with another goal from Small a quarter of an hour from time.

Three games survived in the second division with two late goals condemning Morriston to a 2-0 defeat against Betws at North Site.

The Dingle side looked on course to claim a point until Betws forced an 88th-minute corner with Anthony Rawlings bundling the ball home.

And with Morriston chasing the game, the Bridgend side struck again during injury time with Robbie Hugglestone the marksman.

Morriston included striker Phil Myles, signed in midweek from Garden Village, while former Garw defender Rob James made a first full start for the club.

''We defended very well for 88 minutes, and deserved to pick up a point, but it was another case of what might have been,'' said disappointed Morriston boss Paul Lewis.

There was no change at the top with two of the promotion candidates - leaders Troedyrhiw and closest challengers Garw - both held to draws.

Troedyrhiw played out a goalless stalemate with Tredegar while Garw were held to a 1-1 draw by Cardiff Corries at the Riverside.

The Cardiff side, who had seven points docked in midweek for fielding an ineligible player earlier in the season, took the lead just before the break via Rhys Yates.

Garw equalised in the 55th minute when Thomas Hopper latched on to a Vincent Wattleworth corner to even things up.

In the third division, bottom-placed Gwynfi United are still without a win after losing 3-0 at Llantwit Fardre while second-placed Llanwern were surprisingly held to a 2-2 home draw by Newcastle Emlyn.

Lee Grant knocked in a hat-trick as Pentwyn Dynamos stormed to a 5-0 victory over visiting Gwent side Goytre.

TONY POOLE
 

Afan Lido have a fitness doubt surrounding top scorer Ian Jones for tomorrow's leading first division clash with Pontypridd Town at Ynysangharad Park. Hitman Jones, who has scored 19 goals this season, picked up some bumps and bruises in scoring five during last Saturday's 7-0 win at Barry Town.

That has left joint-managers Phil Holmes and Paul Evans keeping their fingers crossed that he comes through with a clean bill of health.

Another striker, John Felton, is definitely ruled out, as is centre-back Justin Williams, but there is an outside chance that Liam McCreesh will play.

The Seasiders, unbeaten in their last 13 matches which include nine clean sheets, will again look to Craig Jones to fire in attack.

Neath Athletic have home advantage over Croesyceiliog, but will be without experienced striker Carl Shaw because of work commitments, while Jock Fairbairn is still ruled out with a broken jaw.

Goytre United challenge Ely Rangers at Station Road, with defender Ian Morgan likely to return to the side along with Ryan Penny.

Morgan has been on the injury list for a fortnight, while Penny has completed a one-match ban.

There is uncertainty, however, whether Jonny Walkley is available for selection.

Kevin Bartley is attending a wedding and there is also a fitness worry surrounding captain Darren Lyons, who has a slight groin strain.

Maesteg Park hope to take the points against Uwic at Tudor Park to maintain contact with the early-season pacemakers while Pontardawe host bottom-placed Barry Town.

Pontardawe boss Dai Rees is hoping to complete transfer forms on two players, while Stuart Hoskins is back from holiday. Jonny Owen, however, is struggling to overcome a hamstring problem.

The clash between Bryntirion and Caerleon on Wednesday night was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch, and there are fears of a similar scenario arising at some grounds tomorrow.

The second division programme is launched tonight with Briton Ferry throwing down the gauntlet to West End at Old Road (7.30pm).

The Pryderi boys lose Carl Smitham to a one-match suspension, but Danny Kavanagh returns to the squad, having been cup-tied at Goytre United earlier in the month.

Ferry still have striker Rob Cann suspended and Carl Harris is unlikely to return from studies at Bath University in order to play.

Ammanford, away to Caerau Ely tomorrow, lose Dean Jenkins and Liam Preece to suspensions but Richard Lewis, on dual registration from Llanelli, has now completed a ban.

Goytre United import Sam Brown is set to make a home debut for Garden Village against cup holders Penrhiwceiber.

Brown formed a good understanding with Ashley Stevenson during last Saturday's 3-3 draw at Morriston, while Village chief Robert Lloyd has both Mark Lloyd and Scott Evans back in his squad.

On the debit side, a knee injury may rule striker Rob Shannon out for another couple of weeks.

Morriston, meanwhile, hope to snap up striker Phil Myles from Garden Village ahead of their showdown with Betws at the North Site.

But the Dingle men, who will be bidding to hand the Bridgend side a first defeat under new manager Mark Sage, lose ex-Swansea City player Jonathan Coates to Welsh Premiership club Haverfordwest.

In the third division, Seven Sisters will be looking to stretch an unbeaten sequence to four matches at Cwmbran Celtic, and hope to have defender Simon Hanford back.

Cwmamman are home to former Neath League colleagues Llansawel.

New Cwm chief Michael Ellery is already resigned to being without Jonathan Jones, Gareth Morgan and Carl James while Chris Williams has a hamstring problem.

Llansawel have Anthony Walsh back, but Dave Mills is ruled out.

Ystradgynlais, who entertain Risca United, have Jamie Williams unavailable, and there are fitness doubts over striker Craig Hopkins (back ) and midfielder Dave Miller (chest muscle strain).

TONY POOLE
 

Afan Lido at home to Maesteg Park forms the only all-first division pairing in the last 16 of the Shamrock Travel Cup on December 9.The Seasiders, who are on a 13-match unbeaten run, will start favourites against an Old Parish side who have struggled in cup clashes this winter.

Goytre United entertain second division high flyers Cambrian & Clydach while Neath Athletic have home advantage over Morriston.

Ammanford have a plum home tie against Bridgend Town while Llansawel host Caldicot and Ystradgynlais visit Tredegar.

Full draw: Afan Lido v Maesteg Park, Ammanford v Bridgend Town, Betws v ENTO Aberaman, Caerau Ely v Llanwern, Goytre United v Cambrian & Clydach, Llansawel v Caldicot, Neath Athletic v Morriston, Tredegar v Ystradgynlais.

Ties to be played on December 9.

Harris Printers (Reserve Division) Shield Round Two: Bryntirion Athletic v Pontardawe Town, Chepstow Town v Port Talbot Town, Croesyceiliog v Ely Rangers, Dinas Powys v Briton Ferry, Goytre United v Cwmamman United, Llantwit Fardre v Neath Athletic, Newport YMCA v Ammanford, Porthcawl Town v Risca United.

TONY POOLE
 

Striker Ian Jones netted five times as Afan Lido stormed to a magnificent 7-0 MacWhirter Welsh League first division victory over outgunned Barry Town at Jenner Park. In the process the Seasiders not only registered a record club victory, but also stretched an unbeaten sequence to 13 matches.

Jones completed a quickfire hat-trick after just 25 minutes with Shaun O'Leary making it 4-0 at the break.

Substitute Chris Latham got No. 5 while Jones rounded off a memorable day in getting two more goals to achieve an individual club best for goalscoring.

Although ENTO Aberaman were held to a goalless draw by Maesteg Park, with Richard Jago having an 80th-minute penalty saved by Park goalkeeper Gary Wager, the Cynon Valley side replaced Neath Athletic at the top.

Champions Goytre United, who hold a mid-table position with games in hand, defeated Taffs Well 4-2, at Glenhafod Park.

Two goals from top scorer Richard Ryan, one from the spot, saw Goytre 2-1 to the good at half-time, while Port Talbot Town import Andrew Pearson followed suit in collecting two second-half goals.

And although the Cardiff side, who had Stephen Arthur on target during the first half, completed the scoring via a John Meacock own-goal, Goytre were comfortable victors.

Goals from Ceri Thomas, Sean Cronin and Ben Bannon set up a 3-1 home win for Bryntirion over Grange Quins, who had Omar Abdillahi on target.

West End's top of the table clash with Cambrian & Clydach was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch in division two, while Garden Village came from 3-0 down to share the spoils in the a six-goal thriller at Morriston.

A Dave Rimmer penalty triggered the remarkable revival; Lee Rastatter scored in the 80th minute while Rimmer equalised two minutes from time on the end of a Chris Morgan free-kick.

Earlier, the Dingle men led 2-0 at the break through Paul Edwards and Mark Carlyle, and they looked home and dry once Michael Chapman netted in the 50th minute.

Briton Ferry pieced together their poorest display of the season as they went down 3-0 at home against Caldicot, while Ammanford were held to a 2-2 draw by visiting Merthyr Saints.

All the goals were recorded during the opening half and after Dean Jenkins gave the Rice Roaders the lead; they went 2-1 down before Nathan McNeil levelled on 35 minutes.

Second-placed Garw were once again goal hungry as they beat Caerau Ely 5-1 at Blandy with Jamie Morris netted twice, Dave Thomas hammering home a penalty with Thomas Hopper and Dave Truan also on target.

The third division threw up another managerial casualty, Philip Popham relinquishing the reins at promotion-seeking Llangeinor, but it didn't prevent the Bridgend village side recording a 4-2 home win over Cwmamman.

Stephen Williams got both Cwm goals, one from the spot, but Llangeinor picked up the points on the back of goals from Dai Lewis (two), Craig Phillips and Jon Quigley.

Llansawel recorded their best win of the season, accounting for improving Llantwit Fardre, 2-0, at Cwrt Herbert. Sawel tightened things up at the back to register a second successive clean sheet with the goals coming in each half from player-manager Paul Carpenter and Lee Fleming.

Seven Sisters gave further proof that their revival isn't a flash in the pan as they hit Chepstow Town for six.

The Dulais Valley side ran out 6-2 winners with new-signing Chris Gardiner (Pontardawe) and Barry Herdman both bagging goal braces. That formed a third successive goal double for Herdman with the other goals coming from Matthew Harris and Huw Pascoe as Seven went six up before Chepstow got two late consolation goals.

Bottom-placed Gwynfi United introduced four Gambian players during a 5-3 defeat against Ystradgynlais at the Cape.

And two of the new Bridgend-based newcomers got on the scoresheet - Saihou Jameg and Ousman Jameg - while Scott Robinson converted a penalty. But it wasn't enough as a Michael Whapham hat-trick along with a Darren Langford strike and an own-goal from Simon Livick trumped the overseas influence.

Newcastle Emlyn suffered a rare home defeat, going down 2-1 against Porthcawl Town at Parc Emlyn. Tom Warren gave the Seasiders the lead in the 35th minute and although Matt Price equalised in the 80th minute, Warren struck again near the end.

Bridgend Town claimed the final place in the third round of the league's Shamrock Travel Cup on December 9, Drew Fahiya knocking in a hat-trick during a narrow 3-2 success over AFC Porth at Coychurch Road.

TONY POOLE
 

Afan Lido will be looking for a second win of the season at Barry Town tomorrow to extend their unbeaten run to 13 matches. Having beaten the Dragons 4-0 in the Welsh Cup back in September, the Seasiders will again be without both John Felton and Liam McCreesh, while Daniel Williams is likely to miss out through flu.

Goytre United, who entertain Taffs Well, still have Jonny Walkley suspended and Ryan Penny, dismissed against West End in the cup last Saturday, has joined him on the sidelines for one match.

Defender Ian Morgan is still troubled by a calf injury, but Michael Chaves is fit again.

Pontardawe's trip to Bridgend has been called off because the Coychurch Road club are involved in a cup replay against AFC Porth.

Maesteg head for former leaders Aberaman, but Tudor Park boss Andrew Rickard has injury problems surrounding Andrew Davies, Paul Evans, Leighton Jones, Kyle Morris and Lee O'Brien to sort out.

Neath Athletic are without a fixture this weekend, but head the table on goal difference following their 3-1 midweek win over Dinas Powys.

Strikes from Chris Vardon, Chris Miller and Jarrod Price sent Neath 3-0 up.

In the second division, West End welcome Cambrian & Clydach to Pryderi Park in a clash between two sides promoted during inaugural seasons in the Welsh League.

Last season Cambrian doubled West End to pip them for the third division crown, and the Townhill side will be looking to get back to winning ways following a league defeat at Betws along with cup exits at both Carmarthen Town and Goytre United.

Carl Smitham serves a one-match ban while Lee Morgan returns from suspension and Danny Kavanagh, who was cup-tied at Goytre last Saturday, is added to the squad.

Briton Ferry, who welcome Caldicot tomorrow, have brought forward next week's home fixture with West End to Friday night.

Morriston entertain Garden Village in the division's derby clash, and the Dingle side have former Swan Jonathan Coates available again.

Morriston boss Paul Lewis, who only departed Garden Village in September, has Marc Baker back from holiday and is set to parade recent Garw arrival Rob James.

Village boss Robert Lloyd, who is still without suspended Ashley Richards, will be looking towards ex-Neath front man Ashley Stevenson for more goals.

Ammanford, who meet Merthyr Saints at the Recreation Ground, lose Liam Preece to a three-match ban.

Richard Lewis is also suspended, leading to manager Neil Rees adding both Dave Rhodes and Jason Cousins to his squad.

Cwmamman have signed ex-Seven Sisters goalkeeper Adrian Barnsley from Morriston ahead of their encounter at second-placed Llangeinor.

But new boss Michael Ellery has fitness doubts over John Jones, Gareth Morgan, Aled Rees and Chris Williams although Michael Hodges is set to return.

Llansawel, who entertain Llantwit Fardre, will be without assistant manager Scott Mahon (hamstring), but returning to the fray are Dan Triggs and Steve Jones.

Seven Sisters will be bidding for a third straight win against Chepstow Town at the Welfare Ground, but midfield man Chris Herdman is likely to be out for three weeks with a knee injury.

Ystradgynlais take on bottom-placed Gwynfi United at the Cape.

Manager Andrew Hopkins has fitness doubts surrounding Chris Courtney, Robbie Daniels and Dave Miller.

TONY POOLE
 

Goytre United triumphed 3-2 over West End in the Shamrock Travel Cup second round at Glenhafod Park after extra time to make amends for the Welsh Cup exit against the Townhill side earlier in the season.During a cracking opening half, Goytre led on the back of a 22nd-minute strike from Darren Lyons, but West End led 2-1 at the break through goals from Jonathan Eames and Carl Smitham.

But as the number of bookings mounted - nine yellow cards were issued - the tie went off the boil with Goytre forcing extra time after Richard Ryan's 77th-minute goal.

During extra time, Ryan Penny (Goytre) and Carl Smitham (West End) were both dismissed for second bookable offences with Ryan knocking in a 111th-minute winner.

Three other ties were settled during extra time, including Morriston's 2-1 win over Porthcawl Town at Lock's Lane.

Michael Chapman gave the Dingle side the lead in the 68th minute only for Lawrence James to square matters close to time.

But five minutes into extra time, former Swansea City player Jonathan Coates drove in the winner on the end of an Andrew Shaw cross.

Maesteg Park were another side who required extra time to make progress, running out 4-3 winners at Abertillery after proceedings were deadlocked on 3-3 after 90 minutes. Abertillery led three times through Chris Penny (two) and Dave Smith with Gareth Davies, Thomas Walters and Ian Shepherd registering equalisers.

And five minutes into the second period of extra time, a Robbie Walters overhead kick booked Maesteg a place in the next round on December 9.

Ammanford were another club to gain a 4-3 away victory, in their case after normal time against first division Grange Quins at the Leckwith Stadium.

A Liam Preece penalty sent Ammanford in front with Luke Fayers doubling the lead, but the sides were locked on 2-2 early in the second half.

Fayers sent the Rice Roaders back ahead, only for Matt Thomas to level. And deep into injury time Paul Jones converted a second Ammanford penalty to seal the win.

A hat-trick from top scorer Ian Jones guided Afan Lido to a 5-0 victory over Briton Ferry at Old Road.

Though the Seasiders were only one up at the break, Jones got Lido's three opening goals with Daniel Williams and player-manager Phil Holmes rounding things off.

However, Neath Athletic struggled before gaining a slender 1-0 victory over third division Llantwit Fardre at Central Park.

In a tie of few chances, the pivotal incident came in the 75th minute when Neath keeper Craig Morris brought a player down in the box only for him to score.

But because Morris was sent off, a penalty was given that deputy keeper Carl Shaw saved, and soon after Chris Vardon made sure Neath's name goes into the hat for the third round draw a week tomorrow.

Llansawel got the measure of third division rivals Cwmbran Celtic at Cwrt Herbert, taking the honours 2-0.

Anthony Walsh set up a goal for brother Michael after 20 minutes, and it remained that way until the 75th minute when substitute Lee Fleming sealed the win.

In another all third-division encounter, Ystradgynlais registered a splendid 3-1 victory over high-flying Llangeinor at Ynyscedwyn Road.

Having lost 3-2 at Llangeinor Park in the league the week before, Ystrad recorded second-half goals from Craig Hopkins (two) and Michael Whapham before Llan responded through substitute Jonathan Tossell.

The tie between Bridgend and AFC Porth was abandoned after 62 minutes as Bonfire Night debris surfaced on the pitch with Bridgend 1-0 ahead through Drew Fahiya.

The tie will be replayed this Saturday, leading to the league match between Bridgend and Pontardawe being called off.

In the MacWhirter Welsh League division two, Garden Village returned to form with a vengeance, triumphing 5-0 over Pontyclun at Stafford Common.

Jamie Mansell and a debut goal from ex-Neath and Briton Ferry striker Ashley Stevenson made it 2-0 at the break and they rounded off an improved display with further goals from Cameron Hopkins, Dave Rimmer (penalty) and Chris Morgan.

Garw moved to within three points of leaders Troedyrhiw on the strength of a 6-0 romp over Merthyr Saints at Blandy - substitute Christian Burge (two), Dave Thomas, Vincent Wattleworth, Dave Truan and Jamie Morris were all on target.

Finally, Seven Sisters built on a 2-0 victory over Porthcawl the week before in becoming the first side this season to win at league newcomers Aberbargoed Buds.

A Barry Herdman brace and Matthew Harris's strike gave a further indication that Seven are on the way back.

TONY POOLE
 

Goytre United host West End for a second time this season, with a place in the last-16 stage of the Shamrock Travel Cup is up for grabs tomorrow. Back in September, the Pryderi boys gained a stunning 2-1 win over the Port Talbot side in the Welsh Cup, but for the rematch they have Danny Kavanagh cup-tied and Lee Morgan suspended.

However, the return from suspension of top scorer Neil Phillips has provided the Townhill side with a major boost, and they will looking to make it a notable double after West End Youth triumphed 4-2 over their Goytre counterparts at Glenhafod Park in midweek.

Goytre have ruled out Thomas Meiring (virus), Michael Chaves (work commitments), Jonny Walkley (suspended) and Kevin Bartley (wedding).

But Townhill boy John Meacock, who missed last Saturday's 7-0 home win over Uwic in the league, is available for selection.

The other derby clash at Old Road sees Briton Ferry take on Afan Lido, with the Seasiders unbeaten in 11 matches.

Lido striker John Felton is out with a troublesome ankle problem, and Liam McCreesh could play despite awaiting an operation on a cartilage injury.

Ferry have striker Rob Cann cup-tied but Carl Harris returns to the squad, and Ferry boss Neil Morgan may hand 17-year-old Scott Kenyon a first start.

Neath Athletic visit third division Llantwit Fardre, with ex-Swansea City midfielder David D'Auria set to come out of retirement to ease selection problems.

Recent Haverfordwest import Chris Miller, who was on dual registration with Neath last season, and Adam James from Conference South side Eastleigh form other changes.

Pontardawe will be without their two new signings at home to third division leaders Llanwern.

Jonny Owen, who scored in a 1-0 league win at Maesteg Park in midweek, and Neil Simon (Morriston) are cup-tied, but Andrew Rickard returns to the squad.

Owen struck in the 70th minute leaving the Old Parish side to pick up the pieces at Abertillery in the cup.

Maesteg rested Paul Evans against Ponty, but he is set for a recall.

Morriston, who travel to Porthcawl Town, have Jack Jenkins starting a three-match ban while Marc Baker is unavailable, leaving manager Paul Lewis likely to call on John Williams, Mike Gammon, Paul Edwards and Derek Jenkins.

Ystradgynlais play Llangeinor at Ynyscedwyn Road, and will be looking to overturn last Saturday's 3-2 league defeat at Llangeinor Park.

However, Ystrad boss Andrew Hopkins will be without Chris Courtney, Lance Davies, Nicky Maggs, Andrew Miller, Ceri Slyman and Jamie Williams with Robbie Daniels and Craig Hopkins rated only 50-50.

That has led to him calling in Huw Evans, Jonathan Griffiths, Huw Littlewood and Darren Langford.

New Llansawel player-manager Paul Carpenter also has mixed news on the selection front for the home clash with Cwmbran Celtic.

Carpenter and assistant manager Scott Mahon, return to squad duties along with Lee Fleming, Steve Pugh and recent Pontardawe acquisition Gareth Evans.

But they will be without Steve Jones, Dan Triggs, Layton Thomas and Richard Weller.

Ammanford, meanwhile, resume duties against first division Grange Quins at the Leckwith Stadium.

Garden Village will be hoping to bring a barren 10-match sequence to an end against Pontyclun at Stafford Common in the MacWhirter Welsh League second division.

Striker Rob Shannon returns from a one-match ban imposed by the club, and defender Chris Thomas is set to resume following a knee injury.

Defender Chris Morgan is unavailable, while Ashley Richards begins a three-match suspension.

In the third division, Seven Sisters have Richard Herdman back for their trip to league newcomers Aberbargoed Buds.

Gwynfi United visit Pentwyn Dynamos.

TONY POOLE
 

Goytre United returned to form with a vengeance in the first division, gaining a magnificent 7-0 victory over outgunned Uwic at Glenhafod Park. Having surprisingly lost 2-1 last time out at lowly Croesyceiliog, the reigning champions were in the driving seat from the outset, and were three goals up at the break.

Richard Ryan knocked in a hat-trick, one coming from the penalty spot, to move level with Afan Lido's Ian Jones on the 11-goal mark for the season.

Luke Bowen bagged a brace, while single strikes were claimed by both captain Darren Lyons and Kevin Bartley as Goytre proved they had done their homework on the students.

In the second division, Briton Ferry took the derby clash against Garden Village at Old Road 3-1 to bring a four-match losing streak to an end.

Rob Cann, back on the Ferry scene from Llansawel, opened the scoring in the 20th minute, and soon after he drove in a Lee Parfitt corner.

A diving header from Dan McGrath, on the end of a Danny Thomas free-kick, made it 3-0 on the hour, and Village had Ashley Richards dismissed in the 75th minute.

Though Village had the final word through Dave Rimmer, a worrying dip in form has seen them go 10 games without a win since beating Merthyr Saints 4-1 on August 19.

Morriston were left to reflect on what might have been during a 2-0 defeat against table-topping Troedyrhiw at the Dingle.

The Swansea side conceded early, but gradually worked their way back into contention only for Michael Chapman to miss a second half penalty.

That proved the turning point, and salt was then rubbed into the wounds when the Willows side got a second goal during time added on.

Garw took the top-of-the-table clash with visiting Cambrian & Clydach 2-0. Jamie Morris got both goals, one in each half.

Seven Sisters caused one of the biggest upsets of the day in the third division, defeating in-form Porthcawl Town 2-0 at the Welfare Ground.

The Dulais Valley side, who had lost their last four league engagements, missed good openings during the first half, but placed those disappointments behind them.

They were awarded a 70th-minute penalty, after Gareth Benns was brought down in the box, and Barry Herdman drove the ball past goalkeeper Tommy Owen.

And 10 minutes later, Barry Herdman got on the end of a Nicholas Moore ball to collect a second goal and wrap up only a second league win of the season.

Promotion-seeking Pentwyn Dynamos did the damage in the run up to half-time against Llansawel at Cwrt Herbert, scoring three times in five minutes during a 3-0 success.

There was no joy either for new Cwmamman boss Michael Ellery, who saw his side lose 3-0 at Abertillery, while Gwynfi United suffered a 5-0 loss against Cwmbran Celtic at the Cape.

Also out of luck were Ystradgynlais, who were desperately unfortunate to go down 3-2 at second-placed Llangeinor.

Though the Bridgend village side were 3-0 up on the hour, Ystrad had created more chances that eventually came back to haunt them.

Owain Green opened the scoring in the 16th minute and goals from Jonathan Quigley and Porthcawl import Thomas Marlow placed Llangeinor on a victory footing.

A 77th-minute goal from Michael Whapham then got Ystrad going, and when he scored again five minutes later it led to Llangeinor pressing the panic button.

During the closing minutes home goalkeeper Jodi Harris kept out efforts from both Whapham and Craig Hopkins, as Llangeinor celebrated an eighth league win from nine outings.

However, the surprise result of the day came at Llanwern with the leaders going down to a 1-0 defeat against lowly Llantwit Fardre at Spytty Park.

Maesteg Park have a re-arranged league fixture with Pontardawe Town at Tudor Park on Wednesday (7.30pm).

TONY POOLE
 

Llanelli safely manoeuvred their potential banana skin Welsh Cup third round tie at Penrhyncoch but they were made to toil by the lowly Cymru Alliance side. But the Reds, who were frustrated by a packed home defence, finally won through 2 - 0, a goal in each half from Cortez Belle and Rhys Griffiths separating the sides.

Nicholas, despite the scoreline, felt it was a more comfortable victory than it looks.

"They did not have a single shot on goal or even a corner," he said.

"As 2 - 0's go, it was a pretty comfortable win and if it wasn't for their keeper, who made a number of good saves, and our poor finishing, we would have romped to a bigger victory.

Afan Lido always held the upper hand over visiting CPD Bodedern but it was only two goals in the final 11 minutes from striker Ian Jones that sealed their success.

Jon Felton edged the home side ahead in the 10th minute but a mixture of brilliant saves from the visitors keeper and indifferent finishing prevented a more emphatic victory.

Manager Phil Holmes was delighted with the victory, but said: "We could have been three or four goals up by half time as we missed some gilt edged chances.

"At 1 - 0 they were always in with a chance but Ian finished them off with his two late goals."

Neath Athletic joined their fellow Welsh League division 1 title chasers in the fourth round following a thrilling, but heart stopping, 3 - 2 victory over Brymbo at Llandarcy Park.

Michael Griffiths shocked the home supporters when he gave the visitors a ninth minute lead but veteran striker Carl Shaw restored parity with a 17th minute equaliser.

The hosts went in front when Steve Pocket gave them the advantage a minute before the break.

But Brymbo were not finished. Jon Jones put them back in the frame with a goal, a minute after the break, but Andy Hill won it for Neath with the winner 11 minutes from time.

"We expected a tough tie and that's exactly what we got," said Neath manager Andrew Dyer.

"I had them watched so knew they were a good outfit and, remember, they visited us on the back of 14 straight victories."

Elsewhere, there were the usual cup shocks, none more so than Welsh league outfit Ton Pentre's 1 - 0 home victory over Rhyl, Alvyn Jones earning the Rhondda side an historic victory in the 88th minute.

Bridgend Town revived memories of their halcyon days as they toppled Airbus UK 5 - 4 on penalties after the scores were locked on 1-1 after extra time.
 

Goytre United will be without midfield dynamo Jonny Walkley for tomorrow's rearranged first division fixture with Uwic at Glenhafod Park (2pm). Walkley is ruled out because of work commitments and there is a question mark against the availability of ex-Briton Ferry and Pontardawe player Michael Chaves.

Defender Ian Morgan will have a fitness test on a troublesome calf injury as the Port Talbot side look to bounce back from Saturday's surprise 2-1 defeat at Croesyceiliog.

This weekend's programme is launched tonight by Bryntirion Athletic staging a first floodlit match, with new league leaders Aberaman the visitors.

The Bridgend side have been forced to accept temporary floodlighting as there are problems with the permanent system.

The game that stands out in the second division tomorrow is the Old Road meeting between Briton Ferry and Garden Village.

Though both sides made promising starts, they have hit indifferent patches and a return to form is long overdue.

Ferry, who have lost their last four league games by single-goal margins, are set to re-introduce striker Rob Cann from third division Llansawel.

Ragged School import Craig Edwards, who figured last time out at Pontyclun, is retained in the squad while another defender, Richard South, is now available for selection.

But Cameron Hopkins, who switched last month to Garden Village, is on course to make a swift return to Old Road.

Village boss Robert Lloyd loses Del James to a wedding, but that is countered by the return of both Mark Lloyd and Dave Rimmer.

Last Sunday, Village made progress in the West Wales Senior Cup, top scorer Ashley Richards netting twice in a 2-1 success over Dafen.

Morriston, who host leaders Troedyrhiw, are likely to introduce ex-Garden Village goalkeeper Dale Hulland.

Andrew Shaw returns from suspension, but defender Neil Simon has work commitments.

Likely to come into the side is former Loughor defender Michael Hughes, who figured last month in Morriston's West Wales Senior Cup win at Pembrokeshire side Hakin United.

In the third division, former Neath Athletic player Paul Carpenter has taken over at Llansawel as player-manager.

Carpenter has been performing coaching duties at the club this season and for the clash with high-flying Pentwyn Dynamos at Cwrt Herbert, he has Scott Mahon and Craig Catterson back in the squad.

However, much- travelled striker Layton Thomas is still on the injured list.

New Cwmamman boss Michael Ellery has re-signed Stephen Williams from Pontardawe ahead of the clash at mid-table Abertillery.

This forms a fifth return to Grenig Park for Williams, but Ellery will be without ex-Morriston centre-back Carl James, who starts a three-match ban.

Gwynfi welcome Cwmbran Celtic to the Cape, and Seven Sisters hope to have three key players back for their home game against in-form Porthcawl Town.

Gareth Benns, Chris Herdman and Beau Hopkins, who all missed last Saturday's 2-0 defeat at AFC Porth, are due to return but Owain Llewellyn faces a lengthy lay off with a recurring hamstring problem.

And Seven boss Julian Fry is attempting to coax striker Nigel Westall into making yet another comeback out of retirement.

Ystradgynlais - who lost 5-1 last time out against leaders Llanwern - face another baptism of fire at second-placed Llangeinor.

The Swansea Valley side, on a first visit to the ground, have Lance Davies suspended while Jamie Williams is ruled out through injury.

Llangeinor, coached by former Swansea City player Damian Lacey, surrendered the league's final 100 per cent record last Saturday at Pentwyn Dynamos, and will be looking towards a return to winning ways.

TONY POOLE
 

West End's Welsh Cup third-round tie at Carmarthen Town tonight has been described by manager Donny Smitham as "the biggest match in the club's history". The Swansea side, who have enjoyed a meteoric rise to the second division of the Welsh League, are in search of their second successive giant-killing act, having disposed of Welsh League champions Goytre United at the previous stage.

Smitham is under no illusions about the task facing his side.

"It's a massive ask, but we have a good set of boys who will give 100 per cent for 90 minutes," he said.

"We'll go to Richmond Park to play good football and with the support of our fans we aim to give Carmarthen a good contest."

The West End manager has a full squad to choose from other than star striker Neil Phillips, who misses out because of suspension.

Carmarthen manager Mark Jones also has a full squad at his disposal and has given West End the respect they warrant by having them watched twice.

"I know everything there is about them," he said. "They are a good side who have come through the divisions and although they lost 2-0 at Betws last week they are having a good season," Jones said.

"The Welsh Cup is a big competition so we'll not be underestimating our opponents.

"They have some very useful players including centre-half Gary Davies, who was with me at Port Talbot, and Anthony Wright who played for Llanelli."

Cup favourites Llanelli are also at full strength for their visit to Cymru Alliance strugglers Penrhyncoch and should advance comfortably into round four.

Manager Peter Nicholas has also had the North Wales side watched twice.

"The fact they are second bottom of their division counts for nothing come kick-off time as anything can happen in cup competitions," he said.

A tougher afternoon could await Port Talbot who, despite home advantage, face a real threat from Cymru Alliance top dogs Bala Town who are unbeaten in 12 league encounters this season.

"We are anticipating a difficult tie," said Town boss Wayne Davies.

"In these games against lower division opposition, it's important players go into the match in the right frame of mind and I expect us to be thoroughly professional."

Port Talbot will not need reminding that several years ago they were the headline makers when lowly Halkyn United won 1-0 at the ReMax Stadium.

Davies has his usual selection problems.

Out for a variety of reasons are Robert Cockings, Leigh De-Vulgt and Chris Pridham while fitness tests await Chad Bond, Martin Rose, Tom Hooper and Scott Barrow.

Afan Lido have a golden opportunity to mix it with the big boys in the last 16 as they host CPD Bodedern at Princess Margaret Way.

The visitors languish in the lower reaches of the Cymru Alliance while Lido are in a rich vein of form, unbeaten in their last 10 matches.

"We're on a good run," said Lido manager Phil Holmes. "Winning is a good habit and we are looking to progress further in this competition, especially as we have home advantage.

"We don't know much about Bodedern so we'll have to see where their strengths and weaknesses lie on the day."

Holmes has confirmed that talks have already taken place with the Lido board and promotion to the Welsh Premier is a target and would be accepted if the Aberavon club finish in the promotion places.

Neath were turned down last season due to their inability to meet ground criteria, but they also have an excellent chance to advance as they entertain Brymbo at Llandarcy.

Andrew Dyer's side are on the championship trail again, lying second to ambitious ENTO Aberaman in division one of the Welsh League.