DUNFORD'S RED CARD HITS GOYTRE FOR SIX

27 September 2004

Goytre Utd and Skewen Athletic both lost more ground in their battle to remain in touch with the early-season pacemakers in the first division. Goytre, who lost 1-0 at home to Barry Town, were upset at a refereeing decision that saw their new signing Mark Dunford dismissed along with Jonathan Wile just before half-time.

The dismissal of Dunford, who was playing well alongside Ian Jones in attack, hit Goytre for six, and the Dragons eventually prevailed thanks to a 62nd-minute goal from Adam Moore.

Skewen lost 3-2 at Ton Pentre having conceded a bizarre goal after just six seconds.

Shaun Thackrell took aim from the edge of the centre circle and his swerving effort deceived Mark Snell in the Skewen goal.

However, the Tennant Park side equalised through Nigel Rogers and went 2-1 up with an Andy Hill penalty.

But the Bulldogs levelled deep into first-half injury time and won it after a back pass from Garden Village import Steve Evans was intercepted.

Lyndon Williams nipped in to score, and after that a couple of good saves from goalkeeper John Howe thwarted Skewen.

However, Briton Ferry defeated Betws 2-1 at Old Road in a game that saw three men sent off and countless bookings.

Ferry had Sam Brown dismissed and six men cautioned, while nine-man Betws saw more in the way of yellow cards.

In a game that could never be described as violent, Ferry built momentum in the 40th minute with a fine individual goal by Gavin Guy.

Guy then set up an equally fine effort for Robert Cann, and although the Bridgend village side pulled one back, Ferry easily clung on.

It was celebration time at Maesteg Park as they picked up their first points of the season thanks to a 1-0 home victory over Neath.

In a poor game that seldom got out of first gear, the issue was settled right on half-time.

From a Michael Waters cross a header from Dean South squeezed past goalkeeper Michael Smith, who replaced the departed Wyn Walters.

Gwynfi fell to a 4-0 home defeat against third-placed Taffs Well, while table-topping Grange Quins won 4-0 at Garw thanks to a headed brace from Kurt Nogan and others from Tony Evans (penalty) and substitute John McIlroy.

Bridgend's winning streak also came to an end at AFC Llwydcoed, whose 65th-minute winner from Chris Vardon had controversy attached to it.

In the second division, Pontardawe Town remain top after edging out Garden Village 2-1 at Stafford Common.

Village wasted a catalogue of chances in the opening half and Ponty made them pay when Layton Thomas shot them ahead in the 50th minute.

Stuart Morgan then put through his own net and by the time substitute Owen Williams pulled one back in the 80th minute, Ponty were home and dry.

And there was no joy for three other local sides in the second division, Ammanford, Morriston and Seven Sisters all losing.

Ammanford lost 3-0 at home against Penrhiwceiber, while Seven Sisters went down 4-1 at Bryntirion.

Paul Kelly got the Seven goal, making it 3-1 on the hour, but the Bridgend village side bounced back to form with goals from Brandon Walters (2), Brian Burke and Ceri Thomas.

Morriston led 1-0 at half-time against Pontyclun at the Dingle, only to lose 3-2.

Peter Osbourne nudged Morriston into an early lead but within a quarter of an hour of the restart Pontyclun had stretched into a 3-1 lead.

Though substitute Paul Edwards netted on the end of a Mark Baker free kick in the 80th minute, the damage had been done.

Porthcawl were involved in a goalless draw with Cardiff Corries at Lock's Lane, while in the third division, Cwmaman got overturned 4-1 at Treharris Athletic.

The Carmarthenshire side looked in good shape when Aneurin Evans put them ahead in the 20th minute, but four second-half goals left Treharris emphatic winners.

Ystradgynlais are still searching for a first league win after going down 3-2 at Risca & Gelli.

A long-range shot from Robbie Daniels in the 27th minute gave Ystrad the lead, but after Risca scored twice Daniels again came up with another fine individual effort on the hour.

But it was all in vain because Risca struck again during the last 10 minutes to wrap up a first win of the campaign

SKEWEN ARE FINDING IT TOUGH IN TOP TIER

25 September 2004

Skewen Athletic are beginning to believe that there is a degree of truth in the old clich?? that it's tough at the top. Last Saturday the Tennant Park club surrendered an unbeaten record in the first division, going down 1-0 against AFC Llwydcoed.

Last season the Cynon Valley side were promoted behind champions Skewen, but they came out on top this time around.

The issue was settled by an 80th-minute penalty, which Jarred Price drove past Skewen goalkeeper Mark Snell.

Having taken stock of the situation, Skewen boss Andrew Dyer reflected on a crop of first-half chances that weren't accepted.

"When a player of Andy Hill's goal-scoring prowess misses some easy chances you suspect that it isn't going to be your day," explained Dyer.

"But towards the end of the game it became a case of us splitting our losses and settling for a point.

"But to have conceded a penalty when the Llwydcoed player concerned was basically going nowhere was bitterly disappointing.

"However, I had no complaints, especially as Llwydcoed are a difficult side to beat and I'm sure they will cause other teams just as many problems this season.''

The Cynon Valley side have taken most pundits by surprise this season and ahead of their home clash with Bridgend Town this afternoon they held fifth place, having won four of their six league matches.

Skewen were left to pick up the pieces at Ton Pentre this afternoon, and a week today they host table-toppers Grange Quins in the second round of the Welsh Cup.

A midweek derby encounter follows at Neath on October 6, and as Dyer concluded: " It's as if someone has given us this run of games as a way of welcoming us to the top flight."

Once again Neath haven't experienced the best of starts, and it came as a relief when they won 2-1 against Gwynfi Utd at the Cape a week ago.

One of their scorers was former Cwmbran Town midfield player Kristian James, while an own-goal formed their other score.

This time last year the Llandarcy Park were in a similar pickle, but given patience managers Nigel Stevenson and Steve Thomas eventually pulled them through.

Owing to work commitments, Thomas was forced to stand down from managerial duties, and experienced campaigner Tommy Jackson replaced him as Stevenson's number two.

However, while Thomas remains an integral part of their defence, Neath are missing Carl Shaw in attack.

Shaw followed former Neath boss Wayne Davies to Port Talbot Town, and with his departure goal-scoring has been a major problem.

Ahead of this afternoon's rearranged league fixture at Maesteg Park, they had only hit the target five times in seven league and cup matches.

That's a far cry from two seasons ago when Shaw was scoring left, right and centre, and Neath were challenging for league honours under manager Wayne Davies.

Neath already only have the league to focus on as they have bowed out of both the Welsh Cup and the league's Shamrock Travel Cup.

In contrast, Briton Ferry are still involved in both tournaments and they are preparing for a Welsh Cup challenge a week today from Robert Lloyd's second division high-fliers Garden Village.

The Old Road side were delighted to come away from Dinas Powys with a point a week today, and coach Morrys Scott was at the centre of the action in a 1-1 scoreline.

Dinas Powys went ahead late on through a Peter Lewis header, but when all seemed lost Scott showed he hadn't lost his touch.

The much-travelled front man calmly played the ball into the path of young Danny Thomas, who successfully chipped the advancing goalkeeper.

"It was a hard-fought game, but our youngsters didn't give up once Dinas Powys took the lead," said Scott.

He added: "Danny Thomas and goalkeeper Chris Curtis were both outstanding and there was no getting away from the fact that Ferry deserved a point."

Late goals littered last Saturday's programme, with Goytre Utd falling to a late effort from Bridgend Town's Nana Baah in a 2-1 reverse.

Ex-Grange Quins man Baah had only just returned to Coychurch Road from Barry Town.

The Port Talbot village side, who were trailing to an Alun Hughes strike, dominated the early stages of the second half and they felt one effort went over the goal line.

Their midfield player Carl Evans was of that opinion, but because he protested too much he got a red card.

Bridgend were later reduced to 10 men with the dismissal of ex-Pontypridd captain Philip Clark, and although Ian Turner eventually equalised, Baah trumped his effort.

On similar lines to Skewen, the Port Talbot village side face a tough time of it over the coming weeks.

After today's league showdown with Barry Town, they face AFC Llwydcoed, also at Glenhafod Park, in the Welsh Cup a week today.

Some of the gloss was taken off Pontardawe Town's thrilling 3-2 home win over Tredegar by the sending off of no-nonsense defender Ian (Buster) Morgan.

He was involved in a 23rd-minute incident in which a Tredegar player allegedly faked injury in order to get Morgan dismissed.

"It was a disgraceful incident and left a nasty taste in the mouth," said Pontardawe general manager Jonathan Wilsher.

"As a result Ian Morgan now faces a lengthy ban, which is unfair on the player."

The 10 men trailed to goals from Mark Dunn and Lee Booker at half-time, with Layton Thomas reducing the arrears in the 52nd minute.

But it wasn't until the 90th minute that Thomas's fourth goal of the season restored parity, and in a storming finish Jamie Rickard hit the winner from the final move.

"The boys were upset at the Ian Morgan incident, and from that point on they really had the bit between their teeth," continued Wilsher.

"They showed bags of character to battle back in what turned out to be real Roy of the Rovers stuff."

While Pontardawe headed the table going into this afternoon's programme, Seven Sisters were struggling at the wrong end of the table.

The Dulais Valley side suffered a 4-2 home setback against Pontyclun a week today in another game of fluctuating fortunes.

Seven conceded twice early on, but a Nigel Westall strike allied to a Richard Herdman penalty made it 2-2 early in the second half.

But they then leaked two more sloppy goals, much to the dismay of player-manager Paul Sullivan.

He said: "Our midfield players are working their socks off but we are missing far too many chances and conceding some awful goals.

" But what is making the situation worse is getting off to some poor starts.

"It seems as if we don't score early on then things go pear-shaped and we concede goals all too readily.

"Our defence seems to get bouts of the jitters and all in all the trend is getting worrying.''

Meanwhile, Cwmaman got back to winning ways in the third division last Saturday with a narrow 1-0 win over Blaenrhondda at Grenig Park.

The issue was settled in the 25th minute when Lee Jenkins, who was forced to operate in attack as opposed to midfield, set up a third goal of the season for Aneurin Evans.

Cwmaman secretary Alun Rees felt the game was a fine advertisement for the third division.

"No cards were produced by the referee as the game was played in one of the best spirits witnessed for some time," he explained.

The pace of Roy Tomlinson caused the Rhondda Valley side all kinds of problems, while goalkeeper Richard Walton pulled off a couple of stunning saves to protect the tenuous lead.

Also to the fore were midfield operator Gary Davies, while in defence Paul Pugh and Johnny Jones both shone.

Finally, Ystradgynlais boss Andrew Hopkins feels that a run of away fixtures are conspiring to hold back the Swansea Valley side.

They have yet to play a home league fixture and their only Ynyscedwyn Road start yielded a 4-3 victory after extra time over second division Merthyr Saints in the Shamrock Travel Cup.

Ystrad have yet to win in the league and before this afternoon's trip to Risca & Gelli they had lost away games against Treowen (1-0) and Penrhiwfer (4-2), but held on for draws against Gwent side Goytre and Troedyrhiw.

Though Ystrad took the lead last Saturday at Penrhiwfer, three goals either side of half-time settled the issue.

And the game was beyond recall by the time Liam Soroka netted late on.

"What we would like is a little run of home games in order to build up points and take some pressure off our league standing,'' said Ystradgynlais manager Andrew Hopkins.

"The side is beginning to get to grips with the game at this level, but long trips to away games certainly don't help your cause."

Ystrad's long-awaited first home league game is scheduled for next Saturday against second-placed AFC Porth.

 

NEW FACES IN SQUAD AS GOYTRE AIM TO BOUNCE BACK

24 September 2004

Goytre have added recent acquisitions David Brown and Mark Dunford to their squad for tomorrow's home game with Barry Town. Brown arrived at Glenhafod Park from second division Pontardawe, while West Countryman Dunford was snapped up from Maesteg Park.

However, Carl Evans will miss the game as he received two yellow cards during last Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Bridgend Town.

While this encounter is one of the day's main attractions, of equal significance will be the clash at Ynys Park between Ton Pentre and Skewen Athletic.

Like Goytre, the Tennant Park club will be looking to get back on track, having surprisingly surrendered 1-0 at home to AFC Llwydcoed last Saturday.

Skewen are hoping to complete the transfer of an ex-Football League player ahead of the showdown with the Bulldogs, but Andrew Birch, who was sent off in the final minutes against AFC Llwydcoed, starts a three-match ban.

Manager Andrew Dyer welcomes back Nigel Rogers to his squad for a game that Skewen place much emphasis on.

Maesteg Park go out in search of a first point of the season against Neath at Tudor Park.

The Llynfi Valley side - without a win in five league and cup matches - have been unable to bring in any fresh faces this week.

Lee Michael sat out training this week, but is expected to be fit, while Neath have rugged defender Steve Thomas back from a wedding.

Gwynfi have home advantage over in-form Taffs Well, and Briton Ferry host former champions Betws.

Still ruled out of the Ferry side is Steven Cox, but coach Morrys Scott is hoping that Lee Brown will shake off a slight groin strain.

The top match in the second division is at Stafford Common where Garden Village take on table-topping Pontardawe Town.

Village were without a game last weekend because of the wet state of the Penrhiwceiber ground, and manager Robert Lloyd has got both Craig Blake and Stuart Morgan back from injury.

Both players came through a run-out with the reserves last Saturday, and also back in the selection frame are Dave Evans and Steve Wright.

Lloyd's son, Stuart, has also recovered from an injury he picked up in the Welsh Cup victory at Llantwit Fardre, and is likely to play in goal.

Pontardawe have signed former Porth Tywyn Suburbs midfield player Paul Davey, who has just returned from a work assignment in New Zealand.

With Ian Morgan starting a suspension, Jamie Mansel is drafted into the squad along with his Dafen cricket colleague Steve Devonald.

Ammanford will be looking to place a two-match losing sequence behind them when they take on Penrhiwceiber at Rice Road.

Seven Sisters have Lee Sullivan and Leighton Connor both missing for their visit to Bryntirion, who have no't played since bowing out of the Welsh Cup 7-2 at Carmarthen Town.

Morriston boss Michael Ellery, who has seen his side leak 11 goals without reply in their last two games involving Grange Quins and Newport YMCA, has re-signed defender Jules Parry ahead of the home clash with Pontyclun.

Steve Sinnock is also back in the Dingle side's squad, but still missing are Carl James, Dean Beniamous, Neil Simon and Paul Kift.

Cwmaman have no injury worries ahead of their trip to Treharris while third division colleagues Ystradgynlais envisage changes at Risca.

Manager Andrew Hopkins will be without his son, Craig, for up to a fortnight, following a training mishap.

Dave Miller starts a three-match suspension, and hands the captain's armband over to his brother, Andrew.

Richard Barness has now resolved work commitments and is available for selection.

Gareth Evans is another player to likely to reappear in Gwent, and manager Hopkins is likely to hand a debut to midfield player James Lang, who has signed from Bryntirion.

 

LEAGUE'S HARD LINE ON CLUB NO-SHOWS

18 September 2004

The Welsh League's management committee have come down hard on first division clubs Garw and Gwynfi Utd for pulling out of league matches last month. At this week's meeting they slapped fines of £250 on both clubs, and perhaps more seriously, applied the rare sanction of docking three points from both.

The get-tough policy was taken in a bid to nip in the bud any further disruption.

They have sent out a clear message to clubs - pull out of fixtures and you will face a hefty fine plus a possible deduction of points.

In recent times monetary fines don't seem to have worked, and many view it as a soft option.

But the loss of three points in addition to the fine will certainly make clubs think twice before calling off games.

With the first division just one step down from the Welsh Premiership, something had to be done to protect the prestige of the Welsh League, which this year is celebrating its centenary.

What made the situation more serious was that both clubs play in the top flight of the league.

Garw cited a stag weekend in Blackpool for calling off their first division clash with Skewen at Tennant Park on August 21.

A week later, owing to a player shortage, Gwynfi pulled out of their intended match at Caerleon.

Yet on the same day they fielded a team in the Welsh League reserve division against Neath - it was claimed that the reserves didn't fancy mixing it with Caerleon.

Teams calling off games has in the past been rare, and the management committee are now hoping they have discussed the problem for the final time this season.

Newcastle Emlyn were also fined £150 after their reserve team failed to fulfil their fixture against Seven Sisters.

Goytre Utd last Saturday hit the headlines with an amazing 9-0 Welsh Cup success over Ammanford at Rice Road.

While the Port Talbot village side were clear favourites to go through to the second round on October 2, few would have expected a victory of that magnitude.

It wasn't as if Ammanford had made a poor start to the season because they had already accounted for quality sides on the second division circuit like Tredegar Town and Bryntirion Athletic.

And it was an Ammanford old boy Ian (Ianto) Davies who plotted their downfall, knocking in six goals to move on to the 11 mark for the season.

The former UWIC player included two penalties in his haul,with the others going to Jonathan Owen, Johnny Walkley and John Eames.

In the case of former Pontardawe Town striker Owen it represented a first Goytre goal, having only signed the week before from Maesteg Park.

The only consolation for Ammanford lay in the fact that they won't face a side of Goytre's all-round quality in the second division.

Ironically, when the draw was announced back in July, Ammanford thought they would be facing Gwent side Goytre.

And having suffered at the hands of the Port Talbot village team, the Rice Road men must have wished it was the Gwent version that they had drawn.

"It was one of those days when everything went right for us and everything went wrong for Ammanford," explained Goytre Utd assistant manager Andrew Radford.

He went on to praise the improved state of the Rice Road surface that in the past has had its critics.

He continued: "Ammanford must have spent a lot of time and money on their playing surface as it was in excellent condition, and it paid a big part in us getting all those goals."

However, with sides returning to league duties this afternoon, Goytre are bracing themselves for three major challenges over the coming weeks - Bridgend Town, Barry Town and Grange Quins.

At the start of the season this afternoon's trip to Bridgend Town, wouldn't have necessarily held out any real fears.

But under managers Francis Ford, formerly of Briton Ferry, and Cohen Griffith, the Coychurch Road side have become a difficult side to beat - as they proved last month at Briton Ferry.

Griffith, the ex-Cardiff City player, sets high standards and if they aren't attained then the players know all about it.

"When you are a player it's satisfactory just to win every game, but at management level there must be style and conviction attached to victories," explained Griffith after Bridgend had knocked Neath out of the Welsh Cup last Saturday.

Without anyone taking them that seriously, Bridgend maintained their climb up the table following this month's 3-3 home draw against Ton Pentre.

Considering the Coychurch Road side were 3-2 down in the 40th minute when they had defender Damian Daniels sent off, they did well to battle back and earn a draw thanks to a late strike from ex-Goytre striker Steve Hughes.

The games against both Barry and Grange Quins - the leading eastern challengers for the league title - will also provide a barometer of Goytre's prospects as regards the title.

Of course, you can never rule out Ton Pentre, although in their case a continued lack of ambition surrounding a return to the Welsh Premiership seems to have removed some of their edge.

Generally, our local teams fared poorly in the first round of the Welsh Cup, but Briton Ferry bucked the trend in avoiding a potential minefield at Newport YMCA.

Ferry coach Morrys Scott was purring after his young side won more cleverly than the 2-1 scoreline suggested.

"Our performance against Newport YMCA was right up there with the Barry display," said Scott, who arrived at Old Road last season from Ammanford.

"Newport YMCA were a big side, and it spoke volumes for the commitment of our young team that they weren't overawed by the situation.

"For long periods we were totally dominant, and the only slight blemish was conceding a late goal."

Robert Cann has burst onto the Old Road scene this month and is forming a potentially menacing strike partnership with Danny Thomas, who got his first goal of the season at the YMCA.

Ferry are hoping they won't lose teenager Cann to boxing as over the last two games he has provided their attack with added clout.

Second division Garden Village have also given some promising youngsters their heads this season, and it looks to be reaping dividends.

The Stafford Common side, together with Goytre Utd and Briton Ferry, are the only three South West Wales teams still involved in both the Shamrock Travel and Welsh Cups.

In last Saturday's Welsh Cup tie against Llantwit Fardre at Central Park - settled on an 85th-minute penalty from Dave Rimmer - teenagers Kerry Williams and Michael Hughes were given their heads.

Ahead of this afternoon's showdown with Penrhiwceiber at the Glassbrook, Robert Lloyd's side occupied fourth spot in the second division.

"Last season our under-16 team achieved a lot of success, and introducing some of these youngsters forms the future of the club," said Lloyd, whose son Stuart had kept Garden Village in the tie with a string of fine saves.

Finally, a sprinkling of Burkes garnished last Saturday's Welsh Cup meeting between Carmarthen Town and Bryntirion Athletic at Richmond Park.

While Nicky Burke was part of the Carmarthen team which won the day 7-2, the Bryntirion side contained his brothers Padraig and Brian.

The only crumb of comfort for the Bridgend branch of the family came in the 80th minute when Brian converted a penalty for 6-2.

Former Bridgend Town striker Brandon Walters had been felled in the penalty area by goalkeeper Tony Pennock, and he was dismissed on a second yellow card.

TONY POOLE

 

GOYTRE SNAP UP DUO AHEAD OF MATCH OF THE DAY

17 September 2004

Goytre have signed two players ahead of tomorrow's top division one encounter with Bridgend Town at Coychurch Road. The Port Talbot village side have completed the protracted transfer of Mark Dunford from Maesteg Park, and brought in David Brown from second division Pontardawe Town.

But, missing from their squad will be Paul Wiseman, who has work commitments.

Bridgend missed out on taking over from Grange Quins at the top in midweek after conceding an injury-time goal in a 3-3 home draw against Ely.

Since losing on the opening day of the season at Dinas Powys, Bridgend have gone unbeaten in their next six league and cup engagements.

Skewen welcome another of last year's promoted teams, AFC Llwydcoed, to Tennant Park and manager Andrew Dyer has a fit squad to select from.

David D'Auria and Ian Vaughan, who both missed last Saturday's 6-0 Welsh Cup romp over Garw, are back in the frame for selection.

Briton Ferry will run fitness tests on both Lee Brown and Steven Cox ahead of their clash with Dinas Powys at the Murch Field.

Both players are suffering from slight groin strains, but the game will mark the return of captain Leigh Morgan from honeymoon.

Also rated doubtful by Briton Ferry coach Morrys Scott is midfielder Martyn James, who suffered an eye injury playing in a recent charity match.

However, back in training is promising teenager Derek Jenkins, who will require a few reserve games before pushing for first-team selection.

Neath have powerhouse defender Steve Thomas missing for their encounter with Gwynfi at the Cape.

Thomas's deputy, Andrew Shaw, is also doubtful, but Wyn Walters is likely to take over from Gary Eccles in goal.

Gwynfi have signed ex-Tondu striker Steve Boydell from Maesteg Park, and he is likely to figure against Neath.

Maesteg Park, one of three teams yet to pick up a point, have home advantage against Caerleon.

Manager Paul Evans has Geraint Goodridge and Daniel Platt available for selection, but he has a fitness doubt-surrounding striker Lee O'Brien, who damaged knee ligaments during the 3-2 Welsh Cup exit at Cardiff Corries.

The match-of-the-day in the second division sees table-topping Pontardawe Town going head to head against Tredegar Town at the Recreation Ground.

Because of cricket, this forms Pontardawe's first home game of the season and Steve Devonald is added to a 15-strong squad.

Fourth-placed Garden Village take on Penrhiwceiber at the Glassbrook, and manager Robert Lloyd is looking for a repeat of the exciting 4-3 win over the Cynon Valley side in the Shamrock Travel Cup earlier in the month.

However, Lloyd's son Stuart is doubtful to play in goal, having picked up a knee injury during the Welsh Cup win over Llantwit Fardre, and Steve Wright is a definite absentee.

Craig Blake and Stuart Morgan are both close to returning from injuries, while David Evans is back from holiday.

Ammanford have a mountain of injury problems to overcome before naming a side to face Llanwern at Rice Road.

Though goalkeeper Craig Morris is set to return, missing will be Nathan Jones, Gavin Morris, Steve Evans, Steven Francis and James Bonner-Evans.

Meanwhile, Scott Evans has decided to return to Dafen, while John Anderson has also gone back to parks football.

Having lost 9-0 last time out against Goytre in the Welsh Cup, managers Neil Rees and Wyn Jones are hoping it will be a case of them putting their troubles behind them.

Another manager with injury problems is Morriston boss Michael Ellery. He is resigned to being without Dean Beniamous, Carl James and Steve Sinnock for their clash with Newport YMCA at Mendalgief Road.

However, he has Greg Williams and Paul Edwards back in contention, and goalkeeper Johnny Martin has recovered from the groin injury he sustained last month against Pontardawe.

Seven Sisters have a slight concern over Lee Sullivan ahead of their home game with Pontyclun.

Sullivan, bother of player-manger Paul, has a thigh injury, but he is expected to declare himself fit.

In the third division, Cwmaman entertain Blaenrhondda, while top scorer Craig Hopkins returns for Ystradgynlais, who visit fellow league newcomers Penrhiwfer in a rearranged fixture.

Hopkins missed the 3-2 Welsh Cup defeat at Blaenrhondda and also back on squad duty at Penrhiwfer will be Robbie Daniels.

 

HOLDERS FERRY OUT OF LUCK IN CUP

16 September 2004

Holders Briton Ferry have been paired away against Caldicot in the second round of the Welsh League's Shamrock Travel Cup. Ammanford entertain rivals Seven Sisters while newcomers to the league Ystradgynlais have to travel. They have been handed an away tie with Cardiff Corries.

Second-round draw: Ammanford v Seven Sisters, Barry v Grange Quins, Betws v Croesyceiliog, Bridgend v Bryntirion, Caerleon v AFC Porth, Caldicot v Briton Ferry, Cardiff Corries v Ystradgynlais, Goytre Utd v Ton Pentre, Goytre (Gwent) v Cwmaman, Gwynfi v Dinas Powys, Newport YMCA v Aberaman, Penrhiwfer v Chepstow, Pontardawe v Risca & Gelli, Pontypridd v Tredegar, Porthcawl v Garden Village, Uwic v Fields Park/Pontllanfraith.

Ties to be played on November 13.

FERRY COME THROUGH CHOPPY ENCOUNTER

Though holders Briton Ferry made it safely through to the second round of the league's Shamrock Travel Cup, they were made to battle all the way by gritty third division side Caerau Ely. Ferry eventually took the honours 3-1, but it took them 65 minutes to break down a tight-knit defence.

Two goals from Steve Griffiths along with a Steven Cox strike did the trick for Ferry, much to the relief of coach Morrys Scott.

"Caerau Ely was a tricky first hurdle for us, but a young side with an average age of just 21 kept their heads and were professional throughout," explained Scott.

He added: "Our boys didn't react to any nonsense from Caerau Ely and it was pleasing not to pick up any bookings.''

Ferry fared better than three other local teams - Maesteg Park, Neath and Skewen Athletic - who all bit the dust.

The demise of Skewen provided the big shock of the round, the Tennant Park club bowing out 2-1 at third division Chepstow Town.

Considering Skewen opened their league campaign with four straight wins in the first division, they were fancied to make progress.

But manager Andrew Dyer was forced to shuffle his pack as first team regulars Andy Hill, David D'Auria, Steve (Ginger) Evans, Craig Maloney and Andrew Birch were all missing.

The feeling in the Skewen camp had been that the players brought into the side might have a point to prove, but that wasn't necessarily the case.

Skewen were poor during the first half and they had their backs to the wall after Nick Vassillo scored twice.

The introduction of D'Auria did pep Skewen up, and although Ashley Richards pulled a goal back it wasn't enough.

"We had no complaints regarding the outcome as we didn't convert a string of early goal-scoring chances," said Dyer.

"Even though a young side was fielded, they should have done better, and all in all it was bitterly disappointing to go out to a third division side so early."

But the South West Wales lower division teams fared much better, with Ammanford, Cwmaman, Garden Village, Pontardawe Town, Seven Sisters and Ystradgynlais all going into the hat for Tuesday evening's second-round draw.

Pontardawe won 1-0 at Taffs Well, who this season replaced the Swansea Valley side in the top tier.

Jamie Bowen, who is already proving a big asset, one that is reflected in a four-goal haul, registered the all-important goal.

Cwmaman looked to be running away with it against Pentwyn Dynamos, leading 3-0 at the break, but in the end they only won 3-2.

The tie was switched to Grenig Park as Pentwyn's new ground at Parc Coed-y-Nant had been vandalised.

Ironically, the Cardiff side only moved back there this season, having previously shared facilities with Grange Quins for three years at Leckwith Stadium.

Ystradgynlais provided one of the surprise results in knocking out high-flying second division side Merthyr Saints 4-3 at Ynyscedwyn Road.

This was their first home game in the Welsh League, and a hat-trick from their on-fire striker Craig Hopkins did the trick for them.

Garden Village beat never-say-die Penrhiwceiber 4-3 at Stafford Common but required a contentious penalty in order to make progress.

The Cynon Valley side mustered three equalisers, and the tie seemed to be heading for extra time when the scoreline was deadlocked on 3-3.

But Village were then awarded a none-too-obvious penalty, which Steven Williams converted.

"If the shoe had been on the other foot, I would have been bitterly disappointed to have gone out to that penalty decision," said Garden Village boss Robert Lloyd.

He continued: "However, what I am now afraid of is that Penrhiwceiber will have a point to prove when we face them in the league next Saturday at the Glassbrook.''

Ammanford eventually won the day 5-2 against third division strugglers Newcastle Emlyn, having been 2-1 down at the break.

"In the end we won comfortably enough, but in fairness to Newcastle Emlyn, they gave us a game, especially in the first half," said Ammanford manager Neil Rees.

Some clubs who received byes were in league action last Saturday, including first division Goytre Utd.

The Port Talbot village side, who the week before surrendered their unbeaten tag to Skewen, returned to winning ways with a 3-1 win over Dinas Powys at Glenhafod Park.

Despite being without the suspended duo of Phil Holmes and John Meacock and having seen striker Wayne Jones return to Swansea club West End, two goals from Ian Jones and a Carl Evans strike saw them home.

However, Goytre brought in ex-Pontardawe Town and Maesteg Park striker Johnny Owen, who is still studying at Liverpool University.

But Owen intends to make the long trip back to Port Talbot each weekend and is likely to link up with another of his former Maesteg team-mates, Mark Dunford.

Dunford, who hails from Taunton, joined Maesteg last season as he was studying medicine at Cardiff University.

"After losing to Skewen it was important for us to bounce back against Dinas Powys, and we took our chances well," said Goytre Utd assistant manager Craig Duggan.

He added: "Now is the time to start to put a run together, but it won't be easy as our remaining September games are against Bridgend and Barry."

One of the surprise sides in the second division this season have been Porthcawl Town, who went second following last Saturday's 3-1 victory over Aberaman at Lock's Lane.

The Seasiders have endured some dreadful starts to the season in recent times, but it looks as if a new broom has swept clean.

During the summer, Porthcawl handed managerial duties to Port Talbot-based Chris Holmes, the former British Steel and Bridgend Town defender.

The Seasiders had banked seven points from four away matches ahead of Aberaman, and they got off to a winning start at home.

"There's a new-found confidence in the team this year, but it might be down to a honeymoon period under a new manager," said Holmes.

"What I keep on instilling to the boys is a professional approach together with a high work-rate - and if they maintain both then we should do well."

One of the success stories at the seaside club this year has been striker Michael Courtney, who like Holmes formerly played for British Steel and Bridgend.

Until Steve Atkinson opened the scoring against Aberaman, only Courtney had netted this season.

However, Courtney kept up his great run with two second-half goals to move on to five for the season.

We may be only five weeks into the new season, but one of the first managerial casualties has been noted.

Aberaman parted company with ex-Newport County defender Dave Abruzzi last week and turned to their former chief David Morgan, whose company ENTO are sponsoring Aberaman.

TONY POOLE

 

SKEWEN AT STRENGTH

Skewen Athletic return to near full strength for tomorrow's Welsh Cup engagement with Garw at Tennant Park. Top scorer Andy Hill along with Andrew Birch, Steve Evans and Craig Maloney - who all missed last Saturday's shock exit at Chepstow from the Shamrock Travel Cup - are lined up to play.

However, Skewen boss Andrew Dyer is resigned to being without either ex-Swan David D'Auria or Ian Vaughan, who is recovering from a facial injury.

Once again Garw will not be at full strength as it is midfield player Rhys John's wedding day.

The Blandy side are likely to pack their team with Bridgend League players and having lost 9-1 at Tredegar the week before, spirits will be low.

Carmarthen home advantage over rising Bryntirion Athletic and manager Mark Jones has fond memories of the Welsh Cup. Last season he led Port Talbot to the semi-final stage as he had done a few years back with Maesteg Park.

Both ties ended in disappointment for the new Carmarthen boss, beaten both times by TNS.

''They were great occasions and I have fond memories of them. But it will be nice to go one better,'' Jones said.

The Carmarthen boss has the highest respect for Bryntirion and their manager Phillip Clay. He said: ''I've known Phillip a long time and he really knows the Welsh League scene. His side have won four of their six league and cup matches this season so are doing well.

''Bryntirion have come up the league structure in recent years and we will have to treat them with respect. We will need to be disciplined and committed to overcome them.

''If we win tomorrow it will be eight matches unbeaten for us in all competitions and three clean sheets in a row has made it a good start for us.

''It's still early days though but we are doing okay and I want to keep our good run going in all competitions.''

Carmarthen hope to be at full strength and should progress to the next stage when all the Welsh Premier clubs go into the hat.

Llanelli's trip to Pontypridd is more problematical. The hosts will no doubt fancy their chances of a major cup upset with the Reds in such turmoil, but manager Eddie May is looking for a trouble-free trip to the Rhondda Valley.

''We certainly don't want to come unstuck in the Welsh Cup and there's no reason why it should happen,'' May said. ''The Welsh Cup is important to us and we want to progress but it will need us to be on top of our game to succeed.''

May introduce half a dozen new players in last week's 4-1 home defeat but some of those may not figure tomorrow.

''We have to sign players to look at them but some of them did not appear to be up to it,'' he admitted.

''But the scoreline was not a true reflection of last week's game as they scored twice in the last three minutes after we had hit the post and had a couple of chances to have levelled it.''

Goytre welcome back John Meacock from a one-match suspension for their tie with Ammanford at Rice Road.

Ammanford manager Neil Rees is hoping that Gavin Morris has recovered from ankle injury, but there is a doubt surrounding the fitness of James Bonner-Evans.

The Carmarthenshire side did well in the cup competitions last winter, and were losing finalists to Briton Ferry in the West Wales Senior Cup.

Neath have Jonathan Parry and Paul Harvey back from holidays for their encounter with Bridgend Town at Coychurch Road.

The Llandarcy Park side will go into the tie as underdogs, having won just one of their five engagements, and will again be without long-term absentees in Craig Richards and Keith Phillips.

Gwynfi have yet to finalised a side to challenge Barry Town at Jenner Park, but Cwmaman will be at full strength for their equally demanding showdown with Taffs Well at Rhiw D'dar.

Ystradgynlais manager Andrew Hopkins is faced with the prospect of sending out a new frontline at Blaenrhondda.

Hopkins's son Craig, who has netted five times this term, is unavailable while Richard Barness has decided to go back to Giants Grave.

Robbie Daniels is also ruled out and Hopkins is considering a recall for Daniel Jenkins, who has been sidelined since Christmas through knee ligament damage.

Briton Ferry will again be without captain Leigh Morgan, who is on honeymoon, for their meeting at Newport YMCA.

That means that the Old Road side will stick to the squad that saw them through to a 3-1 home win over Caerau Ely in the Shamrock Travel Cup the week before.

Last season Ferry were made to struggle in the league cup at Newport YMCA before emerging with a 6-5 victory on penalties, and the rematch could be equally tight.

Also sticking to the same group of players are Maesteg Park, who challenge Cardiff Corries at the Riverside.

The Llynfi Valley side were delighted with the performance of teenager Gary Phillips at Barry last week, and he retains his place in the side.

With Geraint Goodridge and Dale Gardner still ruled out, two other teenagers - Matthew Watkins and Michael Reid - once more perform squad duties.

Garden Village boss Robert Lloyd will run fitness tests on both Craig Blake and Stuart Morgan ahead of their encounter with Llantwit Fardre at Central Park.

Blake is suffering from an ankle injury while Morgan is doubtful owing to a knee complaint, but Ben Brown, who made a goal-scoring debut last Saturday against Penrhiwceiber in the league cup, is eligible against Llantwit Fardre.

Morriston hope to have powerful centre-back Carl James back in their side for their tough assignment against Grange Quins at the Leckwith Stadium in Cardiff.

Also back in training at the Dingle is Paul Kift, but recent acquisition Johnny Casey is cup-tied.

The latest news on injured assistant manager Dean Beniamous suggests he will be out for another three weeks.

There is one fixture in the second division with fourth-placed Pontardawe Town visiting Tillery for a first time.
 

SKEWEN FALL AT THE CHEPSTOW HURDLE

High-flying Skewen were on the wrong end of the surprise result in the first round of the Welsh League's Shamrock Travel Cup. The Tennant Park side, who opened their first division campaign with four straight victories, went down 2-1 at third division Chepstow.

Skewen conceded two sloppy goals in the first half and although Ashley Richards pulled one back in the 67th minute, the Gwent side made it through to the last 32.

Two other first division clubs crashed out, Maesteg Park losing 5-0 at Barry Town and Neath going down 3-0 against UWIC at Llandarcy Park.

It was left to holders Briton Ferry to salvage local pride, though they struggled before eliminating third division Caerau Ely 3-1 at Old Road.

Though youngster Robert Cann went close for Ferry in the first half, they didn't make the breakthrough until the 65th minute when Steven Cox headed home.

Against the run of play the Cardiff side dragged themselves back on terms, and it took two goals in the last 10 minutes from Steve Griffiths to earn Ferry the win.

The teams from the lower divisions fared much better, with newcomers Ystradgynlais overcoming second division Merthyr Saints 4-3 at Ynyscedwyn Road.

Two goals from top scorer Craig Hopkins ensured Ystrad reached half-time on 2-2, but the Saints then marched into the lead for the only time.

A scrambled equaliser from captain Dave Miller took the tie into extra time, and Hopkins went on to complete a hat-trick with a 97th-minute strike.

Pontardawe won 1-0 at first division Taffs Well, Jamie Bowen getting the goal in the 39th minute on the end of a Jamie Richard pass.

Cwmaman looked as if they were coasting into the next round when leading visiting Pentwyn Dynamos 3-0 at the interlude thanks to goals by Gareth Jones, Rhydian Watkins and Gary Davies, but the Cardiff side hit back and it was Cwmaman who were relieved to hear the final whistle in a 3-2 success.

Garden Village lived up to their reputation of being big goal-scorers and charitable defenders in beating Penrhiwceiber 4-3 at Stafford Common.

The Cynon Valley side proved worthy challengers and three times they mustered equalisers.

Lewis Cann and Mark Lloyd were both on target during the opening half as the sides changed ends at 2-2.

New signing Ben Brown struck for 3-2, only for Penrhiwceiber to level, and it required a late penalty from Steven Williams to put Village through to the next round.

Seven Sisters just managed to edge out old rivals Treowen 2-1 in a tie that failed to hit the heights in the Dulais Valley.

Having fallen a goal behind early on, Seven clawed their way back with a 55th-minute goal from player-manager Paul Sullivan.

That took proceedings into extra time, and with a penalty shootout looming, up popped Andrew Collins to head in a Leon Thomas cross.

Ammanford were surprisingly forced to come from behind before getting the measure of third division strugglers Newcastle Emlyn 5-2.

Matthew Thomas was on target for the Rice Road side, who were 2-1 down at the break, but they eventually came good with goals from Nathan Jones, Paul Hughes and substitutes Cerison Davies and John Anderson.

However, Morriston bowed out, going down 4-1 to Betws at the Dingle.

The Bridgend village side shot into a 3-0 interval lead and although Paul Edwards pulled a goal back early in the second half, Betws went through.

The continued demise of first division Garw also raised a few eyebrows - the Blandy side lost 8-1 at Tredegar. Darren Lyons was the Garw scorer in a side containing nine Bridgend League players.

Four league matches went ahead, with Goytre Utd returning to winning ways with a 3-1 home success over Dinas Powys.

Ian Jones put Goytre ahead in the eighth minute, while Carl Evans headed them 2-0 up on the hour.

Spencer Lamb brought Dinas Powys back into contention, but Goytre sealed victory when substitute Paul Wiseman was fouled in the box and Jones converted the penalty.

Porthcawl Town beat struggling Aberaman 3-1 at Lock's Lane to go second in division two.

Steve Atkinson put the Seasiders ahead in the 40th minute, while two second-half goals from on-fire striker Michael Courtney completed the win.

 

PLENTY OF SPARK IN CHARGED DERBY TIE

 04 September 2004

Last Saturday's derby clash between Goytre Utd and Skewen sparked plenty of debate. Unbeaten Skewen won the day 1-0, making it four straight wins on the trot, while Goytre surrendered their unblemished start to the campaign at the third time of asking.

A vibrant derby encounter swung on a 75th-minute incident that saw home defender Phil Holmes sent off for an alleged elbow in the face on Skewen's top scorer Andy Hill.

The incident led to Skewen being awarded a penalty that Hill tucked away to win the game.

However, the Tennant Park club's manager, Andrew Dyer, was disappointed to come away from Glenhafod Park with only a slender win as he felt his side created more chances.

"In the end it was disappointing to win the game on a incident in the penalty area, but you cannot go around swinging elbows in the box and hope to get away with it every time," said Dyer.

"We created more in the way of chances over the 90 minutes and it was a shame some of them weren't converted.

"But on a positive note, we have beaten a good side like Goytre, who were runners-up in the league last year, and maintained an unbeaten record during August.

"In securing maximum points from our four opening matches, we have served notice of their intentions."

Goytre finished the game with just nine men after John Meacock was dismissed in the 87th minute for bringing Hill down when he was through on goal.

However, the Goytre management team of Craig Duggan and Andrew Radford felt that referee Dean John should have taken a stricter line with Skewen's Steve Pockett during the first half.

Pockett had been yellow-carded for felling Goytre's Johnny Walkley, and the same player then committed a similar offence.

However, Pockett remained on the field, much to the annoyance of the Goytre managers.

"The game had generated plenty of interest as it was not only a derby clash but also a battle between two unbeaten sides," said assistant Goytre Utd manager Radford.

"The game was obviously keenly contested, but it had 0-0 written all over it as both defences were on top.

"We were obviously disappointed to have lost a point on an incident which can only be described as a moment of madness.

"The game turned on that penalty incident, but it could have been different had the referee sent Steve Pockett off for a second bookable offence."

Skewen were in Shamrock Travel Cup action at Chepstow this afternoon, while a week today they host Garw in the Welsh Cup.

Last month Garw pulled out of a league fixture at Tennant Park as Reading-based fireman Rhys John was holding his stag weekend in Blackpool.

However, John is getting married next Saturday and some of the players that missed the league match will also be absent for the cup tie.

But the Blandy side intend to fulfil the fixture even if they have to despatch their Bridgend League side to Tennant Park.

The league management committee will later this month be discussing the actions of Garw and Gwynfi, who last Saturday failed to raise a team at Caerleon.

The likely outcome is that they will set in motion a policy that will see clubs deducted points for pulling out of games in addition to a monetary fine.

The feeling is that the current monetary fine is not acting as a deterrent, though a deduction of points would have to be passed by the membership.

In the meantime, the fear is that clubs with injury problems could call off games by citing a stag weekend.

Many feel the existing fine would simply not fit the crime.

The result of the day in the second division a week ago was Ammanford's 3-1 home win over high-flying Bryntirion Athletic.

Nathan Jones gave the Carmarthenshire side the lead during the opening half while second-half goals from ex-Garden Village and Llanelli player Paul Hughes sealed a deserved victory.

This was the second big upset that Ammanford have achieved this season, having won 2-1 at fancied Tredegar on the opening day of the season.

The Rice Road side have lost just one of their five opening league matches - 3-1 at home against Garden Village - and are looking in better shape than last year.

"Fine team performances brought us the victories over both Tredegar and Bryntirion, and I wouldn't like to single out any individuals for praise," said Ammanford manager Neil Rees.

"Basically, we now have a young side, and the best way they can build up belief is by winning.

"Last season we lacked consistency and this left us languishing in mid-table.

"But eight points from our opening five matches have led to us holding a top-six position.

"If we could hold on to this position for some time then we could challenge for promotion as there isn't that much of a gap between ourselves and the top clubs."

However, Garden Village have done even better, and a 10-point return from five matches has left them in second place.

The Village people are level on points with leaders Newport YMCA, having drawn at Llanwern a week today.

However, as manager Bob Lloyd explains, it could have been ever better as the Steelmen left it until time added on for stoppages to equalise.

"We were a goal up at Llanwern going into injury time but the referee somehow chose to add on eight minutes of injury time.

"I know the referee is the lone judge of time, but it still baffles me how he could add on so much considering there were few injuries.''

Another local side riding high in the division are Pontardawe Town, who hold third position having won three of their first four games.

The Swansea Valley side started the season as most people's favourites to climb straight back to the top flight - and they have lived up to early-season speculation. All their August engagements were away as the Recreation Ground was required for cricket, and victories were achieved over Pontyclun, Morriston and Aberaman.

Though Ponty surprisingly lost at Caldicot, they are satisfied with the nine-point haul on the road.

Behind the scenes, another gentlemen's evening is being staged at their clubhouse on September 16, with Welsh legend Joey Jones the latest star to be wheeled out as guest speaker.

In the past, Ponty have attracted Norman Whiteside, Frank Worthington and Peter Osgood to similar events, and the former Wrexham and Liverpool defender should prove equally popular.

Tickets are still available. Contact Jonathan Wilsher on 07831 555464.

Remaining on the subject of stars, third division Cwmaman had a famous rugby player in their midst during a recent charity match between the third team and over-35s.

Ospreys and Wales wing Shane Williams, who hails from the Amman Valley, played for the third team, who won 8-3.

Williams played little rugby during his youth as he turned out for Cwmaman at junior levels.

He frequently drops into the Cwmaman clubhouse to relive past footballing deeds, and he had a smile on his face after the charity match.

Williams not only took everyone by surprise in scoring, but the goalkeeper he beat was none other than club secretary Alun Rees.

It isn't often anybody gets the better of Rees - either on or off the field!

However, there was general disappointment last Saturday at Grenig Park following the 3-1 defeat against Llantwit Fardre at Central Park.

It signalled an end to their unbeaten record, but there were few complaints in the Cwmaman camp as it was their poorest display of the season.

However, the game did unearth a promising newcomer in Niall Davies, younger brother of first-team regular Neil, who scored their goal at the 3-0 stage.

Although Ystradgynlais are still waiting for their first league win, they followed up a midweek draw at Troedyrhiw with another point, this time at Gwent side Goytre.

Having fallen behind to a contentious first-half penalty, Ystrad battled back with Liam Soroka setting up the equaliser for Craig Hopkins.

Late on the Swansea Valley side felt they should have been awarded a penalty after Richard Barness was felled in the box, but it wasn't to be.

With cricket at Ynyscedwyn Road completed, Ystrad were due to launch their home programme this afternoon against Merthyr Saints in the Shamrock Travel Cup.

THIRD LOSS IN ROW FOR NEATH

Neath last night suffered a third successive defeat in the Motaquote Welsh League division one, going down 4-1 at home against Taffs Well. James Passmore sent Taffs Well ahead during the first half while Neil Thomas doubled the lead on the resumption.

But Neath hit back with a goal from Billy Timothy.

It was at this stage that Neath were at their best and Richard Cleverly went close to equalising.

But Taffs Well weathered the storm, and late goals from both Ricky Morgan and Martin Rose wrapped the win.

TONY POOLE