View 2008 Kiffy's Korner

 
Port Talbot saw off fellow Port Talbot village side Goytre Utd 4-1 last night, The Steelmen went 1-0 up with a goal from defender Lee Surman, and they scored 3 more 2nd half goals from new signing Daniel Thomas, Sam Baker got the 3rd and Neil Thomas finished off the scoring for Mark Jones side. Goytre scored a consolation penalty in injury time.

Tony

 
RELEGATED trio Newport YMCA, Croesyceiliog and Cwmbran Town have all named rookie managers as they seek first-time promotion back to Division One of the MacWhirter Welsh League.

All three men are virtually unknown in local football circles and will be taking their first steps into management in the senior men’s game following previous coaching experience.

YMCA, who finished 16th of 18 at the end of last season, have appointed William Meehan, who was a coach to Bristol Rovers’ youth team and was at one stage involved in women’s football in the English city.

He replaces Mark Coldrick, who resigned on the completion of the 2008-09 campaign - but he remains with the Mendgalief Road club as its newly-appointed director of football.

Croesyceiliog, who ended 17th, have turned to former Cardiff City junior player Gavin Morgan, who also appeared for Dinas Powys and Taffs Well.

He went on to become a coach with those two MWL clubs and was with eventual champions ENTO Aberaman Athletic until Christmas of last year.

Bottom-placed Cwmbran’s new man is Barrie Hughes whose playing and coaching career is remarkably similar to Morgan’s Hughes was also at Cardiff as a junior before he went onto play for Bridgend Town, Aberaman, Dinas Powys and Taffs Well.

South Wales Argus

 
Following the changes at ENTO Aberaman and the loss of manager and sponsor ENTO,  the club reverted back to it's name of Aberaman Athletic, now their official website has said it's looking to change it's name again.

They were firstly looking to change their name to Aberdare Town, but they said legal formalities stopped that change, but they are hoping to get clearance from the FAW to change their name to AFC Aberdare, no reason was given for their decision to change the name of the club from Aberaman to Aberdare.

 
NEATH FC have announced the signing of Liam Hancock from Carmarthen Town, it reports on the clubs official website. It says.

"It is a welcome return to Neath for Liam who left us a couple of years ago after playing in our Welsh League Championship team"

"At that time we nurtured the young Lee Bevan from our Youth team to fill Liam's shoes and as it turns out Liam will now be replacing Lee, who has seen fit to leave the club under a very big cloud.
"This is the final cog - it has taken a while because there were one or two things to sort out, but I more than delighted with the return of Liam to the club," says manager Andrew Dyer"

 
Motherwell overcame their shock first-leg Europa League defeat to Llanelli with a dominant win at Parc y Scarlets.

John Sutton blew a great chance with an early header, but quickly made amends to nod in Steven Hammell's cross.

A carbon-copy attack down the left on 24 minutes saw Sutton head his second from a Paul Slane cross.

Llanelli's Andrew Mumford was twice denied by great Michael Fraser saves, before substitute Jamie Murphy sealed Jim Gannon's first win as manager.

Murphy profited from a counter-attack from deep in his own half.

The Steelmen poured forward, Jim O'Brien skipping past Michael Howard before providing a delightful chip for Murphy to head in with his first touch of the night.

The result was sweet revenge for the Scots, after Stuart Jones' goal at the Excelsior Stadium last week gave Gannon a horrendous start to his Motherwell reign.

The Steelmen now face a two-leg second qualifying round match against Albanian outfit KS Flamurtari Vlore.

BBC

 
The New Saints again let slip an early lead against Fram Reykjavik as they crashed out of the Europa League first qualifying round.

As in Iceland last week, Steve Evans put the Welsh side ahead.

Playing up front, Evans put in a far-post header from a Tommy Holmes cross that was flicked-on by Chris Marriott.

Poor defending allowed Almar Ormarsson to score from a long through ball, Sam Tillen sealing the tie with a penalty after Hjalmar Thorarinsson was fouled.

BBC

 
EUROPEAN veteran John Hartson has warned Llanelli that Motherwell will be a team on a mission when the clubs meet in a Europa League second leg clash at Parc y Scarlets tonight (7pm.)

The former Wales striker featured in the Champions League for Celtic and also played as the Scottish giants beat Boavista to secure a place in the 2003 Uefa cup final.

He will form part of S4C's live coverage of the first qualifying round match this evening as the Reds look to build on their 1-0 lead from the first leg seven days ago.

And the 34-year-old ex-Arsenal and West Ham frontman has told Llanelli to be on their guard against a fired-up Motherwell side.

"They did brilliantly against Motherwell and caught Jim Gannon's side cold in the first leg. But Motherwell will come out with all guns blazing in the second leg," said Hartson.

"They have had to face a few changes so far during the summer and that may have disrupted the squad, but they are sure to get it all together sooner or later. It should be a cracking match."

Evening Post

 
CORTEZ Belle is back with Southern League football club Merthyr Tydfil.

The former Llanelli, Newport County and Chippenham player, who can play in defence or attack, has been added to the Martyrs’ squad by manager Garry Shephard.

Belle, 25, last played for Merthyr Tydfil during 2003-04. He netted 39 goals in 86 matches for the club after being converted from centre-half to centre-forward.

The Martyrs must wait to find out who they play in the FA Cup first qualifying round – it will be either Taunton Town, Bishop Sutton or Bodmin Town away – while they face Marlow at home in the FA Trophy first round.

Shephard has arranged Merthyr’s pre-season programme, starting against Newport County at Cwmbran Town next Tuesday (July 14, 7.15pm).

South Wales Echo

 
Llanelli AFC are extremely disappointed to see the front page article in the Llanelli Star regarding pricing for the European game against Motherwell. This article reflects only an extreme minority of opinion and crucially makes no attempt to understand the reasons for the pricing. As Chairman, I would like to make it amply clear that the Club returned calls requesting information, but the Star chose not to enter into a live conversation with the Club. It simply proceeded to write its story using comments from a handful of fans on our website.

The Club has a strict policy of not discussing internal matters, but for the record I will make the following comments. Upgrading Stebonheath Park to UEFA standards last year required the Club to incur substantial costs, which could only be recouped over two European games. As we have been advised to move the game away from Stebo, we have lost half the revenue that we had expected.

Taken from the Official Red's website

 
LLANELLI manager Andy Legg has told his players to revel in the Parc y Scarlets atmosphere on Thursday night.

The Reds host Motherwell at the ground in the second leg of their Europa League first qualifying round match looking to seal an historic victory.

Legg's side hold a 1-0 advantage from the first leg in Scotland five days ago which boosted their hopes of a second qualifying round meeting with Albanian side KS Flamurtari Vlore.

A bumper crowd is expected on Thursday to watch the Welsh Premiership side attempt to claim one of the biggest scalps in the club's history.

And Legg has urged his players — who shone in front of more than 4,000 in the first leg — to enjoy the experience.

"It could be an amazing occasion. There could be 5,000 or 6,000 people there and it'll be fantastic for the lads to play in that environment," he said.

Evening Post

 
Sgorio are happy to confirm that the second leg of Llanelli's Europa League clash against Motherwell at Parc y Scarlets will be shown live on S4C.

Sgorio had already announced that the home leg of Rhyl's Champions League second round clash with Partizan would be broadcast live from Belle Vue.

Llanelli v Motherwell 1850 BST 09 July 2009

Rhyl v Partizan 1930 BST 14 July 2009

SC4

 
Port Talbot Town have announced they will not be defending their title and not entering a team in this season's welsh league reserve league, the club have stated that they are going to concentrate more on developing their under 18 and 19's team.

 
Llanelli player-boss Andy Legg hailed his club's best result after they beat Motherwell 1-0 in Europa League qualifying in Scotland.

But the new reds manager was quick to play down his team's chances of progressing to the next round.

"It's the best result that Llanelli have ever had so to be part of that is fantastic," Legg told BBC Scotland.

"But we're still up against it. We've got a tough time coming in Llanelli, but with a bit of luck you never know."

BBC

 
THE MacWhirter Welsh Football League will adhere to the FAW strategic plan for the season after next.

A special general meeting staged ahead of the AGM at Maesteg Park last Saturday discussed plans to trim all three divisions to just 16 clubs for 2010-11.

A motion by Ammanford to spread the cuts over a three-year period was rejected, while former FAW secretary Alan Evans spoke against the move.

He urged the league to turn down the FAW plan.

Though promotion issues remain intact, six of the 54 clubs will be relegated at the end of next season – an additional three will go if suitable candidates emerge from the feeder leagues.

And should any of the five-strong Welsh Premier League southern contingent – Carmarthen, Haverfordwest, Llanelli, Neath or Port Talbot Town – fail to get into the 12-strong top tier, then they would end up in the Welsh League.

However, it is thought likely that the five southern clubs will all obtain domestic licences to operate at the highest level.

Next season’s Welsh League champions have a chance to apply for a domestic licence to get into the Super 12.

A further meeting for first-division clubs will be held in Cardiff on July 30.

But the only realistic chance of the Welsh League providing a suitable candidate surrounds either Bridgend Town, who now operate from the Brewery Field, or Afan Lido.

Welsh League clubs also have to meet ground criteria, and any that come up short at the end of next season will be relegated.

Port Talbot Guardian

 
NEATH has announced that the close links the club enjoys with Swansea City are to continue following the appointment of Paulo Sousa as manager.

The new Liberty chief will take a Swans side to The Gnoll on Monday 20 July for a pre-season friendly with the Eagles, kick-off 7.45 pm.
Grandstand tickets will be available from the Liberty Stadium and West Wales Print Shop in Skewen and are priced at £8 (£7 concessions).
Family stand and ground tickets will be issued next week.

Former Swans' manager  Chris Coleman is also to bring Coventry City to the Gnoll on Tuesday 4 August in a major coup for the Eagles, who are looking forward to welcoming both championship teams to The Gnoll.

Neath Official website

 
NEW Llanelli boss Andy Legg has promised his players will give their all in pursuit of a Europa League upset against Motherwell.

The Reds travel to Strathclyde looking to upset their Scottish Premier League opponents in the first of a two-leg first qualifying round match.

Legg's Welsh Premier League side are rank outsiders for the match, but the former Wales defender has demanded maximum effort from his players.

"As long as they give me 100 per cent I'll be happy," he said.

"If we are beaten by a special bit of skill, you can't do anything about that.

"But I don't want us to be beaten on attitude.

"That's all you can ask from the players.

"It's a big occasion so I don't want them freezing.

"If these players have got ambitions to play in the Football League, then these are the games they need to perform in."

"Their captain is an Irish international and my players are not used to playing against anyone of that standard, although we're looking forward to the challenge," added Legg.

"I just want my players to do themselves justice."

Official welsh premier website

 
Haverfordwest County manager Derek Brazil has announced the signing of Barry Town captain Jamie Bradford.

The combative midfield player has had Welsh League experience with Llanelli in the 2004/05 season, having previously been on the books of Exeter City and UWIC.

"I'm proud that Jamie has decided to sign for us" Brazil said. "He is a quality player who never gives less than 100%."

Whilst not revealing any other names, Brazil mentioned that he has been looking at other players for the coming season. A full list of the players who have signed for the club for next season will be released soon.

New Stand
Off the field, Groundwork is underway for the installation of the new stand which will be directly opposite the existing stand along the majority of the sideline.

The stand will be put in place during the week of the 6th of July, and will be ready for the new season. This will bring the seating capacity of the stadium well in excess of the FAW Domestic Licence criteria of 500 and up to the 1,000, which is required by UEFA for entry into European competitions.

Further work is planned on the stadium, with improvements to the existing dug outs high in the agenda, with space for 13 required for the Domestic Licence.

Official welsh premier website

 
BARRY Town will be playing MacWhirter Welsh League football in 2009-10.

They are registered to play and their supporters group have pledged to support the team.

The Vale of Glamorgan club are still for sale and manager Gavin Chesterfield said: “A lot of people are working hard to ensure Barry Town an go into the new season full of optimism. There is still a lot to do, but I am talking to a lot of players. People want to play for us.”

South Wales Echo

 
MacWhirter Welsh League club Newcastle Emlyn have sacked manager Mathew Price, pictured above, after nearly five years at the helm.

The 32-year-old striker expressed shock and sadness that he was being shown the door because he felt he was doing a first-rate job at Parc Emlyn

He took over the hot seat in September 2004 after the Reds spent four seasons in Division Three

Emlyn retained their league status that season and improved gradually until gaining promotion in season 2007/2008.

Price led the club to seventh place in Division Two last term after challenging near the top for a lengthy period.

He has been top scorer since joining the club with a total of 124 strikes, including 36 last season, but the club felt it was time for a change.

Confirming the departure of the manager chairman Geraint Jones said: “We would like to thank Mathew for his valuable contribution to the development of the club and we would like to wish him all the best in his future managerial career.”

Price said: “I put 100 percent into everything I did for the club on and off the field and I was shocked and saddened to learn of my departure.

“I had absolutely no reason to believe I had anything other than the full support and backing of the committee.

The club has wasted no time in appointing a successor and has opted for vastly experienced Wayne Jones who ironically was signed by Price during the January transfer window.

Tivy-Side Advertiser

 
NEATH manager Andy Dyer has questioned why the FAW pursued their proposals of culling the Welsh Premier next season.

“I have been non-committed for the last few months as I still do not understand why the FAW are changing things,” said a bemused Neath manager Andy Dyer.

“What is it going to improve? I don’t think the standards will rise much and there seems to be a lack of thought process put into this.

“We (Neath FC) abstained from the vote as we are not sure that it is going to end up with a better product to watch.

“Until someone tells me some concrete reasons on why change is necessary then we remain non-committal.

“But change is going to take place and we now have to make sure we finish among the top 10 sides this season.”

Port Talbot Guardian

 
NEATH manager Andy Dyer has questioned why the FAW pursued their proposals of culling the Welsh Premier next season.

“I have been non-committed for the last few months as I still do not understand why the FAW are changing things,” said a bemused Neath manager Andy Dyer.

“What is it going to improve? I don’t think the standards will rise much and there seems to be a lack of thought process put into this.

“We (Neath FC) abstained from the vote as we are not sure that it is going to end up with a better product to watch.

“Until someone tells me some concrete reasons on why change is necessary then we remain non-committal.

“But change is going to take place and we now have to make sure we finish among the top 10 sides this season.”

Port Talbot Guardian

 
EUROPEAN football is no longer the number one priority for Port Talbot Town, says manager Mark Jones.

It is now all about finishing among the top 10 teams in the Welsh Premier this season.

“Forget about getting into Europe next season – we now have to make finishing in the top 10 our number one priority,” said Mark Jones, who is back at Port Talbot after returning from a UEFA licence refresher course in the company of former Swansea manager Roberto Martinez.

Jones seemed unconvinced about change but accepted that it was about progress.

“That’s progress I suppose but I just let the powers-that-be make those decisions.”

Meanwhile, Port Talbot have signed 24-year-old left-sider Lloyd Grist from US Soccer League side Toronto Lynx.

After signing for Caersws in 2005, the former Shrewsbury Town, Bridgend, Newport County and Dinas Powys player made 44 Welsh Premier League starts for Caersws before a brief move to Aberystwyth in 2007.

Grist then moved to the US Soccer League before returning to Wales.

Port Talbot Guardian

 
CARDIFF City are boosting Llanelli's hopes of producing the biggest result in the club's history.

Bluebirds boss Dave Jones has offered a helping hand to Andy Legg's preparations for Llanelli's Europa League first qualifying-round clash with Motherwell next week.

Jones, who signed Ross McCormack from the Scottish club 12 months ago, has met with former Cardiff defender Legg to pass on his inside knowledge of Llanelli's opponents.

The Reds are huge underdogs after being paired with Motherwell in Monday's draw, and face a stiff task in the opening leg in eight days' time.

The first leg comes at Airdrie's Excelsior Stadium as Fir Park is installing undersoil heating, while the return match a week later will either be at Stebonheath Park or Parc y Scarlets.

Despite the chances of upsetting Motherwell, who qualified as Scotland's Fair Play winners, being slim, Legg's optimism and determination to help Llanelli produce a major coup for Welsh football is clear.

"It was the best draw we could have asked for," he said.

"But we are working hard on our own preparations as well as obtaining as much information on Motherwell as possible.

"Dave Jones has been very helpful. He watched Motherwell five times last season and has a lot of information on them."

Evening Post

 
Rhyl face enormous task against Serbian champs

Rhyl have one of the toughest Champions League draws in the second qualifying round as they will face former European Cup finalists Partizan Belgrade.

The Welsh Premier champions will play the Serbian double winners in the first leg at Belle Vue on 14 or 15 July before the return on 21 or 22 July.

All British Euro tie for Llanelli

Welsh Premier runners-up Llanelli will face Scottish side Motherwell for Uefa's new Europa League.

Llanelli may move their home tie to the nearby Parc y Scarlets rugby ground.

The first leg of Llanelli versus Motherwell will not be played at Fir Park but at Airdrie's Excelsior Stadium on 2 July with the return game in South Wales on 9 July.

TNS face Icelandic side Fram

Meanwhile, Welsh Premier's third-placed team TNS, will play Icelandic team Fram in the first qualifying round with the Welsh club at home first.

Bangor face Finnish opposition 

Welsh Cup winners Bangor City were given a bye to the second qualifying round and will play Honka, making the trip to Finland first.

Bangor's second qualifying round first leg at Finnish League and Finnish Cup runners-up Honka's Tapiolan Urheilupuisto stadium on 16 July with the return at Farrar Road on 23 July.

The Europa Cup tournament replaces both the Intertoto Cup and the Uefa Cup, with three qualifying rounds and a play-off round being held before the group stages.

 
Both sides fielded experimental teams for this early pre- season friendly with Port Talbot Town fielding Llanelli’s goalkeeper Craig Morris, defender Rory Smitham and midfielder Antonio Facciuto as the early start to the season brought with it a number of unavailable players. New signings Mark Jones, Daniel Thomas and Lloyd Grist started the match as Paul Reid took charge in the absence of manager Mark Jones who was in Cardiff completing his UEFA A Licence refresher course. Also starting for the side was trialist Nicky Holland against his former club and he produced the best performance of the match with an impressive display.

Port Talbot edged the opening exchanges as they kept possession and defended well despite lacking chances at the other end. Llanelli remained dangerous pushing forward however and Lee Surman and Matthew Rees were kept busy in the centre of defence. The opening goal of the game arrived in controversial circumstances as Dale Otten found himself in acres of space on the right due to him standing in an offside position but the assistant referee’s flag remained down as Otten slotted the ball past Morris to hand his side the lead. With both sides lacking match fitness from the summer break combined with the warm atmosphere the game slowed down in the second half but Llanelli were able to double their advantage on 59 minutes when new signing Owain Warlow drilled the ball home from the left. Minutes later Llanelli increased their lead as former Port Talbot Town striker Rhys Griffiths made no mistake from close range. Chances were few and far between after the third goal as both sides looked to keep possession before the referee brought the game to a close.

Attendance - 120

Port Talbot Town website

 
DAVID Morgan, the driving force behind ENTO Aberaman Athletic, has walked away from the club accusing the MacWhirter Welsh League champions of ‘lacking ambition’.

Manager Morgan, who was also vice-president and main sponsor through his company ENTO, says he has put around £250,000 into Aberaman Athletic over the last five years.

“We have taken my home-town club from the bottom of Division Two and they are now Welsh League champions,” said Morgan.

“That’s the first major honour in 117 years.

“We have brought high-quality, high-profile players to Aberdare and the stadium now meets all criteria for the Welsh Premier League.

“But the ambition of the club’s management committee does not meet my ambition.

“I am not prepared to spend another season playing Welsh League football when there is no need to do that.

“We should be playing in Welsh Premier League next season. I have withdrawn sponsorship and resigned as manager and vice-president of Aberaman.”

Morgan’s decision followed a Football Association of Wales decision not to allow Aberaman promotion to the Welsh Premier because they missed the deadline by a few weeks.

Then the Aberaman management committee unanimously decided against taking the issue to arbitration.

“I don’t blame the FAW at all,” said Morgan.

“This is down to the management committee at Aberaman Athletic lacking the ambition which I have. It would have cost £410 to take the case to arbitration and I believed we could win and take our rightful place in the Welsh Premier.

“I am on the club management committee, but I was not able to attend the meeting because I was away in London on business.

“I had heard rumours that there was not much appetite to take our appeal further and then I received a message while I was asleep telling me what the decision was. It’s sad, but this has been coming for some time.”

Cwmbach-born Morgan, 42, is a former Aberaman goalkeeper. The Welsh semi-professional international also played for Aberystwyth, Carmarthen, Afan Lido, Briton Ferry and Ebbw Vale, making more than 200 Welsh Premier League appearances.

His dream was to take Aberaman to the top level in Welsh football, but has now cut his ties with the club and is ready to take a break.

Two clubs, one from the Welsh Premier League and a high-profile Welsh League club, thought to be Barry Town, have already been in touch with Morgan.

He said: “My enthusiasm has dwindled through all this. I need to regain that drive and recharge batteries.

“I wouldn’t be adverse to getting involved with a club informally for as while, perhaps even as a sponsor, but I haven’t made any decision yet. I played for Aberaman from 1987 to 1990 and then became manager from 1999-2002.”

Morgan became vice-president almost five years ago, taking over as manager and main club sponsor as Aberaman rose to become Welsh League champions.

The club have now upgraded their ground to meet Welsh Premier standards – which many current clubs at that level can’t match – including new floodlights.

Now, though, Aberaman Athletic are preparing to defend their Welsh League title without Morgan’s backing next season.

 
Goytre United have announced their new first team management line up. Robert Cooke takes over as the new first team manager, and their website states that he will have sole charge of first team affairs.

Robert Cooke will have Neil Fredrickson and David Bowen will be his assistants.  David Bowen is new to the club and will have more of a role as first team coach.

They also thanked departing manager Andrew Radford for the contribution he made to the club.

Tony

 
Welsh Premier clubs have voted unanimously to changes that will see the league cut from 18 teams to 12 from the 2010/11 season.

The league's original proposal was for a top tier of 10 with a feeder league 10 teams below that.

But the Football Association of Wales decided just to proceed with the top tier with the rest of the clubs falling to the Cymru Alliance and Welsh League.

Clubs can only gain entry to the new league if they have an FAW licence.

That licence roughly follows the criteria needed to play in the Uefa club competitions.

BBC

 
Aberaman FC manager, Dai Morgan, has expressed disappointment after the club failed in their attempt to secure promotion to the Welsh Premiership.

"We’re obviously massively disappointed, we felt we produced a balanced case for promotion," Morgan told Sgorio following the announcement by the FAW on Thursday.

The Welsh League Division One champions had failed to complete the necessary ground improvements required for promotion before the deadline at the end of April, but appealed to the FAW having installed floodlights and completing other necessary work before the end of May.

"We feel we’ve shown serious ambition over the past 18 months, got plans for a £3.5 million stadium with money primarily from the private purse and a small Welsh football grant," added Morgan.

"We hoped common sense would prevail, but the grounds of teams who’ve applied for promotion have to be ready by 30 April - ours was up to specification by the date we said we could reach, which was the week commencing 25 May.

"It’s a strange situation that there are clubs in the Welsh Premier League at the moment who don’t have the criteria, yet a club who’ve won the league and fulfilled the criteria don’t get promotion."

Morgan added that the Cynon Valley club will wait for the written explanation from the FAW Disciplinary Panel before deciding if they will take the appeal any further.

According to a statement on the FAW website, the club have 10 days from 12 June to make a further appeal.

"We need to hear the reasons, then reflect and decide whether to appeal," said Morgan, who is also the Marketing Director of the club's main sponsors, ENTO.

"The managing committee, of which I’m a member, will make the decision on whether or not we fight another appeal. This could well drag on into July or even August.

"We’ve got a FIFA circular stating that promotion and relegation should be principally determined on sporting merit and we feel that’s the case, seeing as we’ve won the league and Caersws have finished in the relegation places."

But the uncertainty regarding ENTO Aberaman's promotion is causing Morgan all manner of problems when it comes to building a squad for next season.

"As a football manger, it’s an impossible situation as I don’t know if I’m signing players for Welsh League (South) or the Welsh Premier League," he explained.

"It’s the same situation for Caersws, who don't know if they are relegated from the Welsh Premier or not.

"And there's a knock on effect down the pyramid too as Newport YMCA in the Welsh League (South) and Glantraeth in the Cymru Alliance are waiting to find out if they will be relegated."

www.s4c.co.uk/sgorio

 
ENTO Aberaman AFC have today failed in their appeal against the decision by the Welsh Premier board not to allow them entry in to the Welsh Premier League, the official ENTO Aberaman website confirms.

The FAW in a meeting at their Headquarters today (June 11th) heard both sides arguments and have decided to uphold the decision by the Welsh Premier.

The Club will be informed of the decision in writing with reasons ENTO's website said.

This gives Caersws their 2nd relegation let off in the last 2 seasons.

This could spell bad news for Afan Lido and other welsh league division 1 clubs hoping for promotion next season via a top two finish, having to contend with Goytre Utd and with ENTO still in the welsh league.

Tony

 
NEATH FC manager Andy Dyer is excited about next season’s prospects.

Dyer has worked tirelessly since the news of their secure financial status and has reacted by signing a hatful of new players.

He said: “The club is really buzzing at the moment and everyone has a spring in their step and it is without doubt the most exciting pre-season for us and I can’t wait to get started.

“Our squad is more or less done – I still think I want another defender and a midfielder though.

“We have signed a quality keeper in Anthony Williams from Wrexham with bags of league experience and he is backed up by Wyn Walters.

“As for defenders we have brought in Ian Hillier from Newport who will add steel and quality to what we already have in Sean Cronin, Rob Folland, who will not lose out to any opponent with much regularity and the great feet of Richard Ingram, who has been retained.”

In the midfield Neath have retained the quality of Steve Pockett and Dale Evans and coupled that with the excitement of Matthew Harris and Ashley Evans from Merthyr – two young players that have the ability to set the Welsh Premier alight. Up front Neath have splashed out on some top quality stock.

Welsh international Chris Llewellyn has bucket loads of league experience and Craig Stiens has scored goals consistently for Merthyr.

“Chris and Craig’s qualities will add to the two magnificent stalwarts Andy Hill and Carl Shaw who we are delighted will be once again leading us on next season,” purred Dyer. “And not forgetting the pocket dynamo Kerry Morgan, who is with us for another season from the Swans.”

Andrew Pugh

 
CARDIFF City have established a link-up with ambitious Cowbridge Town FC.

The Bluebirds’ major investor and former vice-chairman Michael Isaac, who lives near the town, is the new Cowbridge club president, while Cardiff chairman Peter Ridsdale was guest of honour at the club’s awards night.

The flourishing Cowbridge club will have 16 teams next season, ranging from under-eights to senior levels, and they will be helped by City professional coaches for the 2009-10 season.

“We are now affiliated to Cardiff City,” said Cowbridge chairman Rhys Williams, “and the immediate benefit is that they will provide 100 hours of professional coaching for our boys next season.

“We already have numerous boys in the Vale of Glamorgan and Cardiff City academies.”

Cowbridge are intent on having a team playing at the top level of Welsh domestic football – and plan to establish a new home ground and clubhouse.

“Cowbridge Town is a strong organisation and we have major plans for the future,” said Isaac.

“The next big step is to have a new home ground and build a clubhouse.

“The long-term aim is to bring Welsh Premier League football to Cowbridge and the Vale of Glamorgan.

“There is a drive and commitment to ensure Cowbridge Town makes steady progress over the next few years and we start by forming a senior team for the first time next season.

“In that way the young players who come through the system can stay with the club at senior level.”

Cowbridge Town will have two new teams next season. The under-16 team, who finished in the Vale of Glamorgan League top three for a fourth successive season, will step up to play South Wales Youth League football, while a new team will enter Vale of Glamorgan League senior football.

Terry Phillips

 
Port Talbot Town manager Mark Jones has boosted his team with the signing of highly influential and experienced midfielder Neil Thomas from Haverfordwest County.

The former Bangor City, Llanelli and Porthmadog player agreed a deal to join Port Talbot Town on Monday much to the delight of Jones. “I am extremely pleased to have secured the services of one of the most consistent players in the Welsh Premier League”, said Jones. “Neil has been a tremendous player at every club he has represented in this league and he is a very important addition to our squad”. 

With 23 goals from 107 league starts, Thomas brings an impressive goal return from midfield and will bring some vital experience to Jones’ young squad of players. Thomas made an immediate impression on the Welsh Premier League in 2004 when his impressive displays for Llanelli earned him the league Player of the Month award for December after just ten games for the club. 

Mark Jones admiration for Thomas, who also plays for the RAF and British Combined Services teams, was clear when he was named in Jones’ Welsh Premier League Team of the Season squad and he could now make his first appearance against one of his former clubs when Port Talbot Town travel to Llanelli on Saturday, 20th June for a friendly at the Parc y Scarlet's training complex. 

Thomas is the third new signing of the Summer for Port Talbot Town following the arrivals of young strike duo Danny Thomas and Mark Jones from Goytre and Llanelli respectively.

Port Talbot Town official website

 
PORT Talbot Town have no immediate plans to become a full-time professional football club.

But Blues chairman Andrew Edwards has admitted he would consider the option if a “sugar daddy” came knocking on his door.

Near neighbours Neath have recently switched from their semi-pro status to become full-time at the Gnoll – joining clubs in the Welsh Premier League such as Llanelli and TNS.

Edwards says the club can’t afford to pay full-time salaries at the moment, although conceded that it is an option that will have to be explored if the Welsh Premier is slashed from 18 to clubs next season to form a Super 10 league.

A meeting will be held by the league next week to either accept or ditch the proposals put forward by the Football Association of Wales to revamp the current league.

“It is about affordability and funds available and we do not have them,” said Port Talbot chairman Andrew Edwards.

When the Guardian put to Edwards what his position would be if a backer came along prepared to pour money into the club, Edwards revealed that the club may well change their minds.

“If a backer came along and wanted to help finance the club then the answer would be yes to becoming a full-time football club,” said Edwards. “Otherwise it will be a few years down the road before we stop being a semi-pro club.

Port Talbot Guardian

 
Haverfordwest have signed Goytre striker Robbie Walters, Walters has been playing for Goytre for the past two seasons, and has scored over 70 goals in that time. He first impressed Derek Brazil when he played in a pre-season friendly for Bryntirion against County a few seasons ago. "He is a good goalscorer, and there were 4 or five other WPL clubs interested in him, but he chose to sign for us after he was convinced to try his hand at the top level."

Walters will be joining up with the prolific strike force of Nicky Woodrow and Jack Christopher when the new season starts, and the three of them will be augmented by youth striker Luke Robinson, who looks set for a bigger role this season the official Haverfordwest website said.

Tony

 
FORMER Burton Albion defender Allan Davies has been appointed joint player-manager of MacWhirter Welsh League club Pontypridd Town, writes Terry Phillips.

Davies will work alongside ex-ENTO Aberaman Athletic, Ton Pentre and Uwic player Dean Morris, who is returning to Pontypridd.

They have been appointed by new club chairman Phil Gibbs, who is determined to help Ponty bounce back after being relegated to Division Three for 2009-10.

Gibbs, chief executive of Cardiff-based utility connections company Inexus, and Davies were both involved with South Wales Amateur League club Graig FC, who share Ynysangharad Park, with Pontypridd Town.

“I have known Allan Davies for around 10 years,” said Gibbs, who is originally from Liverpool. “When Pontypridd Town made contact it seemed the right move. I enjoyed being involved with Graig FC.

“I have made a commitment to Pontypridd Town for three seasons. I will help out financially where needed. In my view, Pontypridd should be in Welsh League Division One as a minimum.

“There is a system in place at Pontypridd with youth teams and a women’s team.”

New player-manager Davies was a trainee at Southampton and Manchester City before joining Burton Albion. He played under Nigel Clough and made 450 first team appearances between 1992 and 2001. He later played for Gresley Rovers, Worcester City and Ilkeston Town before Graig FC.

South Wales Echo

 
Port Talbot Town Manager Mark Jones has signed his namesake, Mark Jones from Llanelli.

The burly striker spent two seasons at Llanelli, although the majority of last year was spent on-loan, gaining more experience at his new club's main rivals Afan Lido in the Welsh League. He played just 5 (+3) games for the Reds under Peter Nicholas during the last campaign, after a very good debut season at Stebonheath, where he featured 16 (+21) times, scoring 13 times.

The Neath born forward, who lives closer to the GenQuip Stadium than any of his other new team-mates won a League Championship and Loosemores Cup Winners medal with the Reds and also played in the Welsh Cup and Premier Cup Finals, so despite only turning 20 in January, he has a lot of experience under his belt, which appealed to his new boss.

"He's a great signing for us, he's still very young but he's played a lot of games and scored some goals already. He's a local lad and will really be a good acquisition for us" said Jones this afternoon.

"He's a big, strong forward with pace and will add an extra dimension to our squad, so I'm delighted to get him. It wasn't just because of his name" joked the Steelmen's supremo.

www.welshpremier.com

 
Neath have made another significant signing according to their official website, to add to those already brought to the club in pre-season, this time they have signed the much experienced goal keeper Anthony Williams.

The official Neath website says "Neath have continued their squad strengthening with the signing of former Football League and Wales Under-21 keeper Anthony Williams. The Maesteg-born 31-year-old has made more than 250 Football League appearances since starting his career as a trainee at Blackburn Rovers in 1997. "This is again the signing of a local lad with experience at a higher level," says Neath secretary Tony Melding. "He will add a bundle of experience to the team in a vital area and will also play an important part on developing other goalkeepers at the club, working closely with our existing keeper coach Leigh David."

Tony

 
BETTWS Football Club has been fined £500 plus costs following an FAW disciplinary hearing.

The punishment arises from their home match against Cambrian & Clydach on March 21, abandoned after a half-time brawl.

Bettws faced the charge that players failed to conduct themselves in an orderly fashion or refrain from violence, threatening, abusive, obscene or provocative behaviour, conduct or language.

The FAW Disciplinary Panel decided Bettws FC should be fined a total of £500, £250 of which is to remain suspended until the end of the 2009-10 season.

This will only be levied if the club is found guilty of another incident involving its players during this period. The charge was also found proven against Bettws FC officials and staff and the £250 suspended fine will apply to them, too. Exactly the same treatment was handed out to Cambrian & Clydach players – but not the club’s officials and staff, as that charge was found not proven.

Icwales

 
Some clubs are preparing to vent anger and vote against the proposals after discovering the idea of a second tier to support a newly-formed top tier was to be scrapped.

If the June 13 vote goes against the FAW proposals then the Welsh footballing governing body could back away and leave the league run its own affairs without funding. Alternatively, its president could use his “golden vote” and insist on the FAW changes.

Port Talbot Town chairman Andrew Edwards said: “From my understanding the clubs are going to vote at the AGM in June on the proposals put forward by the FAW. Some are unhappy that the new second division has been scrapped.

“It is all up in the air now and we will have to wait and see how the vote goes and what happens after that.”

The Supper 10 - the most significant decision since the inauguration of the League in August 1992 - would see, the size of the league culled to 10 clubs from the start of the 2010/11 season.

Neath FC secretary Tony Melding said: “There is some dissention from some clubs who might not make the grade. We just want to be in the top division whichever that maybe.

“We are geared up for top class football at the Gnoll and it would not take a genius to work out what our preference of a league format would be.”

The council also agreed that each of these 10 clubs would have to hold a valid FAW domestic club licence for the season.

All the clubs will be assessed between August 2009 and April 2010 for their domestic licence, with the decision taken by an independent body, members of which are sworn to confidentiality and independence agreements.

Icwales

 
LLANELLI'S hopes of progressing in the Europa League have been given a significant boost by the Football Association of Wales.

The FAW agreed to amend transfer regulations at their AGM which will see the registration window brought forward to June 1 and close on September 1.

It means Llanelli, along with fellow European qualifiers Rhyl, The New Saints and Bangor, can sign players before the Uefa player registration deadline for the qualifying rounds.

Llanelli Star

 
THE Europa League first qualifying round line-up is almost complete — and Llanelli are targeting the big boys.

The Reds's inclusion in the new-look European competition comes following their failure to prevent Rhyl steaming towards the Welsh Premier League title.

But the noise coming from Stebonheath Park is positive as they build towards another dealing of continental flavour.

But, instead of keeping their fingers crossed for one of the smaller teams in the seeded group, the Reds are hoping to pluck out a big name.

And with the possibility of being paired with Scottish Fair Play winners Motherwell, along with Irish outfit Sligo Rovers and Norwegian side Rosenborg, their preference could be met.

The likes of Moldovan club Dinamo Bender, Hungary's Szombathelyi Haladás and Finnish side Fram appear to be the smaller fish in the seeded draw — which is not regionalised — although four spots are still to be filled.

But should they attract a big club with a strong following, the Reds have also hinted at staging their game at the £23million Parc y Scarlets.

Llanelli Star

 
ENTO Aberaman AFC yesterday completed all the work needed to get into the Welsh Premier with the installation of the infill at the ground. The hardworking committee got together on 23rd May 2009 and finished the work around the ground.

The Club has heard unofficially that their appeal will be heard by the Welsh FA on June 8th 2009.

www.entoaberamanafc.co.uk

 
WYN Holloway, owner of troubled Merthyr Tydfil Football Club, has had detailed talks with Bridgend Town officials about a possible takeover.

Bridgend confirm they have had talks with Holloway and other Merthyr Tydfil officials on a takeover – and it could cost £300,000. The deal would mean there would still be football clubs in both towns, effectively switching positions with Bridgend going into the BGB League and Merthyr playing Welsh League football.

That proposal will anger many Martyrs’ fans, while Bridgend Town official Steve Clark says: “We put our proposals to Wyn Holloway and we will meet again on Tuesday.

“Wyn seems to care a lot about Merthyr Tydfil FC and wants what is best for the club. I am concerned we are not seen as vultures around the dying embers of a football club. If there was a deal struck it would be a joint venture – we would want both clubs to prosper.

“Yes, Bridgend Town would be in control, but it would certainly not be the end of Merthyr Tydfil. We would want it to be the start of a new era.

“I have to say, though, that right now we are still a million miles away from a deal. Hopefully, we can move a lot closer when we meet again tomorrow.”

South Wales Echo

 
Neighbours Port Talbot have made their first dip into strengthening their squad for next season.

The official Port Talbot website reports that they have signed Goytre's striker Daniel Thomas after impressing them last season.

Their chairman Andrew Edwards said in the article “He has again been in fantastic form for Goytre United and I am sure he will be an important part of the team”. Thomas, 25, has been a consistent goalscorer in the Welsh League for a number of seasons at both Briton Ferry Athletic and Goytre and his relishing his new challenge.

Thomas said “I’m excited to join Port Talbot Town and I am looking forward to proving myself in the Welsh Premier League, After listening to manager Mark Jones plans for the team and my part in it I was convinced that this is the right club for me to make the step up to the top-flight and I can’t wait for the new season to start. This is a club that match my own football ambitions and I am sure we can challenge the top sides in the Welsh Premier with the quality of players that are here”.
 

 
Croesyceiliog Football Club are pleased to announce Gareth Morgan has been appointed First Team manager with immediate effect.
 
Gareth has played Welsh League football at UWIC, Ely Rangers and Taffs Well after being at Cardiff City as a junior and youth team player.
 
Gareth has previously been a successful youth team manager at Taffs Well while more recently he has been assistant manager at Dinas Powys when they finished runners-up in the MacWhirter Welsh league.
 
Gareth's last position was as coach at ENTO Aberaman Athletic in season 2008-09.
 
Croesyceiliog Football Club welcome Gareth to the club and hope he has a successful and enjoyable time at the club.

Welshleague.org.uk

 
MERTHYR Tydfil owner Wyn Holloway is due in Bridgend this afternoon for talks on a possible buy-out of the Southern League club.

The Martyrs are £300,000 in debt and facing a winding-up order in the High Court in London next month.

Meanwhile, ambitious MacWhirter Welsh League club Bridgend Town are keen to make progress and have around £2m cash, banked from the sale of their Coychurch Road ground to Asda in 2006, to back them.

Holloway will be in Bridgend for talks on a buy-out which would mean major changes for both clubs.

“We have had chats with Wyn Holloway and we are due to meet him later today,” said Bridgend official Steve Clark.

Bridgend are adamant both clubs would retain a football club, effectively switching positions within the English and Welsh pyramid systems.

Merthyr currently play in the seventh tier of English football, the BGB League, while Bridgend are in Division One of the MacWhirter Welsh League and they could swap those positions.

Powerful Welsh Premier League club The New Saints have also been strongly linked with a bid to buy out the Martyrs.

But The New Saints owner Mike Harris has strongly denied those reports.

Martyrs owner Holloway revealed the moves by an unnamed businessman involved with a Welsh club.

He said: “The person I’ve had the offer from is looking at the fact that, if he wanted to get a team in the Football League it would cost him a lot of money.

“The gentleman wants to get into the English pyramid system – and this deal would be a short cut to where we are now.”

Martyrs fans, though, are far from keen on seeing their club moving away from the English system.

“When we heard TNS might be the club trying to buy out Merthyr plans were being made for coach-loads of fans to make the trip to Oswestry and protest,” said one angry Martyrs fan.

“Bridgend is even closer and the same would apply.”

Merthyr Tydfil’s ‘Save the Martyrs’ group believe the best way of preserving the club’s future is to put it into administration.

Western Mail

 
Port Talbot Town Football Club are inviting applications for the position of Commercial Manager. Now firmly-established in the Principality Welsh Premier League with four consecutive top six finishes, this ambitious and forward thinking club require an ambitious and forward thinking person to drive the club forward to the next level off the field.

In what is an exciting time for domestic football in Wales, Port Talbot Town Football Club fully support the arrival of the ‘Super 10’ league for the start of season 2010-2011 and as one of only seven clubs in the Welsh Premier League to earn a UEFA Licence this year, the club already has a strong foundation to be an integral part of the new domestic top-flight.

The Commercial Manager will be responsible for the development of existing commercial projects including annual corporate events as well as generating new sponsorship and revenue streams. The club has built strong links with the local business community since being promoted to the domestic top-flight in 2000 and the successful applicant will have an established foundation to build and expand upon.

The club has also developed a thriving junior and academy structure to further enhance its presence in the local community, and the recent introduction of community events such as soccer schools for local children, make this an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to take charge and develop all commercial aspects of the football club.

For further information and or to express interest in the position, please contact Chairman Andrew Edwards by – Post – Mr. A. Edwards, Chairman, Port Talbot Town Football Club, The GenQuip Stadium, Victoria Road, Port Talbot. SA12 6AD. Email – andrew@porttalbottown.co.uk Mobile – 07971 269988
 
For more information on Port Talbot Town Football Club please visit www.porttalbottown.co.uk 

 
MERTHYR TYDFIL chairman Wyn Holloway has dropped a bombshell by revealing he is considering a takeover offer that could see the club relocated to England.

Holloway has revealed an unnamed businessman involved with a Welsh club has tabled a £300,000 bid to buy Merthyr.

The move is a sensational twist in a turbulent season at Penydarren Park which has seen Merthyr go to the High Court to continue the club’s very existence. If successful, it is understood the potential buyer plans to merge Merthyr with a club in the Welsh football system and use it as a short cut into the English Leagues.

Despite refusing to reveal the individual’s identity, Holloway did admit the other club was “a long drive away in a straight line.”

It could mean Merthyr fans having to travel hundreds, if not thousands of miles, over the course of a season to watch their team play ‘home’ matches.

While claiming the deal would be a last resort, Oxford-based businessman Holloway warned the club could end up leaving Merthyr for good.

“The person I’ve had the offer from is looking at the fact that, if he wanted to get a team in the league, it would cost him a lot of money,” he explained.

“The gentleman wants to get into the English pyramid system.

“To start from the beginning and go through what we have would take time and cost.

“This deal would be a short cut to where we are. You would start with a ground share then after two or three years take it elsewhere.

“Look at Rushden and Diamonds. That started with them sharing a ground and ended up with a merger. It was a similar thing with MK Dons and Wimbledon.”

Holloway continued: “This deal would be the last thing I would want to do.

“But, at the end of the day, I’m a director and legally I have to look after the creditors and get the best deal for them.”

Should the proposed takeover go ahead, it is sure to be hugely unpopular with Merthyr’s loyal supporters.

And fans at the centre of the campaign to rescue the club, the Merthyr Tydfil Supporters’ Society, have already reacted angrily to Holloway’s revelation.

Insisting they would fight any potential merger, the only thing that matched the fans’ anger at the proposal was their disbelief.

“I am flabbergasted to hear that Wyn Holloway is considering selling the club to an individual who would move the club to another town,” said Supporters Society secretary John Strand.

South Wales Echo

 
LLANELLI have thrown their weight behind the Super 10 league, labelling it "the way forward".

The Welsh Premier League is on the verge of a radical shake-up, with plans for a 10-team top tier in place for the 2010-11 campaign — the season after next.

It has caused a mixed reaction in the league, with North Wales clubs in particular upset with the plans, which seeks the country's elite clubs to participate in the new-look structure.

The proposed league of 10 will see teams play each other four times a season, while those who fail to make the cut will be demoted to their respective leagues, with southern clubs moving to the Welsh League and northern clubs heading into the Cymru Alliance.

The biggest issue, however, surrounds the Domestic Licence Criteria — a requirement involving six stages: sporting, infrastructure, personnel, legal, finance and codes of practice.

While a number of clubs are likely to struggle to meet the criteria by April 2010, Aberystwyth, Carmarthen, Llanelli, Port Talbot, Rhyl and The New Saints are likely to form the core of the Super 10.

Llanelli Star

 
Neath have added 3 more quality players to their squad for next season following the signings already of Kerry Morgan (on loan from Swansea), Ian Hillier and Chris Llewellyn they have now signed up ex-Merthyr players, Ashley Evans, Matthew Harris and Craig Steins.

Their signings are hoped to push the club forward in their attempt to cement a place in the new super 10 to be formed after next season.

Eagles manager Andy Dyer said. "We have worked hard to bring these three in who will bring proven quality to the squad.
"All three have played consistently for Merthyr this season and will prove invaluable for us next season.
"They all had other opportunities available to them, most notably Craig from Bath City but they chose the Gnoll and I am delighted."

Craig Steins other clubs include Leeds Utd and Swansea City, Ashley Evans has played for Swansea City youth and Newport County, and Matthew Harris is a product of Merthyr youth.

Tony

 
Neath have pulled off an excellent transfer and have signed former Wales midfielder Chris Llewellyn. The former Wrexham player signed for Neath today at the Gnoll, he leaves League Two side Grimsby Town, mid way through a two-year contract. The club released a statement.

"Neath FC are delighted to announce the signing of Welsh International Chris Llewellyn from Grimsby Town. It follows up the signing of Ian Hillier last week and further demonstrates our intent to build and adjust for the future changes to Domestic football.

"Chris is another local talent that brings a huge amount of experience to the club and is at a good age to be able to drive the club forward."

Manager Andy Dyer added, "This a huge signing for us, to sign someone of Chris' quality and experience will impact on the club as a whole. It shows the intent that the club now possesses to go and challenge.

"It is a great follow up to the signing of Ian and things are shaping up quite nicely for the start of next season and the future changes to the League."

29 year old Llewellyn, made over 350 appearances in the English football league, he started of at Norwich in the youth team and broke into their first team making 16 first team appearances, he made his Wales debut in 1998 against Malta.

Tony

 
There were 3 rugby scores today in the welsh Lge div 1, with Lido winning 7-2, Bridgend beat Croesyceiliog 7-3, but the result of the day was at the Murch where ENTO Aberaman needed a win to claim the title, well they went on to claim their biggest win of the season over the team who finished runners up last term, Aber won comfortably 8-0 to finish a point ahead of deposed champions Goytre Utd. Congratulations to ENTO Aberaman.

Bridgend now only need 1 point from their final 2 games to pip Lido for 6th place, and they are certain to do that with Cwmbran Town and Caldicot as their opponents in their 2 games.

View league table

Tony

 
Tonight Goytre had the chance to seal the title with a win over Cardiff Corries at Cwrt-yr-Ala. But Corries were reading a different script.

Goytre eventually played out a 1-1 draw, and now that leaves ENTO in the driving seat. On Saturday they are away to Dinas Powys, and ENTO need a win to claim their first welsh league title, a draw or a defeat will see Goytre crowned champs.

View league table.

In division 2 West End have been crowned champions following their 5-1 home win over Grange Quins, the other 2 promotion places will be filled by Ely Rangers & Garden Village, with Penrhiwceiber still having a mathematical chance, but very unlikely as their goal difference against both the others is minus 9.

Tony

 
The FAW not only content to shaft their non preferred league of 10 clubs to form the new SUPER 10 and relegate the rest to the Cymru Alliance and welsh league, they are now going to cause havoc on the leagues below, by reducing the sizes of the Welsh League (Div 1, 2 & 3), Cymru Alliance League, Mid Wales League, Welsh Alliance League and Welsh National (Wrexham) League (Div. 1) to a maximum of sixteen clubs per division.

The welsh league have to relegate 6 clubs which means the leagues below will have to make room for them which means they will have to stop clubs being promoted to their leagues and so on, and so on. Nice one Cyril.

Tony

 
Bridgend Town move level wit Afan Lido on 51 points last night following their 2-1 home win over Caldicot Town.

They stay behind us on goal difference, but have 2 games in hand. The chances of us finishing in 6th our highest position available to us is looking remote, Pontardawe are 1 point ahead of us and have finished all their games, and a draw against Cwmbran would see us pass them out on greater goals scored, and a win will see us 3 points clear of them. but our biggest threat to 6th is Bridgend, who on paper have 3 handy looking fixtures to see out their campaign, all against teams in the bottom 6, another win and a draw is all they require from those 3 games to claim 6th place for themselves.

Tonight Goytre Utd can claim their 3rd title with a win against Cardiff Corinthians at Caerau Ely's ground, they currently lead Aberaman by 1 point and both teams have one game remaining. Aberaman finish their campaign with an away game against Dinas Powys this Saturday.

View league table

Tony

 
Port Talbot Town Manager Mark Jones has won the final Principality Building Society Welsh Premier League Manager of the Month Award of the Season.

The Steelmen enjoyed a tremendous month, which saw them claim a maximum fifteen points from five matches and their 100% record propelled them to a Top Five finish, which was hugely unlikely when he took over the club in fourteenth place.

They began the month with a victory at CPD Porthmadog (1-2) and followed it up with another win against Airbus UK Broughton by the same scoreline at home. They then overcame Afan Nedd rivals Neath Athletic 2-0 at the GenQuip Stadium before a final away win against Haverfordwest County at the Bridge Meadow Stadium, courtesy of a solitary Martin Rose effort.

Their final game of the Season was one of the performances of the Season as they put Technogroup Welshpool to the sword in a 4-0 home Principality Welsh Premier League win. This match featured four sublime goals from Martin Rose (2), Drew Fahiya and Shelton Payne and the performance was regarded as one of the finest in recent times by the loyal supporters of the club.

James Shell, Manager of Port Talbot branch of Principality Building Society, said: "Our warmest congratulations to Mark. Since his re-appointment he has achieved his goal of bringing Port Talbot Town back into the top half of the table - he is a worthy winner of this month's award."

"It has been an exciting season of football and I, along with my colleagues at Port Talbot branch wish the team every success for the future."

Official welsh premier

 
The Football Association of Wales agreed to amend the Transfer Regulations at their AGM on Monday afternoon, which is a boost for the four clubs, who will represent Wales in UEFA Club Competitions this Season.

The Registration Window has been changed and brought forward to open on June 1st and close on September 1st 2009, which allows the four clubs, Rhyl FC, Llanelli AFC, The New Saints FC and Bangor City FC to sign new players before UEFA Player Registration Deadline for the Qualifying Rounds.

With the Window closing just two weeks after the 2009/10 season kicks-off, it means that there will be no transfer activity for 4 months in the Welsh Premier, so the League's Managers will have to ensure a settled and strong squad from the outset of the new campaign. The window is in line with the other countries in the UK and is obligatory for the Top League in all countries under FIFA jurisdiction.

Last season Rhyl, who played in the Intertoto Cup, were unable to sign any new players for their match against Bohemians and this Seasons' Principality Welsh Premier League Champions were put to the sword with a shallow squad by the crack Irish Outfit.

The change in dates means that the four Welsh Representatives have the very best opportunity to strengthen their squad for an assault on Europe in the Champions League for Rhyl and the newly-branded Europa League for Welsh Cup Winners, Bangor City and Llanelli and TNS, who qualified through their League position.

Llanelli and TNS have already started to strengthen with the captures of defenders Lee Jarman and Chris Marriott respectively, but their transfers will not be complete until the window re-opens, which is now on Monday June 1st.

Official welsh premier

 
Aberaman are to appeal the welsh premiers rejection of their application to join the welsh premier.

Club chairman Richard Rowlands said Following talks with welsh-premier.com over the weekend " the inspection on May 4 I can confirm that it is our intention to appeal the decision made by the WPL," ahead of a management committee meeting which will discuss the situation tonight.

"We can guarantee that all outstanding requirements will be in place by the end of May, including the installation of 500 Lux floodlights.

"We believe that ambitious clubs like ourselves should not be denied our place earned by right to play in the top flight of the pyramid system in Wales and we are confident that precedence is on our side," 

If Aberaman fail to overturn the decision, Caersws will be let off the hook for a 2ns season in a row.

Tony

 
GOYTRE United can clinch a third MacWhirter Welsh League title in four seasons on Wednesday – but know any slip will let in rivals Aberaman.

After beating Croesyceiliog 3-0 on Saturday, Goytre face Cardiff Corries at Caerau Ely in their final game needing a win to seal the crown.

But anything less than maximum points will give Aberaman the chance to steal the title with victory at Dinas Powys on Saturday.

Aberaman stayed in the hunt with a 3-2 home win against Newport YMCA.

Nana Baah scored twice for Bryntirion Athletic in their 3-1 win against Dinas Powys.

Cardiff Corries won 4-0 against Cwmbran Town with John Knight netting a hat-trick.

Robert Shannon kept West End on course for the Division Two title as he scored the only goal against Llanwern, while Uwic went down 1-0 against Llangeinor with Josh Ellis firing the only goal.

AFC Llwydcoed and AFC Porth are still chasing the Division Three honours.

Both won on Saturday, Llwydcoed 4-0 at Seven Sisters and Porth 1-0 against Newport Civil Service, and both have three games left.

Terry Phillips

 
Goytre United have the measure of welsh premier league hopefuls ENTO Aberaman and completed the double over them, last night Goytre added to their 2-0 away win over Aberaman with a 5-3 win at Glenhafod Park, the win see's Goytre go back top of the table and in pole position to retain their title.

Goytre must be favourites considering the run in of both teams, Goytre's remaining games are home to Croesyceiliog and away to Cardiff Corries, while Aberaman play Newport YMCA at home and Dinas Powys away, and both teams must be favourites to win both their final 2 games of the season.

Caerleon's 0-0 home draw against Bryntirion still gives Croesyceiliog hope of getting out of the bottom 3, but they must win both their remaining games to finish equal on points with Caerleon, and hope Caerleon lose both their remaining 2 games, the major stumbling for Croesy is one of their remaining 2 games is away to Goytre Utd and not many will give them much hope of pulling off a win against Goytre.

Tony

 
Llanelli have completed the signing of experienced centre-back Lee Jarman from Haverfordwest County, whilst a trio of players have extended their deals at Stebonheath.

The ex-Cardiff City professional signed for Haverfordwest in the 2008 close season from Newport County and played 34 (+1) games for the Bluebirds, scoring twice in the 2008/09.

The talented and assertive centre-back is an excellent acquisition for the Reds with his vast experience, having also played at Exeter City, Oxford United and Weston Super Mare, before three seasons at Newport County, before he was released by the Exiles in May 2008.

Jarman, made over 100 appearances in the English League system, he represented Wales at Under 21 level and was tipped to be a future Wales International when he broke through at Ninian Park. This never became a reality for the Cardiff born-and-bred stopper, who also played for Barry Town in the League of Wales, winning a Championship Medal.

The Reds have also re-signed another centre-back Stuart Jones, who was rumored to be interested in a move to hometown club Aberystwyth Town, as he plans to relocate back to the seaside Town. The news will be a tremendous boost to the Reds' fans and new Manager Andy Legg, as the defender enjoyed another outstanding campaign at Stebonheath and was again named in the Managers' Team of the Year. He also scooped the Players Player of the Year Award for the Season.

The League's Runners-Up have also announced that midfielders Andy Mumford and Craig Jones have extended their stay as well, with Jones putting pen to paper for a new deal which lasts until the end of the 2009/2010 season. The club have also stated that more of the existing squad are expected to resign during the next few days.

WPL WEBSITE

 
Corus Steel and it's band of ex Lido players, had little trouble last night in clinching the points they needed to secure the South Wales Amateur League title. They beat Bargoed Redz 7-0 at the Corus Sports ground, Caerau cannot now catch Corus and Friday's game featuring both clubs will be for pride only.

Corus were assured promotion to the welsh league as Fairwater's ground didn't meet welsh league standards, but Fairwater have since appealed against the decision and the Margam based club will have to wait the outcome to see if they go up automatically, or face Fairwater in a play off.

Well done to Corus on their league title.

Tony

 
After tonight's 2 games in division 1 the title and relegation could be settled.

Goytre Utd host ENTO Aberaman at Glenhafod Park and victory for ENTO would leave them 5 points clear over Goyt's with 2 games left to play, while a home win puts Goyt's 1 point ahead.

At the other end of the table Caerleon host Bryntirion at Cold Blow Lane and a win for the Romans would secure their place in division1 next season and condemn Newport YM & Croesy to the bottom 3 places, and leaving one of them to sweat it out to see if ENTO are given promotion. meaning only 2 teams will be relegated.

While last night Bridgend Town moved level on points with Lido following their 1-1 draw away with Cardiff Corinthians, they are 3 goals less better off than us so remain one place below us but have 3 games in hand, wee meet Bridgend this Saturday in the league.

View league table

Tony

 
To download an entry copy click this link here

We are holding our annual Mini-Football fun day on Saturday 6th June at Bryntirion Athletic football ground, and I have attached an entry form if you would like to enter a team in any of the age groups. 

Cost - £20 per team of 10 players (maximum 10) 
Age groups - Under 7's, Under 8's, Under 9's, Under 10's and Under 11's 
Only 1 team per club per age group 
Memento for each player taking part 
Registration starts at 10.00am, matches start promptly at 10.30am for all ages

Rules (full details provided on day) 

- Non-competitive round-robin basis 
- 8-a-side fixtures with rolling substitutions, 10 players per squad 
- Players ages based on 2008/09 season 
- Matches 12 minutes with no half-time 
- Coaches are requested to assist by refereeing matches in their age group which their team in not involved in, details to be provided on the day 
- Bad language / aggressive behaviour will not be tolerated, this is a fun day

Attached is an application form, please print and send with a cheque for £20 per team entered, made payable to 'Bryntirion AJFC' to: Bryntirion AJFC

Colin Johns, Bryntirion AJFC Mini-Section, 91 Heol Castell Coety, Bridgend, CF31 1PX.

All entries will be acknowledged.

There is no formal closing date, but this tournament has always been over-subscribed, so I will operate a fair first come - first in process, and once full I will send back any further entries. 

If you have any queries I would prefer you to e-mail me on col.sara@tiscali.co.uk, but I am also available on my mobile - 07734 583150.

Thanks. Colin Johns 

 
Midfielder Gareth Owen is this season's Principality Welsh Premier League Player of the Season, being the favourite of eight Welsh Premier League club managers.

Owen won with 56 points, eight clear of team mate Neil Roberts, who scored twenty goals in his first season in the League, since his high-profile move from Wrexham last summer. Making it a hat trick for League Champions Rhyl in third spot is centre-back George Horan, the Lilywhites captain, with 27 points, one ahead of Golden Boot winner Rhys Griffiths of Llanelli.

Rhyl Manager Alan Bickerstaff signed the 37-year old midfielder Owen from Airbus UK Broughton in July 2008 and the signing proved to be inspirational. Owen was the vital playmaker in the side to help Rhyl win their first League Championship since the 2003/04 Season. Bickerstaff certainly knew the capabilities of Owen, as he was the former Assistant Manager to Owen at the Airfield. As a professional, Owen spent twelve years with Wrexham and two years with Doncaster Rovers before joining Connah's Quay Nomads in 2003. He joined Airbus UK in August 2005 after accepting the position of player-manager and did an excellent job with limited resources. He guided his side to a highest-ever eleventh position in 2007/08 and was also awarded the Principality Player of the Month Award for February 2007. His loss to Airbus last summer was certainly to Rhyl's gain and he is a deserving recipient of the Principality Welsh Premier League Player of the Year for 2008/09. He was also the latest winner of the annual Daily Post Phil Stanley Memorial Trophy.

WPL Site

 
The Annual Principality Welsh Premier League Managers Team of the Year has been announced today and it contains four players from Principality Welsh Premier League Champions Rhyl. There are also three players from the League's Runners-Up Llanelli, whilst TNS, Bangor City, Haverfordwest County and Newtown all provide one player.

Seargeant Inspires Citizens who Retain Cup

Bangor City have retained the Welsh Cup courtesy of a 2-0 victory over Aberystwyth Town at the Parc Y Scarlet's Stadium, with midfielder Chris Seargeant gaining the Man of the Match award.

On an outstanding pitch in Llanelli, the 1,244 crowd had to wait just before half-time for the first goal of the afternoon, which came from a clinical Les Davies header. The burly forward had almost left the field in the first five minutes, having gone down twice with a right-knee injury, but it didn't stop the striker rising highest to meet a Marc Limbert corner on 44 minutes. He connected perfectly as Aneurin Thomas misjudged the flight and the looping header also beat Chris Venables who was defending on the goal-line.

Earlier in the first-half Rob Evans saw his shot hit the post after Graham Evans had played the young midfielder into space, whilst Geoff Kellaway twice fired over just after Davies' goal.

It was the Man of the Match who doubled the lead for the Citizens, but it came following excellent work by the impressive Davies. He forced Aber full-back Sion James into a mistake before stepping inside Aneurin Thomas and playing the ball to Seargeant, who turned well and shot under Dave Roberts in the Aber goal.

Young substitute Tom Bradshaw had the best Aber chance of the second-half, but he fired straight at Paul Smith when unopposed inside the Bangor penalty area.

The win means that Nev Powell is still unbeaten in the Welsh Cup as Bangor Manager after two seasons and he can now start to plan another European adventure, as his side will play in the Europa League. He said following the game;

"It's superb, I think it means more winning it this year than winning it last year. The lads were absolutely fantastic and its superb for the players in their 50th game of the Season. I couldn't ask for anything more."

WPL Site

Division 1 title could be decided wednesday

Both have three games left – and their clash this week will be crucial.

Goytre are defending champions, but did not apply for promotion. Aberaman were among three teams to apply to go up, along with Bridgend Town and Afan Lido who have each finished outside the chase for honours.

Aberaman were without a match over the weekend, while Goytre United defeated Caerleon 2-1 away thanks to two goals from Robbie Walters.

Aberaman, who have already clinched promotion as soon as floodlights are installed at their Aberaman Park home, lead the way on 71 points with Barry Town, who have completed their fixtures on 70, and Goytre third on 69.

ICWALES

Welsh league round up

They guaranteed themselves one of the top two spots in the First Division of the MacWhirter Welsh League when they overcame Ton Pentre 2-1 in mid-week – but the destiny of the title still hangs in the balance.

The eagerly awaited match between Aberaman and reigning champions Goytre takes place on Wednesday night. At the moment Aberaman lead Goytre by two points so a big crowd is expected at Glenhafod Park.

Robbie Walters scored both goals as Goytre yesterday recorded a 2-1 success at Caerleon.

Elsewhere, Welsh Cup semi-finalists Bridgend Town kept alive their hopes of a top four spot with a 4-0 drubbing of Dinas Powis. Anthony Walters, Scott Hillman, Ian Turner and Brian Chowdery scored their goals.

Bryntirion Athletic won 2-0 at Cambrian and Clydach with Rhys Edwards one of seven under-19 players in the side scoring.

Andrew Gomer scored both goals for Taffs Well in their 2-0 victory at Newport YMCA.

Ammanford have produced an amazing late season run – but it will not enable them to gain promotion from Division Two of the Welsh League although officials are cock-a-hoop at the dramatic improvement.

They have suffered only one reverse in 11 games, seven of which have been won and yesterday beat Pentwyn Dynamo 3-1 to consolidate seventh position in the table.

James Murray, Dean Jenkins and Richard Lewis were on target for Ammanford while Philip Evans scored for Pentwyn.

Ely Rangers still top Division Two despite not playing yesterday, but Garden Village suffered something of a blow to their hopes of promotion as they crashed to a 7-5 defeat in a thrill-a-minute match at Cwmbran Celtic.

Luke Sallis scored three of the Celtic goals while their others came from Scott Lanyon, Shane Williamson and Rakesh Patel and they gained an own goal as well.

Penrhiwceiber Rangers could now overtake Garden Village and capture the third promotion spot as they move menacingly on to their heels with a 3-1 victory at Garw, Nathan King scoring two of their goals and Jason Hatch the other.

Wales on Sunday

Llanelli appoint Andy Legg as nw manager

Llanelli have signed Andy Legg as their new manager with immediate effect, in a statement on their official website. The statement reads.

This reflects the club's philosophy of promoting from within. Andy has been a great asset to the club since he arrived three seasons ago. He has terrific credentials in taking this position having played at the highest level in league football and for Wales. 

Andy is a thorough professional who is extremely well respected by players wherever he has gone. His appointment reflects the club's view that it must continue to build for the future and once again maintain a serious challenge for top honours this coming season. Andy will have full flexibility in choosing his management team and the Board will continue to offer its full support to provide Andy with every chance of success. 

His first game in charge will be on Tuesday night in the West Wales Cup Final when we welcome West End to Stebonheath Park.

Tony

Neath sign Hillier from Newport County

Hillier, who lives close to The Gnoll, joins from Newport County, where he made 110 appearances over four seasons.

A Welsh Under-21 international, 29-year-old Ian began his professional career at White Hart Lane before joining Luton Town and making 56 league appearances.

He had a spell on loan at Chester City before joining Newport County in the summer of 2005, later making his debut for the Wales semi-professional international side in May 2007.

Neathfc.com

ENTO Aberaman & Bala Town are promoted?

ENTO Aberaman should be promoted to the welsh premier league following their 2-1 home win tonight over Ton Pentre at Aberaman Park, all they need to do to cement their place in the top division is pass the welsh premier league's ground inspection, following Barry Town's shock home defeat to Newport YMCA Tuesday night, a win over the Bulldogs guaranteed them a pace in the top 2 in the table.

Aberaman led 1-0 at half time through a Richard Ryan goal on the half-hour, and Dean Morris doubled their lead on 55 minutes. Former Afan Lido striker Ian Jones pulled one goal back for the visitors with ten minutes remaining, but ENTO held out to clinch the all important 3 points.

If ENTO are successful it spells doom for ever present in the welsh premier Caersws who finished in 17th place for the 2nd year running, and they will be relegated this time around. But it also looks like gifting one of the Gwent clubs facing relegation to the 2nd division a let off. Because if ENTO are promoted there is no welsh premier team dropping into the welsh league, so that should mean only 2 teams will be relegated to div 2 to maintain the 18 team first division.

Also tonight, Bala Town won their final match of the Season at Lex XI, but they too have a wait as they can be caught by Holyhead Hotspurs who are in third place. Holyhead can equal the number of points that the Bala have accumulated, although they have an inferior goal difference of 22 with 3 games to remaining, and would need 3 rugby type scorelines to surpass Bala Town.

View league table

Tony

Neighbours to merge for 2009/10 season

On Thursday 28th April 2009 we are pleased to officially announce the merger of former Principality Welsh Premier club Briton Ferry Athletic AFC and Llansawel AFC for participation in the Welsh Football League for the season commencing 2009/2010.

In September 2008 representatives of Briton Ferry Athletic AFC and Llansawel AFC entered into discussions about the feasibility of a merger between both respective clubs. After a lengthy period of consultation it has been unanimously agreed that both clubs would merge to form a new club to be named ‘Briton Ferry Llansawel AFC’ for the season 2009/2010. The FAW and Welsh Football League have acknowledged the merger and have accepted written confirmation of the existence of the new club. A joint declaration by the two clubs said "We are very keen to highlight that this is a decision that has not been taken lightly, a lot of discussion and hard work has been undertaken on the detail to translate the agreement into reality, ensuring that the new ‘united’ club retains the characteristics, philosophy and historic significance of both merged clubs.

The newly formed club will play from the Old Road Ground at Briton Ferry. The merger represents potentially excellent news for football in the Briton Ferry community with an emphasis being made on youth development and the improvement of the Old Road Ground at the forefront of ambitious plans to maximum our potential at the earliest opportunity. The merger brings to an end Llansawel’s residency at Cwrt Herbert and will see them return to Briton Ferry which has always been their ambition since leaving The Wharf at Giants Grave some ten years ago.

Both clubs wholeheartedly believe the merger is in the best interest of both parties and will ensure their lasting legacy by creating a new club with a strong foundation for future growth. Everyone associated with this venture is looking forward to the exciting challenge of integrating the two clubs during the close season and ensuring the new club fulfils its potential. Although we appreciate there may be some opposition to the merger, we believe the benefits far outweigh any reservations people may have. It is perceived that bringing the clubs together is the logical way forward and it certainly makes greater sense in the current financial climate where geographically both clubs are competing for commercial and sponsorship opportunities with a number of other Welsh Premier and Welsh League clubs in the immediate vicinity.

Nicholas set to leave Llanelli

Peter Nicholas is to leave as Llanelli manager when his contract expires at the end of the season.

The ex-Welsh international midfielder, who guided Llanelli to their first Welsh Premier title in 2008, has paid the price for not retaining the crown.

Llanelli finished seven points behind new champions Rhyl this season and Nicholas is the first Welsh Premier managerial casualty of the summer.

"The club are in talks with several parties," a Llanelli statement said.

Nicholas has been a victim on his own success as the Llanelli statement continued: "In the four years that he has been in charge as the club has finished third, second twice and won the championship in 2008.

"Such results are unparalleled in the club's history and a significant part of the credit goes to Peter.

"The decision to not offer a new contract reflects changes the club are making towards cementing their position as a top-flight club in the Welsh Premier League and part of the overall strategic development."

BBC

ENTO Aberaman on verge of promotion

This latest triumph puts them second to Barry, who they trail just two points but with three games in hand.

The experienced and much travelled Chris Summers put ENTO on their way with a 12th minute penalty, before further strikes for Jonathan Phillips and Dean Morris gave them the victory spoils.

Pontardawe Town moved up to sixth spot with a similar scoreline over Bettws, who have seen their title push stall in recent weeks.

All the goals came in the second half with Andy Stokes getting a brace and Vinny Wattleworth getting the other.

At the other end of the table, Dinas Powys overcame Croesyceiliog 3-1 with Liam Beatty, Nathan Hosgood and Rhodri Foote all on target for Dinas.

Newport YMCA eased their relegation troubles with a 2-1 away victory over Gwent rivals Caldicott Town while Bridgend Town were 2-0 winners at Taffs Well.

West End made virtually certain of promotion to the Division One when they romped to a convincing 4-0 home victory over Tredegar Town. Jeff Aspell was the star of the show for the Swansea side as he bagged a stunning brace of goals.

Ely Rangers still top Division Two by a point from West End with Garden Village two points behind in third spot and still on course for promotion a 1-1 home draw against Ammanford.

It looks as though Newcastle Emlyn will narrowly miss out on promotion despite defeating Cwmbran Celtic 2-0 courtesy of goals by Matthew Price and Sean Jones.

Llanwern, who were fancied for promotion at one stage of the season before slipping back, were too good for Maesteg Park, who have experienced a miserable season following their relegation from the top flight. Llanwern won 3-1 thanks to a brace of goals by Mike Vaux.

Llwydcoed are on the verge of clinching promotion from the third division although they were not in action yesterday.

Porth seem set to go up with them with the third spot very much in the balance. Porthcawl Town currently hold that position on goal different from Cwmaman United, both teams winning yesterday.

Tony

McCreesh signs for Port next season

Port Talbot Town have secured the signature of former Lido player Liam McCreesh for next season.

The former player will mark his 150th welsh league appearance (125 starts and 25 as a sub) in Port's home game against Welshpool Town, Liam made 70+19 appearances for Afan Lido in the welsh premier, along with 1 for Haverfordwest, and Saturday's game will see him notch up 54+6 for Port Talbot.

Liam only managed 1 league goal for Lido in his 89 appearances, but has been more prolific for Port scoring 14 goals in his 2 season's at the club.

Tony

Neath to go full time

In a statement by Neath directors they aim to go full time for the super 10 season in 2010-11, below is a statement by them from the clubs official website.

In the season 2006/07 Neath Football Club were promoted from the Welsh League, into the Welsh Premier League, with a record 92 points, under manager Andy Dyer.

During the following close season Neath FC partnered with Neath Rugby to play at the Gnoll, due to the confines of their then base at Llandarcy. The partnership has since flourished and the two entities have grown closer and closer and gone from strength to strength.

The Welsh Premier League is a young League and must work on its status and success in order to grow as an institution capable of competing with other Leagues in Europe. The full-time status of Llanelli and TNS in recent years, and the success of Rhyl this year have aided this. With the advent of the new UEFA Europa League and the vast prize money on offer, along with Champions League entry for the Champions, the ambition of the League and its teams must be now to improve its stature. This can only be done through funding from the National Association itself, but also from interested parties at club level.

Neath FC have put together a local consortium that has secured the future of the football club in the WPL this season. We now feel there is a need to propel this further into a full-time era that will compete within the higher echelons of Welsh Football. The new League structure, to be implemented for the 2010/11 season will see a ‘Super 10’ League formulated. Clubs will need to have the right ground, structure and backers and we feel we have them all.

We also feel that we now want to emulate the professional standards that Neath Rugby has instilled- as such a model will mean that we will be able to compete at the very highest levels that domestic Welsh Football can offer- rewards that can thrust football in Neath onto the European stage.

The town of Neath can be excited by this opportunity, as success in the WPL, can eventually lead to European’s top football clubs visiting. It is not long since Andriy Schevcenko and Ricardo Carvalho arrived in Barry, and even less time since Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher played for Liverpool against TNS. The infrastructure is in place – the Stadium is well equipped, and with the right guidance the future is certainly very exciting.

What we need now is the vision to take this forward into a professional era for the club and town.

Tony

Saturday's welsh premier round up

Welsh Cup holders Bangor City have booked their place in the Final at Parc Y Scarlet's, which will be held on Monday May 4th.

They had to come from behind in their Semi-Final at Park Avenue, Aberystwyth though as Rameer Outlaw put minnows Bridgend ahead on 19 minutes. Chris Seargeant hit back soon afterwards for Nev Powell's side and substitute Kevin Killackey secured Bangor's place in the final with a 75th-minute strike.

Citizens Manager Nev Powell continued his excellent record of never losing in this competition as Bangor Boss in two seasons.

Llanelli 0-1 Rhyl

Rhyl have beaten Llanelli in one of the Biggest Matches in the League's history to extend their lead at the top of the Principality Welsh Premier League Table to five points.

The only goal of the game was scored in the first half by ex-Wales International Neil Roberts, whose glancing header at the near post from a Luke Holden corner went into the far top corner, via the crossbar.

Rhyl had a great early chance when Craig Jones fired a strong effort from distance, but Ashley Morris tipped over well. Rhyl continued to hold the upper hand and their slender lead was deserved at the interval as they enjoyed the majority of possession and territory in the opening period. The visitors almost doubled their lead five minutes before the break, when skipper George Horan fired a free header over the crossbar.

The second-half was all about consolidation for Rhyl, whose centre-half partnership of George Horan and Greg Strong were immense, giving Rhys Griffiths and Mark Pritchard little joy all evening. The only chances that Llanelli could muster were speculative shots from distance with Andy Mumford and Griffiths barely testing Rhyl 'keeper Lee Kendall who had a quiet afternoon.

Rhyl now play a local derby against Prestatyn Town on Monday and could claim the Title at home the following Saturday against TNS. Their last game is away at NEWI Cefn Druids, but following this triumph, they look favourites to win the Championship for the first time since 2003/04, which would be an excellent achievement for Manager Alun Bickerstaffe in his first campaign in charge.

Porthmadog 2-1 Haverfordwest

In the day's other two matches, Porthmadog did their chances of survival the world of good with a 2-1 home win over Haverfordwest County. The day was a memorable one for Marc Lloyd Williams who notched his 300th career League goal. The result condemned bottom-club Caernarfon to the drop, whilst Caersws are five points adrift with three matches remaining.

Port Talbot 2-1 Airbus UK Broughton

Tom Rowlands put the visitors ahead, but the in-form Steelmen struck back through Karl Lewis and Martin Rose.

Scarlet's to host welsh cup final

Nomads & Flint Town to merger, it's official

Eagles flying high with 4th win on the trot

The Canaries lost today at the Gnoll against Neath by 2-1 and they are now 11 points from safety with just 4 games left.

The eagles went in front from the penalty spot on 27 minutes when Sean Cronin put the home side ahead.

Caernarfon Town drew level on 80 mins through a Tom Grice effort, but the home side claimed all 3 points and sealed their 4th win on the trot when sub Carl Shaw scored in the 89th minute.

Tony

Steelmen avenge Porth's home defeat

With home defenders hesitating for an offside decision that referee Mark Whitby did not give, Barrow cut through to steer a shot under advancing goalkeeper Liam Shanahan.

Porthmadog, who have now lost five games in a row to arouse relegation fears, were left to rue a series of finishing failures in the first half.

Marc Lloyd Williams, Chris Jones and Rhys Roberts were denied by blocks or saves from Kristian Rogers.

It was a sucker punch on 40 minutes when Port Talbot grabbed a flattering lead through Matt Thompson, who capitalised on a quick raid along the left and Lee John’s cross.

Porthmadog were back on level terms after 78 minutes with Eifion Jones grabbing the equaliser – the product of a move involving Chris Jones and John Rowley – with a close-range header.

Instead of pressing forward to kill off the opposition, Porthmadog appeared nervous and, after Port Talbot’s Scott Evans had gone close, Barrow became the visitor’s hero.

Although disappointed, Jones took the positives from another fine display by his players.

Walesonline.co.uk

Welsh league round up

The much-travelled Richard Ryan netted for Ento, with George Enscue replying for the capital city club.

Barry Town remain firmly in control of top spot following their 2-1 Friday night home victory over Bridgend Town – but Goytre still have them in their sights after they triumphed 2-1 at Caldicot yesterday.

Bryntirion continued their recent improved form with a 2-1 home success against Croesyceiliog.

Ian Gearie and Tom Wellington from the penalty spot were on target for Bryntirion, with Jodie Jenkins scoring for Croesy.

Elsewhere in the top flight, Bettws won 1-0 against Ton Pentre, the same scoreline by which Pontardawe Town won at Caerleon and Dinas Powys beat Taffs Well.

Newcastle Emlyn went to the top of the Welsh League Second Division when they won 3-1 at Maesteg Park, Adam Raymond, Matthew Price and Anthony Owens scoring their goals. Mark Gornall was on target for Maesteg.

Emlyn took over at the helm from Ely Rangers, who were held to a 1-1 home draw by Pentwyn Dynamo.

It was a day of high scoring in both the Second and Third Divisions, and West End led the way as they fired home 10 without reply against Pontypridd.

Darren Griffiths bagged five goals, while Neal Phillips blasted two penalties. Robert Shannon, Danny Cavanagh and Neil Siroko were the other scorers.

UWIC also went on the rampage to crush Treharris Athletic 8-1 with Josh Bell leading the rout with a hat-trick.

Cwmbran and Garw fought out a 1-1 draw and improving Ammanford beat Caerau Ely 2-1 courtesy of goals by James Murray and Dean Jenkins.

Briton Ferry were the top goal scorers in Division Three as they overwhelmed Ystradgynlais 7-0, with Richard Evans smashing a hat-trick.

Porthcawl Town joined AFC Llwydcoed at the top of Division Three when they won by the only goal at Seven Sisters, scored by Steve Atkinson.

Walesonline.co.uk

Rhyl fight back to deny Steelmen victory

Rhyl manager Allan Bickerstaff forecast midweek that the championship race will be subject to more twists and turns and the first one arrived in the second minute.

The hosts were first out of the blocks and they took the lead via a sweetly struck Liam McCreesh shot from outside the box.

The Steelmen, who have been revitalised since the arrival of manager Mark Jones, enjoyed a bulk of the first period but it was not until the hour mark that they struck again.

This time it was Scott Barrow who demonstrated his silky skills with a beautifully executed free-kick that curled past the defensive wall into the net.

Rhyl, seeking only their second title, responded as potential champions should, as Paul O’Neill pounced on a rebound off the bar to nod a vital response with 20 minutes remaining.

It was one-way traffic from that point as the Lilywhites desperately went in search of an equaliser to maintain their unblemished 12 match winning sequence.

And it arrived five minutes into added time when substitute Stones hammered an unstoppable volley past Kristian Rogers sending the visiting support into wild celebrations.

A relieved Bickerstaff said: “My players showed real character today to come back from two goals down. We knew Port Talbot would give us a hard battle as Mark (Jones) has done a tremendous job down here.

“The title is far from won but the point is very welcome but I thought we deserved it.”

Although disappointed, Jones took the positives from another fine display by his players.

Walesonline.co.uk

Neath secure welsh premier league future

“It finishes off a very good eight days for us during which we picked up a very important nine points from three wins at home,” said Neath boss Andrew Dyer.

“I have nothing but praise for the players who have met the challenge head-on and, with the other teams around us winning, this was a bigger win than would have been the case.”

Skipper Andy Hill put Neath on their way after 24 minutes with a brilliantly taken goal, with Kerry Morgan taking the credit for the second, his trickery setting up Stephen Pocket, who had the simple task of netting from just a yard out.

Neath went further in front midway through the second half through Sean Cronin.

Walesonline.co.uk

Welsh league round up

Crutch’s strike leaves Aberaman five points behind leaders Barry, but with five games in hand.

Two points above, having played a game more, are champions Goytre United.

They beat Bridgend Town 2-0 with Darren Lyons and Jonathan Walkley on target.

Barry came from behind to beat Cardiff Corries 3-1, who went ahead through Nick Hooper after 35 minutes.

An own goal, which followed a goalmouth scramble, gave Barry an equaliser, but late goals from captain Jamie Bradford and Zac Misbah completed a win for the Dragons.

Scott McCoubrey scored the only goal of the match to hand Afan Lido a 1-0 win against Caldicot Town away.

Penrhiwceiber won 2-1 at Pentwyn Dynamos in their Second Division match on Saturday. That was a 13th successive victory in all competitions for ’Ceiber and they leading the way in Division Two.

In Division Two, Caerau Ely won 5-2 at Pontypridd Town. James Cotterill scored two with Bennett, Jones and Hines also on target.

Garw won 5-0 at home to Llangeinor, while Karl Boulton scored twice for UWIC in their 5-0 success against Tredegar Town.

Goals from Craig Evans, Ryan Buckman, Ashley Burge and Craig Wells earned Porth a 4-0 win against Cwmaman United.

That lifted Porth ahead of Cwmaman and kept alive hopes of promotion.

Walesonline.co.uk

Neath given a potential lifeline

They have now gone seven games without a win – five of those defeats – and they have failed to register an away victory in 14 attempts.

Swansea City loanee Kerry Morgan was the Eagles’ hero with a superb brace, the first (70) the product of a ball over the top, the second (86) a superb piece of trickery.

“We didn’t start well but I thought we were the better side second half but after we went a goal down they caught us again,” said visitors’ boss Neil Gibson.

Neath manager Andrew Dyer beamed: “This was a huge result for us, colossal.

“It was a massive performance and everyone stepped up to the plate.”

Walesonline.co.uk

Welsh league round up

HONOURS were even in the eagerly awaited top-of-the-table clash in the First Division of the MacWhirter Welsh League when reigning champions Goytre United and title-chasing Bettws drew 1-1 at Glenhafod Park.

Paul Jones fired Bettws into the lead after 22 minutes, only for Ian Morgan to level matters six minutes later.

ENTO Aberaman were just too good for visiting Afan Lido and prevailed 2-1 courtesy of goals by Jon Phillips and Richard Ryan, while former champions Ton Pentre gave one of their best displays of the season to crush Croesyceiliog 6-2 at Ynys Park.

Ian Jones led the way with a hat-trick as Ryan Morgan, Chris Jones and Scott Cook bagged the others. Richard Perry and Jodie Jenkins netted for Croesy.

Welsh Cup quarter-finalists Newport YMCA seem unable to take their cup form into the league. Yesterday they went down 1-0 at home to Pontardawe, for whom Stephen Davies scored after two minutes.

Bridgend Town edged out Bryntirion Athletic 2-1 in a keenly contested derby match, with both their goals coming from Anthony Waters. Bryntirion’s scorer was Brian Burke.

Cardiff Corries won 2-1 at inconsistent Dinas Powys, while Taffs Well and Caldicot Town fought out a goalless draw and it was also stalemate between Cambrian & Clydach and Caerleon, each side scoring once.

Penrhiwceiber Rangers were knocked off the top of the Second Division when they slipped to a shock 1-0 home defeat by relegation haunted Treharris Athletic. Kevin Bounds swooped for the Treharris goal. Ely Rangers are the new leaders of Division Two after a 4-2 defeat of Tredegar Town.

Pentwyn Dynamos did their hopes of avoiding the drop a power of good when they won 2-1 at Maesteg Park, Kevin Baker and Terry O’Grady scoring. Lee O’Brien was the Maesteg marksman.

West End added to the woes of troubled Garw with a 2-1 away success, Andrew Tyrell and Darren Griffiths scoring the goals for the Swansea side. Alex North scored for Garw.

AFC Llwydcoed continue on their merry march towards the Third Division title, boosting their goal difference yesterday with an 8-2 demolition of Merthyr Saints, who appear to be heading for the League’s exit door.

Porthcawl Town look good for promotion after they recorded their 16th win in 21 starts, beating Llansawel 1-0, as Ian Mackintosh scored.

Wales on Sunday

ENTO Aberaman preview

They are in excellent form with 7 wins and just 1 defeat from their last 8 games, surprisingly their away form is better than their home form, as we well know as they easily beat us 3-0 at the Marston back in the middle of November.

They have only suffered defeat once this season at home in the league, and that was to the very unpredictable Bridgend Town, who beat them 1-0 on the day, they have also lost points with 3 draws and have 4 wins from their 8 games at home.

Our form in recent times is starting to be as unpredictable as Bridgend's who we beat last time out 4-1 in the cup semi-final, since the January transfer window closed, we have won only one of our last 7 league games, and have lost 3 and drawn 3, so not great form to taking on one of the league's top clubs, but since their promotion 2 seasons ago we haven't been beaten at Aberaman Park, with a win and a draw, last season's game ended in a 1-1 draw with Lido fielding a very young and inexperienced side and they came away with a very unexpected point.

The side will though be buoyed by the fact that we are in the league challenge final with a good display against Bridgend and special mention to Scotty for grabbing 4 goals in the game.

But ENTO must be overwhelming favourites to take all 3 points, with their star studded line up of welsh league stars, the only thing that puzzles me is with the squad they have why are they not heading the table already by a big margin. They do have the meanest defence in the league, having only conceded 18 goals from their 21 games, but down the other end of the field they have not been prolific scorers only notching up 38 goals, and that's only the 7th best in the league. 

Tony

Sky camera's to visit Merthyr Tydfil

Sky Sports News will interview key figures at the club and carry live reports from the clash with Bashley.

But the increased profile the club is about to experience hasn’t gone down too well with some of the players.

Merthyr slipped up against bottom club Clevedon Town in midweek with a 2-2 draw seeing them fail to make the most of home advantage in bid to move up to third.

There are suggestions of mental weakness on the part of the players and manager Garry Sheppard looks set to take the hard line.

“Let’s get one thing straight, these lads have been unbelievably loyal to the management of this club and its supporters,” said Sheppard.

“But a couple are starting to moan about a few things.

“Some are saying Sky are only here to take the mick out of our misfortune and to send it across the country.

“But they have been told that it is this kind of high-profile publicity that could actually save the club.

“All Sky are doing is highlighting the trouble the club is in.

“For the first time both me and Danny (Carter) have felt the attitude has changed and we can’t allow that to happen.

“Having players go through the motions at this stage of the season – whether they get paid or not – is not going to happen on our shift.

“Players who are not up for it during the warm-up will be dropped before kick-off time, and players who are not up for the match in the first 20 minutes will be replaced very quickly.

“That’s just the way it is going to be.

“The players have done tremendously well to get this far, but we will not allow them to just feel sorry for themselves and let this vital stage of the season just fizzle away.

“They need to get refocused and back in the right frame of mind before they throw it all away.

“They don’t want to be thinking what might have been in the summer.”

ICWALES

Liam McCreesh's goal seals Steelmen win

The Steelmen have lost just once in their last 12 league matches and in the past seven days have travelled nearly 900 miles and collected seven points from three away matches.

Martin Rose bagged his 19th league goal of the campaign in the fourth minute via the penalty spot to put the visitors ahead, but Welshpool drew level through Steve Rogers after 51 minutes.

It was a miss-hit chip that beat Kristian Rogers, but Jones’ side profited from a crisp James Burgin cross as McCreesh hit the 66th-minute winner with an impressive finish.

ICWALES

A round of games in the welsh league

They triumphed 3-1, with Ryan Shugar bagging two and Daniel Thomas getting the other. Daniel Cuedo scored for the YMCA.

Bridgend Town were disappointing with their 2-1 defeat at Dinas Powys – and their hopes of finishing in the top two to progress to the Premier League now seem rather remote.

Sami Misbah grabbed both the Dinas Powys goals, while Anthony Waters scored for Bridgend.

Afan Lido fought out a 1-1 home draw with Cwmbran, having taken the lead on 16 minutes through Carl Payne. Robbie Fowler equalised for relegation-threatened Cwmbran.

Ton Pentre were held them to a goalless draw brought Pontardawe.

Elsewhere Taffs Well eased relegation worries with a 3-1 success at Cardiff Corinthians – they now have some breathing space between themselves and those in the dropped zone.

Maesteg Park do not appear to have a chance of making a speedy return to the top flight of the Welsh League despite one of their best performances of the campaign when they defeated promotion-chasing Ely Rangers 1-0 at Tudor Park yesterday.

Calvin McLaggan was the scorer for mid-table Maesteg.

Ammanford, who are just above the Llynfi Valley side in the second division table, overcame Treharris 2-0 thanks to goals by Luke Fayres and Paul James, while Swansea team West End stepped up their challenge for promotion with a 4-0 demolition of relegation-threatened Caerau Ely.

On target for West End were Liam Soroka, Robert Shannon, Andrew Tyrell and Darren Griffiths.

Third Division leaders AFC Llwydcoed suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat at Troedyrhiw, Luke Lear finding the net for the home side, while Pontyclun put on one of the best performances in the Third Division when they overwhelmed Ystradgynlais 6-1. Matthew James and Joel Woodington led the way with two goals apiece while Dean Lewis and Steve Davies also netted.

Josh Evans and Rhys Llewellyn were on target for Llantwit Fardre in their 2-0 victory over Seven Sisters.

Elsewhere, Goytre fought out a 1-1 draw with Newport Civil Service and there was also a stalemate at Cwmamman United who drew 3-3 with Monmouth.

ICWALES

Rose is a thorn for Caernarfon

The Canaries, who had led 1-0 early on and then 2-1 at half time, fell apart later and finished the game with just nine players after two dismissals.

Jon Humphries received his second yellow card late in the first half and Mike Garrity had the same treatment during stoppage time at the end.

Caernarfon had kicked off as the brighter prospects, passed the ball around well and looked in the right mood, so that the opening goal on 13 minutes was no surprise.

Ian Dawes kept his cool to convert a penalty but then Port Talbot’s Rose began what was to become a one-man show when he was also spot-on after 35 minutes.

Caernarfon regained the lead on 37 minutes, courtesy of Mike Jackson’s running header, but the second half belonged totally to the visitors, and Rose in particular, as take-over goals were hit on 48, 68 and 88 minutes.

ICWALES

Neath put to the sword by the Saints

All the goals came in the second half with Alex Darlington opening the scoring for the Park Hall men. But a glimmer of hope came in the form of a Ceri Morgan strike in the 65th minute as the Athletic threatened to upset the form book.

But, eight minutes later, the in-form Scott Ruscoe made it 2-1 with Darlington getting his brace and extending the visitors’ lead 10 minutes from time.

Neath looked well and truly sunk even before the lively Duane Courtney netted three minutes from time to make it a thoroughly miserable afternoon for the Eagles.

This heavy reverse hardly bodes well for the rest of Neath’s season although, with the majority of home games, they will feel that there is more than a glimmer of hope in staving off the drop. In contrast, Andy Dyer will be delighted to see the New Saints gain such a thoroughly deserved success.

ICWALES

Penrhiwceiber reach cup final

Steve Haggett has managed Penrhiwceiber Rangers for around 20 years - with the odd break here and there - and he's collected quite a few pots along the way. The chances are that he will increase the trophy count this season.

He guided his side, somewhat nervously at times, into the final of the Nathaniel Car Sales Welsh League Cup final with a hard-earned victory over Third Division Porthcawl at Maesteg Park last night.

And that keeps Penrhiwceiber on course for a league and cup double. They are the top side in Division Two and Haggett makes no secret of the fact that he wants to have a go at the top flight. "I want to have a crack at the First Division." he proclaimed after reaching his third league cup final as Penrhiwceiber manager.

First time round (in 1993) he lost out to Pembroke Borough but won against Pontardawe in 2006.

Haggett, who once took time out to play in the second row for Abercwmboi, said: "It was a very difficult tie. Porthcawl came out of the traps from the start and for the first 20 minutes were the better side. It took us a while to get to grips with them.

"Most of their chances were from outside the box and our back four takes some breaking down and we don't concede that many goals."

Certainly in the league Penrhiwceiber, who hold a two-point lead over Ely Rangers, have let in only 20 goals in 19 games, but in a rain-soaked first-half  before a good-size crowd, they were twice unhinged by Jon O'Sullivan who brought a finger-tip save from Fields and then struck the far post after cutting in from the left.

Porthcawl, second in the Third Division, had good spells in the first-half and paid the price for not finishing off their fine approach work. They were never quite the same after the break although they had justifiable claims for a penalty rejected when they were trying to claw their way back into the game.

Penrhiwceiber skipper Nathan King, in his 11th season with the club and also a professional boxer, notched the all-important goal after 52 minutes and could have ended anxiety in the closing stages, firing over the bar when it seemed easier to score.

Haggett, whose brother David is coach, added: "We had to dig in at times but once we got the goal I thought it was only set pieces which would break us down. Reaching the final keeps our season going." And just to complete the family ties, David’s son Sebastian was a member of the victorious squad.

Ray Parker

Bulldogs snap back at Goytre

GOYTRE United leaked four unanswered second-half goals during a 5-3 defeat against Ton Pentre at Ynys Park in MacWhirter Welsh League division one.

However, the defending champions looked on course for victory when ahead 3-1 at the break.

Goals from Thomas Meuring, Steve Conaty and Robbie Walters from the penalty spot moved Goytre into the driving seat.

But the Rhondda Bulldogs snapped back during the second half to take the honours on the back of goals from Chris Jones (two), Philip Clark, Liam Hutchinson and ex-Afan Lido striker Ian Jones.

This formed only a fourth league defeat of the season for the Port Talbot side, who trail leaders Barry Town by three points with four games in hand.

Also in the first division, two goals from Nana Baah along with a Brian Burke strike set up a comfortable 3-0 home win for Bryntirion over Caldicot.

Tony Poole

Ton Pentre look to open up welsh league title race

The Rhondda Bulldogs beat Dinas Powys 3-1 in their last match and now take on Goytre at home.

Barry Town remain top with Bettws in second place, but Goytre will jump into first place, ahead of Barry on goal difference, if they can overcome Ton Pentre.

While Goytre, who have five games in hand on Barry and four on Bettws, are hot favourites to retain their Division One title, the chase for promotion to the Principality Welsh Premier League is on.

Three teams, ENTO Aberaman Athletic, Bridgend Town and Afan Lido, have applied to go up and must finish in the top two to stand a chance. The trio are all within reach of achieving that, but Aberaman, lying fourth, are closest.

Ton Pentre came from behind to win their latest league match, 3-1 at Dinas Powys.

Mark Greedy fired Dinas ahead, but Ton levelled with an Ian Jones penalty before Chris Jones’ brace settled the outcome.

While Ton turn to their clash with Goytre United tomorrow, Dinas now have a run of four consecutive home games and must gain some points from those to avoid dropping closer into the relegation zone.

Terry Phillips

Bridgend through to semi's

Newport YMCA 0, Bridgend Town 1

NEWPORT YMCA failed to repeat last season’s achievement of a Welsh Cup semi-final slot when they were knocked out by fellow MacWhirter Welsh League rivals Bridgend Town.

It was a close run cup tie with a solitary strike enough to give Bridgend a place in the semi-finals for the first time in over a decade since their glory days in the Southern League.

In a nervy, competitive quarter-final clash, the battle in midfield was a stalemate and it became evident a goal was going to be enough to clinch the victory.

The crucial goal came in the 62nd-minute when Bridgend worked the ball into the box and it dropped for Raith Plant, who struck a low drive through a crowd of players to beat Gareth Wesson in the YMCA goal.

It was a bitter pill for the YMCA to swallow as they had pinned their hopes on another tilt at Cup glory, but it was not to be on the day.

Instead, Bridgend will be the only non-Welsh Premier club in the semi-final playing Bangor City on a date and at a neutral venue to be decided.

Wales on Sunday

Welsh cup rpind up

Aberystwyth won their Quarter Final against Prestatyn Town at Park Avenue almost as comfortably as the holders. The visitors took the lead in the fifth minute, but Geoff Kellaway cancelled that out for The Seasiders after 27 minutes and Chris Venables gave them the lead in first half stoppage time. A second half Hat Trick for Graham Evans settled matters for Brian Coynes outfit, to win them a Semi Final tie against Carmarthen Town in front of the S4C cameras on Easter Sunday.

Manager, Deryn Brace was the star of the show at Richmond Park, coming on as a second half substitute for injured keeper Neil Thomas and saving three penalties in the shoot out when the match finished 1-1 after extra time. It was goalless at the end of normal time, but Martin Rose gave Port Talbot the lead on112 minutes. The visitors looked likely to hang on, but Paul Fowler's deflected shot four minutes before the end took the game to penalties, with Carmarthen emerging 4-1 winners thanks to Brace's heroics.

In the two League games played on Saturday, Rhyl consolidated their position at the top of the table with a 4-0 home victory over Caernarfon at Belle Vue, adding to The Canaries woes at the foot of the table. These were further exacerbated, by relegation rivals Neath who enjoyed a good 3-0 victory over Porthmadog at The Gnoll taking them clear of the relegation places.

In Friday evenings only game, The New Saints got a welcome 2-0 win at Gap Connahs Quay.

WELSH CUP SEMI FINAL DRAW

BANGOR CITY V BRIDGEND TOWN to be played on Saturday 11th April 2009
CARMARTHEN TOWN V ABERYSTWYTH TOWN to be played on Sunday 12th April 2009

Welshpremier.com

Taffs Well preview

They currently lie one place above the relegation zone in 15th place and have only won 3 games all season, and they have won 2 of the 3 games at home, against Bryntirion and Croesyceiliog, and their last win at home over Bryntirion came on November 21st.

We will be looking to get back to winning ways on the road following 2 draws in our last 2 trips away to Caerleon and Bettws.

This game will only be our 8th away game in the league so far this season and we are looking for our 3rd victory on the road, we need a win to keep the teams below us from drawing level on points with us, as Cambrian are only 3 points behind us but have 3 games in hand, and Bridgend also 3 points behind have 2 games in hand.

We found our scoring boots in our last game hitting relegation threatened Croesyceiliog for 5 without reply, our first clean sheet in 5 league games. And we will be looking to add to Taffs poor goals against tally which stands at 50 goals the 2nd worst record in the league, only Newport YMCA have conceded more, while we have the 3rd highest goals scored in the league with 48, only Bettws and Goytre have scored more.

Tony

Jones regains winning touch

Bangor City are without star striker Chris Sharp for the rest of the season. This time the star of the show came at the other end in the form of striker Drew Fahiya, who scored in each half to clinch three vital points.

The first came after 35 minutes when he beat the offside trap with a perfectly timed run to slot the ball home. Then, three minutes after the break, he doubled the Steelmen’s lead from close range before a triple substitution by the visitors put Port Talbot on the back foot.

The Steelmen held firm until the 90th minute when Jamie Brewerton moved into the box to score with a header. But in injury time Port Talbot spurned the chance to put the game beyond doubt and Fahiya complete a hat-trick.

Fahiya had a golden chance to wrap things up but missed from the spot.

Wales on Sunday

Welsh league round up

It was more convincing than the scoreline suggested, with the Rhondda club scoring at the death through Scott Seldon, after Robbie Walters had bagged a brace to put Goytre in the driving seat.

But Barry maintain their strong charge for the title maintaining a league at the top of the table thanks to a 2-1 triumph at nearby Dinas Powys.

Afan Lido were in tremendous form as they swept aside visiting Croesyceiliog 5-0.

At the other end of the table, relegation threatened Bryntirion pulled off a surprise when they overcame high riding Pontardawe 2-1. Brian Burke and Jonathan Cuff found the net for the Bridgend based outfit while Steven Daveys got Pontardawe’s solitary goal.

In a dress rehearsal for next week’s Welsh Cup quarterfinal Bridgend Town overcame Newport YMCA 3-0, Jarrad Price, Matt Decae and Kieron Stone getting the goals.

Ian Jones scored two goals for Ton Pentre against Cardiff Corries but it ended a draw.

Ambitious ENTO Aberaman defeated Taffs Well by the only goal of the game scored by Geraint Passmore.

Caerau Ely suffered a shock second division defeat by Garden Village yesterday.

They went down 2-1 to the Village for whom Ashleigh Richards and Derrick Jenkins were on target. Jay Bennett scored for Caerau Ely.

Maesteg Park, who were hoping to bounce back to the top flight, appear to half squandered any chances of promotion, losing 2-1 to Cwmbran Celtic yesterday. Scott Lanyon scored both the Celtic goals.

Porthcawl Town maintained their strong push for promotion to the second division but left it late to secure the goal that gave them victory at Newport Civil Service.

Tom Marlow with the last kick of the game scored for the Seasiders.

Garw and Treharris shared the spoils 1-1 while Keri Harding and Ryan Bucannan scored in the last five minutes to give Porth a 2-1 win at Goytre.

Merthyr Saints, who are in danger of going out of the league, secured a rare win defeating Ystradgynlais 3-2.

Wales on Sunday

Merthyr boss fears for club's future

But it’s more about whether the game will go ahead and will there be a club left to support in the future.

With the water shut off and electricity due to be cut off today and mounting debts of £300,000, the Merthyr Supporters Trust want to take over the cash-stricken club to ensure football continues in the town.

However, Merthyr’s chief executive Wyn Holloway is standing firm saying: “I would rather see the club close completely than give it to the Trust.”

But the club is dealing with the distinct possibility of being kicked out of the league if this weekend’s fixture is not fulfilled.

Most of the players have not been paid wages for the last month, but they have remained remarkably loyal to the management team of Garry Sheppard and Danny Carter.

Director of football Les Barlow has been with the Martyrs for the past 26 years and carried out every job there is to do at a football club.

But, without a single training session being held this week, Barlow is fearing the worst.

“I’ve seen most things at this club during my time,” said Barlow.

“There have been the highs of a full-to-capacity Penydarren Park and the lows of a few years ago when the owner put padlocks on the gates and closed the place.

“But I have to say this is as serious as it gets. I feel sorry for the players and the management who have produced a great side from nothing and on a small budget as well.

“We have been in the top six for most of the season due to hard work and they have kept things together.

“Saturday should all about being organised and looking forward to a really good game.

“But do we know if that is going to happen? Even if the game goes ahead what state of mind will the players be in?

“Apparently for the game to go ahead the club needs to find £50,000.

“I just hope for everybody’s sake this club survives because we’ve had enough bad news in this area as it is.”

Mark Bloom

Goytre close gap on leader pair

The win takes them to within 5 points of leaders Barry Town but with a big 5 games in hand, it makes up for their defeat last Saturday away to leaders Barry Town, and is surely on a matter of time before they reel both Barry and Bettws in with their games in hand. They also have a handy 4 point lead over 4th placed ENTO Aberaman.

View league table

Tony

Summers still going strong at Aberaman

They are still chasing hard to earn promotion from Division One and Summers’ return from injury is a major boost for manager David Morgan.

Summers was among the substitutes for Aberaman in their 4-1 win at Croesyceiliog.

Jason Cowan, Mattie Davies, Richard Ryan and Rob Blatchford scored the goals for Aberaman, who face title-chasing Bettws over the next few weeks – and still have a match against Goytre United to play in April.

The task for Aberaman is to finish in the top two, which would almost certainly earn them promotion.

Aberaman are still in touch – and need to catch the leading few teams.

Barry Town stand top, just ahead of Bettws, after their hard-fought 2-1 home win against Goytre United thanks to goals from Nickie Jones and skipper Jamie Bradford.

Jacob Daly replied for Goytre, but Barry’s young team held on to claim victory.

Ton Pentre won 2-1 at Taffs Well, whose Rhiw Dda’r ground was in poor condition after the difficult weather conditions.

The Rhondda Bulldogs’ goals came from Chris Jones and skipper Ryan Morgan, either side of an equaliser from Taffs Well’s Leigh Ashman.

Taffs Well were awarded a 76th-minute penalty, but Liam Williams’ spot-kick was well saved by goalkeeper Richard Jeffries.

Dinas Powys were delighted to be playing again after a month without a match, but they lost 2-1 at Caldicot Town.

Goals from Kel Stevens and Joseph Martin gave the hosts a 2-0 lead, before Chris Ashley pulled one back after 75 minutes. Dinas then saw Gareth Hemmans’ 81st-minute penalty saved by James Smallcombe.

South Wales Echo

Port Talbot suffer 1st defeat under Jonah

After three games without a win, boss Darren Ryan called for an improved showing against a Port Talbot side who, unbeaten in their previous six outings, had arrived just one place and one point below.

Newtown made what proved the decisive breakthrough on 25 minutes.

A short corner from Craig Williams was played short to Adam Worton whose shot was blocked, but the rebound fell for Hutchinson on the edge of the box and midfielder rifled his shot through a crowded goalmouth and the ball found the net despite efforts to clear.

Defender Lee Surman was pushed forward to bolster the visiting attack late on, Rose had a couple of efforts, but Newtown held firm for a valuable win that took them past the all-important 30-point mark in the league.

Wales online

Review of Saturday's welsh premier games

Carmarthen 3-1 Bangor
Carmarthen leap-frogged Bangor in the race for 4th place at Richmond Park. Man of the Moment Chris Sharp put the visitors ahead on 15 minutes before being red-carded by Referee Darren Adie on the half-hour mark for a rash challenge, in which he sustained a broken arm. He sneaked in at the far post from a Christian Seargent free-kick for his 27th goal in all competitions this year, but his day was ruined when he lunged two footed into Richard Hughes, for which he came out second-best.

Town skipper Nathan Cotterall then missed a penalty for the Old Gold after Peter Hoy fouled Stuart Roberts, but Nicky Palmer headed in from a Cotterall free-kick and Craig Hughes scored twice to seal the win for Carmarthen in a 10-minute second half spell.

GAP Connah's Quay 1-0 Caersws
Liam Loughlin's 12th minute goal was enough to seal the win for Connah's Quay.

Haverfordwest 3-1 Technogroup Welshpool
Neil Thomas and Jack Christopher set Haverfordwest on their way to victory. Debutant Martin McCubbin did pull one back for the visitors but Neil Woodrow make the win safe on 54 minutes.

Neath 3-1 Airbus
Neath claimed a vital win as they look to preserve their Welsh Premier status. Stephen Pockett put them ahead from the spot on the stroke of half time, but Matthew Cook levelled for Airbus. But Kerry Morgan and a last-minute goal from Dale Evans secured the win.

Caernarfon 1-1 Prestatyn
Struggling Caernarfon slipped further behind in the battle to beat the drop after Ged Courtney's opener was cancelled out by Russ Jones.

Welshpremier.com

Big bucks await welsh clubs in Europe

THE winners of this year’s Welsh Premier League title could net nearly half a million pounds if they make it to the newly-created Europa League next summer.

Uefa have proposed an increase of around 30% in the prize money for next season’s European competitions, and the new structure for the continental cups could see Welsh clubs winning big time.

Wales will have four clubs in Europe next season, with the Welsh Premier League winners will start their campaign in the second qualifying round of the Champions, collecting a proposed 330,000 euros (nearly £300,000). If they make it the third qualifying round they will earn another 130,000 euros (nearly £120,000) and if they get knocked out at that stage they will go through to the play-offs for the Europa League, which replaces the Uefa Cup.

If they lose at that stage they could collect another 90,000 euros (around £80,000), meaning they could pick up around £500,000 in total.

The second – and third – placed teams and the Welsh Cup winners will also qualify for the Europa League play-offs.

by Gareth Bicknell

Caerleon match preview

Last season this fixture went with the home side 2-1, but it was a much stronger side than this seasons, they finished in 8th place last season, despite a poor home record of just 5 wins. This season they languish near the foot of the table with the worst home record in the division of just 1 home win in the league and 7 defeats, their only win came Gwent rivals Caldicot Town at the end of January.

They have strengthened their squad during the January transfer window as they look to maintain their place in division 1 for a 10th season next season.

Following the recent departures at the Lido, we will be looking for our first win in 4 league games to try and stay in the top 5 in the league,  and our first win away since the 25th of November over Barry.

We will be looking to our very young squad to pick up our 3rd league win on the road from only our 7th away game of the season, our 2 wins on the road have come at Barry and Croesyceiliog and we are looking to maintain our unbeaten run on the road which runs to 4 games with 2 wins and 2 draws, we haven't lost away since the 5th of September when Goytre beat us 2-0.

Squad line up for the game on Saturday will be posted late tomorrow evening.

Tony

Crunch time for Neath say's Manager

Manager Andy Dyer got his calculator out after the Eagles 4-2 defeat against leaders Rhyl at Belle Vue.

The Gnoll side are currently second from bottom on 16 points – two points adrift of Newi Cefn Druids and three points adrift Porthmadog.

Dyer admitted that it would be a massive blow for the club if they fail to navigate themselves out of the choppy waters.

Large sums of money have been splashed out on the pitch at the Gnoll and their recent switch from their former home at Llandarcy Park was essentially about up-grading their facilities with the long-term ambition of becoming a real force in the Welsh Premier.

But after a stirring first season in Welsh football’s top flight in 2007-08 the club’s fortunes have taken a turn for the worse.

But Dyer is confident that his side will not throw in the towel.

“I think we need 15 points from our last 12 games to avoid relegation,” said a philosophical Dyer.

“This league is uncompromising and we are where we are at. People keep telling us that we shouldn’t be at the bottom but that’s how it is at the moment.

“We have to keep positive and keep going.

“A lot of our remaining fixtures are against teams just above us and half of them have to visit us at the Gnoll.”

When asked about the effects on the club if they return to Division One, Dyer said: “We would find it difficult to attract players and no doubt we would lose a few. It would be an uphill struggle to get back up and in a way it would be like starting all over again.”

Mid-table Airbus UK visit the Gnoll this Saturday and it is a game Neath have to snatch points from.

“It’s simple we have to beat them,” said Dyer.

“It will not be an easy thing to do but we have to make home advantage count.”

Neath Guardian

Welsh league round up

They won 3-1 at Taffs Well with an excellent display of finishing and are now looking forward once again to scaling the big cup heights as they are renowned for doing.

They led 2-0 at the interval with goals by Alan Stewart and Gareth Lynch from the penalty spot and in the second half they got a third through Abdul Njiel, while all Taffs Well could manage was a second-half penalty by Liam William awarded for a dangerous challenge in the box. That match at Taffs Well was the only game to survive in the top flight and just one of four matches played in the league.

Ammanford were in superb form in the Second Division when they visited Pentwyn Dynamo and ran out convincing 3-0 winners, all the goals coming in the second half.

Richard Lewis set the ball rolling a quarter of an hour after the break with a well taken goal and Luke Harris subsequently made it 2-0 from a free kick and Luke Fayres completed the scoring to ensure that the West Wales side returned home smiling and with all three points.

Porthcawl Town missed a chance to go to the top of the Third Division, but did join AFC Llwydcoed on the 39-point mark when they drew 1-1 with Cwmamman United at Locks Lane.

Following a goalless first half Carl Owen gave the Seasiders the lead 10 minutes after the break only for Mark Smokie to grab a share of the spoils for the visitors.

Risca United heaped more misery on the league’s bottom club Merthyr Saints as they swept to a 6-1 home success.

The Gwent outfit led 3-0 at the interval and were always in total command.

There were braces for Andrew Gay and Rhys Griffiths, while Steve Dudden and Warren Derraven were also on target.

Wales on Sunday

Jonah's unbeaten return continues

Welshpool Calls For Compensation Over Lost Game

Jonah wins manager of the month for January

Goytre go so close in welsh cup

Neath continue to struggle

Neighbours through to quarter finals

Bettws match preview

A roundup of welsh Lge div 1 games 

Steelmen's unbeaten run under new manager rolls on 

Neath's draw woe 

Steelmen's manager seeks max factor 

Crunch clash facing the Eagles

Terry Boyle is new Wales Semi Pro Manager

Goytre match preview

Port Talbot extend their unbeaten run

.