Stats

Match reports

Fixtures

Table

Squad

A couple of hours before kick off it didn’t look like Lido would raise a team, hit by un-availability and injuries, eight players turned up for the difficult trip to Ely. However five of the under 16’s squad rallied to the cause and we eventually travelled with a squad of 13

Lido – Conor Williams, Darren Franks, Andrew Collins, Grant Fisher, Daniel O’Brien, Levi Coakes, Nathan Doyle (Callum Fleming), James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Ellis Harris, Daniel Symmons (Aled Northcott)

Ely would have been looking to make an early impression, following their 4-0 defeat at the Lido , but it was the visitors who took the upper hand. In wet conditions the extra zip on the ball suited Lido . Ellis Harris and Daniel Symmons had both forced the home keeper into saves, when from a Conor Harris corner a Darren Franks header was saved but the right back struck the re-bound into the net to give Lido the lead.

Conor Williams in the Lido goal saved well when Ely broke into the Lido area.

Symmons had another shot partially blocked and Conor Harris couldn’t force the loose ball home.

From another counter attack Ely saw a shot narrowly wide.

From a scramble in the Ely area Lido thought they deserved a penalty, but the ref didn’t agree.

Lido took a deserved lead into the interval

The second period was a more even affair, Ely were more competitive, but Lido looked threatening on the break.

Williams in the Lido goal pulled off a great double save to thwart the home side, as Ely pushed for an equaliser.

The ref denied Lido another penalty when Symmons was seemingly fouled as he moved in on goal.

As the game entered its final minute Lido had a corner, but Ely broke and scored to draw the game level. There wasn’t time for either side to get a winner and Lido completed their league campaign with just one defeat from 20 games.

Full credit to the squad and thanks to the under 16’s today – none of them looked out of their depth, which promises well for next season – 12 of today’s 13 are available for the U18’s next season.

Match report by David Northcott

Already champions Lido played their penultimate league fixture, a home game for Port Talbot at the Lido

Lido : Rory McCreesh, Darren Franks, Aled Northcott (Andrew Collins), Daniel O’Brien, Remi Whitlock, Luke Borrelli, Jonathan Hood, Nathan Doyle, Conor Harris, Shaun Beddow (Daniel Symmons), Ellis Harris (James McEvoy)

Lido started brightly and were quickly in control of the game, they went ahead after 15 mins - Shaun Beddow broke into the area and when he went to ground the ref awarded a penalty which Ellis Harris converted.

Port Talbot had little answer to the crisp passing game Lido were playing and when Ryan Dummer, in their goal, saved a cross shot from Conor Harris the ball fell to Ellis Harris and he slotted the ball into an open net – putting Lido 2-0 ahead.

The one-way traffic continued - Remi Whitlock surged into the Port Talbot area, took the ball past Dummer and from a seemingly impossible angle, found the net.

Lido took deserved a 3-0 advantage into the break.

There was no change in the second period, Lido playing neat football and Port Talbot struggling to make any impression on proceedings.

A Whitlock corner found Luke Borrelli, unmarked at the back post and a firm header gave Lido a 4^th goal.

Another corner from Whitlock resulted in the 5^th, the ball was only partially cleared and James McEvoy sent a fierce volley into the net.

The score line didn’t flatter Lido and they ended the game, as they had started it, in complete control. They now travel to Ely Rangers (on Sunday) before completing their season with the South Wales FA cup final, against Porthcawl, at Bryntirion on Wednesday.

Match report by David Northcott

The under 18's completed their home programme with a perfect 10.  Played 10, won 10, goals for 38 against 2.
With two games to go we have 47 points and only Ely Rangers if they win all their remaining games including one against us can catch us.

Edward Weir was injured on Wednesday so Rory McCreesh took his place in goal.
Lido side  Rory McCreesh (Matt Beynon) Darren Franks Daniel O'Brien Aled Northcott Matt Beynon (Conor Harris) Nathan Doyle (Remi Whitelock) Matt Doyle (Shaun Jones) James McEvoy Ellis Harris Jonathan Hood Shaun Beddows

Ely Rangers started well and looked very dangerous up front.  They had a couple of shots just wide of target but nothing to trouble Rory McCreesh. We were finding it difficult to get into the game but with our first real attack we took the lead.  We played the ball through the middle and the Ely centre backs failed to deal with it, the keeper came out but Ellis Harris knocked it past him and tapped the ball into an empty net for an unlikely lead.  From the kick off we almost made it two when the ball was played forward to Ellis Harris but as he went to shoot a defender cleared the ball for a corner.  Jonathan Hood took the corner and hit the crossbar.  Ely responded well and attacked us again but when the attack broke up Nathan Doyle won the ball in midfield and looked to have taken the wrong option before knocking the ball wide to Ellis Harris.  He made ground into the area and with the keeper closing him down he coolly slotted it past him into the far corner of the net to make it 2-0 after 21 minutes.  We now had more of the game and Jonathan Hood had a couple of efforts which went just wide. Right on half time Rory McCreesh took a short goal kick which ended up going into touch just outside the penalty area.  He made amends with a fine save to his left and this time kicked the ball long, Jonathan Hood with a bit of instant control brought the ball down and slotted the ball past the keeper for an unlikely half time score of 3-0.

Ely came out for the second half looking to niggle us into sending's off rather than compete and the half degenerated into a series of free kicks and bookings with several players on both sides lucky not to take an early shower.  From one of the free kicks Remi Whitelock hit a screamer which the keeper did well to get behind and punch clear while their attacks rarely troubled Rory in goal although with 10 minutes to go he made a fine full length save and he managed to push away the ball before an Ely attacker could pounce.  With 5 minutes to go Aled Northcott headed an Ely corner off the line with Matt Beynon beaten, he had replaced Rory in goal.  In the third minute of added on time we were awarded a free kick at least 30 yards out in a central position.  Remi Whitelock took it and his shot went all along the ground and beat the keeper, who will be disappointed at his effort to save, at the far post giving us a 4-0 win.

Match report by Peter Reynolds

Invariably league tables count for nothing in local derbies and it proved no exception when Lido entertained Port Talbot

Lido : Edward Wier, Darren Franks, Aled Northcott (Daniel O’Brien), Matthew Beynon, Remi Whitlock, Niall Lewis, Nathan Doyle, James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Jonathan Hood, Ellis Harris (Shaun Beddow) sub not used : Josh Jones

Early exchanges were even but Lido soon gained the upper hand. Jonathan Hood and Ellis Harris were looking dangerous and Harris had a couple of chances which he put over the bar. On 15 minutes, good work on the right from Hood and Niall Lewis saw a cross into the area Ellis Harris helped the ball on and namesake Conor arrived at the back post to put the home side ahead.

The remainder of the half saw Lido continue to dominate without creating any clear cut chances, the visitors were forced to play on the break and failed to seriously threaten the Lido goal.

The second period started much the same as the first had ended. Lido were pressing and forced a corner, Port Talbot cleared long into the Lido half and when Edward Wier’s clearance struck a defender, the ball fell to Liam McGinley who slotted the ball into an empty net, levelling the scores.

Lido continued to have more of the play and Port Talbot were indebted to keeper Ryan Dummer, as he did well to save a Hood header and even better, when a double save denied Lewis and Ellis Harris.

Ellis Harris saw a flicked header just miss the target as the home side looked to restore their advantage.

On 70 minutes, Daniel O’Brien picked up possession and made headway into the Port Talbot half, he picked out Ellis Harris, just inside the area and the striker made space for himself before placing a controlled shot, wide of Dummer, into the net. 

Port Talbot’s efforts to get back into the game were in vain and Lido maintained their control to secure 3 valuable points, in their search for the league title, from a game that was never going to be easy – a typically tight affair, well handled by referee Rhys Burgess, who never let it get out of his control.

Match report by David Northcott

As the season entered its final weeks Lido hosted Cwmavon

Lido – Edward Wier, Darren Franks (Josh Jones), Aled Northcott, Matthew Beynon, Daniel O’Brien, Niall Lewis (Daniel Symmons), Andrew Collins (Nathan Doyle), James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Shaun Beddow, Ellis Harris

Though dominating possession from the outset Lido found Cwmavon tough to break down and it took 30 mins. for the opening goal to arrive. A long throw into the area, from Andrew Collins, found James McEvoy and he clipped a shot into the net.

Within two minutes Lido doubled their lead, McEvoy again scoring from a back post cross.

With the home side struggling to find anything like top form the opening half ended without further incident.

The opening move of the second period was the best of the game, crisp passing created space on the right for Darren Franks and his deep cross was met by Conor Harris, who finished well, to give Lido a three goal lead.

Any hopes of the goal changing the tone of the game were false and the remainder of the half took the same course as the first, Lido dominated play but didn’t really look threatening, being restricted to long range efforts, which failed to trouble the keeper.

The game finished tamely with the home side victors 3-0. Full credit to Cwmavon who battled well, from the outset and restricted a lack lustre Lido outfit to few goal scoring opportunities.

Match report by David Northcott

The run of difficult away trips continued with a visit to Porthcawl, with Lido looking to lay down a marker for the up-coming cup final against the same opponents.

Lido – Edward Wier, Andrew Collins, Aled Northcott, Darren Franks, Daniel O’Brien, Niall Lewis, Nathan Doyle, James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Ellis Harris (Shaun Beddow), Luke Borrelli

Lido started well but gifted Porthcawl a goal, after 8 minutes, when hesitant defending on the right allowed a striker through and he scored off the post.

The visitors were having more of the game and Ellis Harris struck an effort over the bar. On 18 minutes, Lido equalised. A Conor Harris free kick found Luke Borrelli at the back post and he finished well.

Soon afterwards Borrelli almost gave Lido the lead but the home keeper turned his shot onto the bar.

Against the run of play Porthcawl re-gained the lead, Lido lost possession, just outside their area and a great shot gave Edward Wier no chance.

Almost immediately the home side were reduced to 10 men when the referee decided their midfielder had been given enough warnings and sent him from the field.

Though having a numerical advantage Lido failed to create anything of note and Porthcawl took their lead into the interval.

Early in the second period Lido were also reduced to 10, when Andrew Collins was sent off after pushing an opponent.

Lido were still having the better of the game and around the hour mark, two goals in as many minutes turned the game in their favour. Borrelli found space at the back post and lashed an effort across the keeper into the net, for a second equaliser.

Almost from the kick off Borrelli completed his hat trick giving Lido the lead. A great ball from James McEvoy found Niall Lewis in space and he chipped a perfect cross into the six yard box, Borrelli made no mistake with his header.

Lido went in search of a 4^th goal and saw Nathan Doyle and Aled Northcott go close from corners.

Porthcawl were reduced to nine when they had another player sent off. Borrelli almost scored again but shot over when well placed.

Though failing to get the comfort of another goal Lido saw out the remainder of the game without incident and secured a well earned victory.

Match report by David Northcott

Lido were looking to put their first reverse of the season behind them as they travelled to fellow title contenders Maesteg Park

Lido – Edward Wier, Andrew Collins, Aled Northcott (Josh Jones), Matthew Beynon, Daniel O’Brien, Jonathan Hood, Nathan Doyle, James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Shaun Beddow (Matthew Doyle), Ellis Harris. Subs not used – Sam Nolan, Rhys Williams.

Immediately the tempo of this encounter was higher than anything experienced this season. The home side started well and Lido were grateful to Aled Northcott, who headed a dangerous cross to safety from under his own bar.

Lido soon gained an edge, with Jonathan Hood looking threatening on the right. With the visitors having more of the play Maesteg were limited to playing on the break and could have snatched a lead, but Edward Wier, in the Lido goal, saved well.

Though shading the opening period, Lido were restricted to shots from distance, Hood coming close on a couple of occasions.

Wier was again forced into action, blocking a shot, after another Maesteg counter attack.

Just before the break Conor Harris did well to control a Hood cross and find Ellis Harris, but his effort was off target.

The second period started much the same as the first, with the home side on top. Wier was beaten by a shot from the Maesteg right, but the crossbar saved Lido .

Lido again gained the ascendancy and Matthew Beynon had a shot blocked from a back post free kick.

Hood was combining well with Nathan Doyle on the Lido right and Hood found space inside the area, only to see his shot strike the post.

Lido gained a succession of corners and free kicks, just outside the Maesteg box, but they came to nothing.

With 3 minutes remaining, it looked like the contest was heading for a draw, but hesitant defending, on the edge of the Lido area, surrendered possession and in the mix-up Wier brought down an attacker to concede a penalty.

The spot kick was woeful and Lido survived to earn a creditable draw and in the process put a serious dent in the title hopes of their hosts - not many teams will return from the Llynfi Valley with any reward.

Match report by David Northcott

Given the glorious sunshine and lack of significant recent rain, it was a real surprise to see the pitch is such poor condition.

The game was still settling down, when Lido lost possession in midfield and a weak looking cross shot escaped goalkeeper Edward Wier and found its way into the corner of the net.

As the game progressed Lido gained the upper hand, Ellis Harris had a shot saved and Daniel Symmons, through on goal uncharacteristically pulled a shot wide of the post.

Hesitant Bridgend defending presented Niall Lewis with a great chance, he hit a powerful shot, but the keeper saved well.

Bridgend were playing on the break and almost doubled their lead when a scooped shot clipped the bar.

Lido pressed and a succession of corners put pressure on the home goal.

An Ellis Harris effort struck the bar as Lido went in search of an equaliser. Their cause was boosted when a needless rash challenge in the Lido area saw the Bridgend left back sent off.

Almost immediately Lido gained parity, Lewis cut in from the right and was up-ended in the area, Ellis Harris made no mistake with the spot.

The game went into the break even, with Lido looking to take the initiative in the second period.

Though Lido dominated early second half possession they failed to trouble the home goal and as the game wore on a determined Bridgend effort saw them more likely to take the lead.

Despite the home side’s efforts the game looked to be heading for a draw, until in the last 7 minutes they snatched two headed goals from right wing corners.

The game ended with the last unbeaten record in the South Wales Youth League in tatters and Lido facing the task of lifting themselves for another difficult looking trip, this time to Maesteg on Thursday

Match report by David Northcott

With the squad hit by call-up’s to the under 19’s, the team travelled without any substitutes for what was looking to be a difficult league game at Llantwit Major

Lido – Edward Wier, Josh Jones, Aled Northcott, Luke Evans, Daniel O’Brien, Shaun Beddow, Nathan Doyle, Rhys Williams, Conor Harris, Ellis Harris, Daniel Symmons

At the start of the game the sloping pitch was barely playable and with the likelihood of the surface cutting-up, more rain forecast and a strong wind blowing, it was certainly going to be a battle for the unbeaten visitors.

The teams lined up with Lido playing against the wind and slope and though much of the early exchanges were in the Lido half, goalkeeper Edward Wier was largely untroubled - in fact it was the Lido who threatened more. Ellis Harris and Daniel Symmons were posing a threat with their pace – Harris had already seen a shot narrowly wide, when from a great back post cross from Josh Jones, Symmons went close to opening the scoring.

Ellis Harris hit a couple of free kicks over the bar, from the edge of the area, as the visitors took a clean sheet into the interval.

With the elements at their backs, Lido were looking to start the second period on top. However, in the first minute of the half, a deep Llantwit cross found a man un-marked and he sent a shot across Wier into the net.

With worsening under foot conditions the league leaders now faced an increasingly difficult task, but they still looked threatening – the strikers certainly had more pace than the Llantwit defenders and with Conor Harris coming more and more into the game, all was not lost.

Lido still needed to be alert to breaks from the home side, but, Luke Evans was looking strong, Aled Northcott was continuing his great display of the first half and with Daniel O’Brien having a solid game, the visitors attacked at every opportunity.

On 55 minutes great through ball found Symmons through on goal and he finished well to level the scores.

Ellis Harris was looking threatening and namesake Conor was showing superb dribbling skills, in what were now atrocious conditions.

Ellis Harris made space for himself and looked to have given Lido the lead but his shot hit the inside of the post and rolled agonisingly across the goal to safety.

Ellis Harris went close again and after a mazy run and Conor Harris saw an effort blocked, as the home side clung on. If there were any blades of grass left in midfield Nathan Doyle would have covered them

On 75mins,as a rare Llantwit attack earned them a corner, the heavens opened and what was looking like a difficult situation to defend, turned into a counter attack for Lido, which saw Symmons again through on goal and he finished coolly to give the visitors a deserved lead.

Though Lido pushed for a third, with Shaun Beddow seeing an effort blocked, the home side threw everything at them, but some strong defending, with Rhys Williams prominent kept Llantwit at bay.

Wier blocked an effort as Lido saw out the remaining minutes to earn three deserved and hard fought for points.

Full credit to the lads – a great team effort from a depleted squad, they battled the elements and a physical home side. Some players were asked to play out of position, but everyone gave 100% -  the result speaks for itself.

Match report by David Northcott

Lido were looking to put the lack lustre performance of last week, at Bryntirion, behind them, as they met Troed-y-Rhiw for a place in the South Wales FA Cup Final.

Lido : Edward Wier, Josh Jones, Aled Northcott (Matthew Beynon), Daniel O’Brien, Luke James, Niall Lewis (Shaun Beddow), Nathan Doyle, James McEvoy, Conor Harris (Rhys Williams), Daniel Symmons, Ellis Harris. Subs (not used) : Remi Whitlock, Sam Nolan.

In perfect conditions, Lido immediately took the upper hand. The visitors were looking shaky at the back and were under pressure from the outset. Niall Lewis had already seen his free kick blocked by the defensive wall, when after 10 minutes, from another spell of pressure, from the home side, hesitant defending saw Ellis Harris claim the opening goal.

Lido continued to press, a Conor Harris free kick clipped the crossbar. The Troed defence was finding the pace of Daniel Symmons and Ellis Harris difficult to handle and Lido got the second goal their early enterprise merited when, from a left wing cross, Ellis Harris controlled the ball well, with his back to goal and hit a volley on the turn which gave the keeper no chance.

The home side went in search of a third and forced a succession of corners, the visiting keeper did well to turn one on to his bar and Lewis had an effort well saved from another.

Lido added to their lead when the pace of their attack again posed problems for the visitors. Ellis Harris broke on the right and sent in a cross which evaded everyone, however when the ball was retrieved a back post cross saw Harris following up to send a looping header over the keeper into the net. This saw the home side take a three goal advantage into the break, courtesy of a hat-trick from the striker.

The second period started much the same as the first had ended, Lido were looking the stronger side. But, with a strengthening wind at their backs, the visitors gradually crept back into the game and from some neat inter-play on the edge of the Lido area, snatched a goal back with a cleanly hit shot. This seemed to spark Troed into action and the game became a far more even affair.

Troed went man-on-man at the back and pressed hard. Lido were forced to play on the break and thought they had put the tie to bed, when a Symmons shot hit the net, only for the striker to be denied by an offside flag.

Though under pressure the home side seemed to be handling everything the visitors threw at them, but, in the final minute of normal time, they failed to deal with a cross and a header beat Edward Wier in the Lido goal to give Troed hope of sending the game into extra time.

Four minutes of stoppage time failed to produce an equaliser and perhaps not as comfortably as they’d expected at the interval, Lido progressed to the final.

Match report by David Northcott

Having defeated their hosts by a single goal, in their last outing, Lido travelled to Bryntirion expecting a tough game.

Lido – Edward Wier, Daniel O’Brien, Aled Northcott, Darren Franks, Conor Harris (Josh Jones), Niall Lewis, Nathan Doyle (Rhys Williams), James McEvoy, Sam Nolan, Matthew Beynon, Ellis Harris

Given the recent spell of fine weather, it was surprising that the pitch was very muddy, coupled with left to right and end to end slopes and a strong wind, hardly ideal conditions for the Lido to show the brand of football which has cemented their position as league leaders.

Early exchanges were even, forceful running from Ellis Harris saw him have the first effort on goal, the keeper kept his effort out, but the rebound fell to Matthew Beynon, who somehow managed to direct his strike straight at the keeper.

Lido went behind, almost immediately, Edward Wier, in the Lido goal was guilty of dwelling on a back pass and he was robbed of the ball, gifting the home side the lead.

On 10 minutes, Lido conceded a second, doubling the total of league goals in their against column for the whole season. A clearance was charged down and when the ball looped into the area, it was a home attacker who beat Wier to the ball, putting Bryntirion two ahead.

It was going to be a real test of character, but the visitors got the reply they needed, when Nathan Doyle found Niall Lewis who was brought down inside the area. Matthew Beynon scoring from the spot.

Before the re-start, Bryntirion were reduced to 10 men when a defender complained too vigorously for the ref’s liking and saw the red card.

Lido were now pressing hard for an equaliser and it soon came. From a free kick, the home side defended too deeply and an un-marked Daniel O’Brien floated a perfect cross into the area, where a Beynon header found the net. 

Looking to hold out to half time, Lido had a scare in injury time when Bryntirion were awarded a, perhaps harsh, penalty. Justice prevailed as the spot kick was struck against the post.

Lido went into the second period looking for the win, but with the wind seeming to change direction and the heavy field taking its toll on weary legs, a number of players had played in the morning and some the previous day too, it was the home side who looked the more lively, even if they didn’t really test Wier in the Lido goal throughout the second period.

Ellis Harris saw a chance saved, as was a long distance strike from James McEvoy. Goal mouth scrambles could have resulted in goals for Beynon and Sam Nolan, but the game ended 2-2, perhaps a fair result.

Though losing their 100% record, Lido remain unbeaten and by not losing to one of their nearest challengers, have effectively put Bryntirion out of the title race

Match report by David Northcott

Lido were looking to maintain their 100% record but were anticipating a stern test, against a Bryntirion side which hadn’t lost since the opening day of their season.

Lido : Edward Wier, Josh Jones (Shaun Jones), Aled Northcott, Matthew Beynon, Daniel O’Brien, Niall Lewis, Nathan Doyle, James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Alex Cook (Daniel Symmons), Ellis Harris

Lido started well and forced a number of early corners, which came to nothing. After 10 mins. Ellis Harris & Alex Cook combined well  - a ball from Cook found his strike partner in the area and under pressure from the defence Harris hit a shot against the bar, the ball fell to Cook, but his shot was blocked.

The visitors gradually came more into the game, chasing and harrying their hosts at every opportunity – this seemed to upset the rhythm of Lido and though limited to shots from distance Bryntirion edged the opening period. As the home side left the field at the break they were anticipating an ear-bashing in the confines of the changing rooms. 

Whatever took place at the interval seemed to do the trick. The home side seemed more up for the challenge.

Daniel Symmons was introduced on the hour and he soon went close to opening the scoring. James McEvoy was putting in his usual industrious performance in the Lido midfield and he was unfortunate to see a vicious cross shot strike a post.

As time went on, it looked more likely that a single goal was going to win the game. Matt Beynon, Aled Northcott & Daniel O’Brien were looking strong in the Lido rear-guard and though wary of a break from the visitors, the home side were dominating. However, when a strong header, from a Niall Lewis cross, by Ellis Harris rattled the bar, it looked more and more likely that the breakthrough wouldn’t come.

With 5 mins. remaining Lido were awarded a free kick on the right, the visitors failed to deal with it and an Ellis Harris shot was saved, the ball fell to Northcott and his effort was again saved but the keeper could only parry the ball back to the Lido centre half who poked the ball into the corner of the net, for his first goal of the season.

There was still time for Ellis Harris to find the keeper when well placed in front of goal, but Lido settled for a single goal victory.

Match report by David Northcott

In spite of heavy rain the previous day, the Lido pitch was in great condition as the league leaders hosted Llantwit Major

Lido – Edward Wier, Josh Jones, Aled Northcott, Daniel O’Brien (Matthew Beynon), Conor Harris, Niall Lewis (Rhys Williams), Nathan Doyle, James McEvoy, Sam Nolan, Daniel Symmons (Alex Cook), Ellis Harris

The visitors were late arriving but certainly showed no ill effects, as their performance in the opening minutes belied their lowly league position.

After weathering early pressure Lido came more into the game and created chances for strikers Daniel Symmons and Ellis Harris, but it wasn’t until the 20^th minute that they managed to break the deadlock when, from a quickly taken corner, Ellis Harris sent a deft flick past the keeper into the net.

Llantwit continued to cause the home defence problems but defensively they were struggling to cope with the slick football the home side were playing – the second goal wasn’t long in coming, Symmons sweetly converting from a left wing cross.

With their resolve visibly disappearing, the visiting defence were getting over-run,. Symmons scored two more to complete a first half hat-trick and strike partner Ellis Harris added another – taking the home side into half time with a commanding lead

The one-way traffic continued after the break, Ellis Harris completing a second hat-trick in successive games. James McEvoy broke the monopoly the strikers were having on the scoring with a crisp finish his energetic display deserved.

Ellis Harris and Symmons both scored a fourth goal each, before Sam Nolan completed the scoring taking the Lido tally into double figures.

When the referee blew the final whistle, the opening minutes, when Lido were under pressure, seemed a long way off.

An emphatic performance built on a solid defence which once again kept a clean sheet (against a Llantwit side that had consistently been scoring goals against the better sides in the league) and a creative midfield, providing chance for a strike-force who’s confidence must be sky high.

Match report by David Northcott

Lido Side:
Edward Wier, Josh Jones, Aled Northcott, Daniel O’Brien, Nathan Doyle, Niall Lewis, James McEvoy, Rhys Williams, Conor Harris, Daniel Symmons, Ellis Harris.

Lido started brightly, but were frustrated by stubborn Cwmavon defending. After missed chances from James McEvoy and an Ellis Harris shot hitting the bar, Lido took the lead in the 15th minute, when Ellis Harris cut in from the right, beat his marker and slid a shot across the keeper into the corner of the net.

The narrowness of the pitch was restricting Lido as they went in search of a second. Cwmavon weren’t really threatening, but it was from one of their rare attacks, that Lido broke and were awarded a penalty as a defender handled a cross shot. Ellis Harris stepped up and sent the keeper the wrong way to double the Lido lead.

With the comfort of a two goal advantage lido continued to dominate, but the home defence held strong to restrict the visitors to 2-0 at the break.

The second half was one-way traffic, Conor Harris was combining well with namesake Ellis and they linked well for the latter to complete his hat-trick in scoring Lido ’s third.

Niall Lewis was coming into the game more and completed a fine passage of play with a 4^th goal for the Lido .

Conor Harris superbly slid in to convert a Lewis cross for a 5^th and Ellis Harris completed a fine personal performance with two more to round off an emphatic 7-0 victory.

The league leaders now face a tough trip to Bridgend next Sunday

Match report by David Northcott

Lido took a break from their league campaign to entertain Pentyrch is the quarter final of the cup.

Lido – Edward Wier, Sam Nolan, Daniel O’Brien (Aled Northcott), Matthew Beynon, Remi Whitlock, Niall Lewis, Nathan Doyle, James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Daniel Symmons (Rhys Williams), Shaun Beddow.

When the teams took the pitch, it was evident that the home side were going to face a physical challenge – at least six of the Pentyrch side were taller than Lido ’s biggest man.

The opening encounters were intense and though Daniel Symmons had an effort saved after two mins, it was the visitors who had all the early pressure.

Edward Wier foiled a one-on-one with a good save but Pentyrch continued to press and deservedly went in front, when, from a throw in, the ball was flicked-on into the area and a powerful finish gave the keeper no chance.

It was certainly looking like Lido ’s biggest challenge of the season so far and they struggled to get their passing game going.

However, as the half wore on the home side gradually crept back into the game, though limited to long shots from Conor Harris and James McEvoy and a succession of poorly executed corners.

They did get an equaliser, when Daniel Symmons raced in on a cross from the left and did well to direct a header past the keeper.

The goal seemed to give the home side a boost and have the opposite effect on the visitors. As half time approached the tie was still in the balance, but two goals in as many minutes gave Lido the upper hand.

A long goal kick to the right wing cleared the defence and Niall Lewis was quickest to react, cutting into the area, the keeper could only push his cross into the path of Harris and he finished coolly.

Almost immediately Lido scored again Symmons showed great composure to control in the area and cross to Harris and he slotted home the third.

Lido didn’t want half time to arrive as the best move of the half saw McEvoy hit a 20 yard shot against the post.

The second half began with Lido looking at a period of consolidation and this they managed, for 10 minutes, but they looked to have let Pentyrch back into the game, when, from a speculative ball into the area a defensive mix up ended with Wier bringing down the visiting centre forward and the referee awarding a penalty.

Wier’s blushes were saved however when the spot kick was hit well wide of the target.

Far from sitting on their lead Lido , perhaps un-wisely pushed forward at every opportunity, sometimes leaving themselves exposed to counter attacks from Pentyrch.

The home defence was holding strong and Harris almost scored again when he just failed to direct a cross home.

Another slick passing movement saw McEvoy through on goal and he was crudely hacked down, the defender getting an inevitable red card which effectively ended any chance of Pentyrch getting back into the game.

Lido saw out the remainder of the match comfortably and now look forward to a semi-final in the new year.

Match report by David Northcott

With bright sunshine melting a heavy morning frost, Lido hosted a Cardiff Draconians side which had given the table toppers a stern test on their visit to the capital in September.

With Edward Wier at a christening Rory McCreesh came in at keeper and Daniel Symmonds was give his first start of the season replacing the suspended Ellis Harris.

Lido – Rory McCreesh, Josh Jones, Aled Northcott (Remi Whitlock), Matthew Beynon, Daniel O’Brien, Niall Lewis, Nathan Doyle, James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Shaun Beddow (Sam Nolan) Daniel Symmonds.

The home side immediately took the upper hand, with wingers Niall Lewis and Conor Harris getting plenty of early possession and on 6 minutes it was from a Harris cross that they took the lead when a brave header from Daniel Symmonds found the corner of the net.

Though Lido looked the stronger outfit, the visitors defence held strong and on the break they put the home defence under some pressure, without really testing goalkeeper McCreesh.

Symmonds, Harris and James McEvoy all had efforts blocked, before on 20 minutes, McEvoy drilled in a low shot from the edge of the area, the keeper seemed to have it covered, but Xmas came early for the Lido midfielder as the Cardiff stopper let the ball through his hands and legs into the net.

The Lido defence was still coping well with the pacy Draconians strikers and from this solid platform the home side continued to control the game.

On 40 mins Shaun Beddow effectively wrapped the game up for Lido when he reacted quickest to poke a loose ball home – sending the league leaders into the break with a comfortable 3-0 advantage.

The second period started much as the first had ended, Beddow created a chance for himself which the Cardiff keeper tipped over the bar and Harris screwed a short wide, before, on the hour, a defence splitting ball put Symmonds through on goal and a composed finish gave him his second of the game and Lido a 4-0 lead.

With the job done, Lido were guilty of over confidence and the visitors enjoyed their best period of the game. McCreesh had already been at full stretch turning an effort round his post and Aled Northcott had cleared another off the line, when on 70 mins from a well taken free kick Draconians secured a consolation.

Without finding top gear, Lido were still threatening and Harris somehow managed to steer a great chance wide of an open goal 

Symmonds continued to look a threat and was in search of a hat-trick, however his best effort was saved by the keeper and when the ball was returned into the danger zone Sam Nolan was at the back post to poach Lido ’s 5^th.

The game ended with the hosts comprehensive winners, against a side which themselves will be looking for a top six finish, underlining the strength of a squad which is looking like mounting a serious challenge for the league title. A superb effort considering 8 of the starting 11 were playing under 16’s football last season.

Match report by David Northcott

With the Maesteg side having defeated Lido’s local rivals Port Talbot in convincing fashion this fixture was looked upon as a major threat to Lido ’s 100% record

Lido – Edward Wier, Josh Jones (Andrew Collins), Aled Northcott, Matthew Beynon, Daniel O’Brien, Niall Lewis, James McEvoy, Nathan Doyle, Conor Harris (Ellis Harris), Shaun Beddow, Sam Nolan (Rhys Williams) sub not used – Daniel Symmonds

With a strong wind blowing across the pitch, the majority of play was on the Lido left and with Conor Harris and Sam Nolan combining well, the home side immediately took the upper hand.

An excellent cross from the wing found a trademark run from James McEvoy but uncharacteristically he put his header wide. Shaun Beddow failed to make the most of a loose ball in the area and though pressing, Lido were finding an opening goal elusive.

The opener did arrive when after 15 minutes Lido were awarded a free kick in midfield, Conor Harris chipped the ball into the area, hesitant defending allowed Matthew Beynon to poke the ball home giving Lido the lead.

The home side soon extended their lead when Niall Lewis floated a free kick into the area and Beynon powered a header into the roof of the net.

It was no more than Lido deserved and they continued to dominate – taking the two goal advantage into the break.

The second half started with the Maesteg side looking determined to mount a challenge, however they made little headway and with play concentrated, this time on the Lido right, Lewis was finding acres of space and giving his marker a torrid time, the pressure told, when, on 55 minutes, Beynon completed his hat-trick when he superbly bent a shot around the keeper with the outside of his right foot.

With the game effectively over Lido were looking to finish in style – Lewis and Beddow both saw efforts hit the bar, but it wasn’t until late on that Beynon was again on the scoresheet with a neat finish from a back post Lewis cross.

There was still time for Ellis Harris to become the third Lido player to strike the visitors bar as the home side saw out the remaining minutes comfortably.

On the surface the game may appear to be The Matthew Beynon Show, but this would undermine a thoroughly professional team display in the demolition of the visitors. Solid defending and creative midfield play is becoming a hallmark of the side’s play, as they look forward to hosting bottom side Cwmavon at home this Thursday (7pm)

Match report by David Northcott

Lido travelled with confidence, in search of their first ‘double’ of the season, having previously defeated Pontardawe 2 – 0 in the opening league fixture of the campaign

Lido – Edward Wier, Josh Jones (Rhys Williams), Aled Northcott (Remi Whitlock), Daniel O’Brien, Matthew Beynon, Niall Lewis, Nathan Doyle (Shaun Beddow), James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Ellis Harris, Sam Nolan.

Pitch conditions at Pontardawe left a lot to be desired, the already muddy surface didn’t benefit from having a junior game played on it earlier the same day and it certainly wasn’t going to suit the free flowing  football lido have been producing this season.

With many players struggling to keep their footing the game started scrappily, but Lido were clearly the better side and they held the edge in the opening exchanges.

After 15 mins an excellent Niall Lewis cross found Conor Harris un-marked at the back post, but he sent his header wide.

Lido continued to dominate and after 20 mins, when a long ball found Ellis Harris, on the edge of the Pontardawe area, he turned his marker and shot over the keeper into the top corner of the net, giving Lido the lead.

It continued to be one-way traffic and after Josh Jones made in-roads and had a shot charged down, the ball fell to Nathan Doyle and his crisp shot gave the keeper no chance and put Lido 2 – 0 ahead.

Unfortunately, on the half hour Lido were reduced to 10 men when Ellis Harris was dismissed in an off the ball incident.

Pontardawe struggled to make an impression on the game, even with their numerical advantage and Lido went into the break looking comfortable.

Throughout the second period Lido continued to dominate, defying the fact that they were a man short.

James McEvoy was denied in a one-on-one situation and also had a header disallowed for offside.

Shaun Beddow struck the crossbar with a well worked effort and Conor Harris who by now had slotted in at left back looked particularly dangerous and had a couple of long range efforts blocked..

Edward Wier in the Lido goal wasn’t troubled throughout and it wasn’t until the 80^th minute that the hosts mustered an effort on goal – and that was high over the bar.

Lido ended as comfortable victors and their creditable performance defied the conditions and some curious refereeing decisions.

Match report by David Northcott

Something had to give when the 2^nd round of the Cup pitched together unbeaten Lido & Grangetown.

With new keeper Edward Wier nursing a groin injury Matthew Beynon was again handed the green jersey

Lido : Matthew Beynon, Josh Jones, Aled Northcott, Daniel O’Brien, Niall Lewis (Shaun Jones), James McEvoy, Nathan Doyle (Rhys Williams), Sam Nolan, Ellis Harris, Shaun Beddow.

From the outset, the pace of the game was quicker than anything experienced so far this season, this seemed to suit the home side and with slick passing and good movement they immediately put the Grangetown defence under pressure.

Two golden opportunities had already been wasted, when, after 10 minutes, Shaun Bedow received the ball from a throw-in, turned his marker and was brought down, inside the box. Ellis Harris took responsibility for the spot kick and showed great composure to convert after having to re-take the kick due to encroachment.

Lido continued to press and it was no surprise when they doubled their advantage, Ellis Harris forcing the ball home from close range after good work from Niall Lewis on the right.

The home side’s third wasn’t long in coming, Ellis Harris picked out a superb run from James McEvoy, the midfielder controlled well and slotted the ball into the corner of the net.

With a 3-0 advantage Lido took their foot off the gas and after a Grangetown attack was only partially cleared, a volley from the edge of the area gave Beynon no chance and opened the Cardiff side’s account.

This seemed to spur the visitors and when Lido weren’t alert enough, at a short corner, Beynon was beaten at his near post and Grangetown were back in the tie.

Lido took a 3-2 advantage into the break and it was clear that the next goal was going to be crucial.

A shot from Ellis Harris hit the woodwork early in second period and with the Lido defence holding strong, they restored their two goal advantage, when from a quickly taken free kick, McEvoy surged into the area and converted his second of the game.

The visitors were visibly deflated and they offered little threat to Beynon’s goal. The home side could have increased their lead, but McEvoy, looking to complete a hat-trick, saw his shot hit the post.

Lido saw out the remainder of the game comfortably and now look forward to resuming their league campaign with a difficult looking trip to Ely next Sunday.

Match report by David Northcott

Lido travelled to Dinas Powys for a cup tie. The problem position of goalkeeper looks to have been sorted, with the signing of former Corus stopper Edward Wier

Lido – Edward Wier, Josh Jones, Aled Northcott, Matthew Beynon, Daniel O’Brien, Niall Lewis (Shaun Jones), James McEvoy, Nathan Doyle (Andrew Collins) , Sam Nolan, Shaun Beddow, Ellis Harris

The game kicked off in bright sunshine and Lido immediately took the upper hand. Making use of the large playing surface, they spread the ball well and put the home side under pressure.

With their midfield in control of the game, Lido had already squandered a number of chances when, with ten minutes gone, Ellis Harris cut in from the left beat his marker and broke into the area, instead of shooting, he un-selfishly squared a perfect pass for Shaun Beddow to side foot into an empty net.

Lido were running their hosts ragged and when after some great build-up play James McEvoy sprayed a perfect pass to the right, where Niall Lewis picked out McEvoy, who had continued his run and a well placed header, from the energetic midfielder, doubled the Lido lead, inside the quarter hour.

Lido continued to dominate possession for the remainder of the half and on the stroke of half time Niall Lewis picked up possession in the centre of the park, beat a couple of defenders and hit a left foot shot across the keeper and into the corner of the net. Putting Lido 3-0 up at the interval

With un-relenting temperatures and a large pitch, energy levels seemed to dip in the second half and though Lido keeper Wier had to abandon the sun lounger he’d enjoyed in the first period, the visitors didn’t look like surrendering their deserved advantage.

The home side did press more, but Lido also had further chances and close range shots from Harris and McEvoy, together with a back post header from Beddow, could easily have increased their advantage.

The cup tie, well controlled by an impressive referee, finished with the visitors progressing comfortably into the next round, maintaining their 100% record for the season.

Match report by David Northcott

Oct 05

Lido: Rory McCreesh, Josh Jones, Matthew Beynon, Daniel O’Brien, Remi Whitlock (Aled Northcott), Niall Lewis, Nathan Doyle, James McEvoy, Sam Nolan, Ellis Harris (Chris Petty), Shaun Beddow (Shane Cowell) 

Initial exchanges were quite even, but Lido soon took the upper hand. Chances had already fallen to Shaun Beddow and Ellis Harris before Harris cut into the area from the left and beat a defender who lunged in desperation and only succeeded in tripping the striker as he prepared to shoot. The penalty decision was an easy one for the referee and from the spot, Matthew Beynon sent the keeper the wrong way to put the Lido ahead. 

Soon afterwards, Lido extended their lead. Niall Lewis picked up the ball in midfield and due to intelligent off the ball running from team-mates, was able to progress into the penalty area, where he coolly slotted the ball past the keeper.    Lido were dominating and scored a third before the half-hour when an un-marked Beynon met a Remi Whitlock corner with a well placed header. 

Lido went into the break with a deserved lead and any fears of a  Porthcawl recovery were dispelled when, in the first minute of the second period, a defence splitting pass put Beddow one-on-one with the keeper and a crisp finish gave the home side a 4-0 lead. Porthcawl were looking a beaten side and when James McEvoy was fouled inside the area Beynon slotted his second penalty to complete his hat-trick and put Lido 5-0 ahead. 

The rout was completed mid-way through the half when McEvoy powered in a header from a Lewis corner The blend of last years 16’s and some more experienced players is proving a successful recipe as Lido maintain their impressive start to the season. Confidence is high as they head for their next game, a cup tie at Dinas Powys this coming Sunday.

Match report by David Northcott

The old saying “a difficult place to go” proved to be the case, even before the game started, when Wayne Harris (Ellis’s dad) took the opportunity, un-intentionally, to show-off his new car to every suburb of the Capital – resulting in almost half the squad not arriving until 15 mins. before kick off.

For the first away trip of the season, Lido coach, Francis Doyle, was able to include the experienced duo, Matthew Beynon and Rory McCreesh (the 3^rd keeper used in 3 games)

Lido Team
Rory McCreesh, Matthew Beynon, Aled Northcott (Josh Jones), Daniel O’Brien, Remi Whitlock (Nathan Doyle), Shaun Jones, Sam Nolan, James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Shaun Beddow, Ellis Harris

Given their dis-jointed build up to the game it was a little surprising that Lido immediately took the upper hand and neat attacking football forced the Draconians keeper into 3 superb saves within the opening 10 minutes.

The Cardiff side were limited to playing on the break and looked to have taken the lead when their striker rounded McCreesh and shot accurately towards an open net, however Aled Northcott appeared from nowhere to clear off the line.

The first period continued in much the same vein, Ellis Harris and Shaun Beddow were causing the Draconians defence problems and a strike from Ellis Harris was again turned around the post by the home keeper

At the other end, from another breakout, a Draconians shot hit the post.

Mid-way through the first half Lido were only able to partially clear a long throw and a cleanly hit shot gave the Cardiff side the lead.

Though the Lido continued to press, Ellis Harris had another shot saved and Matthew Beynon hit the bar, the half closed with the home side holding, a perhaps undeserved, 1-0 lead.

The game was turned upside down in the opening 15 mins of the second half.

From the first attack of the half, Ellis Harris blocked a clearance and the ball fell to Shaun Beddow who coolly finished bringing the visitors level.

Almost immediately, from the re-start, Ellis Harris controlled a clearance, close to the touchline, beat his marker and cut into the area, where he was up-ended, giving the referee the simplest of decisions in awarding a penalty.

There followed a very un-savoury spiting incident, un-seen by the referee, when the Cardiff keeper went from “hero to zero”.

After a delay Beynon stepped up and despatched the penalty, giving Lido the lead for the first time.

Lido held their composure well and soon increased the lead when, from a Remi Whitlock free kick Beynon sent a looping header over the home keeper and into the net.

Facing a two goal deficit the home side didn’t really seem up for the challenge and the last half hour passed without incident and Lido comfortably secured their 3^rd win of the season.

Match report by David Northcott

In perfect conditions, for cricket!! Lido hosted Bridgend Town .

Lido made a number of changes from last weeks impressive display against Pontardawe. With Aled Northcott struggling with a hamstring injury, Andrew Collins, who has just recovered from a broken arm himself, came in at centre half, Sam Nolan replaced Shaun Jones in midfield and with the search for a regular keeper on-going, Matthew Beynon donned the green jersey.

Early exchanges were even with both midfields cancelling each other out, however as the first half progressed Lido began to shade things and after good work by Remi Whitlock, Conor Harris beat his marker and sent in a teasing cross, which the Bridgend keeper could only spill to Ellis Harris, who controlled well and found an empty net to give Lido the lead, which they took into the break.

The second period was a similar affair, Lido getting slightly the better of things in midfield, but on the whole defences were on top.

With Sam Nolan providing right wing trickery, Lido looked like they could add to their lead and from a typically skilful run Nolan forced the visiting keeper into a rare save. However, midway through the half, Conor Harris was sent off for retaliation and this upset the rhythm of the home side’s play.

A noticeably tiring Bridgend team were unable to make their numerical advantage count and Lido coped comfortably with everything the visitors could muster – Daniel O’Brien again putting in an impressive performance at the heart of the defence. Matthew Beynon punched confidently from a couple of corners, but wasn’t really troubled throughout and Lido saw out the remaining minutes to record their second victory and clean sheet, maintaining their 100% start to the season

Lido: Matthew Beynon, Josh Jones, Andrew Collins, Daniel O’Brien, Remi Whitlock, Sam Nolan, Nathan Doyle (Shaun Jones), James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Ellis Harris (Niall Lewis), Shaun Beddow (Chris Petty)

subs not used : Jay Baker, Daniel Symmonds

Match report by David Northcott

Lido squad:
 Jordan Thomas, Josh Jones, Aled Northcott, Daniel O'Brien, Remi Whitlock, Shaun Jones, Nathan Doyle (Sam Nolan), James McEvoy, Conor Harris, Shaun Beddow (Michael Petty), Ellis Harris. Subs, not used Jay Baker, Niall Lewis, Rhys Williams.

Playing into a strong wind, it was the Lido who took the early initiative, playing neat football. It was no surprise when, from a perfect Conor Harris corner, a James McEvoy header gave the home side a well deserved lead and the busy midfielder a debut goal. 

The opener was soon followed by a second, when, from what appeared to be an over hit free kick from Remi Whitlock, the visiting keeper made a hash of his clearance and Shaun Beddow was on hand to find the corner of the net giving Lido the cushion their early dominance deserved. With Pontardawe seemingly unable to adapt to the wind at their backs, Lido went into the break with a two goal lead. 

The second period was a more even affair, though home keeper Jordan Thomas didn't really have a serious save to make due in no small part to strong defending from Aled Northcott, Daniel O'Brien and Josh Jones. The Pontardawe keeper atoned for his first half howler with some fine saves, one a particularly fine effort from an Ellis Harris strike. With Sam Nolan replacing the industrious Nathan Doyle and Michael Petty coming on for goal scorer Beddow a thoroughly entertaining game concluded with Lido claiming a well earned victory. 

In their first taste of football at this level, a definite step up in pace and quality, the Lido youngsters performed well enough to suggest that they can enjoy a successful season.

Match report by David Northcott

.