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 The Wingmakers - August 2009 Welsh Premier news

Stones makes final addition to his squad

Neath manager Andy Dyer insists that there is no pressure on him at the Gnoll.

With several high-reputation signings, and a large-scale reshaping at the club, few expected the Eagles to be winless after three league games, and with the investment in the side, Dyer was asked by Afan FM after the 1-1 draw with Newtown whether or not he feels any pressure: ”No, not at all,” he said, before asking where pressure could be coming from.

Dyer also made it clear that external expectations will not play a part in his plans for the rest of the season: “We've got our own targets, and our own aims, and I'm quite happy with everything that's going on. We haven't stuck the ball away and that's frustrating, but that's football.”

The Neath squad has 13 players in their first season with the club, amongst them Football League veterans Chris Llewellyn and Anthony Williams who have joined a trio of Merthyr players, Ashley Evans, Matt Harris and Craig Steins, the latter of whom is scoreless after four appearances in a Neath shirt. The Neath manager, whilst stating that Steins looked sharper, also challenged his long-term talisman Andy Hill a chance to force his way into the team. “Whether or not he (Hill) starts the next game depends on how he does in training. To be fair to Craig, he kept the ball alive for the first goal.”

Neath have the opportunity to gain 12 points in September with trips to Porthmadog and Elements Cefn Druids and home games against Bala and Caersws. After this month, and with the prospect of facing last seasons' top three in October, September will be a crucial month for Andy Dyer.

Afan FM release

Stones makes final addition to his squad

Rhyl have made their second deadline day signing after ex Chester City midfielder, Paul Smith, put pen to paper late on Monday afternoon. An energetic and highly regarded player, who was recommended to Rhyl by former player Simon Davies, Smith is the final addition to Manger Greg Strong's squad and could feature in the Loosemores Cup tie against Prestatyn tomorrow evening.

International clearance for Goalkeeper James Coates has also been received and he will also be available for selection.

Official Rhyl website

Ex Gretna striker joins Rhyl

A FORMER Scottish Premier League striker has joined Rhyl today.
Nathan Taylor, 19, joins the Lilywhites from amateur club Rochdale Town, having been recommended to Rhyl manager Greg Strong by a footballing contact from that area.

Taylor was signed by Hamilton Academicals from Rochdale in 2006. He made his debut for Hamilton in January 2007 against Livingston in the Scottish Cup, but was released in July of that year.
After Hamilton, Taylor emerged at Scottish Premier League club Gretna.

He made his debut for the side against Aberdeen in March 2008, after many of the club's senior players resigned following the Weddingmakers entering administration.
In May 2008, Taylor was part of the remaining 40 staff members who were released by Gretna, having made six first team appearances for the club.

The promising front man has also had a short spell with Celtic.
Taylor has signed initially on a non contract basis and could be involved in tomorrow night's Loosemores Cup tie against Prestatyn.

Dave Jones Lilywhites online

Druids boss takes heart from Bangor defeat

BASEMENT side Elements Cefn Druids are still seeking their first points following their 1-0 home loss to Bangor City.

Despite being undone by Jamie Reed’s 76th-minute header, Ancients joint boss Waynne Phillips took heart from the display.

“I questioned the lads after the defeat at Connah’s Quay the previous week but I couldn’t have asked for any more from them against Bangor,” he said.

“They gave 100% from one to 11 and more than matched a top four side in the league.

“The only disappointment was that we didn’t get anything from the game which I felt we deserved.”

His counterpart Neville Powell was happy to get the points but admitted it was a scrappy encounter.

“It looked like a 0-0, it was a game when the result was more important than the performance and we’ll move on,” he said.

The Druids had their chances with Gary Penlington bringing a fine close-range save from keeper Paul Smith, Josh Russell saw a volley blocked while late on Adam Hunter was denied a leveller.

The game’s decisive moment came on 76 minutes when Reed nodded in from close range after Peter Hoy’s long throw from the right had been flicked on.

In the first half Reed had a shot blocked while Chris Sharp headed wide for the visitors.

Daily Post

Barry Town apply for promotion to welsh premier

Barry Town Chairman Stuart Lovering has announced that the Club has applied for promotion to the Welsh Premier League. The Club submitted the forms with the required cheque last Thursday.

Barry Town are the most successful club in Welsh football having dominated the Welsh Premiership from the early 1980’s to 2003, participating in many memorable European encounters, most famously beating giants Porto 3-1 at Jenner Park in the European Champions League.

The Club went into Administration in 2003 almost £1million in debt and were on the point of going out of existence until Lovering appeared and bought the Club for £125,000. Difficult years followed with relegation to Division Two but an immediate bounce back under new Manager Gavin Chesterfield signalled a change of fortune. Barry finished third in Division One last season, and are currently seventh in Division One after five games.

Stuart Lovering

Hard work paying off for Prestatyn

HOTLY TIPPED as one of the teams likely to miss out on the Super 12 league next season, Prestatyn have made a flying start with six points from three matches.

Player-manger Neil Gibson believes work ethic is the key to confounding the pundits saying: “The lads are working really hard and the spirit is excellent.

“We’ve now had two good wins in a row. We have come a long way in a short time and we are determined not to undo all the hard work.”

Meanwhile, Aber boss Brian Coyne reflected on a surprise home loss. “We were very poor defensively and made schoolboy errors at the back,” he said.

“We have a number out with injuries at present, including Christian Edwards and Graham Evans and we will be okay when they come back.”

The visitors led through Alec Williams, who added the second after the break after Luke Sherbon had equalised from the spot. Andy Moran made it 3-1, Luke Bowen’s late header a mere consolation.

Western Mail

Rhyl new boy Kirk shows class in victory

IN winning the Welsh Premier title last season, Rhyl were defeated just twice, one of those losses in the corresponding fixture with Port Talbot.

There was never a chance of a repeat as the Lilywhites, despite recent concerns as to their financial viability and a mass exodus of players, look well capable of another title tilt.

It’s very much a case of quality rather than quantity at Belle Vue, clearly illustrated with the acquisition of Tyrone Kirk, signed this week on loan from Macclesfield Town.

Kirk made a magnificent debut and will terrorise many an apposition defence this season and Luke Holden, who is attracting big-club interest, is another player of immense skill.

He was widely-tipped to join Coventry City, but, although interest from that quarter appears to have cooled somewhat, Charlton Athletic are the latest on his trail after a week spent there on trial.

Rhyl’s player-manager Greg Strong was rightly delighted with his team’s latest triumph against one of the top tier’s rising clubs.

Western Mail

Newtown make loan signing of Wrexham striker

The Nigerian born striker has spent most of his life being raised in Liverpool, Obi is in his second year of  training with Wrexham. He is a regular scorer for the Youth team, scoring at a rate of better than one per game.

www.newtownafc.co.uk

Nomads unbeaten start comes to and end

Gap Connahs Quay 2 match unbeaten start came to an end with a bang at Stebonheath today. It was also Llanelli's first win in 3 games.

It all started go wrong as early as the 16' when Craig Moses put the home side 1-0 up. Four minutes later Rhys Griffiths made it on 2-0 on 20'.

Nomads held out until Llanelli went 3-0 up on 55' with Craig Moses getting his 2nd of the game, and 3' later Moses scored his hat-trick to put the match beyond the Nomads to make it 4-0 in under an hour.

Owain Warlow compounded a poor day for the Nomads by adding the Reds 5th goal on 75'.

Final score 5-0.

View league table

Doran signs for Rhyl

WELSH Premier League champions Rhyl have signed left-sided defender/midfielder Phil Doran from Witton Albion.

Doran, 20, is a former Blackpool youth who had a trial at Barrow before joining Caernarfon Town at the start of the 2007/08 season.

He made 31 appearances for the Canaries during that campaign, but he followed twin brother Peter and former boss Steve O'Shaughnessy to Gap Connah's Quay early in 2008/09.

Phil went on to make 26 starts for the Nomads last term, but this year left for Witton Albion.
Doran can operate in defence or midfield down the left and excels in dead-ball situations.
He did feature in a pre-season friendly for Rhyl at Colwyn Bay in July and has now become Greg Strong's third signing for the champions.

Dave Jones Lilywhites online

Lincoln takes the biscuit

NO doubt short of news for his usually excellent www.welsh-premier.com site, webmaster Andrew Lincoln has seen fit to publish a tirade of cheap diatribe about my Welsh Premier League column in yesterday's Daily Post.
In a shortish piece in the column, which focuses mainly on North Wales clubs, I praised the development of young talent at Bangor City and said it is a pity the situation is not as encouraging at many other clubs.
Although I didn't name any clubs where I feel youth development has been lacking, Mr Lincoln decided to claim it was a slight on the whole league which was not the case at all.
I fully appreciate the work going on at other clubs to nurture youth football, Porthmadog for one, whose successful academy I featured in the Herald on a few occasions last season. No doubt I will be mentioning them in my WPL column at some stage too.
But the facts remains some other clubs are not bringing through young players in the way Bangor are.
Mr Lincoln goes on to highlight the efforts being made at Newtown, Haverfordwest and (surprise surprise) TNS to give home-grown prospects their opportunity, but these clubs are not generally covered in any depth in the Daily Post which mainly focuses on North Wales, which was the target area for my article.
Mr Lincoln also displays a worrying lack of geographical knowledge when he states:
"Unfortunately, the writer's research powers seemed to end 10 miles outside the Post's core circulation area of Rhyl"
Well, for one thing, Rhyl wasn't mentioned at all in the article, indeed Rhyl is one of the clubs where, for whatever reason, very little local talent has emerged in recent times.
The article was entirely about Bangor which the last time I checked is a little more than 10 miles from Rhyl.
Anyone reading this who likes Andrew might want to buy him a road atlas or a compass for Christmas.
The bottom line is this article on www.welsh-premier.com is a personal attack on me rather than a genuine attempt to write an item of interest.
Mr Lincoln has been waiting for his opportunity since I labelled his site anti-Rhyl recently following his rant on the Lilywhites winning the League's Fair Play Award.
I believe a website covering a league should not show bias towards one club or another, whereas one would expect a club website to heavily lean towards that club.
If he saw this as his opportunity for "revenge" what a pity he didn't make more of his chance, instead getting the wrong end of the stick and stating inaccuracies.
Despite his obvious disrespect for my writing abilities, no doubt he will continue to crib items of news off Lilywhites Online for his site.
This should get you a few more hits for your site Andrew - but I doubt you'll be thanking me for it.

Dave Jones Lilywhites online

Bid to purchase Barry Town rejected

A FORMAL offer has been made to buy Barry Town FC, thought to be at the asking price of £195,000, but owner Stuart Lovering has turned it down.

Former ENTO Aberaman Athletic sponsor and manager Dai Morgan made the offer to buy Barry Town, although the deal meant payments would be spread over a number of years.

Morgan is one of two Welsh businessmen interested in buying Barry Town and the club remains up for sale.

There could well be developments over the next couple of weeks.

Manager Gavin Chesterfield is disappointed with his team’s start to the new MacWhirter Welsh League season. They have won one, drawn two and lost one so far and are at home to Taffs Well at Jenner Park today.

Former Cardiff City defender Damon Searle has moved on, making the switch from Barry to Welsh Premier League club Haverfordwest County.

Barry have also been rocked by injuries to central defenders Kurt Bettles, who suffered a broken arm, and Kirk Huggins, ruled out by a hamstring injury.

Centre-forward Zak Misbah is back with Barry, though, and that’s a big lift for the Jenner Park club.

Terry Phillips

Rhyl sign new keeper

RHYL have signed an experienced goalkeeper on loan 48 hours before the transfer deadline.
He is James Coates, who joins the Lilywhites from Conference North club Northwich Victoria.
Coates had signed for the Vics in July from fellow Conference North club Vauxhall Motors, for whom he was an ever present last season and was named Supporters Player of the Year.
Rhyl's new recruit is a former Mansfield Town stopper who was on the bench for the Stags play off final at the Millennium Stadium against Huddersfield Town in 2002.
He has won Welsh caps at under 17, 19 and 21 levels and has also had spells at Moor Green, Worcester City and Leigh RMI.
"He brings a lot of experience to the squad which will be vital in the months ahead," said Rhyl player manager Greg Strong.

Dave Jones Lilywhites online

Welsh premier round up

Rhyl  had a 2-0 home win over Port Talbot, Williams put Rhyl 1 up on 32' and Hunt gave them a 2 goal lead that was not cut back for Rhyl to take 2nd spot in the table, and inflict Port's 3 defeat in 28 games.

Aberystwyth suffered a 3-2 home defeat by Prestatyn, a Williams double in the 27 and 57 minutes and Andy Moran added their 3rd on 60 minutes, A Luke Sherbon penalty on 48' and a Bowen late consolation to make it 3-2 to the visitors.

Caersws gained their first win over the season which see's them move up to 9th in the table, quite a while since they were that high in the league, but a comprehensive 3-0 win over Welshpool with goals from Prosser (31) Melia (50) and Lewis (53) sealed all 3 points for the Bluebirds.

View league table

Rhyl don't fear anyone "Strong"

RHYL boss Greg Strong is hoping to have new man Tyrone Kirk in his line-up against Port Talbot at Belle Vue today.

The on-loan signing from Macclesfield has been hampered by administrative red-tape, chiefly on the English side of the process, but after days of trying to unscramble the tangle, player-manager Strong is confident it can be sorted in time.

Although still unbeaten, reigning champions Rhyl have not yet delivered the quality of performance Strong is looking for.

“Bringing in new faces at this stage is not easy with our limited budget and clubs unwilling to lose good players,” he said.

“It’s not a question of simply signing more people, they have to be of the calibre that meet our high standards.”

After improving on their 2-2 draw at Airbus last week with a 2-1 midweek victory in the Loosemores Cup return game at Broughton on Tuesday, Strong has named an otherwise unchanged squad to face the South Wales Steelmen.

He well remembers the 3-2 defeat Port Talbot inflicted on the Seasiders last season, making Mark Jones’ side one of only two to come away with three points from Belle Vue all season.

“They will be a difficult outfit to overcome again but as always our focus has to be on how we perform rather than worrying what our opponents can do,” he added.

“If we play as well as we know we can, then we can beat anyone in this league. We proved that last season and the challenge is on to show we can do so again.”

Daily Post

Round up tonight's WPL games.

Haverfordwest 2-1 Carmarthen Town
It has turned out to be a hat-trick of defeats for Carmarthen in the new season, tonight going down to west Wales rivals Haverfordwest. Jared Price put the home side ahead on 7' and Robbie waters doubled the lead on 43'.  Mark Pritchard got Carmarthen back in the game with a goal on 60'. Haverfordwest went on to win 2-1.
Attendance = 584

Neath 1-1 Newtown
Neath are looking for their first win of the season and they got off to a good start when Chris Llewellyn got the first goal of the night on 6'. Nicky Ward got Newtown on level terms with a equaliser on 62'. Neath are still looking for their first league win of the season.
Attendance = 212

Bala 0-0 Porth
Bala Town lost their 100% winning start to their first ever welsh premier league campaign when it finished all square at Bala against Porthmadog. Another excellent crow tonight for Bala with 633.
Attendance = 633

Elements Cefn Druids 0-1 Bangor City
Druids and Bangor played out a goalless first Half, and it wasn't until the 76' that the deadlock was broken, and it went the way of the visitors, when Jamie Reed put Bangor in front in the 76'. No  more goals and Bangor the victors.
Attendance = 252

View league table

Bangor City leading the way

THE steady flow of ex-Football League professionals into the Welsh Premier over the years has generally been of benefit, but nothing is quite as pleasurable as seeing the emergence of local young talent in our national league.

And nowhere is this more in evidence than at Bangor City – whose Academy is not only building the club’s future, it is also playing a major role in its present.

City’s team in Saturday’s 3-1 victory over Neath included the versatile 18-year-old Clive Williams at right-back.

Local lad Clive operated with all the assurance of a seasoned veteran in an unfamiliar position and hinted he can be a Bangor regular for many years to come.

How many other teens can say they have featured in a Welsh Cup final and a European tie?

Williams is not alone. There are several other young starlets poised to make the breakthrough at Farrar Road, not least John Owen (17), Matthew Sargent (19) and Caio Iwan (18) who have already made appearances for the first team.

What a pity many other clubs cannot develop a similar production line.

Dave Jones - Daily Post

Porthmadog looking to turn performances into wins

PORTHMADOG hope they can rush through a signing in time to play in tonight’s clash at Bala Town.

The defender is understood to have Welsh Premier experience and switched only recently to the Cymru Alliance.

Manager Tomi Morgan will have a full injury-free squad on standby otherwise, as Port target their first league win.

Morgan said: “We are looking forward to the challenge but Bala, having won their opening games with Bangor City and Newtown – and playing at home – will make it really difficult for us.

“After our first two league outings I was quite despondent about our prospects but the lads were far better in the League Cup at Gap Connah’s Quay on Tuesday, despite losing 3-2, and we are all upbeat again now.”

Bala Town will look to bounce back from their first defeat of the season tonight, writes John Bridgwater.

After three wins, Town slipped to a 2-1 home reverse to Welshpool in the Loosemores Cup in midweek.

Bala will be keen to make a swift riposte in tonight’s derby with experienced midfielder Ricky Evans stepping back after being rested in midweek.

Keeper Leon Bimpson returns along with Owain Roberts and Ross Jefferies, while striker John Toner has also declared himself fit.

Daily Post

Nomads boss happy with clubs start

MARK McGregor couldn’t be happier with the start he’s made to managerial life with Gap Connah’s Quay.

After four matches – two league games and two Challenge Cup ties – the Nomads remain undefeated with two draws and the same number of victories.

"To still be unbeaten after four games is a big plus and to be top of the Challenge Cup group puts us in a good position to make progress," said the player-boss.

"Everyone’s giving 110%. Little Jamie Petrie won some headers last night against their centre-half which he would never have been expected to do and that just shows the quality the players are trying to achieve, and the energy and work rate they are putting in."

The former Wrexham ace shuffled the pack slightly for the midweek cup clash, and now faces a selection headache for Sunday’s match at big-spending Llanelli (2.30pm).

"Everybody did well which puts me in a difficult position for the next game. The lads that came in did really well. I even played 16-year-old left-back Shaun Williams to see how he would cope, just in case we need him in future, and he also did well."

Stuart Cook is still struggling after missing the midweek game, but otherwise McGregor should have a full-strength squad to choose from against Llanelli.

Flintshire Chronicle

Welsh grassroots football given 5 star UEFA award

WELSH football has received a massive boost from Uefa after receiving a five-star rating from its scheme to develop grass roots football.

Following four-star success last summer, the Welsh Football Trust – charged by the FAW with grassroots football development in Wales – has helped the governing body to become recognised as one of the top proponents of grass roots football in Europe.

Wales has been awarded the prestigious five stars out of a maximum seven, after impressing a panel of Uefa assessors with its projects to promote youth, girls and disability football.

Only nine countries have achieved the rating since Uefa introduced the Charter in 2004.

And the Welsh Football Trust has been further encouraged after taking part in several Study Visits to fellow Uefa Grassroots Charter countries as well as acting as a host nation for the visits which serve to share best practice amongst member associations.

Welsh Football Trust chief executive Neil Ward said: “Uefa’s five-star recognition is a reflection of the huge strides being made in Welsh football.

“This recent upgrading of the FAW’s Uefa Grassroots Charter status reflects the success of Welsh Football Trust development programmes and the hard work and commitment of coaches and volunteers throughout the Country to quality coaching, improving facilities and ensuring that football can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their gender, age, ability or ethnic origin.”

Daily Post

Mark Jones turns down move to Aberystwyth

Young Port Talbot striker Mark Jones has turned down the approach from Aberystwyth to fight for his place at the GenQuip.

Aber had put a 7 day notice on the striker, but the club are delighted Jonah has decided to stay with the club, and they feel he has a big part to play with the club this season. 

TNS start cup defence with victory

WELSH PREMIER League Cup holders The New Saints made an excellent start to the defence of their trophy with an impressive 2-0 victory at Bangor City.

In their first group stage match, Saints went in front from Steve Abbot’s 34th-minute goal and Jamie Wood settled it with 20 minutes remaining.

Rhyl are up and running with a 2-1 triumph at Airbus UK, but they were made to toil by the Wingmakers, who levelled in the 62nd minute through Paul McManus.

But Lee Hunt’s 36th-minute opener and a 73rd-minute strike by Gareth Bowen dented the hosts’ prospects with only one point from two matches.

Bala Town suffered their first loss of the campaign, Max Peate’s double enough to secure Welshpool a 2-1 success. Jay Bell hit back with an 83rd-minute penalty.

There was stalemate at the Gnoll where Neath and Carmarthen Town drew 0-0 and Llanelli and Haverfordwest also had to settle for a point apiece.

Ross Jones netted for the Reds in the 29th minute, but youth debutant Steffan Williams (44) equalised to send the Bluebirds supporters home happy.

And, in a five-goal thriller at Connah’s Quay, the home side beat Porthmadog 3-2 with goals from Mark McGregor, Sam McNutt and Michael Hayes. Paul Roberts and Ryan Davies replied.

Western Mail

No pressure say's dogged Deryn

The Old Gold crashed to a 2-1 away defeat to reigning champions Rhyl on the opening day of the campaign before going down 2-0 at The New Saints last Saturday.

But Brace is impressed with how his side have performed against two of the Welsh top flight's front runners. He believes if they continue in the same vein, the rewards will come.

"It's strange because the performances have been acceptable — but it is the results that matter," said the Town boss.

"Results have been disappointing, but everything we've done in games so far has been pretty much spot- on. We've not been far away from taking something from both games.

"If we play as we have done against teams we expect to be round about us, we'll be in a good position.

"In the same fixtures last year we lost 3-0 and 8-0, so progress is being made.

"Now we've got to turn performances into points."

Carmarthen will have a chance to do that when they travel to Haverfordwest this weekend.

The local derby represents another test in a tricky start for Town, who have to play their opening fixtures away from Richmond Park while the clubhouse is being developed.

Haverfordwest lost 3-0 to Prestatyn last Saturday, not that Brace was reading too much into that result.

"They had a mad 15 or 20 minutes (against Prestatyn), but they've got a fairly strong home record," said Brace, who may have Craig Hughes available if he recovers from a heel injury.

"It's going to be tough, but this season we expect tough encounters every week because of the people clubs have signed.

Evening Post

Legg feeling no pressure despite Red's winless start

The Reds entertain Connah's Quay at Stebonheath Park on Sunday, looking for a first victory after consecutive league draws against Airbus UK and Port Talbot Town.

The season may barely have begun, but there is already flack flying from some Llanelli supporters, who have questioned Legg's leadership.

But the former Swansea City and Cardiff City defender insists he is unconcerned by fan criticism.

"Someone said there's pressure on me. There's no pressure on me — I've fought cancer," said Legg Nicholas did a fabulous job here and he didn't please everyone.

"I went to Cardiff, and I had 20,000 hating me, so one or two now doesn't bother me.

"You've got to roll your sleeves up, get on with it and get the wins that will give them a kick in the teeth."

Michael Howard and Rory Smithan may return from injury to take on Connah's Quay, but the game is likely to come too soon for Lee Jarman to feature.

Chris Holloway (illness) and Steve Jenkins (ribs) are also doubts, despite playing through the pain barrier against the Steelmen.

Chris Venables will return from suspension, while Legg has also completed a ban after being sent off against Airbus, but admits he may not recall himself to the side after the impressive performance of youngster Ryan Batley.

"Sunday is a very important game. It's vital we get a decent result and performance," said the Reds boss.

Evening Post

Former Steelman Bond given licence to thrill

THREE years ago the best hope Chad Bond had of gracing the Liberty Stadium appeared to rest with cutting the grass there.

Released by Swansea City courtesy of a three-minute conversation with former boss Kenny Jackett, the heartbroken Bond landed a council job on lawnmower duties.

Like so many youngsters before him, his lifelong dream to play professional football seemed dead and a ‘civilian’ career beckoned.

But Roberto Martinez handed him a second chance and, via a circuitous route taking in Port Talbot Town, CF Balaguer (Spain) and Ostersunds (Sweden), the Neath product has finally made the first-team at Swansea.

Nearly four years on from a fleeting substitute appearance in a Football League Trophy defeat of Rushden, Bond was back for a first league outing in Saturday’s vital 1-0 Championship victory at Coventry.

Bond’s progress had been slowed by knee injuries, but he had a stroke of luck when former Swans captain Martinez succeeded Jackett in 2007.

Martinez remembered the young midfielder and offered him a trial in a pre-season friendly against Scottish club Hamilton Academicals.

Bond came off the bench to score twice and was handed a one-year deal before returning to Port Talbot on loan.

Further temporary spells followed at Martinez’s hometown team Balaguer and Ostersunds as Bond showed his determination to make the grade.

Icwales

Bangor & Bala aiming for cup wins

BANGOR City manager Nev Powell welcomes back defender Chris Roberts from suspension for tonight’s Loosemores League Cup Group Six tussle against The New Saints at Farrar Road (7.30pm).

Roberts has served a one-match ban following his dismissal in last Tuesday’s 2-1 League Cup victory at Newtown and is in contention for a starting place in a defence likely to be deprived of centre-back Dave Morley, who suffered a groin strain in the 3-1 win over Neath on Saturday.

“It’s a blow losing Dave, we’re hoping he might be back for the league game at Cefn Druids on Friday, but it’s great to have a player like Chris to come in,” said Powell.

“TNS are a top side and we know it will be difficult, but we’ve got back-to-back wins behind us now and hopefully we can go on a bit of a run.”

Bala Town will welcome a repeat of last week’s 4-0 drubbing of Elements Cefn Druids when they host Technogroup Welshpool in their second Group Five match.

Gap Connah’s Quay will be without fullback Stuart Cook for tonight’s clash with Porthmadog at the Deeside Stadium, writes Mike McEvoy.

Cook was taken off after sustaining a thigh injury just 20 minutes into Saturday’s 3-1 home win over Elements Cefn Druids and is a definite non-starter.

“He’ll need time to recover but fortunately we’ve got players available to bring in and it will help us rotate the squad a bit.” said player-manager Mark McGregor. “I won’t make the final selection until shortly before the kick-off but having already got a point in last week’s goalless draw at Caersws we are keen to get another win and stay in the frame for the play-off stages.”

Daily Post

Rhyl boss disappointed with Friday's performance

Rhyl player manager Greg Strong was disappointed with his team on Friday with only two-goal hero Hunt escaping criticism.

“He promised me after missing a few chances against Carmarthen that he’d score in the next game and he was good to his word,” said Strong.

“He was a constant menace all night, but everyone else didn’t perform – no excuses.

“I have no complaints at all about our attitude and commitment and it says a lot that we kept pushing for an equaliser to the end, but overall I was disappointed – we’ve got better players than that.”

Strong will add new loan signing from Macclesfield Tyrone Kirk to the squad for tomorrow’s League Cup return to Airbus and hopes to further swell his small squad this week.

Daily Post

New signings make mark for Bangor

NEW signings Jamie Reed, Dave Morley and Mark Smyth got Bangor City’s home campaign off to a great start, with glorious goals that destroyed Neath Athletic.

Nev Powell’s Citizens provided the flair and the finish – plus the entertainment – to merit the points that sent the Farrar Road fans home happy.

After goalbound efforts at both ends had been blocked by resolute defensive play, City achieved the break through on 39 minutes, thanks to Reed from 15 yards.

Referee Andy Harms was adding stoppage time at the end of the first half, when Morley rose strongly to power Bangor’s second goal from close range, following Marc Limbert’s corner.

Bangor experienced a little wobble midway in the second spell, which enabled Neath to get back into contention, with Chris Llewellyn’s reply goal, planting a header from eight yards, after a short chip from the right.

But Powell’s hosts had the last say through Smyth’s goal on 85 minutes, when he directed an edge-of-box free kick straight into the target, after Ashley Stott had been fouled.

Wales on Sunday

Welsh premier league round up

TNS make it 2 wins from 2 today with a 2-0 home win over Carmarthen at Park Hall. A goal in each half almost at the of each half proved too much for Carmarthen, Woods scored TNS's first on 44' and Edwards made it 2-0 on 90' the win see's TNS take top spot in the table.

Not many would have said that after 2 games Bala Town would be in 2nd place in the WPL, but they are after a 2nd win in 2 games, today they travelled to Newtown and beat them 1-0 Andy Moran scoring for the visitors.

Prestatyn had a goal feast against Haverfordwest at Bastion Gardens today winning 3-0 against the Bluebirds, and they left it late, their first goal came in the 80' scored by Jack Lewis, 2' later Andy Moran made it 2-0, on the 90' sub Ian Griffiths made it 3-0 to the home side who gain their first points if the season.

The so called dark horses for the title Neath, have still to record a win in 2 games, and today were well beaten by Bangor 3-1 at Farrar Road.  New signing Jamie Reed scored on his debut on 39' Dave Morley made it 2-0 right on half time. Chris Llewellyn got a goal back for Neath, but Marc Smyth secured the victory for Bangor in the 81'.

View league table

Druids and Nomads geared up for derby clash

NEW signing Stuart Scheuber is doubtful for Gap Connah’s Quay’s first home game of the season against Elements Cefn Druids today.

The midfielder took a knock on the knee during the goalless draw at Caersws in the League Cup on Tuesday night.

Quay’s new player-manager Mark McGregor said: “He has been having treatment and rest so we are hopeful he will come through okay in time.

“Fortunately, Stuart is the only player on the injured list so we can go into this game feeling confident that we can start our home programme with a win.

“We’ve started really well to draw 1-1 at Neath last Saturday, where in fact we should have won, and at Caersws with a weakened side so this is our big chance to chalk up our first win.”

Waynne Phillips admits his Druids will need to quickly bounce back after two losses, writes John Bridgwater. The Ancients lost 1-0 to Port Talbot in the league and then 4-0 to Bala Town in the League Cup.

Phillips said: “We always knew it was going to be a learning curve this season but we now have to pick ourselves up for what is going to be an important game today.”

Phillips will hope experienced Lee Bamber and Aled Rowlands can return, but they are likely to be without central defender Adam Hesp (facial injury).

Daily Post

All games end in draws

There were 3 games played tonight in the welsh premier and all 3 ended in draws, Welshpool took a 1-0 half time lead against Aberystwyth only for the home side to draw level with a goal from Robert Evans'

Port Talbot and Llanelli drew a blank at the GenQuip stadium, while Airbus and Rhyl played out a 2-2 draw at the Airfield Rhyl took the lead then Airbus took a 2-1 lead only for the league champions to draw level 5' from the end. 

The biggest crowd of the night was at Port Talbot where 472 watched the game, the largest attendance of the league campaign so far.

View league table

Kirk looks a real find for Rhyl

RHYL player manager Greg Strong is convinced he has signed a gem in new recruit Tyrone Kirk.
The 23-year-old right winger joined the Lilywhites on loan from Macclesfield today, although it is unlikely he will available for tonight's game at Airbus.
"He's a really exciting player and I know he'll be a crowd favourite at Rhyl," said Strong.
"Wherever he's played people have commented on his ability to make crowds stand up every time he gets the ball.
"He lives near Doncaster and the travelling involved with Macclesfield was proving hard, so a move to Rhyl playing part-time is ideal for him.
"I've only got a certain budget to work with but it's still vital that I bring in quality players and Tyrone Kirk is a good player."
Kirk started his career as a youth with hometown club Scunthorpe United and was also once a trainee with Manchester City.
He was 2003 winner of the Nike Freestyle Soccer awards and moved to Unibond League Division One club Stamford AFC in August 2007, quickly confirming himself as a fans favourite with his trickery and pace.
Kirk left Stamford at the end of the 2008-09 season to pursue opportunities in higher grade football and had looked set to sign for Boston United but the Pilgrims agreed to give the player until August 8 to find himself a full-time club.
He trained and played trial matches with Sheffield United but failed to win a place with the Blades, but after performing well in games against Huddersfield and Northwich he was signed on by Macclesfield.
He made his Macclesfield debut against Leicester City in the Carling Cup first round last season.

Dave Jones Lilywhites Online

Rhyl boss has two new signings in his sights

RHYL player manager Greg Strong is on the verge of adding two players to his squad ahead of tomorrow's visit to Airbus UK Broughton.

The champions have only 15 players in their ranks following a host of summer departures and are anxious to add more with the transfer deadline just over a week away.
"There are a couple of signings lined up which are 95% happening, but whether I will seal them in time for this weekend is doubtful," said Strong.

After kicking off the campaign with a 2-1 win over Carmarthen, the Lilywhites will be looking to make it six points out of six, but it will be a tough ask against a Wingmakers outfit which drew 2-2 at Llanelli on Sunday.

Rhyl will be boosted by the inclusion of left winger Luke Holden, whose proposed move to Championship club Coventry City fell through this week.
"Airbus will be tough opposition but without wanting to sound arrogant we are only concerned with what we do," added Strong.

"I believe we can go out and beat anyone if we play the way we can. We'll go into the game in the right mindset and aim for the sort of performance we showed in the second half against Carmarthen."
Rhyl have met Airbus on 10 occasions in the Welsh Premier and won eight of the clashes, losing just the one in 2004/05 in the Wingmakers' first season in the league.

Dave Jones Lilywhites Online

Port Talbot aiming to take advantage of Legg's absence

LLANELLI go into tonight's tough local derby with on-fire Port Talbot at the GenQuip Stadium without influential player-manager Andy Legg.

Legg knows tonight's visit to Aberavon will be another major test for his team, who have won just three times at the venue in eight visits, the last occasion a thrilling 6-4 victory in a howling gale after the Steelmen had led 4-1.

The result ultimately led to the sacking of Port Talbot manager Nicky Tucker and the arrival of former boss Mark Jones, and what a transformation there has been since then.

Port Talbot eventually finished fifth last term and have continued their winning vein this season with a 1-0 league triumph at Elements Cefn Druids last week followed by a 2-1 home League Cup victory over Neath in midweek.

"It's going well at the moment but we know this is one of the season's big tests for us," Jones said.

"Let's face it, Llanelli, Rhyl and TNS are the equivalent of Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool's domination of the Premier League.

"It's a domination we and several other clubs are trying to muscle in on but it is difficult as we are relying on a relatively small squad of players."

Jones has a fully-fit squad to choose from tonight which gives him a headache after making seven changes in midweek from the team that travelled to Druids.

"I will have 18 players on my back baying to get on the park," he said.

"It's difficult but really a nice problem to have.

"This is a real test of character for the lads and this is the type of match we have to get a result from if we are to be candidates for the next stage, challenging the big boys."

Evening Post

Welsh League Round Up

There were a few surprise results in division 1 of the welsh league tonight. One of the favourites for the title and promotion Bridgend Town travelled to the capital and were hammered 4-1 by Ely Rangers. Dinas Powys gave Bettws a hiding at the Murch winning 5-0. Goytre had little trouble in seeing off Pontardawe and came out 6-3 winners at Glenhafod Park. Caldicot recorded their 2nd win in a row with a 5-2 win over Cardiff Corinthians. Bryntirion were 2-1 winners at Taffs Well, last seasons champions narrowly won at home beating Caerleon 1-0. Barry Town drew 0-0 at Cambrian, and the two newcomers playing each other tonight ended 0-0 between Garden Village and West End in the Swansea derby. Afan Lido made up for their home defeat to Bridgend on Friday with a 3-1 away win at Ton Pentre. So only 3 teams left with a 100% record after 2 games and they are Aberaman, Caldicot and Goytre Utd.

Cymru Alliance Round Up

Llangollen Town continued their great start to life in the Alliance league by scoring another victory and another 4 goals, this time against one of the fancied teams in the league Buckley Town, Llangollen ran out 4-0 winners. Llangefni are another team to have hit 4 goals in each of their first 2 games the team on the end of this 4 were Llanfair PG who went down 4-0 at home to the Anglesey outfit. Ruthin Town were 1-0 home winners over Mold Alex and Penrhyncoch inflicted a 1-0 home defeat on Berriew in their first game in the Cymru Alliance. Guilsfield put 6 past Gresford at home winning 6-1. Last season's runners up Holyhead Spurs lost for the 2nd game running this time they lost 3-0 away against newly promoted Bethesda. Lex X1 lost for the 2nd game in a row with a narrow 2-1 home defeat against Flint Town. Llangollen, Llangefni, Ruthin, Penrhyncoch all have 6 points from their 2 games and fill the top 4 places.

Luke Holden's proposed move to Coventry City will not now take place.

Although Rhyl and Coventry were well advanced in agreeing terms,  the player and his agent spoke with Coventry, and the Championship Club decided not to proceed with the signing.

Luke will be in the squad for Friday's game at Airbus.

Whilst all parties are disappointed they are encouraged by the fact that 2 other senior clubs are now interested in obtaining Luke's signature in the near future. 

www.rhylfc.com

Reds Player Manager, ANDY LEGG, has received a two match ban from the Football Association of Wales for his Red Card offence against Airbus UK Broughton last Sunday.

The ban also applies to the technical area which means that Andy will have to watch the Port Talbot and Haverfordwest games from the stand.

www.llanelliafc.org

Technogroup Welshpool can today announce the signing of former TNS, Bangor and Cefn Druids striker, Carl Lamb from English non-league side Droylsden.

Manager Huw Griffiths is "made up" at capturing the signature of the man who has an excellent scoring record in the Welsh Premier League and it is hoped international clearance will arrive in time for him to play in Friday night's match at Aberystwyth.

Also due to make his debut that evening is Bangor City player Martyn Beattie after Nev Powell agreed to let him leave Farrar Road for Maesydre.

Official Welshpool website

LLANELLI player-manager Andy Legg is threatening to take action over his dismissal against Airbus on Saturday

The Reds boss was sent off 33 minutes from time in his side's opening Welsh Premier League clash for foul and abusive language.

That came after Marc Lloyd-Williams appeared to use his hand to guide the ball past Llanelli keeper Ashley Morris to put the visitors 2-0 up.

That came just a week after Legg publicly called on his players to show greater discipline on the field.

But the former Wales defender insists the referee misheard what he said and though the deadline to appeal the card has passed, he may still take the matter up with the FAW.

"He said I called him a cheat, but I said, 'he's cheated you'," said Legg. "I will be taking the matter further because he's fabricated something I didn't say. I will be going to the FAW in some capacity.

"I can swallow a ban and I can swallow a fine, but I've been undermined in front of my players because it looks like I haven't been true to my word.

"You can't legislate for the referee's decisions.

"Steve Jenkins was taken out in the first five minutes. That was a red card offence for me, but the referee's missed that.

"Secondly, he missed the handball and, thirdly, he sent me off.

"I'm trying to clamp down on indiscipline and he's sent me off for something he thinks I've said to him.

"It's a good job some players were around to hear what I really did say."

Evening Post

Elements Cefn Druids 0-4 Bala Town

Bala Town carried on their good form from last Friday night when they won 4-0 away to Elements Cefn Druids.

Owain Roberts 63' 70' Ricky Evans 29' Peter and Moore 50' were the scorers for Bala.

Haverfordwest 0-0 Aberystwyth

Caersws 0-0 Connahs Quay

Newtown 1-2 Bangor City

Marc Smith put Bangor ahead on 35' and Chris Sharp made it 2-0 on 54', Newtown gave themselves a lifeline with a goal on 68' from Tom Jones but they could not find an equaliser.

Port Talbot 2-1 Neath

Nicky Holland and Martin Rose put the home side 2-0 after 82' with Neath getting a consolation on 88' from Rob Spendiff.

A second scan on the foot of new signing Joe Price has revealed a worse than initially suspected break of his metatarsal. He will now be in plaster for at least 8 weeks before being able to return to light training.

It is a major blow to a player who manager Huw Griffiths felt was his most exciting summer signing. Price broke a bone in his foot during Welshpool's 1-0 defeat at Haverfordwest on Saturday

Source - Official Welshpool Town website

Former TNS striker Alfie Carter has signed for Conference South side Worcester City, who are currently bottom of their League having lost all three games this season.

Carter was released by the Saints at the end of last season and he has now linked up with the St George's Lane outfit on non-contract terms. International clearance was granted by the FAW today and Carter should debut against Basingstoke Town this evening. The 29 year old only returned from the USA on Wednesday after taking on a coaching job following his exit from the Saints.

Birmingham-born started his career with Walsall as a trainee and signed professional forms in April 1999. After making three Football League appearances he moved to Bromsgrove Rovers in October 2000. He then turned out for Halesowen Town, Newport County, Evesham United, Stafford Rangers, Bath City and AFC Telford United.

He left the Bucks in August 2005 to join the Saints who were Welsh Premier League champions at the time. In his four seasons at Park Hall, he scored 39 goals in 96 games (including 66 starts) and picked up League Championship medals in his first two seasons. He was also a substitute in three UEFA Champions' League matches and a UEFA Cup tie.

Official welsh premier

Barry Town v Ely Rangers FC
Bryntirion Athletic v Cardiff Corinthians
Caerau Ely v Bettws FC
Cambrian and Clydach v Ammanford
Corus Steel v Garden Village
Croesyceiliog v Risca Utd
Cwmaman Institute v Cwmbran Celtic FC
Goytre Utd v Pentwyn Dynamos
Hay St. Marys v Dinas Powys
Llantwit Fardre FC v Aberbargoed Buds FC
Newcastle Emlyn v AFC Llwydcoed
Penrhiwceiber v Caerleon
Pontardawe Town v Presteigne St. Andrews
Pontypridd Town v Newport Civil Service FC
Porthcawl Town v Ton Pentre
Seven Sisters FC v Afan Lido FC
South Gower FC v Caldicot Town
Tredegar Town v Goytre FC
Treharris Western Athletic v Cardiff Bay Harlequins / UWIC FC
Troedyrhiw FC v Abertillery Bluebirds
West End FC v Taffs Well
Amlwch Town v Penrhyncoch
Barmouth and Dyffryn Utd v Buckley Town
Berriew v Mold Alex
Brymbo FC v Llangefni Town
Carno FC v Conwy Utd
Chirk AAA v Gresford Athletic
Coedpoeth Utd v Penparcau FC
Glan Conwy FC v Denbigh Town
Guilsfield v Llangollen
Hawarden Rangers FC v Ruthin Utd
Lex XI v Dolgellau Athletic Amateur
Llanberis v Flint Town Utd
Llandudno Junction FC v Llanrhaeadr YM Mochnant
Llandudno Town v Bethesda Athletic
Llanfairpwll†v Penycae
Llanrug Utd v Nefyn Utd
Llanrwst Utd v Llangeinor
Llansantffraid Village v Llay Welfare
Overton Recreational v Holyhead Hotspurs
Pwllhelli FC v Tywyn Bryncrug FC
Rhydymwyn v Llandyrnog Utd
Venture Community v Borras Park Albion

PLAYER-manager Greg Strong was delighted to score a victory over the critics as well as Carmarthen after his Rhyl side won an opening day encounter in which he himself was a central figure.

With all the summer comings and mainly goings at Belle Vue, the knives have been out for the Welsh Premier title-holders, many claiming their bubble had burst.

But while one good result does not make a season, Saturday’s success over one of the league’s strongest teams was certainly a step in the right direction.

In his first competitive game in charge of the champions, “I’m pleased as punch,” said Strong. “The lads have been different class since I took over.

“I’m delighted for the lads and the club – we’ve had a tough time of late so it’s great that we’ve gone out there today and proved a few people wrong.”

The champions were greeted by a disappointing crowd of 354.

CAERNARFON Town’s second stint as a Cymru Alliance League club began impressively with a 3-1 home victory over Denbigh Town.

Relegated from the Welsh Premier last term, the Canaries’ previous stay in the Cymru Alliance in 2000/01 lasted just the one season as they were crowned champions by 11 points.

Things did not start well for David Rowe’s side at The Oval on Saturday when Darren Cassidy handed Denbigh a 13th minute lead, but Ashley Ruane levelled seven minutes later and Tom Walker made it 2-1 before half time.

Ruane, who signed from Merseyside Police last season, ensured the points went to the Cofis when he notched his side’s third with eight minutes left.

Dave Jones

BIG-SPENDERS Neath had to be content with a point as Connah’s Quay came back strongly after the break.

The visitors brought three new signings to the club this week in time for Andy Olsen and Tom Baker to take their place in the starting line-up with Allan Glover on the bench.

They were not at the races in the first half and the Eagles took the lead in the 38th minute, newcomer Craig Stein crossing to another debutant, former Wrexham striker Chris Llewellyn, whose bullet header gave keeper Terry McCormick no chance.

The second half was a total turnaround as Mark McGregor’s team took control and they were rewarded with a 65th-minute goal as Chris Herbert scrambled the equaliser.

And only two great saves by Anthony Williams saved the day for Neath.

ICWALES

ALTHOUGH the purse strings have been tightened this season Rhyl president Peter Parry still expects the club to retain the Welsh Premier League title.
Events at Belle Vue this summer have attracted much attention with 11 members of last season's championship-winning squad departed and just four new players brought in.
But speaking on Sgorio Cymru before Saturday's opening day victory over Carmarthen, the club's main benefactor Mr Parry insists the Lilywhites are not in decline.
"We have reduced the squad, but in numbers not in quality," he said. "Last year we had a big squad, a set of players with which we expected to win the title. We've trimmed the budget this season, but I still expect us to retain the title."
Parry also commented on the recent departure of head coach Allan Bickerstaff just three months after leading the Lilies to the league crown.
"Bickerstaff is an excellent coach, but he was not brought in as a manager. He was brought in as an assistant and Osian (Roberts) was brought in as the manager."
Parry went on to explain that Roberts' prestigious role as FAW Trust technical director prohibited him from managing a Welsh Premier club.
"We didn't have a manager per ce last season and we felt it was time to bring one in. We saw in Greg Strong many of the qualities we were looking for and we believe we've got the right man."
The president also repeated recent assurances that the club is not going into administration and that he has no intention of leaving Belle Vue.
"It is a time of change, but as to the administration rumours I've no idea what that was all about; to be honest I think it was someone trying to cause mischief.
"I'm not leaving Rhyl FC. I've said I'll review the situation every five years, every 10 years; I can't be here for ever, but I'm more than happy to be here for the foreseeable future."

CEFN DRUIDS not only started with a new name but almost a complete new side with seven new faces on parade at Plas Kynaston for this opener.

It was the visitors who had the game’s first chance when midfielder Liam McCreesh was set free and left with only keeper Rob Thomas to beat but he tipped the ball over for a corner.

The stalemate was broken in the 34th minute when McCreesh broke down the right flank and squared for Drew Fahiya to beat Thomas from close range.

It was almost the hour mark before the hosts created their first clear-cut chance and it followed some inspirational play for Josh Russell who fed Bobby Jones but Lee Kendall saved well

Wales on Sunday

MARK MCGREGOR, the fourth boss of GAP Connah’s Quay to be involved in a turbulent summer of managerial musical chairs, has a chance today to get his new career off to a spectacular start at fancied Neath.

Last season’s boss Steve O’Shaugnessey stepped down to be succeeded briefly by ex-manager Jim Hackett and then former assistant Andy Lee before latest incumbent McGregor, from Chester, stepped in.

The 32 year-old former Wrexham defender said: “Its certainly a testing start to kick-off away at Neath but we’ve worked hard in the few weeks we’ve had together.

“I feel confident we can look forward to a decent season and could be a surprise packet.” The return of popular Danny Forde along with new midfielder Stuart Scheuber are two good reasons for optimism as 25-1 outsiders Nomads confront 6-1 shots Neath in the first big test at The Gnoll.

Rumour has it that Rhyl have lost the services of yet another player.

Former TNS left sided attacker Luke Holden has signed for Coventry City, he joined the Lilywhites in the January transfer window, signed from Yorkshire club Bradford P.A.

Holden made 29 appearances for TNS in the 2007/08 season, he then joined Cammell Laird before joining Bradford. Holden made his Rhyl debut in their 2-0 home win against Porthmadog in the League on 17th January 2009.

His departure from Rhyl leaves their thread bare squad even smaller with just 2 weeks for their new manager to bring in extra players.

There were wins for last season's top 2 in the welsh league with champions Aberaman winning at home against newly promoted Ely Rangers, and the champions came out 5-2 winners at Aberaman Park. Last season's runners up Goytre Utd were also at home and they just got the better of Bettws winning 3-2.

Fridays results:
Afan Lido 1-3 Bridgend Town
Ton Pentre 4-4 Bryntirion Ath

Saturday 15 August
Aberaman Athletic 5-3 Ely Rangers
Caldicot Town 3-1 Caerleon
Cambrian & Clydach 3-1 Cardiff Corinthians
Dinas Powys 1-3 Barry Town
Garden Village 2-1 Pontardawe Town
Goytre United 3-2 Bettws
West End 3-1 Taffs Well

It was a good start to life in the Cymru alliance for last season's relegated side Caernarfon, they won at home 3-1 against Denbigh Town, while Alliance runners up Holyhead Spurs suffers a shock defeat at home to Mold Alex with Mold winning 2-1. There was a good win for newly promoted side Llangollen Town who put away Llanfairpwll 4-1, a result that see's the newcomers top the table after the first round of games.

Full results

Cymru Alliance
Friday 14 August
Gresford 0-3 Ruthin Town

Saturday 15 August
Buckley 1-1 Llandudno
Caernarfon Town 3-1 Denbigh Town
Guilsfield 1-1 Bethesda
Holyhead Hotspur 1-2 Mold Alexandra
Llangefni 4-2 Flint Town United
Llangollen 4-1 Llanfairpwll
Penrhyncoch 2-1 Lex XI

League champions Rhyl must have wondered what all the fuss was about when they went ahead in the televised clash at Belle Vue, Rhyl took the lead on 41' through Greg Strong, but 4' later Carmarthen were level through Steve Williams to make it 1-1 at half time. Matt Williams regained the lead for Rhyl on 79' and that turned out to be the winner for the home side 2-1.

There win wins today for Aberystwyth who won 4-0 at Caersws, with new signing Mike Waters scoring a brace. Attendance of 337.

Haverfordwest beat Welshpool at home with Gareth Elliot scoring the games only goal for a 1-0 home win to the Bluebirds. Attendance of 282.

Port Talbot secured all 3 points with a 1-0 win at Cefn Druids Drew Fahiya scoring for the Steelmen. Attendance of 106.

Newtown almost beat Porthmadog at the Traeth Adam Worton scoring for the Robins. But a 86th minute penalty for the home side scored by Mark Evans secured a point for Porth. Attendance of 338

View league table

Rhyl begin the defence of their title at home to Carmarthen Town today in front of the TV cameras, but with the club’s future shrouded in uncertainty.

A mass player exodus has led to speculation of possible administration, a claim denied by the club.

But rumours have intensified this week as midfield ace Luke Sherbon became the 10th member of last season’s title-winning squad to depart.

Rhyl also parted company with manager Allan Bickerstaff during the summer, so player-manager Greg Strong is now at the helm.

The only ray of sunshine for the Lilywhites faithful is the return of former hotshot Lee Hunt, who has been joined by John Leah and Martin Naylor.

But Carmarthen boss Deryn Brace warned: “Rhyl still have a cracking side, even if their squad does not have the same depth as last season.”

Brace’s squad remains largely unchanged, though Mark Pritchard has been recruited from Llanelli.

Pritchard’s former club are favourites to recapture the title they won two seasons ago and start out at Airbus UK tomorrow, when big-spending Neath also entertain Connah’s Quay.

In today’s remaining fixtures, reprieved Caersws – under returning boss Mickey Evans – host Aberystwyth and fancied Port Talbot, with new goalkeeper Lee Kendall, are at Cefn Druids.

icwales

Both feeder leagues got their campaigns off last night, with Ruthin Town getting off to a great start with a 3-0 away win over Gresford Ath. <>In the south Their was a good start for one of the promotion favourites Bridgend Town, who were at former Welsh premier side Afan Lido, and Bridgend ran out 3-1 winners to get their campaign off to a flying start. Former welsh league champions Ton Pentre were at home in the night's other fixture where Bryntirion were the visitors, and they each claimed a point in a high scoring 4-4 draw at Ynys Park.

LEE Jones has called on the Elements Cefn Druids squad to show its hunger and desire as the Welsh Premier League season gets underway with Port Talbot Town visiting Plaskynaston.

Druids will be making a final selection on the starting eleven at the last possible moment, with Jones and Waynne Phillips selecting from a squad of 19 who are available.

The joint-manager believes that, despite having to make changes to the last season's squad which has seen several depart for pastures new but also seen over a dozen new arrivals, the playing side is in a better position than it was 12 months ago.

He said: "We've got a squad that is just as strong, if not stronger than last season.

"For example we've lost Ricky Evans and Mark Powell but brought in Josh Johnson and Kieran Quinn. They've got years ahead of them. If they have a good season for us they could go on to bigger and better things."

Jones added: "We've got players who were released from other clubs who are looking to prove a point. We've got those that are stepping up and those that were with us last season."

The opening game of the season is often a step into the unknown for clubs, but Jones insists that the desire from his and Waynne Phillips' squad will be evident.

He said: "We won't be lacking in terms of hunger, I can assure you.

"You don't know what you're going to get with the first game of the season and tomorrow is now different. Whoever turns up on the day wanting it more is likely to do well.

Official Elements Druids website

TNS 5-0 Prestatyn Town

TNS made the perfect start to the new season with 2 goals against Prestatyn in the first 9 minutes.

Saints took the lead after 7' through Matt Berkeley, and than doubled their lead 2 minutes later with A Craig Jones effort, things got worse for the visitors when Jamie Woods made it 3-0 on 40' and certainly game over.

Just when Prestatyn thought the half might end 3-0 they conceded a 4th on the stroke of half time with Craig Jones grabbing his 2nd.

Half time TNS 4-0 Prestatyn

TNS started the 2nd half the way they started the first, Chris Seargeant made it 5-0 on 49'

No further goals and it finishes 5-0 to the Saints, in front of a disappointing crowd of 333.

A great start to welsh premier life for new boys Bala Town, they went into the half time break 1-0 up over Bangor City courtesy of a Ricky Evans penalty on 20'.

Half time Bala Town 1-0 Bangor City

3 minutes into the 2nd half and Bala Town conceded their very first WPL goal, it came in the 48' and the games 2nd penalty was scored by Ashley Stott.

Bala retook the lead on 53' with Ross Jeffries goal Bala 2-1 up. but they were down to 10 men after 79' when goal winner turner villain and was shown red for a 2nd yellow card. And that was how it finished 3 points from their first game, a great start to premiership life for Bala Town, and nearly 3 times the crowd of the other game with a great turn out of 938.

Bala Town:
Leon Bimpson; Jay Bell, Gethin Lloyd, Mark Powell, Danny Jellicoe, Ross Jefferies, Owain Roberts, Peter Moore, John Toner, Ricky Evans, Osian Jones.

Subs: Mark Griffiths, Warren Duckett, Mark Harris, Jason Astbury.

Bangor City:
Paul Smith; Mike Johnston, Peter Hoy, Dave Morley, Jamie Brewerton, Kieran Killackey, Jamie Reed, Mark Limbert, Les Davies, Ashley Stott, Mark Smyth.

Subs: Martin Beattie, Sion Edwards, Chris Sharp, Clive Williams, John Owen.

View league table

WELSH PREMIER secretary John Deakin believes tomorrow’s big kick-off signals the beginning of the most important season in the history of the league.

In the most radical move since the League of Wales was established 18 years ago, up to eight clubs could be playing their final year in the top flight.

Next season sees the formation of a new Super 12 League comprising just 10 of the current top-flight clubs with the remainder sliding back into the feeder leagues, some never to rise again.

That’s because the criteria also includes achieving the Football Association of Wales’ domestic licence which signifies on and off-the-field excellence.

Two clubs, one each from the Welsh League and Cymru Alliance, will join the elite band of clubs, providing they also meet the licensing criteria. If they fail, it will be the salvation of up to two of the criteria-qualifying Welsh Premier clubs who would have been relegated.

“It’s a watershed year for our league,” said Deakin, who has been given an additional year past his normal retirement to oversee the formation of the new league which he has long been advocated. “A leaner, healthier league is what we want and I believe it has been introduced in a fair way.

“Seven clubs achieved the Uefa criteria last season and one missed out by a whisker, so I’m confident we will have the full complement of clubs when the new league starts.”

Deakin added: “ The existing plan is that there will be 44 matches next season – each team playing against each other four times – but the following season will see the number of clubs reduced to 11, then 10 the next year.

“It’s an exciting time.

“Yes, I do have sympathy with the clubs who will not make the new structure, but this new structure will benefit the league and Welsh football.”

Dave Jones Daily Post

ANDY Legg is hoping for a flying start to his Welsh Premier League managerial career when Llanelli open their campaign at home to Airbus on Sunday.

The Reds boss has made no secret of his ambition for the coming season, which will culminate in the top 10 clubs who achieve FAW licensing criteria forming the new Super 12 League in 2010.

Legg said: "It's up to us now to go out there and win the league. That's our aim for the coming season."

But he has warned his squad he will not tolerate below-par performances. "If players aren't up to the job then I will get someone in that is. No-one in this squad is certain of their place.

"I wanted a competitive squad and that is what I have got, and there are sufficient players in the squad to step into a position and do a job."

Two of the newcomers miss out. Chris Venables is serving a suspension and Lee Jarman is struggling with injury, as are Michael Howard, Rory Smitham, Chris Holloway, Andrew Mumford, Craig Jones and Ross Jones.

Evening Post

Crisis club Chester City have been granted permission by the Football Association to at last get their 2009/10 season underway - a week late.

City were granted FA affiliation on Thursday following a meeting involving the club, the Conference and the FA.

That enables Chester to belatedly start their Blue Square Premier campaign at the Deva Stadium against Cambridge United this Saturday.

But, pending an expected appeal, they will start with a 25-point penalty.

"It's a weight off our shoulders," City's most prominent shareholder Stephen Vaughan told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"We thought we had all this sorted out right up until a quarter to three last Friday when we were preparing to go to Grays.

"Then we got the bombshell that there had been a breach of the Conference rules to accept us.

"They then summoned the Conference to today's meeting and thankfully everyone seems to have seen common sense and come out with the right conclusion."

Following relegation from the Football League in May, City took voluntary administration, knowing that would carry an automatic 10-point deduction.

When it became clear that their former owner Vaughan was still part of the consortium which had bought back the club, the FA then intervened.

And, following investigations, Chester were told they would be docked an extra 15 points. But the FA and the Conference are yet to say why.

And, although City will kick off against Cambridge still with that 25-point handicap - effectively making them 26 points adrift of safety before they start - they are expected to immediately launch an appeal.

Vaughan added: "The rule is that any side that comes into the Conference in administration would be automatically demoted to the next division.

"But Chester have come out of administration.

"Once the Conference accepted the new company, the rule was broken.

"What they did to overcome that was to get all the Conference members to take a vote and thankfully they all voted in our favour, all 23 of them."

BBC

RHYL midfielder Luke Sherbon is set to quit the club before the weekend's opening fixture against Carmarthen Town.
Sherbon, who arrived at Belle Vue in January, was regarded as one of the Lilywhites' finest prospects, but player manager Greg Strong said it was in the player's best interests to move on.
"Like Lee Kendall, the travelling (in Sherbon's case to and from Aberystwyth) was getting too much for him, so with that and a few personal issues, it's been decided it's for the best for him to move back nearer home," added Strong.
The Rhyl player boss had two quality signings lined up for today, but sadly they fell through.
"One player was actually on his way to sign for us on loan, but a League Two club stepped in at the last moment. I'm gutted but you can't blame the lad for taking the opportunity.
"I'm still doing everything I can to bring in new faces."
Rhyl have, however, signed young defender Shaun Dowling, a player released by Chester City who was linked with the Lilywhites earlier in the season.

Dave Jones Lilywhites online

Team strengthening continues at Bastion Gardens after experienced defender Adie Moody this evening signed up with the Seasiders. The 26-year-old Merseysider has impressed manager Neil Gibson during the pre-season build-up and will give much-needed cover in the heart of the Town defence.

The uncompromising defender started his career as a Wrexham trainee, making three appearances before being released. He moved to Newtown in 2003/4 after brief spells with Colwyn Bay, Rhyl and Cymru Alliance outfit Llangefni Town. Moody then re-signed for Rhyl in June 2006 but decided to take a break from football a year later and left Belle Vue.

In total he made 20+5 appearances for Rhyl and 63 for Newtown in his WPL career netting five goals along the way.

Now fit and raring to go, he is expected to go straight into the squad to face The New Saints on Friday as key defender Dave Hayes is rated 50/50 after picking up a knock on his hip during the 2-2 draw with Upton on Saturday.

There was more good news for Town this evening as young prospects Paul Watts, Chris Davies, Karl Murray, Ethan Woodfine and Glyn Lewis also pledged their future to the Seasiders.

Official Prestatyn Town website

19 year old former Preston North End keeper, Jack Cudworth, has signed for Technogroup Welshpool and the club are trying to beat the clock to secure international clearance to allow him to make his Welshpool bow on Saturday at Haverfordwest.

Also signed today are Gresford duo Gareth Williams and Max Peate.

The club also hope to unveil and exciting loan signing before Saturday's match.

Official welshpool website

Aberystwyth Town have signed 21-year old goalkeeper Stephen Cann from Rotherham. The South African-born Welshman, impressed Manager Brian Coyne during the pre-season, which included a half in the friendly last month against Liverpool.

He started his career at Derby County, but was released in June 2007 and he then joined Rotherham United in July 2007, after impressing in a trial. He played his first game for the Millers in a 3-0 FA Cup loss to Aldershot Town. In his next game, in the Johnstone's Paint Northern Semi-Final against Darlington, it is reported that he made three excellent saves during the game, and saved two penalties in the shoot out, including saving one with his groin, enabling the Millers to progress to the Northern Final.

Cann was involved in the Wales Under 19 set-up in 2006 with players who have gone on to win full caps like Chris Gunter, Neal Eardley, Ched Evans and Andy King, and also with other current Welsh Premier League players such as Kyle Graves (Haverfordwest), Alex Darlington (TNS) and Craig Moses (Llanelli).

There's more good news for Aber fans as stalwart defender Aneurin Thomas, experienced striker Andy Evans and central midfielder Adam James have all committed to the Seasiders in their 125th Anniversary Season.

The re-signing of Thomas maintains his strong defensive partnership with ex-Wales International Christian Edwards.

Official welsh premier website

ABERYSTWYTH start their 125th season of competitive football away at Caersws this Saturday. Following a successful pre-sea-son with convincing wins against Afan Lido, Holyhead Hotspurs and Market Drayton, Aber Town boss Brian Coyne wants that form to translate into a good start in the league. Goals from Glyndwr Hughes in injury time in the first half and Graham Evans from the penalty spot late in the second half secured the win again the Unibond League Side from Shropshire, meaning Aber have only lost one pre-season game against Liverpool. They have also in their four pre-season games scored 19 goals, giving them much-needed confidence going into the new season. This season in the Welsh Premier League could be make-or-break for many teams with proposals to bring the league down to 12 teams, with those remaining in the league also needing UEFA ground licenses. Speaking this week ahead of the new season, Coyne told the Cambrian News: “I don’t set specific tar-gets each year for the team. 

I just aim to do better than last year." Last season, we reached the final of the Welsh Cup, the semi-final of the League Cup and finished eighth in the league." Our aim is to improve on that." Chris Venables. Tom Bowen, Stuart Fraser and Ross Stephens have all left the club with new faces Luke Bowen, Cledan Davies, Adam James, Richard Evans and Michael Walters taking their place in the squad. On changes to the squad, Coyne said: “People keep telling me that I have lost a lot of players since last season but as far as I can see, I have only really lost Chris Venables. Ross’ (Stephens) contribution towards the end of the season was negligible. “The nucleus of the team is still there and I am happy with the squad we have." We have brought quality in and we look strong Pre-season has been very good. The boys have all worked really hard and it shows.“

Cambrian News

"A FANTASTIC manager, a great squad of players and a chance to win major silverware."

Craig Moses explains the reasons why it took him just a second to accept a switch when Llanelli came calling this summer.

Moses admits it wasn't a tough call to make when Reds boss Andy Legg called him up over the summer hoping to make the 21-year-old striker part of his title-challenging squad.

From leading the attack at mid-table club Newtown, Moses has joined a team obsessed with winning back the Welsh Premier League title.

And the part-time lifeguard could be just the breath of fresh air Llanelli need.

Blessed with raw pace and strength, Moses adds further quality to a forward department that also includes captain Rhys Griffiths, exciting youngster Jordan Follows and fellow summer signing Craig Frater — who has joined from Manchester City's academy.

And Moses, who came off the bench in Llanelli's Europa League defeat by Motherwell, can't wait to get started.

"When I was contacted in the summer I didn't consider it for more than a second," revealed Moses, who has won Wales Under-21s call-ups.

"When a club and manager like that shows an interest in you it is very flattering.

"I want to move onwards in my career and with a manager like Andy Legg and the squad of players here, I can do just that.

Evening Post

CARMARTHEN Town manager Deryn Brace believes his side's opener at Rhyl on Saturday could provide a barometer for their season.

The Old Gold kick off the new Welsh Premier League campaign at Belle Vue looking to better their fourth-place league finish of last term.

But they could hardly face a more difficult examination than a match against the reigning champions, who are again tipped to be among the front runners this time around.

"We couldn't have asked for a tougher start than Rhyl away," said Brace. "They're in their own back yard and it's going to be a huge test.

"For us the result should give us some indication of how far we've come.

"We went to Rhyl for the first game two years ago. We lost 2-1 and a lot of people said we could have lost 20-1.

"We expect them to be a strong force this season and it's up to everyone else to knock them off their perch."

Evening Post

TRINIDAD & Tobago international Josh Johnson has become the latest summer signing for Elements Cefn Druids.

The 28-year-old winger had been with Wrexham before joining Rhyl last summer, where he weighed in with four goals in the Lilywhites' championship winning season from nineteen appearances, ten of which came off the bench.

He was released by Rhyl at the end of the season, a campaign which saw him gain a call up to the full international squad, but was unused.

Johnson has gained international honours at under-20 level and played for Trinidad & Tobago at the 2004 Olympic qualifying event.

Another addition to the Druids squad with the new season commencing on Saturday is full-back Ricky Wright who has rejoined from Penycae, where he spent the second half of last season.

Official Elements Cefn Druids website

Bangor City have this evening announced that former Rhyl striker Jamie Reed, 21, has signed for the Citizens.

The forward, who was a valuable member of the Lilywhites' title winning squad last season, had featured for Nev Powell's side in pre-season friendlies and the two parties have tonight agreed a deal, meaning that he will be available for his full debut on Friday evening at Maes Tegid against Bala Town in the Season's opener.

Reed was one of the first out of the Rhyl exit door in the summer when he decided to move to the USA in May to try and gain a contract in Major League Soccer. That didn't work out though for the ex-Wrexham professional, and his capture at Farrar Road really signals the club's intentions for the season.

They now boast Reed, Chris Sharp, Ashley Stott, Les Davies and Marc Smyth as attacking options, which means that goals will not be hard to come by for the current Welsh Cup Champions.

Reed was released by Wrexham last summer and he then signed a one year contract with Rhyl. He scored 13 league goals in 22 (+9) appearances, helping the club to the Principality Welsh Premier League title for the first time in five years.

Official welsh premier website

Coming into the first weekend of fixtures of the new season, the bookies have had their say on what they think the final outcome will be come next April/May.

They have the current league champions Rhyl as favourites priced at evens, even though the club looks to be in financial trouble and with a very small squad only a few days away from the season's start, they are closely followed by Llanelli at 5/4. TNS are 3rd favourites and Neath come in at number 4, due to their big name signings over the pre-season. Another team maybe not expected to be as high are Port Talbot who are the bookies 5th favourites for the title. They have the Wingmakers priced as joint 12th with Welshpool at 33/1. Not surprisingly Caersws are the bookies favourites to finish bottom of the pile. Another surprise for me is that they have Connah's Quay as 10th favourites and Prestatyn as 17th, I would have thought it more likely to be the other way around, but what do I know. My tip for the title is TNS.

Here is the full table as predicted by the bookies.

Elements Cefn Druids have added two more players to their squad ahead of this season's opener against Port Talbot. Their official website wrote.

Winger Marius Prockenka and midfielder Gerard Maloney both signed for the club after training with the club during the summer.

Maloney has joined for his second spell with the club, having made seven appearances during the 2006-07 season, while Polish-born Prockenka has joined from Llay Welfare.

Both players signed following the 1-1 draw at Holywell on Friday night.

Neath were in action today at near neighbours Afan Lido and the game ended in a 1-1 draw. Afan Lido's scorer was new signing Nathan White. It was Neath's 2nd 1-1 draw over the weekend following their 1-1 home draw against a Sheffield Utd X1 on Friday night.

Porthmadog have added another 3 players to their squad making 14 new signings so far this pre-season. The official Porthmadog website writes.

Tomi Morgan has added three more players to his squad for the new season, all of which have appeared regularly in the pre-season friendlies.

Local lad, Jack Jones joins from Wrexham, where he was a regular for the club’s youth team in the Youth Alliance. He can play in mid-field and at right back.

 Another new arrival at Port is Stefano Antoniazzi, who has appeared for Maesteg Park in the Welsh League for the past three seasons while studying at college in Cardiff. The 21 year old hails from the Aberystwyth area and can play as right and left back. 

The last of the newcomers is Mark Gornall, who is also Aberystwyth-based and joins from Penrhyncoch. He can play at left back and in mid-field.

Port Talbot won comfortably over visiting Oxford City at the GenQuip, The Steelmen ran out 3-0 winners with new signing Lee Kendal making his Port Talbot debut. An own goal and a brace from striker Martin Rose settled the game, all the goals came in the first half hour.

Haverfordwest won at Ynys Park 2-0 over Ton Pentre. New signing Robbie Walters scored both goals in the 70th and 73rd minutes.

Aberystwyth won 2-0 away to Market Drayton, a goal in each half from Glyndwr Hughes, and a Graham Evans penalty  secured the win for Aber.

The pick of today's results was at Park Hall where TNS ran amok by beating Yorkshire side Ilkey Town 9-0, Matt Berkeley was the pick of the home sides scorers with a hat-trick.

Prestatyn came from behind to Upton AA, Upton went 2-0 up, but 2nd half goals from Jon Fisher-Cooke and Andy Moran saw the WPL side snatch a draw.

Bala Town were at Denbigh Town and Bala had a comfortable 3-0 win over the Cymru Alliance outfit.

Welshpool were in Lancashire to face Bamber Bridge, and the Lancaster side ran out 2-0 winners with both goals coming in the 2nd half.

Porthmadog hosted Llangefni Town with 4 of Porth's players joining Llangefni in pre-season, but it was the home side who came out on top with a 3-1 win.

Haverfordwest County have strengthened their defence with the loan signing of Swansea City defender Jamie Grimes.

Grimes has played one pre-season friendly for the Bluebirds and is the 5th player signed by the club in pre-season following Lee Bevan, Jamie Bradford, Kyle Graves and Robbie Wakters.

Bala Town have added two more players to their squad with the signings of Jay Bell and Peter Moore, making eight new faces to their squad in pre-season. The clubs official website wrote.

"Bala Town manager Colin Caton has captured the signatures of two players from the higher echelons of the English non-league system.

Central defender Jay Bell joins Bala Town from Accrington Stanley. Jay is a young defender, the son of the club’s assistant manager. He has completed his first season as a professional and made his first team debut at right back, while still a scholar in April 2007 at Wrexham, after being an unused sub several times. Over the last two seasons he has played regularly with both the youth and reserve sides and he also gained valuable experience when he went to Prescot Cables on loan.

Peter Moore joins Bala Town from Southport. We are pleased that the young defender/midfielder chose to come to Maes Tegid after a trial with Rhyl who were also very keen to sign him. He is 20 years old and joined Southport from Northwich Victoria"

Former Rhyl Goalkeeper Lee Kendall - who cancelled his contract with Rhyl yesterday by mutual consent - has signed for Port Talbot Town this afternoon.

Rated as one of the League's top 'keepers, Kendall spent two seasons at Belle Vue and became a crowd favourite during his spell with the Principality Welsh Premier Champions.

A statement from Port Talbot Town this afternoon said,

"In the biggest transfer of the summer, manager Mark Jones swooped to sign the former Barry Town and Haverfordwest shot-stopper after he negotiated his release from Rhyl on Thursday night.

"Regarded as one of the best keepers to have ever played in the Welsh Premier League, Kendall lifted the championship with Rhyl last season and brings a wealth of experience to Mark Jones squad after nine seasons in the league."

RHYL manager Greg Strong has assured fans he is doing everything he can to bring top quality signings to the club.
There is unease among Lilywhites supporters following the departure of goalkeeper Lee Kendall, as well as the fear other high profile players could be on their way.
But Strong is working around the clock to bring in new faces who will ensure Rhyl are still a force in the 2009/10 campaign.
"I'm red-hot on the phone," said the player boss, who took over at Belle Vue just over a week ago.
"I have a lot of contacts in the game and I'm speaking to old friends, trying to call in a few favours and seeing who's available."
While sorry to see Kendall bid farewell to the Lilies, Strong insists it is time to move on.
"I could have held him to his contract (which had another two years to run), but it's not fair to do that if a player wants to leave," he said.
"He'd already made it clear to Allan (Bickerstaff) that he was leaving because the travelling to and from South Wales was getting too much.

Dave Jones - Lilywhites online

GAP Connah's Quay forward Liam Loughlin has left the Nomads to join English-based side, Cammell Lairds.

The loss of last year's captain will be a blow to the Deesiders' preparations, with just nine days before they kick-off their League season away at ambitious Neath FC. Loughlin made a total of 36 (+2) appearances in his one and only season last year, scoring eight times.

Paul Armstrong who signed from Flixton in January for the Nomads has also left to join Hyde United, although he failed to make a League appearance for the club.

Official welsh premier

It's been a mixed friendly campaign for Connahs Quay, last night they played their 6th friendly of the pre-season and recorded their 3rd defeat.  

Last night's defeat away to Alliance side Denbigh Town was the 3rd away loss in 3 sd they went down 2-0 at Central park, goals coming in the 4th and 87th minutes. While Nomads have lost all 3 away fixtures they are unbeaten in their home games winning all 3 scoring 10 goals and only conceding 1.

Next up for Nomads is a home game against Tranmere Rovers Reserves at home on August 12th.

Rumours on a few message boards have stated that Lee Kendal has left Rhyl FC. This has speculated rumours that he is only the first of many of Rhyl's top players to leave due to the money problems at the club.

Kendal who had made 52 league appearances for Rhyl since his transfer from Haverfordwest in the 2007/08 season where he made 136 appearances for the Bluebirds. He also made 14 appearances for Barry Town in the top flight, his overall WPL appearances top the 200 mark currently standing at 202, it will be interesting to see where his 203rd appearance will be.

Unconfirmed rumour just in has told me that Luke Sherbon is the 2nd player to Rhyl.

The Parc y Scarlets Stadium in Llanelli has been chosen as the venue for the 2009/10 Welsh Cup Final by the Football Association of Wales' Domestic Committee.

FAW Head of Competitions, Andrew Howard stated,

"The state of the art Stadium provides excellent, comfortable and safe viewing for Spectators, with the very best ancillary facilities. The quality of the playing surface for the Final last May also befitted such an occasion, which delighted both Managers and the players involved."

"The Media facilities are also outstanding, which provides S4C, the host Broadcaster, with everything that they require for a quality transmission, whilst the Hospitality boxes at the Stadium will allow the Association to offer attractive corporate packages to local businesses and sponsors."

The seated capacity of the stadium is 13,090 and the 2009/10 Final will be held on either Saturday 1st May 2010 or Sunday 2nd May 2010, subject to agreement between the FAW and S4C.

Official welsh premier

Former Rhyl striker Jamie Reed scored for Bangor City in midweek in a 2-2 draw with Cammell Lairds.

The League Championship winner left the Lilywhites at the end of last season to try and gain a professional contract in the USA, but he is back on Welsh soil and has been on trial at the Citizens, as well as Technogroup Welshpool.

Another trialist in the blue of Bangor was Stephen Connor, who had an unsuccessful spell at TNS last season, having joined from Everton in the January transfer window,

Reed headed home the opener at the Kirkland Stadium, but Lairds equalised with a penalty, before powerhouse substitute Les Davies restored the advantage with a trademark left footed piledriver from ten yards.

Bangor Team: Peter Smith; Peter Hoy, Martin Beattie, Michael Johnston, Clive Williams; Dave Morley, Ashley Stott, Marc Limbert, Jamie Reed, Mark Smyth, Sion Edwards.

Subs: Les Davies, Steve Connor, Matt Sargent

Official welsh premier

The official Rhyl website has issued a statement denying rumours that the club is about to go into administration. The website says in an official press release. Despite rumours to the contrary Rhyl Football Club are not going into administration and Peter Parry is not leaving the Club. These rumours have presumably started as a result of the Football Association of Wales decision not to make any further advances of the prize money due to Rhyl FC by UEFA for qualifying for the Champions League this year. 

After attending a meeting with the Directors of the FAW, Rhyl FC were informed that now and in the future the FAW  will only advance clubs enough money to cover the costs of  travelling abroad to fulfil their away fixture in UEFA competitions. Rhyl FC is obviously disappointed with this decision. 

The implication of this is that the vast majority of the UEFA prize money will not be received until probably December this year. Whilst this is an inconvenience, Rhyl FC is re formulating its budget to accommodate the timing difference now caused by the FAW’s decision.

Neath have added to their strong-looking squad with the acquisition of two new signings to the club, Stephen Davey and Carlos Castan.

Midfielder Davey, 18, is a Wales youth international who spent two seasons with Shrewsbury Town. He won 8 Under 17 Caps in 2007/08, scoring one goal. He then won 6 Under 19 Caps last season, again scoring once. But, he was released at the end of the season by the New Meadow club. Striker Castan also arrives in the Welsh Premier for the first time and he has experience playing in the Spanish leagues.

Both played for the Eagles against Coventry City Under 18's last night in a 2-2 draw at The Gnoll. Andy Hill put the Eagles in front in the first-half, but the Sky Blues were leading 2-1 in the final stages through goals from Callum Wilson and Josh Ruffels before veteran Carl Shaw levelled at the death.

Official welsh premier

Porthmadog have made another 2 signings to their squad, after both players impressed in recent friendlies.

The official Porthmadog website went on to say about the two signings.

Porthmadog have completed the signing of Dan Pyrs and Euron Roberts two players who have taken their opportunity to impress in recent friendlies. Dan Pyrs is a 24 year old midfielder who played last season for Llanrug United. He also appeared briefly, when a teenager, for Caernarfon (2002 – 2004) making 3 (+10) WPL appearances before entering college.

Euron Roberts is a defender who trained with the Wolves academy as a youngster. Last season he was a key player for his hometown club Blaenau Amateurs who gained promotion to the Welsh Alliance. Euron also appeared for Cymru Alliance club Llanfairpwll whilst a student at Coleg Menai

Cymru Alliance side Glantraeth have resigned from the league says a statement on the clubs official website. It said.

Glantraeth have sent the following letter to the Cymru Alliance League Secretary: "It is with great regret that we resign our membership of the Cymru Alliance League. We apologise to the league management committee and the member clubs for the timing of our decision but it has become clear over the past few weeks as we have struggled to fulfil our pre-season programme that we are not in a position to guarantee meeting our playing commitments for the forthcoming season and delaying a decision any longer could prove even more disruptive.

We would like to thank the league management committee for their hard work and support during the period we have been in the league and wish all member clubs amongst whom we have made many friends a successful and rewarding 2009-10 season."

The 2008/09 UEFA Champions League Solidarity scheme for youth development in top-division clubs will once again benefit the Principality Welsh Premier League clubs to the tune of Euro 166,700 this Season.

The payments are ring-fenced for youth development, solely in the top leagues of UEFA's member associations.

In total, the seventeen Leagues with participants in the 2008/09 UEFA Champions League Group Matches will receive EURO 36.1 million.

And the other thirty-six National Associations' Top Leagues, who did not have a participant in the 2008/09 UEFA Champions will receive EURO 7.2 million between them.

A calculation is then worked out to see how much each National Association receives and Wales will be allocated the minimum sum of Euro 166,700, which is calculated from the low co-efficient ranking. The League is then responsible for distributing the amount in question to its clubs, based on their Academy Audit throughout the season, which is carried out by the Welsh Football Trust.

Therefore, if all eighteen clubs meet all of the criteria within their Academy Audit, they will each receive over Euro 9,261, which at today's exchange, is just over £7,879.

UEFA's General Secretary David Taylor explains, "This solidarity scheme associated with the UEFA Champions League is aimed at supporting youth development activities in professional football.

"It complements other UEFA initiatives such as club licensing and the rules on locally trained ('homegrown') players."

Official welsh premier website

Dave Jones

MERTHYR Tydfil are now looking ahead to the start of their Zamaretto Southern League season with real confidence.

The club are in administration, but have cleared every hurdle put before them so far.

And manager Garry Shephard used 19 players as the Martyrs took on Gloucester City at Cirencester Town’s ground.

Merthyr were beaten 4-1, but are delighted to have played a match which looked in doubt at times last week.

Then the Football Association, the Football Association of Wales and the Southern League all gave a thumbs up to plans for the club’s supporters trust to run things under licence from the administrator.

Merthyr Tydfil will start the season with a 10 points deduction, but there is a real spring in their step now they have been given the go-ahead to play on.

Manager Andy Legg and his Llanelli team are scheduled to visit Penydarren Park for a pre-season friendly this Saturday, August 8.

Electricity is now back on at the Merthyr ground and the club should be ready for the start of their new league campaign.

Merthyr open their Premier Division fixtures against Hampshire club Bashley at Penydarren Park on Saturday, August 15 (3pm).

Terry Phillips

BARRY Town have signed two Macedonian under-21 internationals for their new MacWhirter Welsh Football League season.

Teenagers Tomi Ilievski and Dusko Trajcevski made their Barry Town debut in a goalless draw against Western League Willand Sports in Devon.

“They are both central midfield players and they’ve impressed manager Gavin Chesterfield with their technical ability,” says Barry secretary Dave Cole.

“They are due to be with us for six months.”

Ilievski played for 65 minutes against Willand, while Trajcevski went on for the last 25 minutes.

The two players, who look composed in possession and pass the ball well, will have to adjust to the Welsh League.

Both are 19 years old and almost signed for Pontypridd Town last season.

Welsh businessman Clayton Jones, who is launching St David’s Travel, has close links with the Macedonian FA and has worked closely with Barry on the two signings.

Terry Phillips

The crowd started to fill the GenQuip Stadium as the referee got this friendly underway and with 90 seconds played Martin Rose had the game's first chance as he broke free of Garry Monk and into the box.

He held on to the ball a little too long as David Cornell raced off his line to gather the ball at his feet.

Casey Thomas, playing in his hometown, fired straight at Neil Collins from the right of the box and the former Welsh League goalkeeper into stopping from Chad Bond soon afterwards.

But three minutes shy of the half-hour mark the deadlock was broken, Fede Bessone picking out Guillem Bauza inside the area before the ball founds its way back to him on the edge of the area.

The Argentinian full-back mis-hit his effort across the face of goal but Jordi Lopez was waiting at the back post to tap home the opening goal.

And six minutes before the break the former Afan Lido youngster sent Matty Collins on his way inside the area and his namesake Neil in the Port Talbot goal was forced into making a stop from his angled shot.

Half-Time: Port Talbot 0 Swans 1

Port Talbot made an encouraging start with Drew Fahiya forcing David Cornell into making his first real save of the game while Neil Thomas fired wide 30 seconds later.

Guillem Bauza fancied his chances from just outside the area two minutes in, only to see it fly over, but Chad Bond saw his effort from similar distance shave the top of the crossbar.

Kerry Morgan fired high over the bar from close-range after latching on to Jamie Grimes' long ball forward and that came just before the home side made seven changes in the space of three minutes.

Stephen Dobbie shot inches wide ot the target before the visitors made a further three changes - Jazz Richards, Daniel Sheehan and Marcos Painter all coming on - and defender Sheehan almost made the perfect start as he came close to meeting Dobbie's corner.

The Swans continued to dominate the latter stages and it was Orlandi this time that came close to bagging a second with 10 minutes left but he shot inches past Collins' right-hand post.

But the second just wouldn't come and as the fourth official raised his board to signal the two minutes of added time Stephen Dobbie came closest to doubling the advantage when his wicked drive struck the foot of the post.

Attendance: 1,200 (approx)

Official Swansea City website

LEE Jones is hoping to see his squad close to full fitness as Elements Cefn Druids continue its pre-season programme at Mold Alexandra on Saturday.

The joint manager said that the same squad that was on duty in Monday night's win against Rhos Aelwyd will be in action at Alun Park.

Jones said: "We'll be facing a similar opposition to Monday and I hope we get as much out of it as possible.

"We should be close to full fitness by now and I'll be hoping we come through all unscathed."

He added: "I won't be looking at the result, but it is good to get into good habits.

"We're two weeks away from the start of the season and that's what we're gearing towards so the performance and getting a good workout is the important thing."

Official Druids website