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MATCH REPORTS |
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SEASON 2002-03 |
| 1999-00 |
2000-01 |
2001-02 |
2002-03 |
2003-04 |
2004-05 |
2005-06 |
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| Another cup defeat on penalties was
a pretty raw return from a pulsating cup final which City could - maybe
should - have won during the second half.
However it was Rhyl who started at a gallop with Marc Limbert forcing a goalline clearance which in turn fed Lee Hunt whose pass to strike partner Ross Jefferies forced a good save from 'keeper Paul Smith. This broke to Alan Goodall whose shot flashed wide. With the wind at their backs Rhyl pushed forward for referee Simon Jones to award a rather harsh penalty against Chris Short for alleged handball. Andy Moran scored confidently to put the Lilywhites ahead on 15 mins. City fought back for Owain Jones to cross onto Lee Hunts head but Smith denied the young striker with a fine close range save. On 25 mins Rhyl doubled the advantage when a long ball skimmed over Chris Short for Chris McGinn to fire home as Phil Priestley ran out to close the angles. The abrasive Limbert forced a good save from Phil Priestley ten minutes before the interval, and his well taken corner needed a goal line clearance from Aled Rowlands to keep deficit within manageable proportions. The inconsistent Jones walked off at the interval with the names of Ricky Evans, Lee Hunt and Owain Jones in his little black book, along with Rhyl midfielder Atherton. |
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| With the win at their backs
Bangor had to do better, which is precisely what they did, forcing an
amazing seven corners in the opening fifteen minutes. During this
spell City's Welsh International connection came to the fore, with Clayton
Blackmore once and Simon Davies twice going close.
On 65 mins City were back in contention as Ricky Evans sent a 30 yard scorcher past Smith into the top corner with unstoppable force. Bangor pushed for an equaliser as Alan Goodall forced another good save from Smith before young Owain Jones headed home from a Simon Davies cross despite the attention of Rhyl defenders. City then sent on Marc Lloyd Williams for Ross Jefferies with Gareth Williams replacing Chris Short ten minutes from time. With fifteen minutes remaining Alan Goodall had to clear with Moran ready to pounce. Rhyl went close again through Moody before Lee Hunt again forced a superb save from Smith after deceiving Mark Powell with a clever flick and turn. And so to extra time. Gareth Williams saw his shot palmed over whilst fellow substitute Marc Lloyd Williams missed out from two yards. Jackson went close for the hosts whilst the ginger sub sent a clean 25 yard strike on target. Penalties? Well Paul Smith covered himself with glory, Rhyl won 4-3 and that was that, a disappointing finale to an enjoyable season. |
| Bangor City: Phil Priestley, Aled Rowlands, Alan Goodall, Eifion Jones, Clayton Blackmore, Chris Short, Ross Jefferies, Ricky Evans, Lee Hunt, Simon Davies, Owain Jones Subs: Gareth Williams, Marc Lloyd Williams, Kenny Burgess |
| Rhyl: P.Smith, M.Powell, A.Moody,
M.Jackson, T.Edwards, M.Limbert, P.Atherton, G.Wilson,
G.Powell, C.McGinn, A.Moran, Subs: N.Brookman, M.Chalk, M.Billingsley |
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Paul Smith |
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| Bangor stumbled to defeat in this
"dead rubber" fixture which nevertheless featured six goals, many more
chances and end to end football pretty much throughout.
City were 2-0 down inside eight minutes and must have feared the heavy defeat which might have handed TNS the title, had Barry lost to Aberystwyth. The first strike came in two minutes when Justin Perry headed home from a right wing corner. Then on eight minutes it was 2-0 as John Toner tapped in after Perry dummied a ball which had penetrated straight through an ineffective blues rearguard. The blue contingent held their breath as the full timers surged forward with confidence flowing. However City struck back as Ricky Evans found Marc Lloyd Williams whose header put Gareth Williams in fifteen yards out but he sliced wide when well placed. On 19 minutes Bangor pulled one back as Kenny Burgess beat Dean Williams from inside the box to the obvious relief of the winger and his team mates. As TNS moved forward, inspired by regular crossfield punts by the foul mouthed Brabin, leftback Alan Goodall and Eifion Jones stood tall and largely restricted Phil Priestley's involvement to fielding long range shots. Moments before half time Ricky Evans, who was enjoying a lively afternoon in midfield, sent a 30 yard free kick against the outside of the post with Williams reduced to the role of spectator. There were positive signs from both Ricky and his engine room partner Simon Davies , so too right winger Kenny Burgess. Upfront enigmatic Marc Lloyd Williams was also more involved and showed a willingness to work back into midfield and an ability to bring others into play. |
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| The interval change saw
Lee Hunt replaced Ross Jefferies. As in the first half City started
off with one eye closed to allow the diminutive Simon Heal to bundle home from
close range following a right wing cross.
With an intermittent breeze at their backs Bangor struck back in the 51st minute as Lee Hunt headed powerfuly over Williams from a Marc Lloyd Williams cross from the left. However thoughts of a winning comeback were quashed on 58 mins when Justin Perry finished from close range after good work from Ruscoe. At 4-2 down and with half an hour remaining City might have gone down without trace, but a combination of some brave defending from Eifion Jones and wasteful finishing from TNS meant a goalless closing period. On 60 mins the tiring Gareth Williams was replaced by Owain Jones who slotted into a left wing berth. The lively Kenny Burgess popped up on the left, chased towards goal and forced a full length dive from Williams with a clean hit from the edge of the box. The next incident of note was Aled Rowlands replacing the fit again winger who would have been reasonably pleased with his performance. TNS were creating openings but the final effort from City came as Ricky Evans barged his way past Heal to thrash a 25 yarder on target which Williams again tipped over to the dismay of the travelling blues. So a final league defeat - albeit of no consequence - but a welcome return to form from Simon Davies and a couple of others who have bolstered City's League Cup hopes for next weekend. |
| Bangor City: Phil Priestley, Gareth Williams, Alan Goodall, Eifion Jones, Clayton Blackmore, Chris Short, Marc Lloyd Williams, Ricky Evans, Ross Jefferies, Simon Davies. Subs: Owain Jones, Aled Rowlands, Lee Hunt, |
| TNS: D.Williams, D.Bridgwater, A.Porter,
T.Holmes, S.Evans, S.Heal, S.Ruscoe J.Toner,
J.Perry, G.Brabin, N.Ward Subs: R.Wood, M.Wilde, P.Gedman |
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Steve Evans |
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| Two points dropped against
a struggling Caernarfon side that had narrowly clinched WP survival with
a one nil win at Afan Lido two days earlier.
It had started promisingly enough with Lee Hunt twice close to opening the scoring inside the first five minutes before Caernarfon midfielder Chris Tamm forced a good save out of Phil Priestley with a 25 yard strike. However City deservedly went ahead on 18 minutes after Clayton Blackmore won a corner which was taken from the right by Alan Goodall. The diminutive Willcock failed to deal with the cross, Eifion Jones turned the ball goalwards and Owain Jones rattled the ball into the net from eight yards. Phil Priestley then saved well from former City favourite Chris Moores, and as the game flowed from end to end City forced a couple of corners in quick succession midway throught the half. On the half hour the large travelling contingent celebrated as Clayton Blackmore's freekick sailed into the net but referee Jones had signalled that the award was indirect and a goalkick was awarded. Caernarfon defender Craig Hogg was then cautioned for another infringement before Lloyd Roberts raced down the left, cut inside and fired a low shot which made Phil Priestley scramble by his left post. Bangor doubled the advantage on 41 mins when some woeful goalkeeping from Willcock allowed Lee Hunt to rush in and bundle the ball past him from two yards. |
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| A superbly constructed move
in the opening minute of the second period saw Alan Goodall sidefoot
the ball on target but too close to Willock. On the hour the home
keeper did well to tip a deflected shot from Ricky Evans onto his crossbar
and was relieved to see Roberts scramble the ball away. On 65 mins
City sent on a fit again Kenny Burgess for Gareth Williams and minutes
later Simon Davies came on for the wilting Ricky Evans with old favourite
Frank Mottram replacingg Chris Moores.
The more impressive defensive figure for Caernarfon was Paul Roberts whose interceptions and ability to be in the right place when needed frustrated both Lee Hunt and Ross Jefferies. On 75 mins it was 2-1 as Danny Barton clipped a right wing cross from Leigh Williams past Phil Priestley from 20 yards. City were in a battle now and with Owain Jones toiling - often unaided - in the engine room wrost was to follow. A minute later the scores were tied as Lloyd Roberts fired a pass from Danny Barton past the despairing Phil Priestley from outside the box. City sprang to life and Alan Goodall raced down the left but pulled his shot across the face of the goal from a tight angle with Lee Hunt perhaps better placed. The spring heeled left footer then reverted to leftback in place of Aled Rowlands as Marc Lloyd Williams made his entrance to a chorus of worried boos from the Cofi horde. With five minutes remaining the Llanberis lad fired a shot which Willcock held after good combination play involving Ross Jefferies. City forced a couple of late corners and Lee Hunt fired wide from the right but on the balance of play a draw was about right and the 650 strong crowd left with the yellow and greens celebrating some unseen cup success. |
| Bangor City:
Phil Priestley, Aled Rowlands, Alan Goodall, Eifion Jones, Clayton Blackmore,
Chris
Short, Gareth Williams, Ricky Evans, Lee Hunt, Ross Jefferies, Owain Jones. Subs: Anthony Fenton, Simon Davies, Marc Lloyd Williams |
| Caernarfon: I.Willcock, P.Roberts,
J.Keegan, C.Hogg, T.Brandreth, C.Rodgers, C.Tamm L.Williams, D.Barton, C.Moores, L.Roberts
Subs: L.Williams, D.McGoona, F.Mottram |
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Paul Roberts |
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| A comfortable home win for
a reshuffled Bangor side which featured the return of Phil Priestley in
goal and Ross Jefferies who slotted in alongside Lee Hunt. Gareth
Williams made a rare start on the right wing with Simon Davies joining
Marc Lloyd Williams on the bench.
The early signs were good as Ricky Evans tested Wager with a 25 yard free kick although Richard Ryan caused problems on the left with a surging run. However on 14 minutes City went ahead when Lee Hunt chased a bouncing ball from Eifion Jones into the box, chipped Wager only to hit the bar with Ross Jefferies slotting in the rebound. Tall and hard working, Mark Dodds was causing problems for Eifion Jones and Clayton Blackmore in the blues defence and the big Llanrug defender responded well shortly after the goal to cut out a goalbound effort. Then the tall striker caused havoc in the home defence which saw the determined Clayton Blackmore clear off the line twice - from Ryan and then Twynham - to keep the visitors at bay. With time running out at the end of the first half City struck again. A Clayton Blackmore corner from the right was met by Ross Jefferies whose looping header flew over Wager on 40 minutes for a clear advantage. The final action saw Clayton Blackmore pull rank on Ricky Evans to send a dipping free kick narrowly over the bar from around 22 yards. |
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| Five minutes after the interval
Alan Goodall sprinted through the middle to set up Ross Jefferies on
the left, but his attempted lob flew over the bar. On 64 mins Alan
Goodall was in the thick of the action again with a shot against the
crossbar from ten yards and then a scrambled effort from the rebound which
was smothered by Wager. With the slow moving 5 handicapped by a heavily strapped knee, City were now in a position to add to the scoreline but failed to grasp the opportunity. The third goal finally arrived on 73 mins when a good run down the right by Gareth Williams, supplied by Ross Jefferies culiminated in a delightful chip over Wager which allowed Lee Hunt to head in from close range. Peter Davenport withdrew Ross Jefferies who enjoyed a warm ovation as he departed, Marc Lloyd Williams taking his place before Anthony Fenton came on for Owain Jones. As time ran out Clark went close for the visitors before Lee Hunt lofted over the final opportunity for Bangor. City have therefore done the double over Port Talbot and gained more points than last season, but the reality that third is the most likely finishing position is still a touch disappointing. |
| Bangor City: Phil Priestley, Aled Rowlands, Alan Goodall, Eifion Jones, Clayton Blackmore, Chris Short, Gareth Williams, Ricky Evans, Lee Hunt, Ross Jefferies, Owain Jones. Subs: Anthony Fenton, Simon Davies, Marc Lloyd Williams |
| Port Talbot: G.Wager, L.Matthews, Clark, 4, G.Davies, 6, H. Fleming, R.Shugar, M.Dodds, G.Twynham, R.Ryan Subs: |
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| City crashed to a 2-1 defeat on the
wholly unacceptable Deeside Stadium surface which makes controlled football
impossible - for both teams. This must particularly frustrate the
likes of Stuart Terry and Andy Griffiths but after picking up three points
in this drab affair they may be placated for a week or two.
The opening play came as leading scorer Lee Hunt forced a good save from David Walsh after a clever set up by Marc Lloyd Williams. But on five minutes the hosts took the lead as George Horan kept up the goalscoring repuation of the Nomads defenders with a ten yard finish after Andy Griffiths saw his shot hit the bar. The lively Lee Hunt then got on the end of a long ball but his flick did more damage to Horan's head than the Nomads net. Burly Craig Hutchinson then tested Jon Hallworth with a clean strike that the former Cardiff 'keeper saved at full stretch. Up the other end and a handball by Stuart Terry - or a push by Walsh - led to a penalty won by Marc Lloyd Williams which Simon Davies confidently converted beyond the reach of the diving home keeper. City won their first corner on 25 minutes which eventually ran to Simon Davies who supplied Ricky Evans whose cross just eluded the sprawling Lee Hunt. Referee Mike Jones then cautioned Owain Jones and Nomads midfielder Andy Griffiths for a brief squabble. The final action of the first period saw Stuart Terry raid down the right and cross for Stuart Rain to head over from ten yards. |
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| Bangor started the brighter as Ricky
Evans set up Marc Lloyd Williams but his overhead kick was held by Walsh
before Jon Hallworth saved well from Stuart Rain. City forced
three corners in succession but could not carve a clear cut chance before
the hosts replied with couple of their own. Minutes later a fifth
corner kick led to Eifion Jones heading over.
A great ball in from the right by Chris Short was flicked goalwards by Lee Hunt but slid narrowly wide. City then won a freekick which was lined up by Ricky Evans whose shot struck the wall and ran to Clayton Blackmore whose 35 yarder flew over the bar. On 78 minutes the tasteless tannoy man was able to announce Tommy Mutton goal in the worst traditiion of radio city as the little striker ran clear to beat Jon Hallworth from ten yards. In the final minutes Lee Hunt headed onto the bar from a sxith corner before Owain Jones shot on the turn from six yards but narrowly wide. So a single goal defeat which brings the curtain down on City's slender title hopes. With third place assured a difficult handful of league games remain. |
| Bangor City:
Jon Hallworth, Aled Rowlands, Alan Goodall, Eifion Jones, Clayton
Blackmore, Chris Short, Marc Lloyd Williams, Ricky Evans, Lee Hunt, Simon Davies, Owain Jones. Subs: Anthony Fenton, Kenny Burgess, Lex Piper |
| Connahs Quay: D.Walsh, S.Hopkins,
J.Kenworthy, C.Hutchinson, G.Horan, G.McGosh, A.Griffiths
T.Mutton, C.Lawton, S.Rain, S.Terry
Subs: P.Mazzarella, J.Roberts, C.Butler |
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Stuart Terry |
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| Before kick off, players and supporters
alike stood in silence as a mark of respect for former Cwmbran Town manager
Tony Wilcox who died earlier that day. Many were clearly stunned
by the news of the death of the widely respected figure whose Cwmbran
side won the first ever LoW championship.
At kick off City fans were able to discern some positional changes in the blues line up, most notably in midfield where Aled Rowlands and Simon Davies occupied the wide positions with Owain Jones bringing pace and mobility to the engine room alongside the power and guile of Ricky Evans. City started the brighter and it was no surprise who notched the opener inside nine minutes. Clayton Blackmore won the ball on the left and found Eifion Jones in space on the edge of the circle. His intelligent through ball was taken in full stride by Marc Lloyd Williams who beat the advancing McIntosh from the edge of the box. Bangor could and should have run away with the match as Eifion Jones and Owain Jones went close before Marc Lloyd Williams was again in on goal but lifted his 20 yarder over the bar. Ricky Evans also had three long range efforts, the closest of which struck the advertising boards by McIntosh's post. On the half hour a Paul Dowridge free kick was caught by Jon Hallworth who looked confident and secure in the continued absence of Phil Priestley. Scarcely the most enthralling 45 minutes but a welcome lead. |
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| Jon Hallworth then repeated the feat with a more impressive
palm over from Dave Cunnah's 30 yard special. The lively Shannon
then missed a sitter from infront of the City goal as Cefn pushed for an
equaliser. The first corner of the second period, won by Marc Lloyd Williams, resulted in a strong header from towering defender Eifion Jones. Aled Rowlands than ran down the right to see his cross/shot held at the near post by McIntosh. On 73 miinutes City doubled their advantage. A left wing cross from Simon Davies dropped on the edge of the Druids six yard box. With Marc Lloyd Williams causing confusion the chance fell to Owain Jones whose low drive found the corner of the net. As time ran out City boss Peter Davenport used all three substitutes, the first Paul Friel for Simon Davies with some ten minutes remaining. The young Irishman made a good impression with his composure and willingness to pick a pass and compete for possession. With five to go Marc Lloyd Williams was replaced by Lex Piper who worked hard and finally Anthony Fenton for Owain Jones, with the big utility man finding time to incur the wrath of Craig Wilkinson who moments earlier had tried to annoy Ricky Evans. So three points, a clean sheet, and confirmation of European entry. One humourous incident, a well meaning Druids fan singing "One Aled Rowlands, there's only..." when in fact there was one in each team! |
| Bangor City:
Jon Hallworth, Aled Rowlands, Alan Goodall, Eifion Jones, Clayton
Blackmore, Chris Short, Marc Lloyd Williams, Ricky Evans, Lee Hunt, Simon Davies, Owain Jones. Subs: Anthony Fenton, Paul Friel, Lex Piper |
| Cefn Druids: S.McIntosh, M.Allen,
P.Dowridge, A.Rowlands, B.Jefferies, D.Watkin, D.Cunnah D.Desormeaux, A.Shannon, J.Desormeaux, M.Dabbs
Subs: C.Wilkinson, A.Williams, R.Jones |
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D.Cunnah |
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| Wastleful Bangor stumbled to their
customary defeat at Latham Park as the home side adapted better to the
dry bouncy surface and some truly inept refereeing from Collins of Swansea.
Beneath the burning Mid Wales sun it was difficult to see if this dreadful
official favoured either side. City started the better and forced a couple of early corners but on their first forward move Newtown took the lead as Justin Wickham fired home from a left wing cross. The nervous Hamam then bungled a shot from chief marksman Marc Lloyd Williams but without any punishment. Inside ten minutes City had forced their fourth corner but failed to score as the ginger stiker missed from close range. At the other end Eifion Jones blocked a goalbound effort before slamming the second effort out of play. On twenty minutes Owain Jones sent a clean strike just over from the wide right with former City favourite Sean Hazelden lying injured on the penalty spot. On 27 minutes City were level. Owain Jones crossed from the right, Alan Goodall fired the ball back into the box and Lee Hunt snatched on the half chance to drive home from 15 yards. City were unsettled by the dry surface, became prone to launching the high ball, and played to the strengths of Hazelden and Jellicoe in the Newtown defence. Jon Hallworth then pulled off a great save to deny Justin Wickham before Eifion Jones again intervened with a brave block. Moments later Hamam was called into action as Clayton Blackmore's freekick had to be turned out for a corner via the foot of the post. Alan Goodall and Lee Hunt both went close before Clayton Blackmore was yellow carded as was Chris Adamson for kicking the ball away. In three minutes of injury time Bangor wasted guilt edged chances, most notably Marc Lloyd Williams from less than three yards with the goal at his mercy! |
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| The first move of the second period came in the opening minute
as Lee Hunt supplied Owain Jones on the right. His cross to the back
post was headed over by Alan Goodall who held his head in disbelief.
A false dawn moments later as Lee Hunt thought he had put City infront
but instead found only the side netting as he cut in from the right.
Then Ricky Evans struck cleanly from 25 yards but Hamam held comfortably.
City visibly tired in the mid summer conditions. The with around fifteen minutes remaining Marc Loyd Williams was replaced by Lex Piper who slotted in alongside Lee Hunt. The willing student instantly firted wide from close range before Alan Goodall was cautioned for precious little. On 75 mins Newtown took the lead when a left wing corner was hammered home by Sean Hazelden in a moment of particular significance for the former blue. Moments later Chris Short replaced Anthony Fenton and City charged forward in search of an equaliser. The best effort came from Eifion Jones whose goalbound shot was hacked away after a firm header from the tiring Ricky Evans had also been blocked. This signalled the end of the road for Bangor who had long since sensed the eventual outcome was beyond their control. And that was it, the end of the unbeaten run. No hard luck stories, wasted chances and a laboured heavy legged performance which probaly signals the end of title aspirations. Time will tell. |
| Bangor City: Jon Hallworth, Aled Rowlands, Alan Goodall, Eifion Jones, Clayton Blackmore, Anthony Fenton, Marc Lloyd Williams, Ricky Evans, Lee Hunt, Simon Davies, Owain Jones. Subs: Chris Short, Paul Friel, Lex Piper |
| Newtown: G.Hamam, A.Thomas, G.Evans,
D.Jellicoe, S.Hazelden, S.Futcher, Subs: |
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Sean Hazelden |
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| With Alan Goodall missing through
suspension City started with Kenny Burgess on the left, Owain Jones on
the right and Lee Hunt re-instated alongside Marc Lloyd Williams.
However this counted for precious little in a dreadful first half which did nothing to enthuse either set of fans. In fact no sooner had the action started than Rhyl midfielder Steve Walters lay motionless following a block tackle on Owain Jones and had to be stretchered off. Although three minutes elapsed whilst Joh Hulse contemplated his options, Walters was replaced by former Blues favourite Nicky Brookman on six minutes. Clear cut chances were few and far between. For Rhyl Gary Powell and Adrian Moody sent efforts well wide, as did Ricky Evans and Marc Lloyd Williams for Bangor. The outstanding performance during this stalemate was Eifion Jones who defensive work was very impressive, both in terms of tackling and composure. For Rhyl Timmy Edwards dealt competently with any high balls in his vicinity. On the half hour a cross from Aled Rowlands put visiting custodian Paul Smith under pressure for the first time, but his clean punch sailed out for a throw. Michael Jackson was then yellow carded for a trip on Kenny Burgess as was Owain Jones for a clash with Paul Smith which saw the Rhyl 'keeper receive treatment. The final whistle brought to the end a goalless, cornerless and chanceless 45 minutes which will not last long in the memory. At least the playing surface looked okay after quite heavy overnight rain. |
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| Attacking the St Pauls End, aided by a slight breeze, City
pushed for an early breakthrough after the restart. An early chance
for Aled Rowlands saw the valley lad strike off target right footed from
the edge of the box. But it was the diminutive Scott Millington who
went closest when his clean strike from the left cleared the upright with
John Hallworth nearly called into action.
On 62 minutes Bangor won the first corner of the evening which Simon Davies sent on target to force a second but to no avail. Minutes later Eifion Jones ventured upfield but lofted high over the bar. Ricky Evans then stepped up to take a freekick he won several yards out of the box. His slow drive was well placed but lacked sufficient power to trouble Smith who saved low to his left. On 72 minutes it all happened. Lee Hunt chased a ball into the Rhyl box, Paul Smith tripped him and the referee pointed to the penalty spot. With City fans chanting "off off" the yellow card was shown before the unflappable Simon Davies stepped up to place the ball into the bottom corner. This follows the basic rule that visiting goalkeepers cannot be red carded at Farrar Road. By now City had re-organised with Kenny Burgess moving to the right, Owain Jones stepping into midfield and Simon Davies operating wide on the left. The shuffle seemed to help as the right winger crossed superbly to force Jackson to head over his own bar with Lee Hunt lurking. With ten minutes remaining Lex Piper was introduced in place of the tiring Kenny Burgess, with Lee Hunt switching to the wing. The tall student made a decent impression, winning corners and throw ins and generally occupying the three Rhyl centrebacks. His first touch sent Lee Hunt in behind the Lilywhites defence but his shot was held by Smith. The elegant Eifion Jones showed his pedigree with a well timed interception in the centre cirle, a flick beyond Wilson and a pinpoint pass to Piper on the left. After a couple of minutes of stoppage time the whistle blew to herald three more points, another clean sheet and all but ensured European competition again next season. |
| Bangor City:
Jon Hallworth, Owain Jones, Aled Rowlands, Eifion Jones, Clayton Blackmore,
Chris
Short, Marc Lloyd Williams, Ricky Evans, Lee Hunt, Simon Davies, Kenny Burgess. Subs: Anthony Fenton, Paul Friel, Lex Piper |
| Rhyl: P.Smith, G.Powell. A.Moody,
M.Jackson, T.Edwards, S.Millington, L.Atherton, G.Wilson,
A.Moran, C.McGinn, S.Walters Subs: R.Baker, N.Brookman, J.Fisher-Cooke |
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T.Edwards |
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| Sheltered by the Cambrian mountains,
the River Severn wends eastward to Welshpool and Shrewsbury, passing
through the village of Caersws as road, river and rail come together
where once the Romans built a fort.
The Recreation ground, the home of Caersws FC, is a fortress to this day. The floods now long gone, the dusting of sand tossed high each time the ball bounced. Shorn of the dominant Phil Baker the blue rearguard - albeit decked in red - looked vulnerable to the long ball. With a new goalkeeper Jon Hallworth between the posts, the apprehension was there for all to see. On 13 minutes the fears were confirmed when the Caersws whippet Graham Evans stole in behind the Bangor backline to chip Jon Hallworth from the edge of the box. The hosts celebrated, the grins evident on the face of both TNS supporters who had made the short trip south. City responded with Alan Goodall and Aled Rowlands forcing saves from Andy Mulliner with long range shots. The normally dominant midfield mavericks, Ricky Evans and Simon Davies, were bothered by the high bounce and dancing sand. Home combatants Alan "Slap" Williams and Graham Jones adapted better. However on 20 mins the scores were level when Simon Davies pounced on a fumble by Mulliner from a left wing corner to drive home from the edge of the box. City held sway for a period now, forcing corners, one of which saw Eifion Jones head wide. But with Referee Boddenham contemplating his timepiece Graham Evans might have put the Bluebirds ahead but his run to the right left an impossible angle which forced hos shot wide across goal. |
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| Ten minutes after the interval Marc Lloyd Williams, operating
upfront alongside Owain Jones, seized on a loose ball on the edge of
the box and struck the crossbar with a fierce strike. Adapting
to the bizarre conditions, midfield maestro Simon Davies strode through,
passing Williams and Jones, before attempting to set up a chance for Kenny
Burgess on the edge of the box, but the pass scurried through.
Caersws' main threat came from the left with former Chirk striker Kevin Scott booming long clearances and launching a series of long throws into the City box. As the second half progressed so Jon Hallworth warmed to the task and pulled off a series of saves which home and visiting fans alike applauded. The first a block with his feet from the pacey Evans on the right, the second even more impressive off Kevin Scott whose close range effort seemed a certain goal. However both paled into insignificance when Sean Jehu was astonished to see his effort tipped over "Banks" style from low at the post. With a quarter of an hour remaining Kenny Burgess delivered a cross from the right which sped beyond the inrushing Marc Lloyd Williams, before Geraint Lewis was booked for a late challenge on Clayton Blackmore. The freekick was fired long to the left, collected by Owain Jones but sadly fired over the crossbar from the left of the box. Evans replied for Caersws with a goalbound effort which beat Hallworth but was cleared off the line by the ever dependable Chris Short. Spurred on by the travelling blues City chased forward for Alan Goodall to send a looping header onto the roof the net from the left edge of the box. The final action saw Geraint Lewis shown the yellow card for the second time and allowed first use of the showers for a dull challenge on Chris Short. A point, honours even, but "Shaker & Ricky" were left to contemplate that a career in beach soccer with Cantona and his crew might be best avoided. |
| Bangor City: Jon Hallworth, Aled Rowlands, Alan Goodall, Eifion Jones, Clayton Blackmore, Chris Short, Marc Lloyd Williams, Ricky Evans, Owain Jones, Simon Davies, Kenny Burgess. Subs: Anthony Fenton, Paul Friel, Steve Owen |
| Caersws: A.Mulliner, A.Thomas, S.Jehu,
C.Reynolds, H.Clarke, A.Williams, K.Scott, G.Lewis G.Evans, G.Jones, A.Davies Subs: A.Marfell, J.Davies, G.Williams |
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Graham Evans |
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| Bangor thumped a poor Llanelli side
whose manager Leighton James seemed resigned to defeat the moment the
opening goal flew in on 38 minutes.
Up until that opening strike this had been a pretty tepid affair. True Alan Goodall might have done better from Chris Short's right wing cross, but chances in the opening quarter were few and far between. Indeed Llanelli forced three corners in that opening spell and had a reasonable share of possession. City began to pick up the pace on 25 minutes when midfielder Simon Davies cut inside his opposite number from 30 yards out to unleash a drive which rose just over Alex Davies' crossbar. Marc Lloyd Williams then headed on target from Alan Goodall's cross before Ricky Evans and Simon Davies had shots from the edge of the box. The breakthrough came on 38 mins when the towering Eifion Jones sent a long clearance towards the lurking Alan Goodall. His header infield fell to Marc Lloyd Williams whose right foot shot cleared Davies from 30 yards and sailed into the visitors goal. The sense of relief was widespread; experienced Jiws watcher pondered what might be to follow... On 42 mins it was 2-0 as Eifion Jones picked up lose ball on the edge of the visitors box, found Ricky Evans whose cross was side footed home from Alan Goodall from ten yards out. The party atmosphere gained momentum when, seizing on a lose ball some 35 yards out, Marc Lloyd Williams sent a fierce dipping volley searing beyond Davies into the net. To his credit even one of the Llanelli strikers congratulated the scorer! |
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| The Bangor team which took the field after the break saw
Anthony Fenton slot into right back for Chris Short but otherwise it
was business as usual. Five minutes into the second period Lee
Hunt was shown the yellow card for a challenge on rightback Chris Thomas
who screamed loudly to attract the referee.
On 53 mins it was 4-0 as a right wing cross from Anthony Fenton dropped to Ricky Evans whose unstoppable blast from 20 yards would have felled a buffalo. Moments later Alan Goodall sent a shot narrowly wide before Paul Fowler went close in a rare Llanelli attack. The unpleasant Thomas then tried to get Alan Goodall sent off by stepping into his path but a sharp eyed linesman held his flag high to dampen his ambitions. On 72 mins it was five as Alan Goodall crossed for Marc Lloyd Williams to complete his hatrick from close range. Three minutes later Steve Mardenborough replaced Jennings and then Owain Jones came on for a grinning Ricky Evans who enjoyed a warm reception from the City faithful. On 80 mins Marc Lloyd Williams again struck when a cross from Owain Jones found the rampant striker on the edge of the box, converting at the second attempt. The hardworking Lee Hunt raced through the middle, played a one-two with Marc Lloyd Williams who scored from the left side of the box on 85 mins. With 88 gone it was 8-0 as Eifion Jones charged clear on the right to supply Anthony Fenton whose cross found Marc Lloyd Williams to complete his double hatrick! In the closing minutes Lee Hunt went close on three occasions but luck was against him. Still a job well done, three more points and a boost to the goal difference which could prove crucial. |
| Bangor City: Matthew Parry, Aled Rowlands, Alan Goodall, Eifion Jones, Phil Baker, Chris Short, Marc Lloyd Williams, Ricky Evans, Lee Hunt, Simon Davies, Clayton Blackmore. Subs: Anthony Fenton, Owain Jones, Kenny Burgess |
| Llanelli: A.Davies, C.Thomas, M.Jones,
R.Penny, R.Jennings, A.Bishop, A.Hill, A.Wright, G.Aspell, P.Fowler, D.D'Aurian
Subs: S.Mardenborough, S.Crabb, L.Williams |
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Anthony Wright |
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| A crowd of more than 400 filed into
Belle Vue for this hard fought Welsh Premier encounter, won in the final
minutes by a close range finish by Lee Hunt.
For the best part of ninety minutes the two goalkeepers held sway, the experienced Paul Smith for the hosts and 19 year old Matthew Parry for City. Bangor contributed to the blank half time scoreline by sending too many efforts off target, but would have been pleased with the level or possession enjoyed in the opening half hour. Lee Hunt, Owain Jones and Marc Lloyd Williams all failed to hit the target as the ball bounced high on the dry Belle Vue surface. The giant figure of Timmy Edwards also stood tall, dealing with high crosses and long clearances with consumate ease. With ten minutes to go before half time a superb end to end move by Bangor nearly brought the lead, but instead yielded only a third corner. With Rhyl attacking Cty cleared the ball to Marc Lloyd Williams whose instant volleyed pass found Alan Goodall charging down the left. He carried the ball deep into Rhyl territory before supplying Lee Hunt whose low shot was pushed wide by the diving Paul Smith. Five minutes later - with Rhyl enjoying their best phase - Lee Atherton curled a freekick goalwards but young goalkeeper Matthew Parry span acrobatically to keep the ball out of the top corner. The resulting corner saw another goalbound effort from Mark Powell was hacked clear by Chris Short on the goalline. The half time whistle was met with relief by the blue contingent who, although deserving of some reward for the opening half hour, might have slipped behind immediately before the interval. |
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| Aled Rowlands exploited some space
on the left to shoot on target but Smith again saved impressively, before
Millington chased down the left to cross for McGinn who set up Moran but
he lifted his shot over. City struck back through Clayton Blackmore
whose shot was cleared, then Rhyl sub Michael Jackson was yellow carded
following a push on Lee Hunt. City settled into a period of dominance, troubled only by counter attacks often featuring Millington on the left. Smith had to save sharply from Clayton Blackmore when a Marc Lloyd Williams header set up a close range chance, then the Llanberis lad won a corner as his effort was blocked. A second kick followed which might have seen City take the lead but Alan Goodall saw his effort cleared off the line. Rhyl oved upfield but again City's young goalkeeper impressed with clean handling under pressure to release Marc Lloyd Williams who def the maruading Alan Goodall on the left but his long range lob was cleanly held by Smith. City's record breaking striker then missed a close range chance carved out by a supreme crossfield ball from Ricky Evans and set up by Alan Goodall. Moran thought he should have had a penalty - City fans appealed for a caution for a dive - with twenty minutes to go, referee Kevin Parry decided against either course of action. Matthew Parry then made another great save from Lee Atherton whose 30 yard curler looked a sure goal. Rhyl pushed for a lead when McGinn set himself for a close range goal but Chris Short beat him to it to concede a corner. Marc Lloyd Williams went close on 83 mins but on 86 City had the lead when Ricky Evans teed up a 20 yard shot which Smith could not hold. The predatory Lee Hunt pounced for a calm close range finish to the delight, even the disbelief, of the blues behind the goal. And that was it. Both keepers featured prominently and City fans will have been impressed by the clean handling and composure of former Liverpool reserve custodian Matthew Parry. |
| Bangor City:
Matthew Parry, Aled Rowlands, Alan Goodall, Eifion Jones, Phil Baker,
Chris Short,
Marc Lloyd Williams, Ricky Evans, Lee Hunt, Clayton Blackmore, Owain Jones. Subs: Anthony Fenton, Kenny Burgess, Steve Evans |
| Rhyl: P.Smith, M.Powell, A.Moody,
R.Baker, T.Edwards, S.Millington, L.Atherton, G.Wilson, A.Moran, C.McGinn, N.Brookman Subs: G.Powell, M.Jackson, J.Fisher-Cooke |
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Paul Smith |
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| Bangor finally lost on penalties
to cautious Cwmbran who seemed set on containment from a very early stage.
Home supporters were shocked by the absense through illness of Simon Davies and winger Kenny Burgess who had not recovered from the midweek league visit of Connahs Quay. Cwmbran lined up with five across the back and veteran striker Chris Summers often alone upfront. Bangor, with Anthony Fenton partnering Ricky Evans, had more possession, territory, shots on and off target and forced ten corners but failed to score. The first real chance fell to Marc Lloyd Williams whose shot was blocked by Ellacott on ten minutes, following which City had loud claims for handball refused by Brian Bevan. Five minutes later City thought they had scored as Lee Hunt nodded home but the linesman flagged to end the celebrations. Sean Wharton was hardly endearing himself to the home fans with a clear dive in a penalty bid and a late challenge on Ricky Evans which shackled the big midfielder. The talkative Wigg was then late on the Wrexham midfielder who kept his calm but showed his discomfort. On 42 mins Smothers headed over for Cwmbran in what was a rare raid by The Crows, but if referee Bevan had been charged with finding a pulse in this tepid affair he would have struggled. In the bright sun both teams were sluggish and one paced, even the normally noisy Bangor supporters were strangely subdued. |
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| At half time Sean Wharton was replacing
by Sean Mainwaring but if anything Bangor, attacking the St Pauls, took
the initiative after Chris Summers fired wide from 15 yards.
City won three corners in the opening quarter hour which saw Lee Hunt head narrowly wide and some clever ball skills from Ricky Evans on the left wing. On the the hour the hard working Lee Hunt was late on Ellacott which Richard David took exception too, but again Brian Bevan calmed things without over reacting. Minutes later a right wing cross from Owain Jones was flicked goalwards by Marc Lloyd Williams but again Ellacott conceded the corner which was played short to Clayton Blackmore who forced a great save from the visiting custodian. If City were dominating possession they were not creating clear cut chances, but when Alan Goodall fizzed a left wing cross into the box, he might have hoped for someone to get a touch. With 20 mins remaining Cwmbran replaced Mark Morris with former Man United youngster Rhodri Jones. The impressive Eifion Jones then strode out of defence with imperious ease to set up another Bangor attack before Owain Jones was replaced by sub Gareth Williams. There was still time for Marc Lloyd Williams to have two efforts, one high over the bar from 20 yards, the second on target from beyond the left post. That was it. Extra time was pretty drab, Jason Welsh went closest for Cwmbran and Clayton Blackmore for Bangor. The penalty shoot out saw the first five kicks converted, but when Alan Goodall saw his effort blocked it enabled Chris Summers to convert the visitors fifth to secure the 5-3 success, with Marc Lloyd Williams not needed to take City's final effort. What a way to go out of the cup. |
| Bangor City:
Matthew Parry, Aled Rowlands, Alan Goodall, Eifion Jones, Phil Baker,
Anthony
Fenton, Marc Lloyd Williams, Ricky Evans, Lee Hunt, Clayton Blackmore, Owain Jones. Subs: Gareth Williams, Chris Short, Stephen Owen |
| Cwmbran Town: M.Ellacott, R.Carter, Neil
Smothers, N.Wigg, G.Wharton, R.David, C.Summers,
A.Moore, J.Welsh, S.Wharton, M.Morris Subs: R.Hurlin, R.Jones, S.Mainwaring |
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Richard Carter |
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| City gave a debut to 19 year old
Matthew Parry in goal, switched Clayton Blackmore to right back in place
of the injured Chris Short, and finally moved Kenny Burgess upfront for
bad back victim Marc Lloyd Williams. Lee Hunt lifted over a chance in the first minute after a good ball from Aled Rowlands before Nomads keeper David Walsh made a mistake which opened up for Owain Jones but Kenny Burgess shot weakly on goal. The first of a number of home penalty claims came on 25 mins when George Horan pushed Lee Hunt in the box but wayward ref Gerald Davies waved play on. Before the half hour City forced three corners which culminated in Owain Jones flashing a near post header narrowly wide. On the half hour a high swirling ball from Phil Baker caught the visitors defence napping, Kenny Burgess was tripped and the charging Ricky Evans blocked off - but again no penalty! A minute later Hopkins was clearly holding Owain Jones in the box but nothing given. Former Man United apprentice Craig Lawton showed brilliant control to nutmeg both City midfielders and create unease amongst the home fans. For Bangor the powerful Phil Baker was impressing with some balanced runs from deep combined with intelligent defending alongside Eifion Jones. The poor refereing seemed to distract City who reacted slowly to a ball into the box from the attacking right. Although the first effort was scrambled off the line, the rebound ran to Craig Hutchinson who fired home from ten yards out. The visiting bench celebrated, so too Mrs Powell in the mainstand. Otherwise a stunned silence. Bangor bounced back to win a fifth corner which resulted in an Owain Jones shot hoofed off the line. |
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| As the subs warmed up at half time Marc Lloyd Williams wa |