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BANGOR CITY NEWS 1999-2008

BLUES GO THE GNOLL	FRIDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER 2008
Hoy Back For Rare Sunday Outing A 7am Sunday morning start from Farrar Road, 400 miles and several hours on a coach. City are away to Neath Athletic in this International football weekend. Even the venue is a first for Bangor, an appearance at The Gnoll, better know as the home of Neath All Blacks rugby union side, and a former home of Glamorgan Cricket Club which hosted the touring Australians in 1985. But what matters on Sunday is football and a chance for City to pick up some Welsh Premier points against a Neath side who have struggled to match their impressive form of last season - so far. Press reports suggest manager Andrew Dyer is hoping to sign experienced defender Leigh DeVulgt ahead of Sunday's match as he bids to shore up a defence which has leaked sixteen goals in their opening three WP matches - which have all ended in defeats. City will pay scant attention to the games so far, but manager Nev Powell will be boosted by the availability of defender Peter Hoy and midfield dynamo Kieran Killackey after suspension and injury respectively. He will be up against one of his predecessors and former blues favourite Clayton Blackmore who is back with his home town side. A win could propel Bangor into the top five so there is every reason to be positive!

CITY WIN AT A CANTER	TUESDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER 2008
Les Davies Double Leads The Way Three first half goals - including one inside two minutes - saw City canter to victory over a Porthmadog side they had crushed six nil little more than a week earlier. The first goal fell to Les Davies capitalised on a defensive mistake to convert Martin Beattie's cross inside two minutes. Then on 12 minutes the big striker flicked on Marc Limbert's cross for Jamie Brewerton to shoot home left footed from close range. The third and final goal came on 25 minutes when Marc Limbert's booming crossfield ball to Sion Edwards was directed to Les Davies who swivelled and fired a low shot beyond the despairing Dave Vickers. What followed was less urgent, with referee Mike Jones opting to move into traffic warden mode and book anything and anyone that stood still. Nevertheless an emphatic win for City and one which leapfrogs group leaders Caersws - who also beat Port - on goal difference.

POWELL SET TO RING THE CHANGES	TUESDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER 2008
Bangor City welcome Paul Whelan's Porthmadog to Farrar Road tonight This is the second match of this GROUP 4 fixtures, which brings together City, Caersws and Port. The first fixture saw Caersws win 3-2 at The Traeth with goals from Chris Melia, Dave Hughes and Ross Jefferies, Port replying through Ben Ogilvy and Mark Thomas. City will know that a home win tonight could lift them to top of the group. Manager Nev Powell looks set to ring the changes, allowing for the limitations of his squad. As defender Peter Hoy serves the last match of his suspension Bangor may offer starts to midfielders Joe Fowler, Kieran Killackey and Mel McGinness, whilst winger John Corrigan is also in the reckoning. Of the youngsters who have made strides from City's reserves there could be openings for Clive Williams and Caio Iwan. Port boss Paul Whelan may be more inclined to pick his strongest side with one eye on establishing a winning format for future games. He could though experiment positionally or offer a start to a couple of the youngsters used on the bench this season.

NOT LIKE WATCHING BRAZIL...	SUNDAY 31ST AUGUST 2008
How to kill football without really trying... A draw may well have been a fair result between Bangor and their West Wales visitors. County took an early lead thanks to some dreadful marking in the six yard area and Bangor failed to take their chances as they dominated the second half. But the attitude of the visiting players - and bench - was designed wholly to drive fans away from the match, time wasting from the first minute to last. In fairness to the inept Mr Duncan - surely better suited to Dudleston v Ifton that Welsh Premier - he did add on three and then five minutes at the end of each half. The opening goal came after ninety seconds when a Tom Ramasut freekick was met headed home by the bearded Lee Jarman. County proceeded to slow things down, Bangor huffed and puffed, but rarely troubled the timewastring Idzi in the visitors goal, A second half fightback duly followed, Marc Limbert converted a 55th minute penalty after a trip by Jarman on Les Davies. But other loud claims for penalties went unaswered, Sion Edwards hit the bar, chances came and went and finally Mr Duncan blew for time. The visitors walked off applauding the home fans whose jeers they appeared to enjoy.
Captain Marc Limbert converts - as hero turned villaint Jarman (4) looks away.
	Les Davies looks on, Mike Walsh and a visiting player in that hideous away kit share a joke. But the real humour comes from the banners unfurled behind the assistant referee. If you didnt know the manager at Haverfordwest is former Cardiff City clogger Derek Brazil. Either way all three were set out by the one bloke who clapped when County scored....

CITY READY FOR COUNTY SHOW	FRIDAY 29TH AUGUST 2008
Bangor City welcome long distance trekkers Haverfordwest County to Farrar Road on Saturday. Managed by former Cardiff City defender Derek Brazil, County are yet to win this season. They lost at Connahs Quay on the opening Saturday of the season and have since lost and drawn - once in the Loosemores Cup - to archrivals Carmarthen Town. However in their most recent of these matches they managed a one all draw with Carmarthen and will feel optimistic about their chances as Farrar Road. in the visitors squad are former Barry regular Terry Evans, Penrhyndeudraeth squaddie Dyfan Pierce and the hugely talented Tom Ramasut. Bangor, bouyed by the win at Porthmadog, will still be without defender Peter Hoy who has served two of his four match suspension. Speaking to The North Wales Chronicle, manager Nev Powell praised the Bangor supporters who have turned out in force so far: "The Bangor crowd are fantastic - there were nearly 1,000 for the Llanelli game, and 350 went to Porthmadog and gave the lads a standing ovation at full time. It was superb, and the players want to do well for them." With Rhyl playing Llanelli at Belle Vue on Saturday tea time, City have the opportunity to close the gap on both. City supporters will be hoping they do just that.

SHARP SHOOTERS PUMMEL PORT	SUNDAY 24TH AUGUST 2008
A Chris Sharp hatrick was the highlight as Bangor crushed Porthmadog 6-0 at The Traeth yesterday. The Northop based striker struck the classic strikers hatrick: Three goals in succession, one right foot, one left foot and the third a header. Indeed the scoreline was blank and Porthmadog had enjoyed a promising start until Chris Sharp latched onto Christian Seargeant's through ball to calmly lift the ball right footed over Richard Harvey on 19 mins. His - and Bangor's - second within two minutes was a left footed tap in after some keystone cops defending and the third, on the half hour, a back post header from Les Davies' booming cross. It was 3-0 at half time but - after that very strange pitch intrusion - on the hour City got to grips with things again. A header from Jamie Brewerton made it 4-0 and moments later Ben Ogilvy headed past his own keeper with Les Davies in close attention. The sixth and final goal - with 20mins to go - was a clean strike from Mike Walsh. The goalscorers take the headlines but this was a good team performance, from front to back. Chris Sharp's hatrick earned the MoTM from my perspective, but Les Davies was virtually unplayable whilst Marc Limbert and his midfield apprentices Seargeant and Walsh, were too good foe their predeccesors Gareth Parry and Mark Thomas. Manager Nev Powell had commented after the Llanelli game that he wanted a result at Porthmadog - one that would get the team on a winning run. The players responded well and have every reason to look forward to the visit of Haverfordwest next Saturday.

This is the Porthmadog pitch at half time. The Bangor players (subs) trying to warm up had to go to the other end of the field, along with their opposite numbers. A City fan behind the goal - waiting for the second half - was hit in the face by a wild shot from one of this number. They were friendly enough, a bunch of some 50 young christians attending a summer camp nearby. But after the Newtown pitch "invasion" fine this is a pretty bitter pill to swallow.
FOR A FULL ACCOUNT OF THE PORTHMADOG GAME - MATCH REPORTS

JIWS BOOSTS PORT AHEAD OF DERBY CLASH	FRIDAY 22ND AUGUST 2008
City legend and record goalscorer Marc Lloyd Williams had rejoined Porthmadog and is set to play in this weekend's derby clash with visitors Bangor. The news comes as a shock to WP watchers who had largely heard the well travelled striker was set for a return to Newtown after his released by Rhyl However he has signed for Porthmadog just in time to face Bangor at The Traeth on Saturday, and represents a tremendous coup for manager Paul Whelan as he looks to add experience to his youthful squad. The new look Port side opened their season with a 1-0 WP defeat at Carmarthen and lost again on Tuesday night, 3-2 to League Cup visitors Caersws. City meanwhile lost 2-0 to champions Llanelli who in turn lost 5-3 to Neath in the League Cup. Bangor boss Nev Powell spoke after the Llanelli game and pinpointed the important clash at The Traeth. Both teams need to start picking up points - one is sure to - and both know that local pride makes this a hard fought affair. His selection is unlikey to show much change fromt the side which started the season, nor is there any reason that is should. New strikers Chris Sharp and Robbie Talbot should start to settle in and the players around them can help by carving out chances for the newcomers and former Port favourite Les Davies. In the corresponding fixture last season - which took place in March - the two clubs battled out a goalless draw before a crowd of 239. With crowds and European performance being very much in the news at the moment, it will be interesting to see who many turn up at The Traeth. On Tuesday, for the visit of Caersws in the Loosemores (League) Cup the home crowd was 174.

CITY LOSE TO CHAMPIONS	SUNDAY 17TH AUGUST 2008
Some poor defending, a missed penalty, and thirteen corners which failed to force a save from Llanelli keeper Craig Morris cost Bangor dear against champions Llanelli yesterday. But there was much to hearten blues boss Nev Powell who must recognise the reality of challenging full time clubs with £10K weekly budgets. The goals came from defensive lapses. A hopeful punt down the left wing won Llanelli a corner, burly Lee Phillips headed home unchallenged at the near post. On the stroke of half time more indecision allowed Craig Williams to swivel and rocket a great strike beyond Paul Smith and into the net. Arguably both avoidable goals, and - from my seat in the stand - Bangor missed the powerful frame of Peter Hoy who was forced to watch from the stand. However they did not lack heart, and manager Powell would have been left wondering how many black cats he had run over on the road from Flint when Marc Limbert hit the post with a penalty and thirteen corners failed to yield a clean effort or force a save from Craig Morris. The 950 strong crowd were also a massive boost for Bangor, financially and otherwise. And the new faces offered something, with Chris Sharp, Joe Fowler and Robbie Talbot all making their WP debuts. Rome was not built in a day and the new players - at any club - take time to settle.

The moment when Nev Powell realised it was not then night to be a lottery ticket - Marc Limbert's penalty hits the post
FOR A FULL ACCOUNT OF THE LLANELLI GAME - MATCH REPORTS

City Welcome Champions	FRIDAY 15TH AUGUST 2008
Bangor City welcome champions Llanelli to Farrar Road this Saturday afternoon. There would have been some raised eyebrows around Welsh football when this re-match of The Welsh Cup Final was thrown up; a replay of an afternoon wrongly remembered for incident rather than football. Little doubt of course that the incidents happened, the three red cards and that late, late equaliser, or the needless intrusion onto the pitch by City followers. Or the fine that followed. But what should stay in the mind is that superb equaliser by Chris Seargeant as time ran out. That calmly taken penalty dispatched by Marc Limbert, or the conclusive deflection off a determined Karl Noon. Both sides are largely much "as you were" for this opener, although Craig Morris appears to have taken the goalkeeper's jersey for Llanelli who have added the hugely experienced striker Jafon Bowen to their ranks. They still have Gary Lloyd - who missed the final - and the cultured Andy Legg. They will come to play football and by all accounts Farrar Road is the ideal surface. City fans will get a first look at Jamie Brewerton in league action. With goalscorers Ashley Stott and Karl Noon gone new strikers Chris Sharp and Robbie Talbot, one of whom should line up alongside resident No 9 Les Davies. But the shape of the Bangor side remains unaltered, built around the young midfielders Chris Seargeant and Mike Walsh who impressed in their first season together. Of course both will have their absentees, ruled out through suspension are Peter Hoy* plus visiting pair Wyn Thomas and Rhys Griffiths.* Both teams want to start the season with a win, City are at home and the home support will expect just that. But lets hope that whatever the outcome the games goes ahead in the right spirit and is remembered - and recorded by S4C - for purely football reasons. And with a couple of spectacular Bangor goals to celebrate!
CHECK OUT THE VISITORS SQUAD ON LLANELLI

Karl Noon Moves On	WEDNESDAY 13TH AUGUST 2008
City striker Karl Noon has joined Vauxhalls The former Southport striker appeared in pole position to replace the departed Ashley Stott . But that all changed when The Motormen made an offer and - with due consideration - Noon opted to go. A pleasant lad, one who scored the clinching goal in the Welsh Cup Final in May, Karl will be well remembered by City fans who will wish him well for the future. Goalkeeper Dave Roberts, who was understudy to City keeper Paul Smith last season, has joined Aberystwyth Town.
City Draw Final Friendly
The final pre-season match of the summer ended in a one all draw. City took the lead through new signing Chris Sharp but Tranmere equalised and the score ended up at one all. One familiar face in the Rovers line up was Penygroes youngster Gerwyn Jones, the young centreback who played for the Bangor Academy. The 17 year old has since represented Wales at different age group levels and is highly regarded at Prenton Park.

City Sign Striker Talbot	SATURDAY 9TH AUGUST 2008
Bangor City have confirmed the signing of Robbie Talbot from Droyldsen. The 28 year old's early football years were spent at Marine where his goalscoring exploits caught the eye of league and non league clubs alike. He inititally moved to Burcough in 1999 and after two seasons signed for Morecambe in a £10,000 deal. Robbie netted 26 goals in 41 league starts for Morecambe before a £7000 transfer to Burton Albion in July 2003. Despite injury he was able to find the net on a regular basis, 28 goals in 46 starts for the Conference side. With Burton he became the first player for 40 years to hit six goals in a game, an 8-0 demolition of Alverchurch and also scored the goal which knocked Torquay United out of the FA Cup. In July 2007 he moved to Droylsden in the Conference North and spent part of last season back with his local side Marine on loan. Robbie comes to Farrar Road with an impressive goalscoring record and one we hope he adds to during the forthcoming season.
City Sign Striker Sharp!
Bangor City have confirmed the signing of Chris Sharp from Rhyl. . On a busy day for the managerial duo Bangor have also confirmed the signing of Chris Sharp from Rhyl. The 22 year old is the son of former City manager Graeme Sharp who is best remembered as one of Everton's and Scotlland's finest post war strikers. Chris joined Rhyl under the management of John Hulse who had been Graeme's assistant manager at Farrar Road. But after a handful of appearances during the 2005-06 season disaster struck when the young striker suffered a serious leg injury in the UEFA Cup tie at the start of the 2006-7 season. By the time he had fully recovered a change of management at Belle Vue meant the Northop Hall based striker was surplus to requirements. He made his first appearance in a Bangor shirt - pictured right - in the friendly win at Mynydd Isa. His all round performance and calmly taken goal that night offered a glimpse of things to come. A target for other Welsh Premier clubs - alerted by his release from Rhyl - Chris has chosen to follow in his father's footsteps to the delight of all concerned.

Blues In The News....	FRIDAY 8TH AUGUST 2008
City Strikers On The Move A number of former Bangor strikers have signed for new clubs. Alphabetically these start with Marco Adaggio who has moved to Worcester City. Next to Ross Jefferies who has switched to Caersws. Rhyl have signed Carl Owen from Porthmadog whilst Welshpool have likewise enlisted Paul Roberts, also from Port. Finally reports suggest that Rhyl have in turn released goalscoring legend Marc Lloyd Williams, time will tell.

News Round Up	FRIDAY 8TH AUGUST 2008
CITY WIN 5-0 AT MYNYDD ISA My first pre-season game of the new campaign - and lets hope all the league games folllow suit! City ran out 5-0 winners at The Argoed Sports Ground against a spirited Mynydd Isa with Chris Sharp amongst the scorers. The Bangor starting line up featured eleven players at the club last season but on ten minutes it was a newcomer in the form of Chris Sharp who controlled a superb through ball from Christian Seargeant to slide home from fifteen yards. Sion Edwards - who was injured early on - went close minutes later. (CHRIS SHARP PICTURED RIGHT) Then on 25 mins a crossfield ball from the lright found Les Davies unmarked to hammer home from ten yards. On the half hour it was 3-0 as Les Davies crossed from the left and the ball struck Nolan and bounced over the home keeper for an unfortunate own goal. The half time scored stayed at 3-0 and the first incident of the second period was a worrying one when Michael Johnston hobbled off after a heavy challenge. Happily the former Tranmere defender was able to walk off the pitch and seemed optimistic about his recovery in time for the new season. With some twenty minutes to go a lunge on Karl Noon brought a penalty which Marc Limbert calmly converted for 4-0 and then with around ten minutes left on Mr Spender's timepiece a scintillating solo run and finishfrom the outstanding Christian Seargeant completed the scoring. The hard working Barry Calder was the pick of the home side who failed to make the most of a couple of good situations. One welcome returnee for Bangor was Kieran Killackey who made a second half substitutes appearance. So a useful work out for Bangor and one which sees the side and squad a step closer to being ready for the forthcoming visit of Llanelli. Manager Nev Powell was pleased with the evening and suggested that he was looking to strengthen his squad over the next few days.
JAMIE BREWERTON SLIDES IN AS BANGOR PRESS AGAIN
City: Paul Smith, Dave Swanick, Peter Hoy, Michael Johnston, Jamie Brewerton, Christian Seargeant, Marc Limbert, Mike Walsh, Les Davies, Chris Sharp, Sion Edwards. SUBS: Mel McGinness, Kieran Killackey, Joe Fowler, Karl Noon.

News Round Up

TUESDAY 5THAUGUST 2008

ASHLEY STOTT SIGNS FOR HALIFAX

Reports - as yet unconfirmed - suggest Ashley Stott has signed for former League club Halifax.
The Shay side went into admiinstration at the end of last season and were relegated from the Conference in a move which saw Altrincham again saved from the drop despite finishing in the bottom places. They have been placed in the Unibond League (not Premier) but can expect crowds of 2-3000 to back their charge up the football ladder.
Ashley Stott joined City under the management of Clayton Blackmore and made 59 league starts, scoring 30 goals. He was prominent in the Welsh Cup run last season wth goals in all three final stage games, including four at Guilsfield, one against Newport YMCA and the opener in the Final against Llanelli.
The 21 year old has a bright future ahead; those doubting the value of this move compared to previous talk of Chester City may have a point, but there is little doubt that Halifax are well place to steamroll their way out of the Unibond - and a goalscoring forward will always catch the eye in those circumstances.
Good luck Stotty.

News Round Up

SUNDAY 3RD AUGUST 2008

NANTPORTH MOVE GETS GREEN LIGHT (AT LAST!)

Gwynedd County Councl have given Morbaine permission to demolish and develop Farrar Road.
The net result of this is that work at Nantporth (on the Holyhead road out of Upper Bangor) will proceed with haste. This may - caution - be the club's final season at Farrar Road.
Strange news - in some ways terribly sad - in others a ray of hope and grounds for optimism.

LEE WEBBER AND BEN OGIVLY MOVE ON

Giant defender Lee Webber has left City after playing a leading role in the Welsh Cup success of last season.
The former Porthmadog defender will be fondly remembered by City fans for his wholehearted displays. In two seasons at Farrar Road Lee made just over 50 league appearances scoring five times.
A good clubman Lee is thought to have moved to CA side Holyhead Hotspur.
Meanwhile it is understood that young defender Ben Ogilvy has moved to Porthmadog after growing frustrated by a lack of first team opportunities at Farrar Road. Ben is at an age where he needs games and is clearly a hugely promising talent. He will team up with a sizeable former bues contingent at Porthmadog, including manager Paul Whelan and his recenlty appointed assistant Mel Jones.
Good luck to both.

City Name Euro Squad

WEDNESDAY 9TH JULY 2008

Bangor City manager Nev Powell has named his 22 strong UEFA Cup squad for the forthcoming matches with FC Midtjylland of Denmark.
The include the majority of last season's victorious Welsh Cup squad plus a handful of newcomers. These include defender Jamie Brewerton, returning striker Marc Smyth, midfielder Joe Fowler and former LlanfairPG goalkeeper Ben Heald.. There is also a place for some of City's promising home grown youngsters Caio Iwan and Clive Williams. One man ruled out is midfielder Kieran Killackey who is recovering from an operation.

The full listing with squad numbers:
Goalkeepers	1 Paul Smith, 13 Ben Heald
Defence	2 Dave Swanick, 3 Martin Beattie, 17 Ben Ogilvy, 14 Peter Hoy 4 Michael Johnston, 12 Lee Webber, 5 Jamie Brewerton
Midfielder	6 Christian Seargeant, 7 Marc Limbert, 8 Mike Walsh, 21 Joe Fowler 11 Sion Edwards, 16 Mel McGinness, 20 Clive Williams 22 Alan Morgan
Forwards	9 Les Davies, 10 Ashley Stott, 19 Karl Noon, 15 Marc Smyth, 18 Caio Iwan
	FOR FULL DETAILS OF THIS UEFA SQUAD CLICK HERE
	FOR A HISTORY OF BANGOR IN EUROPE CLICK HERE

Anglesey In Town On Tuesday	MONDAY 7TH JULY 2008
The next pre-season match comes on Tuesday evening when the visitors to Farrar Road will be an Anglesey X1. In the past this team has included Cymru Alliance players drawn from Holyhead and Llangefni, plus the likes of Gareth Parry and Aled Rowlands. If the Hotspurs contingent are involved City fans will be able to cast an eye over two of the Island's brightest young talents, Kenleigh KC Owen and Marc Evans. Another former City midfielder Darren "Chicken" Jones is also likely to be involved. The Anglesey side is formed primarily to compete in the Island Games, in which they compete in an array of sports against the likes of Bermuda, Greenland, Guernsey and Rhodes. The next game are scheduled for Aland in 2009, the hosts are located between Finland and Sweden, and is uniquely a Swedish speaking part of Finland. However that is all a long way off and the immediate task lies at Farrar Road in Tuesday evening...
WEST KIRBY BEATEN	MONDAY 7TH JULY 2008
Leading 3-0 and 4-1 City eventually edged past West Kirby thanks to the odd goal in seven to notch their first pre-season victory of the new campaign. City led thanks to a brace of goals from Ashley Stott and went 3-0 up when Jamie Brewerton netted from a corner. Before half time West Kirby pulled one back to leave the interval scorline at 3-1. Soon after the interval Karl Noon made it 4-1 but a couple of goals in as many minutes brought the visitors back to 4-3 as the game lost some shape due to the number of substitutions. Changes or not City held on to win 4-3 and Nev Powell was able to run the rule over a trialist in midfield and see his squad move a step close to match fitness.

Marc Smyth Re-signs.	SATURDAY 6TH JULY 2008
Versatile striker Marc Smyth has returned to Bangor after a spell with Leigh RMI under Steve Bleasdale. The former Liverpool youth - who capped by England at Under 20 level - made a substitutes appearance for City against TNS on Thursday night. In his first spell at Farrar Road Marc made a total of 21 WP starts scoring 8 goals. His ability to play on either wing as well as down the middle offers manager Nev Powell competition and cover for three positions. Marc could not prevent RMI being relegated last season - or changing their name yet again - but did finish as the club's leading goalscorer. Welcome back to Bangor Marc.
WEST KIRBY NEXT UP	SATURDAY 6TH JULY 2008
After the first friendly on Thursday night ended in defeat City have a quick fire chance to put things right this afternoon with the visit of West Cheshire League side West Kirby to Farrar Road. The Wirral based side hosted City last season and should prove stern opposition as The Blues look to build towards the UEFA Cup clash with FC Midtjylland of Denmar, and follow up this match with another outing against an Anglesey X1 on Tuesday night, again at Farrar Road. Manager Nev Powell ran the rule over twenty players against TNS on Thursday and may adopt a similar approach this afternoon, with only the injured Dave Swanick likely to miss out. One to watch today could be local youngster Caio Iwan who enjoyed a second half run against TNS and could be a surprise package this season...

Brewerton Signs, Webbs & Ben Stay...	FRIDAY 4TH JULY 2008
The worst kept secret in North Wales finally broke as Bangor confirmed the signing of Jamies Brewerton from coast rivals Rhyl. A 28 year old St Asaph born defender Brewerton has previously played for Conwy United and Llandudno but is best known for his ten seasons at Belle Vue where he was highly regarded by manager John Hulse. Brewerton, capped by Wales at Under 18 level, made some 200 WP appearances for The Lilywhites but missed the entre 2006-07 season with knee ligament problems. He returned to play in both legs of the Inter Toto Cup ties with Bohemians but - along with a handful of his team mates - was bound for pasture new at the final whistle. Jamie made his City debut in the first pre-season friendly of the new campaign against fellow UEFA Cup qualifiers TNS at Farrar Road this evening.(see below) Just as important for the club is the news that left back Lee Webber and Ben Ogilvy have penned deals to stay at Farrar Road for another season. Ben is the youngest City players ever to represent the club in Europe and at 19 has much to offer as the forthcoming European and domestic fixtures come into focus. Fellow left-peg Lee made 30 WP appearances for City last season and was a lynchpin in the blues defence which won The Welsh Cup and set up the two legged European adventure..
Blues Lose Opening Friendly	FRIDAY 4TH JULY 2008
Bangor lost the opening friendly of the new season 5-1 as a faster and fitter TNS side led 2-0 at half time and never looked back. The full timers went ahead on the half hour through Scott Ruscoe and increased the lead before half time when Jamie Wood pounced on some hesitation in the box. Second half goals from John Toner (2) and young midfielder Ryan Marriott completed the scoring with Karl Noon pulling one back for City. Credit to TNS who were worth their win; a useful work out for both sides with more important European ties on the horizon. And in all fairness a rare and very welcome piece of co-operation between two clubs with mutual benefit at heart. Bangor boss Nev Powell now has a fortnight to sharpen his charges as they prepare to face The Danes whose manager or chief coach was watching from the stand. (One footnote - sub TNS goalkeeper - and former blues manager - Lee Williams replaced Harrison at half time.)

City Face FC Midtjylland	WEDNESDAY 2ND JULY 2008
BANGOR have been drawn to play FC Midtjylland of Denmark in the UEFA Cup qualifiying round. The draw - which was made at 12.30pm on Tuesday - saw City one of the last names out of the hat in the Northen section. The other remaining seeds were previous opponents FC Haka, but we were paired with Midtjylland instead. A member of the Danish Superliga, the club was formed as recently as 1999 following the merger of sporting clubs Ikast FS and Herning Fremad. Nicknamed "Ulvene" which means The Wolves the club play at The SAS Arena which has a 12,500 capacity. FC Midtjylland is based in Herning, a city with a population of 44,000, and managed by Thomas Thomasberg. Although traditionally the seeded side play away first, ground works being carried out at The SAS Arena mean City will be at hom e on 17th July (The Wrexham Racecourse) and away on 31st July 2008. City boss Nev Powell commented: "We don't know a lot about them at the moment, but they are a very useful side with a couple of internationals who will expect to beat us," Powell told BBC Sport Wales. "The Danes are traditionally tough customers and they are used to playing in front of crowds of 10-15,000. "We're switching the first leg to Wrexham's Racecourse ground, that will be a boost for us. The other good thing is that they are like us in that they don't play summer football and haven't started their season yet. "It's going to be a trip into the unknown, but our lads will look forward to it." To prove that their is some romance left in the draw, Manchester City have been paired with Faroe Isles outfit EB Streymur whom they visit on 17th July. Fellow Welsh Premier qualifiers TNS travel to Lithuania to face Suduva who knocked Rhyl out a couple of year ago.

Peter Hoy - Citizens Choice Player of The Season	SUNDAY 26TH MAY 2008
Defender Peter Hoy is The Citizens Choice Player of The Season After a successful season - culminating in that stirring Welsh Cup win - it would be easy to go with the flow and opt for leading goalscorer Ashley Stott or "decorated" defender Michael Johnston as player of the season. But the case for Peter Hoy is a strong one - all the more so when the picture of the season unfolds. Peter Hoy rejoined Bangor under the caretaker management of Steve Owen but was persuaded to stay by summer appointment Neville Powell. He started the season at centreback alongside Lee Webber but following a red car at Aberystwyth in September lost that berth to new arrival Michael Johnston. He did not regain a starting slot until the 7-0 romp at Connahs Quay in mid November, partly because Dave Swanick was similarily red carded in the W elsh Cup win at Caersws. Hoy dropped out again when Swanick was eligible but a fracas at half time against Llangefni gave Peter Hoy another opening. This was a chance Hoy refused to let go and from then on he was virtually ever present, playing at rightback, centre half and leftback after Martin Beattie's injury. In the picture on the right Peter took over in goal against Port Talbot in February after an injury to Paul Smith. He also managed three goals from open play, a header against Haverfordwest in August, the opener against Newport YMCA at Latham Park in the Welsh Cup semi final, and the only goal of the game in that late season win at Llangefni which mean much to local blues followers. Add to this an emphatic penalty kick in the spot kick success at Park Avenue against Aberystwyth. And on top of all that Peter Hoy is a brave, honest footballer who never shirks or hides, plays to win and is always proud to wear the shirt. Well done Peter.

Johnno Signs On...	SATURDAY 17TH MAY 2008
Bangor have signed Michael Johnston on a 2 year deal. Within 24 hours of being released by Tranmere Rovers the 20 year old signed a two year contract with Bangor City. The Wales Under 19 International, surpringly overlooked for the forthcoming "Semi Pro" Internationals, turned down more lucrative offers from rival clubs to extend his stay at Farrar Road. It has been a successful fortnight for the young defender who picked up the Phil Stanley Memorial Trophy (pictured left) and the BCFCSA Player of The Season Award, and was then a central figure in the City side which beat champions Llanelli to win the Welsh Cup at Latham Park. Johnston is a footballing centreback whose first season at Farrar Road yielded 29 Welsh Premier appearances, former a stubborn line of defence alongside the likes of Lee Webber and Peter Hoy. His decision to stay with the club - and be part of what promises to be an exciting future - is a huge boost for manager Nev Powell and the club's mnay supporters.
Brewerton To Follow?	SATURDAY 17TH MAY 2008
With the signature of Michael Johnston yet to dry, manager Nev Powell has set his sights on another central defender. Reports suggest that Rhyl defender Jamie Brewerton is set to sign for the club once his contract at Belle Vue expires in a month. The former Llandudno centre half has made more than 200 first team appearances for the Lilywhites but is thought to be keen to join the blue Nevolution at Bangor. A fluent Welsh speaker, Brewerton lives in Prestatyn and is a close friend of blues midfielder Mike Walsh. Anyone apprehensive about arrivals with strong black & white connections need look no further than captain Marc Limbert who has enjoyed an tremendous first season with Bangor. Limbert has been central to everything good about Bangor this season and there is every reason to hope that the anticipated arrival of Brewerton can be just as successful.

Chester Chasing Ashley Stott	SUNDAY 11TH MAY 2008
Newspaper reports suggest City striker Ashley Stott is attracting the interest of Chester City Reports in the Daily Post have suggested that new Chester boss Simon Davies is interested in signing City's leading goalscorer Ashley Stott. The nineteen year old scored 29 goals for City including eight in the Welsh Cup during the 2007-08 season. He joined City from Altrincham where he been a member of The Robins reserve side, but established himself in the Bangor side under first Clayton Blackmore and then Steve Bleasdale. It is thought that Stott signed a new contract with City that would oblige the Deva Stadium side to pay a fee for his services. However - as ever in these situations - it is hard to sort the fact from the fiction and time will tell whether or not these stories have substance or not.

Spreader New Liverpool King	WEDNESDAY 7TH MAY 2008
Bangor City Legend Derek Goulding is the manager of newly formed AFC Liverpool The 45 year old former blues centre half has been trusted with the reigns of the ambitious splinter club which has been formed along similar lines to FC United. A no nonesense centre half Spreader signed for City twice, the first under manager Dave Elliott from Prescot Cables, and the second from Oswestry Town at the time of John Mahoney. He moved on to Southport as a player and has since gained considerable success as manager of Burscough who stole FA Cup headlines with a win over Gillingham in 2005. Top bloke big Derek, good luck!

We Won The Cup!	MONDAY 5TH MAY 2008
Bangor ran out 4-2 extra time winners against Llanelli at Latham Park yesterday. Despite having Peter Hoy sent off inside five minutes Bangor went ahead midway inside the half when Ashley Stott guided Lee Webbers long range shot past the hulking Duncan Roberts. City held on to the lead up to the interval but quickly fell behind to a brace of goals involving Rhys Griffiths who forced Dave Swanick to turn a low cross past Paul Smith and then finished confidently from a tight angle on the left. Trailing 2-1 City had a boost of sorts when Wyn Thomas was sent off for foul mouthed abuse aimed at Referee Phil Southall but it was in the second minute of injury time that the outstanding Christian Seargeant glided the ball over Roberts to level the scores. This triggered off a pitch invasion as spectators behind the goal ran onto the pitch. Goalkeeper Duncan Roberts was pushed over by one youngster whilst Andy Legg claimed he was spat at by another. Very unpleasant all round and a great shame. Extra time followed, City grabbed the lead when Marc Limbert converted a penalty awarded after Lee Phillips felled Ashley Stott, then Karl Noon chased a Kieran Killackey through ball to gain a fourth goal courtesy a wild clearance from Roberts which hit the pacey striker and rolled into the net. There was till time for the lanky Griffiths to be red carded for a spiteful elbow in Martin Beattie's face. A great win for Bangor, the only side other than Llanelli to pick up a trophy, and - as usual - done against the odds. *A word too for match official Phil Southall.* If the judge of a good ref is one who got the big decisions right then he did okay. The early red card shown to Peter Hoy seeemd harsh but was proved correct by TV replay. He was also correct in refusing to accept a mouthful of abuse from the mediocre Thomas and, after consulting his linesman, equally so in sending the mean spirited Rhys Griffiths for an early shower after a cowardly elbow on Martin Beattie.
NEV POWELL AND HIS TEAM CELEBRATE WITH THE WELSH CUP

Final Countdown to Newtown	FRIDAY 2ND MAY 2008
Bangor City take on the might of double winners Llanelli at Latham Park on Sunday. At the very end of a long season - almost two weeks after it ended in fact - the task could not be much tougher. Full timers Llanelli, managed by the hugely experienced Peter Nicholas, have already cruised to the WP title and comfortably beaten third plac ed Rhyl in the Loosem ores Cup final - also at Newtown. Now they look to end their highly successful season with a first ever We lsh Cup win. Along the way to this weekend's showpiece The Reds have bettered Pentwyn Dynamoes (3-7) Llanrug United (3-5) ho sts Newtown (1-2), Cefn Druids (3-6) and finally Rhyl (5-2) at Park Avenue, Aberystwyth. Bangor meanwhile began their challenge with a win against Llandyrnog (3-0), at Caersws (2-3), at Aberystwyth (pens), at Guilsfield (0-6) and most recently victors over Newport YMCA (3-1) at Latham Park. Both sides will expect noisy support to follow them North and South, with coaches booked and expectations high. Unhappily both are struggling to be at full strength. Llanelli had to make do without defender Wyn Thomas, midfielder Craig Jones and goal machine Rhys Griffiths in the Loosemores final last weekend. They still won 2-0 and are likely to be boosted by all three for the Welsh Cup. The boast an experienced squad built around Andy Legg (550+ League appearances), WP legend Gary Lloyd (closing in on 500 WP sta rts), midfielder Chris Holloway (60 League appearances) Andrew Mumford (60 League appearances) and of course goalscorer and WP player of the season Griffiths. Bangor will have benefitted from a fortnight without a match after drawing the short straw of playing Neath at the tail end of the season. Defenders Martin Beattie and Lee Webber remain major doubts with City fans hopeful both will pull through. City's star performers this season have included defender Peter Hoy and young Michael Johnston, midifelders Mike Walsh and Christian Seargeant and of course leading goalscorer Ashley Stott. I won't mention Les Davies* just to fire him up a touch....* The match is subject to live and recorded TV coverage but - Kiwis apart - City fans from far and wide will converge far and wide to be able to roar the blues on. The 4.05 kick off time is a curosity but one which serves the bars and brewers of Mid Wales well, and is sure to add to the merry atmosphere. Predictions are pointless. Llanelli are firm favourites but Bangor have a proud Welsh Cup record and - for one last push - could just add to their tally at Latham Park on Sunday afternoon..... LEE PHILLIPS AND MARTIN BEATTIE CHALLENGE FOR THE BALL AT FARRAR ROAD THIS SEASON

Michael Johnston Scoops Double Award

WEDNESDAY 23RD APRIL 2008

Bangor defender Michael Johnston has won two awards following his outstanding first season with the club.


Michael is presented with the BCFCSA Player of The Season Award by the late Brian Pritchard's wife and son.	Michael is presented with the Daily Post's Phil Stanley award by acting sports editor Rob Brady

Shaker In Charge

Congratulations to former blues midfielder Simon Davies who has been confirmed as Chester City manager for the forseeable future. Shaker has been in charge at The Deva since the departure of Bobby Williamson and has now been awarded a two year contract by chairman Steve Vaughan.
A hugely popular attacking midfielder, Simon joined Bangor under the management of Peter Davenport, scoring nine goals in 63 WP starts in two spells either side of a short spell with TNS.
He also enjoyed a professional playing career which began with Manchester United in the Premier League and took in spells with Luton, Rochdale and Macclesfield.
A likeable, humourous character with a passing interest in caravans, Shaker will be hoping he is embarking on a managerial career to match or better his achievements as a player.
Good luck!

Bruising Point Books Fifth	SUNDAY 20TH APRIL 2008
City had to settle for a point against a physical Neath side at Farrar Road yesterday Leading 1-0 from the midway point of the first half, City had to settle for a draw after niggly Neath managed an equaliser some fifteen minutes from time. Midifelder Christian Seargeant had put Bangor ahead on 24 mins when he stole through the visitors defence to slide home past Morris. City had chances to go further ahead and largely dominated the opening period. However Neath came back to equalise on 72 mins through Lee Bevan and had a succession of chances which might have put them ahead. Unhappily though this game stays in the memory more due to the weak refereeing that allowed the visitors to kick out with impunity. Referee Darren Adie also called the blatant foul on Karl Noon on 85 minutes which should have seen last man- and goalkeeper - Craig Morris sent off. Instead he was shown yellow. So a poor end to the season - well not quite. This secures a fifth placed finish for manager Nev Powell in his first season, and of course there is still the small matter of a Welsh Cup Final to look forward to. Lets just hope for more sporting opponents and a better referee....
READ THE FULL ACCOUNT ON BANGOR CITY MATCH REPORTS
CATCH TONY COATES' FINAL ACCOUNT THE NORTH WALES CHRONICLE

City Sunk By Former Favourite	WEDNESDAY 16TH APRIL 2008
A brace from Marc Lloyd Williams sank Bangor at Farrar Road last night. Leading 1-0 at half time City were beaten 2-1 by Rhyl with both goals coming after the interval from Marc Lloyd Williams. This results City fighting for fourth in the remaining fixture this weekend when newly promoted Neath are the visitors to Farrar Road. Bangor suffered an early blow when Lee Webber was injured in the opening quarter and forced off on the half hour. The big defender is usually very reluctant to leave the field and his departure was a big blow, both in terms of dealing with the long ball delivery of oddball goalkeeper Lee Kendall and with the Welsh Cup Final in mind. But things picked up on 40 minutes when midfielder Mike Walsh put City ahead from fifteen yards and although the former Chester midfielder was yellow carded before the interval City held on to their advantage. Unhappily the lead didn't last long after the restart when Marc Lloyd Williams netted inside a minute and put the big spending Lilywhites ahead nine minutes later. Bangor fought back and were denied strong claims for a penalty when Paul O'Neill appeared to foul goalscorer Walsh, and might have salvaged a point in the fourth minute of stoppage time when Ashley Stott was somehow denied at point blank range. Oddly this was Mike Walsh's first goal since his strike against Rhyl at Belle Vue in January, his seventh of the season, and just enough to take a single goal advantage over midfield partner Christian Seargeant.

Hoy Strike Seals Win	MONDAY 14TH APRIL 2008
A second half goal from Peter Hoy clinched a 1-0 win for Bangor at Llangefni last night Cheered on bravely by just 14 supporters in the 700 strong crowd Bangor out passed and out played a spirited Llangefni side who fiercely contested an open, end to end game. For that matter Ellesmere referee Rob Duncan also did his best - some curious decisons along the wa y perhaps - in allowing for the conditions on a very slippery surface. Both sides carved out early chances with Chris Evans, and then Sion Edwards and Marc Limbert all going close in the opening three minutes! But it was Bangor who settled to play the controlled, passing football demanded by manager Neville Powell, with Mike Walsh enjoying the muddy conditions more than most. City's defence also stood strong with Michael Johnston again outstanding. After a goalless first half the only goal came on the hour when Peter Hoy crashed home a Sion Edwards cross. The 14 sounded more like 400 as a noisy roar spread around the Talwrn Road ground, but surely I am letting my imagination get the better of me... This result temporarily lifts Bangor up to fourth and further stirs the mud at the bottom of the table, but for City the evening got better when news came through that TNS' 2-0 defeat at Airbus handed the championship to Llanelli - and guaranteed a UEFA Cup place for Bangor for reaching the Welsh Cup Final. Congratulations to Llanelli on their first WP title.

City Win Through To Welsh Cup Final

SUNDAY 6TH APRIL 2008

Bangor beat Welsh League opponents Newport YMCA 3-1 to secure a Welsh Cup Final date with Llanelli.

Goals from Peter Hoy and Ashley Stott either side of half time gave City a convincing 2-0 lead against a spirited Newport side who were finally beaten by a third strike on 65 minutes by Sion Edwards.

Full credit to the visitors though who had played their part in a finely contested first half and fought back to notch an 85th minute strike which, allowing for four minutes of added time, added some drama to the closing ten minutes or so of the match.
But it was Bangor who won clearly and deservedly, with the impressive Michael Johnston prominent at the back and big Les Davies enjoying a rare tussle with towering YMCA centreback Danny Heath. Johnston had his hands dull with the lanky Lewis Sommers causing problems which he and goalkeeper Paul Smith were often at full stretch to keep out.
The goals started on 42 minutes when Peter Hoy was offered a second stab at the ball in a goalmouth melee - and gladly accepted. Eight minutes after the restart Ashley Stott got the better of Gary Lynch and fired across the burly Wesson inside the far post. City's third goal on 65 minutes when Ashley Stott released the rampaging Sion Edwards on the left to run on goal and rifle home past the despairing 'keeper.
Five minutes from time the visting fans - who had applauded every throw in and offside - finally had something more positive to cheer when Danny Cueto beat Paul Smith to a flighted freekick and headed into the net for a deserved consolation.
This all sets up a 4th May final date with Llanelli who hammered Rhyl 5-2 in the other semi last weekend, venue to be decided. If the Reds fulfil their promise as champions elect City will enter the UEFA Cup.

FULL DETAILS ON

MATCH REPORT

MIKE WALSH SLIDES IN BUT WESSON AND SOMMERS REPEL - ANXIOUS FACES ALL ROUND
GOAL CELEBRATIONS FOR ASHLEY STOTT
LEE WEBBER - AND BLUES FANS- CELEBRATE PETER HOYS' FIRST HALF STRIKE
LEE WEBBER SOARS WITH SOMMERS AGAIN BEATEN

Latham Park Revisited

FRIDAY 28TH MARCH 2008

Bangor face the most important match of the season this Saturday at Latham Park.

The Welsh Cup semi final at Latham Park stirs up memories of 15th April 2000, Afan Lido, the Robbie Williams red card and that crucial decider from the lean, mean flying machine known as Nathan Comley Excel!
That success, made all the sweeter by the childish antics of the opposition goalkeeper, saw City through to the 2000 Welsh Cup Final and a date with Cwmbran Town. Robbie Williams crossed from the right, in slid Paul Roberts....

The opposition this time around are once more from South Wales, but this time in the less familiar form - to Bangor fans at any rate - of Newport YMCA.
It is the first meeting between the two sides although City have previously encountered Newport County on many occasiosn. But YMCA have earned their place in the last four of the national knock out with a series of impressive results.
In the quarter final they came from 2-0 down to defeat Welshpool Town and in the previous round they had beaten another WP side Llangefni on penalties after a one all draw after extra time. In the Third Round they achieved the even more difficult task of knocking out Cup holders Carmarthen Town 2-1 despite having a man sent off! By that stage they had already beaten Goytre and Cambrian & Clydach in the First and Second Rounds respectively!
So what do we know about these giantkillers?
They currenlty lie in 7th position in the Welsh League having been founded as recently as 1973. They play their home games at Mendalgief Road in Newport and normally wear yellow and blue. They are managed by Mark Coldrick

YMCA Line Up v Welshpool

1	Gareth Wesson
2	Mark Drew
3	Craig Ford
4	Junior Borg
5	Daniel Heath
6	Gareth Lynch
7	Aaron Stewart
8	Steve Edwards
9	Lewis Sommers
10	John Pardue
11	Faraz Yafai
12	Joe O'Brien
14	Alex Stewart
15	Jamie Martin

Twenty five year old goalkeeper Gareth Wesson began his career with Plymouth Argyle and has close on 90 WP appearances for Cwmbran Town to his name.
Amongst the defenders are 21 year old Mark Drew and teenager Craig Ford who signed from Newport County.
Towering 6'6 centrehalf Daniel Heath's two goals played a huge part in the defeat of Welshpool. His likely defensive partner is Gareth Lynch who netted against Carmarthen Both are graduates of the YMCA youth system.
Midfielder Faraz Yafai opened the scoring against Llangefni, Steve Edwards, ex Barry Town man Junior Borg and John Pardue will look to supply former Newport County centre forward Lewis Sommers and strike partner Aaron Stewart.
The 6'4 former Llanelli striker Sommers was on target against Welshpool whilst Pardue - better known as Frankie - scored the solitary goal in normal play against Llangefni.

Bangor have also endured a difficult route to the Semi Final stages, beating Guislfied in the last round after a nail biting penalty

shoot out success against Aberystwyth.and before that a 3-2 win at Caersws with nine men! The opening fixture, a relatively straight forward defeat of Llandyrnog United now seems a long way off!
City have been on their travels last weekend and media reports suggest they have picked up injuries along the way - the one to Sion Edwards seemed the most obvious as he was brutally flattened by a knee in the back from Carmarthen fullback Kris Thomas. He was taken to hospital and found to have suffered brusing to a kidney which could rule him out for the few weeks remaining of the season.
Unhappily it got worse for for City when leftback Martin Beattie was caught in the face in the closing seconds of the Neath game and suffered a triple fracture to the cheekbone.
No need to wonder whether or not either offender was caught and punished. This is Welsh football and the only way to raise standards is to cut the number of clubs. The refs are fine, the pitches bowling greens....
Manager Nev Powell will be keen to have the strongest possible side to chose from and will doubtless make his final decisions a little closer to kick off, but at a guess Ben Ogilvy - who excelled in the Cup semi against Llanelli a couple of years ago - and Karl Noon would appear to be in with a good chance of starting.
Here's hoping for a good, clean game and positive win for City.

Injury Mars Single Goal Defeat

FRIDAY 21ST MARCH 2008

Bangor lost 2-1 at Richmond Park in a game which saw Sion Edwards taken to hospital.

Both goals for Carmarthen came from Danny Thomas who scored inside seven minutes and did so again a simialr time after the half time interval.
Within minutes of the first goal - and twenty yard shot which seemed to deceive Paul Smith - Sion Edwards had been clattered by Kris Thomas who quickly followed this up with a knee in the back which ended the left winger's interest in the game. Sion was stretchered off and taken to hospital by ambulance suffering acute back pain. Thomas was not punished for this second offence, which in fairness to Referee Whitby, appeared accidental other than by TV replay.
City came back into the game despite Karl Noon missing a 75th minute penalty, Marc Limbert coolly slotting home Les Davies' piercing through ball. Despite a late flurry Bangor were denied a point and drop to fifth ahead of Monday's 1pm match at Neath.

FULL DETAILS ON	MATCH REPORT
UPDATED LEAGUE PLACINGS	WP TABLE

Blues Win As Ref Stars

SUNDAY 16TH MARCH 2008

Bangor won by the odd goal in five at Farrar Road yesterday.....

A fourth win against much improved Connahs Quay was obscured by a display of dazzling incompetence from all three officials, but most notably Swansea referee Simon Jones.
The opening half hour began to Bangor and when a rampaging Sion Edwards scored minutes after forcing a great save from Paul Pritchard, all seemed well. It got better five minutes after the restart when leading goalscorer Ashley Stott