| 2009 / 2010 Season Match Reports | |
|
|
30/05/2010 -
Updates from Phil Govier added tonight
 |
| Date | Details |
|
Monday 17/05/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe Town -3-2-
Ton Pentre This was a must win game for Ton Pentre as defeat would see them relegated not only to Division 2 but facing relegation for the first time in their long history. Ponty were looking at the game in a different light - climbing to eighth position having secured their survival against Dinas Powys earlier in the week. Ponty started well creating a couple of chances as did Ton Pentre. It was Ton Pentre who took the lead after 30 minutes when Lloyd Toghill headed in at the far post from a corner. Ton Pentre could sniff survival and went pressing for another. When the ball came across the face of the Ponty box a couple of minutes before half time, Lloyd Toghill hit an unstoppable shot that saw the Ponty keeper Ben routed to the spot. Ton Pentre must now have had the feeling that they would survive but almost straight from the kick off Ponty won a free kick just inside the Ton Pentre half. from the free kick, Andy Lewis looped a header in at the far post to give Ponty some hope of coming out of this game with something. The score was in Ton Pentre's favour at the half time whistle as they took a 2-1 lead into the second half. Whatever was said in the Ponty dressing room during the half time break obviously worked as Ponty came out with some determination. This determination earned Ponty a corner in the 50th minute from which James Pickup's header brought the scores level. Ponty continued to press and in the 55th minute Mark Nappieralla latched onto a through ball and calmly slotted the ball home to put Ponty 3-2 up. Ponty now took full control and should have gone further ahead as Ton Pentre's could see that their hopes of surviving the drop were fading fast. When the final whistle came, Ponty had secured 8th spot but the Ton Pentre players were left in shock of the reality of what the consequences of loosing this game were - relegation for the first time in the clubs history. This game saw the spirit that has been instilled within this young Ponty squad by Steve and his team of Jason, Lee and Paul to come from two goals down to win the game and secure a minimum position of eighth. Ponty now look forward to their last game against Caldicott which if they come away with the 3 points again would see them climb above BarryTown
|
|
Saturday 15/05/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe Town -3-1-
Dinas Powys Once again, our thanks go to Afan Lido for hosting this game for Pontardawe Town. Ponty hosted Dinas Powys after playing them away last weekend and the Monday night game against Taffs Well also at the Marston's Stadium. Ponty failed to come away with any points from these two games so were keen to claim another 3 points and climb further up the table. The first half saw chances for both sides but ended 0-0. The second half started with a bang as straight from the kick-off Ponty were 1-0 down. This woke Ponty up and within a couple of minutes, Nappa won a penalty after his shirt had been pulled back in the box. Nappa stepped up to take the kick but the keeper made a saved the effort. Ponty continued to press and Carl played a great ball into an unmarked Nappa who calmly slotted the ball away to get Ponty level at 1-1. Ponty were now playing the better football and a cross from the right saw an unmarked Jon Coates slot the ball under the keeper to make it 2-1. Ponty pressed again and following a defensive mix up in the Powys back line Nappa lobbed the advancing keeper with about 5 minutes to go to make the game safe at 3-1 Ponty. A good win and another 3 points. Ponty now face Ton Pentre on Monday night who are sure to be up for the fight to avoid relegation
|
|
Monday 10/05/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe Town -0-4-
Taffs Well Our thanks once again go to Afan Lido for agreeing to host this game for Pontardawe Town Ponty were looking for a reaction against Taffs Well following Saturdays disappointing defeat down at Dina Powys. Things got off to a bad start when within the first 10 minutes Ponty went 1-0 down. Things got even worse when the Taffs centre half picked the ball up well in his own half, ran well over half the pitch length without being closed down before Andy Lewis confronted him but he managed to slot the ball under Ben to make it 2-0 to Taffs Well after only 22 minutes. Ponty struggled to contain a now confident Taffs Well who at times had enough time on the ball to make it look easy. Things got even worse for Ponty when minutes before half time Dale Otten got booked and then seconds later received a very harsh second yellow and was off. Ponty went into the half time break 2-0 down and 1 man down. Ponty started the second half with the fight and spirit that Steve's half time team talk obviously demanded as just 2 minutes into the second half, Steff was brought down in the box for the referee to award a spot kick to Ponty. Nappa stepped up to the mark again but put the chance high over the bar. Ponty battled hard but against 11 men it was always going to be an uphill task. Taffs Well extended their lead mid way through the second half to make it 3-0 but despite another Ponty revival for 10 minutes or so, rounded off their win with a fourth just before the full time whistle.
Ponty must regroup
for the next
challenge against
Dinas Powys on
Saturday 15th May |
|
Saturday 08/05/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Dinas Powys -2-1-
Pontardawe Town The lads had a good old laugh before the kick-off with a game of Ponty "donkey". The laughing soon stopped as Ponty somehow dominated but still struggled to take advantage of a poor Dinas Powys team. Ponty created some chances but failed to convert during the first half with the teams level at 0-0 at the interval. Ponty again continued to dominate without reward during the early second half until Chris Allen sneaked one past the Dinas defence to make it 1-0 Ponty. Dinas Powys now started to press and when Ben in goal for Town dropped a cross it left the Dinas player with an open goal which he did not miss. Ponty were now pegged back 1-1 and failed to get out of 1st or 2nd at best gear. Chances came but Ponty lacked the clinical touch to see off Dinas Powys. Disaster struck for Ponty when following a poor referee decision against Gary Taylor, the resulting free kick was not dealt with by the Ponty defence and the ball ended up in the back of the net. Dianas were now desperate to hang onto their 2-1 lead and started to look a bit shaky again. Carl Owen used his pace several times to get around the back of the Dinas defence but Ponty again lacked the clinical touch. In the dying seconds from loose play, Gareth Govier played the ball through to Steffan who was left one on one with the Dinas goalkeeper but again the clinical touch was missing and Steff put the ball wide from less than 12 yards out. From the goal kick, the referee ended this frustrating game for Ponty. Definitely a case of 3 points lost in the quest for survival
|
|
Wednesday 05/05/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Caerleon -1-3-
Pontardawe Town Ponty made the long trip to Caerleon on Wednesday 5th May 2010 looking for yet another 3 points on their travels to south-east Wales and to build on the performance against Caldicot last Saturday to bring all 3 points back to Ponty. Caerleon were fighting for survival in Division One - defeat tonight would almost certainly see them relegated so Ponty knew it was going to be a tough game on a very bumpy and uneven surface. Ponty again started well with Chris Allen and James Pickup working hard up front. It was Chris Allen who neatly slipped a pass inside to the advancing Andrew Stokes who's shot nestled in the back of the net a couple of seconds later to calm Ponty nerves. Caerleon continued to battle and give everything. They got their reward when just seconds from the half-time whistle Deano to not hold onto a loose ball in the box and Luke Cueto bundled the ball in to send the teams in level 1-1 at half time. Ponty continued to create chances in the second half and from a neat flowing move which saw Chris Allen cross from the right for Carl Owen to fire an unstoppable shot from close range into the net to make 2-1 to Ponty. Ponty again pressed and from a quick Deano throw out, Gary Taylor and Dale Otten combined down the Ponty left which saw Dale pass the ball infield to Gareth Govier who from fully 40 yards... ok fully 25 yards, curled and dipped the ball into the top right hand corner for a fantastic first goal for him for the 1st team. Ponty had other chances to seal the game but Caerleon kept pressing and made a couple of claims for penalties and had a goal ruled out for offside but with the light fading fast, Ponty held out for yet another valuable 3 points
|
|
Saturday 01/05/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Caldicot Town -1-2-
Pontardawe Town (Competition - Welsh League Division One) Ponty were looking to continue their recent good run against yet another side near the top of the table against Caldicot Town. Caldicot were one of the leagues highest scoring sides so Ponty would have to be on top of their game to get anything out of this match. Despite the difference in league positions, Ponty started strong and were trying to play neat passing football on a very difficult pitch. Pontys adventure paid dividends when Chris Allen stroked the ball home from a corner with barley 10 minutes of the game gone. Caldicot were in shock and Ponty took full advantage when Carl Owen beat the offside trap and calmly put the ball away to put Ponty 2-0 up. Ponty should have closed the first half out but a defensive slip up gave Caldicot a way back into this game with barely 2 minutes to the break. Half time duly arrived with Ponty in front 2-1. Ponty expected an onslaught in the second half and it duly came with Caldicot hitting the woodwork twice with Ponty riding their luck on numerous other occasions. Ponty had opportunities to put the game beyond Caldicot with Nappa going close and Carl seeing the keepers legs save his effort. Ponty suffered some injuries to Andrew Stokes and a more serious injury to Dan McGrath. Gareth Govier on as a substitute for Dan had a glorious chance to seal the game at the death when he ran onto a through ball but the ball bobbled away from him with the referees whistle bringing 3 more very welcome points Ponty's way seconds later.
|
|
Thursday 29/04/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Afan Lido Reserves -2-2-
Pontardawe Town Reserves Ponty went into this game determined to come away with the 3 points to sustain their title push. Afan Lido had exactly the same intention as they are up there and in with a chance of grabbing the Reserve Division West title themselves. Ponty started slowly in the driving rain and Lido took full advantage of this as you would expect and went ahead with just over 5 minutes of the game gone. Ponty continued to ride their luck with Lido creating far more opportunities than Ponty. However, Ponty gradually played themselves back into the game and got level when James Pickup headed a near post goal. The game was end to end now and Ponty took the lead when Liam James curled a left foot shot in at the far post. This is how it stood when the half-time whistle went with Ponty ahead 2-1. Lido started the second half strong again and had Ponty on the ropes on a number of occasions but just could not seem to convert the chances that they created. As the game wore on, Lido created far the better of the chances and it was not until approximately 10 minutes from the end that Lido pulled the goal back to level the score at 2-2. Lido pressed and Ponty defended for the remainder of the match but held out to earn a hard fought draw against a good Lido side. Honours even, the second of the matches between these two sides takes place again in a couple of days - our thanks go to Afan Lido for agreeing to host Ponty's home game at The Marston stadium next week.
|
|
Tuesday 27/04/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Bridgend Town -1-2-
Pontardawe Town In the fabulous and palatial surroundings of the Brewery Field, Ponty looked to continue their impressive run against a Bridgend Town side who were themselves fighting hard to get clear of the relegation zone. In a first half that saw both sides play creative football the chances made and missed were even until Bridgend seized on some indecision to take the lead and go into the half-time break 1-0 up. Ponty started the second half strongly and were clearly the better side. Bridgend still created some chances but as Ponty took more and more control of the game an equalizer was looking more and more likely. Mark Nappieralla duly delivered with some 10 minutes of the game left to level the score at 1-1. Ponty could now sense victory and pressed time after time looking for the goal that would secure all 3 points. Ponty wee awarded a penalty with only moments of the game remaining after Andrew Stokes was brought down in the box. The referee had no hesitation in awarding the spot kick which was duly dispatched by Dale Otten to make the score 2-1 and secure the 3 points for Ponty. Ponty's good run continues and survival is looking more of a probability than a possibility. Ponty will be tested again against table toppers Caldicott Town on Saturday 1st May - lets hope the winning run can continue. Minge of the match was awarded to Ben Hopkins with man of the Match going to Dale Otten. An added bonus in the video link below is the post match celebrations !
|
|
Saturday 24/04/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town -1-1- Caerleon Pontardawe struggled through their 7th game in 14 days and, despite some chances, could only manage a 1-1 draw with bottom club Caerleon Energy levels looked low throughout the game despite Ponty taking an early lead through a well taken from Mark Nappieralla. The rest of the first half was quite forgettable and the second half was very similar. Luke Cueto got Caerleon's equaliser mid way through the half. Ponty had a number of opportunities but the final pass or shot never came.
All this can be
excused as everyone,
both on and off the
field, have worked
their socks off in
the last two weeks
with 10 home games
(First team and
Youth) so full
credit to everyone.
With Bridgend Town
away on Tuesday
followed by a trip
to Caldicot on
Saturday there is
little time for us
to catch our breath
but we remain
positive that we
will spend 2010-2011
in Welsh League
Division One and,
possibly, at our new
ground. |
|
Thursday 22/04/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town -2-0- Bridgend Town Pontardawe needed a win following defeat at home to Afan Lido on Monday but the game started in the worst possible way. After 10 or so minutes defender Steven Cox went over on his ankle with what looked like a nasty injury and limped out of the game to be replaced by Rob Fulford. The game was not the best with both sides struggling to make any clear cut chances and it wasn't until the 59th minute until the 1st goal arrived. Fortunately it was for Ponty and it came from a run down the right by Mark Nappieralla who cut inside and smartly passed the Bridgend keeper give Ponty the lead. There were some dodgy moments to follow as the light faded but an excellent cross from Garry Taylor was met by Chris Allen who headed past the keeper to give Ponty a 2-0 lead which they maintained until the final whistle.
The three points
brought Ponty back
to within grasp of
12th place and the
fact that we have a
positive goal
difference is good
news indeed. |
|
Wednesday 21/04/2010 |
Pontardawe
Town U19s -1-2- Llanelli
AFC U19s With 6 or 7 withdrawals on the day, and with Llanelli showing up with a very strong side, it was true to say that the Ponty contingent were very nervous in respect to the result. What actually happened was that the Ponty players, from 1-14, gave their all and stuck manfully to their game. This resulted in a very close encounter which unfortunately slipped away from the lads, most cruelly, in injury time. Llanelli with Declan John and Craig Frater in the ascendency had the better of the play but Ponty fought hard and managed to create a number of chances. Just as half time approached a goal from Craig Frater gave the visitors a 1-0 lead. Heads could have dropped but the Ponty lads bounced back and got a deserved equaliser from Christian Evans on 50 minutes. The game was now an end to end affair and both sides had chances they were unable to take. A retaken free kick by Declan John was well saved by Ponty's Jamie Rano after 80 minutes. With the game 3 minutes into injury time Llanelli piled on the pressure and after a push in the box went unnoticed by the referee the ball fell to a Llanelli forward who smashed the ball towards the goal. Ponty's Ben Thomas unfortunately guided the ball past keeper Rano with his attempt to block the shot.
This was cruel blow for
the home team who can be
proud of the way they
pushed the visitors and
were cruelly robbed of a
deserved point. |
|
Monday 18/04/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town -1-3- Afan Lido Pontardawe welcomed Afan Lido to the Recreation ground on Monday 19th April in what was their fifth game in 9 days. Afan Lido were second in Division One going into this game, trailing Goytre United by three points. Ponty had already played Goytre earlier in this marathon run of games, securing 1 point but ruing the chances that got away to take all 3 against a strong Goytre side. It was with great anticipation and expectation, given previous results against the table toppers, that Ponty started this game. However, due to injuries and unavailability, changes were inevitable. Lido started strongly and put Ponty under tremendous pressure for the first 30 minutes. Ponty defended and rode their luck on several occasions but did threaten the Lido goal themselves on a couple of occasions. However, during a 11 minute period, Ponty conceded 3 goals and looked on the racks and were glad to see the half time whistle. Ponty started the second half with more determination and threatened the Lido goal but could not get that early goal to put Lido under some pressure. Whilst it was a much improved second half from Ponty, Lido still carved out a couple of chances to extend their lead in a game that for some reason had a bit of niggle about it that the referee struggled to control at times. Ponty were now playing some good football and had some belief in themselves again. James Pickup was introduced for Stefan Davies during the second half and it was James who glanced a Gary Taylor free-kick into the net to give Ponty some hope with about 15 minutes to go. Ponty pressed and Lido were fortunate to clear off their line - if this had gone in it would have produced a great climax to the game but it was not to be. With seconds to go, substitute Arwel Rees was sent off for foul and abusive language which put a dampener on an otherwise hard game between the two local rivals. Afan Lido's win at the Recreation ground now see them sitting at the top of Division One on goal difference and Pontardawe Town would like to wish Lido the very best for the rest of the season, especially with their application for Premiership status
|
|
Sunday 17/04/2010 |
Pontardawe
Town U19s -6-3-
Haverfordwest County
U19s This was an excellent game played in good spirit by both sides. Haverfordwest started the brighter with their centre forward Vincent Ateoyi immediately making an impact showing good strength and speed to put Declan Carroll through to give the visitors a 1-0 lead after just 2 minutes. The game settled into an end to end affair with both sides committed to good football. On 40 minutes Ponty got a deserved equaliser from the busy Tom Blackburn and within 5 minutes Ponty were in a commanding 3-1 lead with further goals from Luke Evans and Tom Blackburn again. County immediately hit back after the break with a well worked goal for Rob Morgan but the comeback lasted just 12 minutes as Luke Evans return the 2 goal advantage to Ponty. This was further extended with a fantastic effort from Josh Hodgson, who hit a belter passed Peter Scammell in the County goal, to give Ponty a 5-2 lead. County then pulled yet another back within 2 minutes from Rob Morgans but, in this amazing game, Jack Green gave Ponty a 6-3 win with another fine effort.
There was some good
performances throughout
the team especially from
Luke Evans and Tom
Blackburn, At the back
the Thomas trio, Niall,
Ben and Elliot plus Ryan
Coffey were exceptional
against a quality County
attack |
|
Saturday 16/04/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town -4-0- Aberaman
Athletic On another warm spring day, Pontardawe played their fourth game this week, against another of the top sides Aberaman Athletic at the Rec. Ponty started very strongly again and forced a corner after about 4mines. Steve Cox rose and scored to settle what little Ponty nerves there were. This was an excellent start and Ponty continued to dominate the majority of the half with Jon Coates, Steve Cox, Dan McGrath, Gary Taylor and Chris Allen all putting in good performances. Ponty were heading for a 1-0 lead with the half time whistle only minutes away when Gareth Govier tried to head a harmless ball back to Ben in goal, only to see it creep into the net despite Bens best efforts. Ponty were spared however, as the Aberaman forward was given offside moments before. Lessons learnt Ponty went into the half time break deservedly 1-0 up. Ponty again started the stronger of the two teams and deservedly went 2-0 up from Carl Owens who latched onto a through ball to fire home at the near post. Ponty were cruising now but were forced into a couple of substitutions with Jon Coates and Dale Otten leaving the field. Jon was replaced by Steffan Davies who made an almost immediate impact with a goal following a rebound from Chris Allens challenge with the Aberaman keeper. Ponty were now 3-0 up and in control. Steffan rounded the scoring off with a well taken close range shot to send the Ponty crowd wild and could have had his hat-trick minutes later had he been a little more composed. Ponty should have had a fifth from the penalty spot when Andrew Stokes was brought down by the Aberaman keeper but the keeper made up for his mistake when he saved Stokesy's spot kick. Moments later the final whistle went on yet another very impressive Ponty performance and another very important 3 points. Ponty now face yet another of the table toppers when Afan Lido visit the Rec on Monday 19th April. This will be Ponty's fifth game in 9 days in a manic end of the season fixture list
|
|
Thursday 14/04/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town -2-0- Bryntirion
Athletic The guys bounced back from Tuesday's disappointment with an excellent performance against high flying Bryntirion Athletic. A goal after 10 minutes from Dan McGrath was followed up by substitute Chris Allen 5 minutes before the break.
It was a strong
performance which was
missed by Manager Steve
Price who was stuck in a
far off land due to the
Icelandic Ash Cloud. He
would have been proud of
the lads who battled on
a hard pitch to another
quality performance
against a top of the
table outfit. |
|
Tuesday 13/04/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town -0-2- Cambrian &
Clydach Ponty were determined to build on the performance last Saturday against league leaders Goytre and for long periods of this game they looked the more likely to score. Jon Coates was outstanding again and was influencing play whenever in possession. Chances came at either end during a first half delayed because of the late arrival of a match official but both teams went into the half time break relatively satisfied with a 0-0 draw.
Ponty again started
the second half on
top and created a
couple of chance and
outplayed Cambrian
and Clydach for long
periods. It was one
of those games that
is often seen that
if the team on top
do not take
advantage of their
dominance by scoring
then its odds on
that during a
breakaway by the
opposition that they
will score. this is
what happened but
with a further twist
it took a cruel
deflection of a shot
late on to beat the
Town goalie Ben.
Ponty tried to get
back into the game
but with the light
fading alarmingly
quickly due to the
delayed kick-off,
Town conceded a
rather harsh penalty
which was put away
to make the score
0-2. There was not
way back for Ponty
now and the last
couple of minutes
were played out
before the whistle
went on a spirited
yet unproductive
performance in terms
of points gained. |
|
Sunday 11/04/2010 |
Pontardawe
Town U19s -6-1- Briton
Ferry Llansawel U19s On a bright sunny day with little wind it was the visitors who started the brightest and went close early on to taking the lead and it took nearly 15 minutes for the home team to wake up and put pressure on the visitor's defence. On 23 minutes a nice move down the right saw Tom Blackburn fire Town into the lead their play now deserved. Straight from the kick off Town took a 2 goal lead with a nice move finished off by Paul Thomas. Town then dominated the reset of the half but missed a hatful of chances leaving BFL with some hope as they went into the break. BFL started the half brightly but just 5 minutes into the second half Paul Thomas got his second and that seemed to kill off the visitor's spirit for some time. This allowed Town to dominate possession but they once again wasted chance after chance. As the game entered into the final 17 minutes Town finally got their rewards with goals from Luke Evans (73m), Jack Green (78m) and Arwel Rees (80m). BFL were then rewarded for their endeavours with a goal from Titch Collins. The final score line of 6-1 does reflect the difference between the two sides but it could have been more if Town had shown more composure in front of goal. A number of the lads played well today but the Man of the Match was Luke Evans (as chosen by me!!)
|
|
Saturday 10/04/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town -1-1- Goytre United The first team returned home to commence a very busy period and played extremely well in a game that flowed from start to finish and was a great advert for the Welsh Football League From the start both sides played attacking football but it was United who looked the more likely to score and had some great chances early on. They were thwarted by an excellent save from Ben Hopkins, and some strong defending, especially from Steven Cox, but finally the breakthrough came when a pin point cross from the right was smartly headed home by Chris Summers on 30 minutes. Town pressed hard for the equaliser but the half ended with the score 1-0 to the visitors. The second half belonged to Town as the introduction of Jon Coates made a great difference and the penetration on both flanks, from Coates and Otten on the left and Napperialla on the right, was starting to trouble the visitors. Chances came and went and just as it began to look like Town were out of luck the referee gave a somewhat harsh decision against United's Scott Kenyon who was deemed to have handled the ball on the line and was promptly given a red card. The resulting penalty, taken by Nappieralla, did not give the home team a deserved equaliser following a smart save down to his left by Chris Curtis. After 82 minutes Town got the goal their efforts deserved and it was after a smart move down the right involving Robbie Daniels and Nappieralla who delivered a great cross which was put away by Carl Owen. Despite immense pressure United held out and the points were shared.
|
|
Wednesday 07/04/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town Res - 2-0- Cwmamman
United Res
Ponty started the better
of the two teams and
created numerous chances
against a hard working
and much improved
Cwmamman United eleven.
Ponty dominated the
opening exchanges and
went ahead when Chris
Allen poked a shot past
the stranded keeper.
Ponty continued to press
and played some great
football which
eventually saw Gazza
Lewis smash the ball
home to put Ponty 2-0
up. Chances were created
by Ponty leading upto
the half time break but
Ponty were content with
a dominant display and a
2-0 lead at half time.
|
|
Saturday 27/03/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Cambrian & Clydach -3-1-
Pontardawe
Town
The first team travelled
to Cambrian & Clydach
Vale on Saturday 27th
March 2010 hoping to
pick up a valuable 3
points. Steffan Davies
got Ponty's only goal of
the game to send Ponty
into the half time break
1-0 up.
|
|
Saturday 13/03/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town Res -3-0- Neath
Athletic Res
With vivid memories
of last years very
young Neath side
that visited the
Recreation Ground
and totally
outplayed the
Pontardawe eleven,
Ponty were out not
to repeat the result
of last season again
as that result
ruined Ponty's
chance at claiming
the title.
Neath visited with
another very young
and highly skilful
side that played
some very neat
passing football and
were not intimidated
by the size and age
of the Ponty side.
Play early on
revolved around a
midfield battle with
chances even at
either end until
Stuart Hoskins
opened the scoring
after sneaking in at
the far post from a
free kick. Ponty
continued to play
some good football
and went into the
half time break 1-0
up.
The second half
continued to see
both sides create
chances. Ponty took
control of the game
when Mark
Nappieralla nodded
home unchallenged
after the ball was
headed back across
goal with Stuart
Hoskins rounding off
his Man of the Match
award with his
second and Pont's
third just before
the final whistle.
|
|
Friday 12/03/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Aberaman Athletic -3-1-
Pontardawe
Town Aberaman have excellent facilities and they deserve to be in the Welsh Premier league based on those alone but unfortunately the only comment that could be made about the pitch is that it should be on the front of Farmers Weekly !!! The surface was the poorest one that Pontardawe have seen this season and needs some real attention if it is to provide a base for good flowing football. It was Aberaman's direct approach, cutting out most of the pitch, that was the difference between the two sides. The constant long ball attack, remember Wimbledon?, meant a very busy night for the Pontardawe Town back 5 and 3 goals in the first 30 minutes for the home team showed that the visitors weren't coping with very well with the surface and the attack. All 3 goals were sloppy ones to give away and were scored by Mark Greedy (8m), Liam Beattie (14m) and Alun Hughes (30m). In truth, the only light relief for Pontardawe was the announcer's early attempt at saying Nappieralla !! In the latter part of the first half and all of the second half Pontardawe made a better fist of things and were the better side. They were denied by the woodwork, the keeper and some desperate defence on many occasions. In the 84th minute Steffan Davies did break through and beat the keeper but it was merely a consolation on a night to forget for the Pontardawe lads. Congratulations and thanks to Dilwyn Pritchard and his team for their hospitality and if you do want check out that pitch just tune into the next episode of BBC's Lambing Live (only joking!!) Pontardawe Town : B Hopkins, G Govier, D Otten, S Hoskins, A Lewis, R Penny, A James, C, Allen, S Davies, C Owen, J Coates / M Nappieralla (Sub for C Allen), R South (Sub for J Coates) , A Stokes (Sub for R Penny)
Ponty Scorers : S
Davies (84 m) Officials : C. Cambell, T Lewis, C Harry
|
|
Saturday 06/03/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town -3-1- Ely Rangers Although unbeaten in the league since October the league position meant that Pontardawe Town had to start converting draws into wins with immediate effect and to their credit this is what happened with a good win against a battling Ely Rangers. Injury and absence resulted in changed line up with Gareth Govier and Stuart Hoskins coming into defence and Ryan Penny moving into the centre of midfield. Once again Town started well and within 14 minutes were two goals to the good. A welcome goal from Ryan Penny, who has battled back well after a long term injury, was followed on 14 minutes by another for top scorer Steffan Davies (Note that Steff is also claiming the first goal and is escalating his claim to FIFA !!) With spirits high, but nerves jangling due to previous results, Town continued to press for more but, in fairness, Rangers were causing the Ponty back four some problem and on 19 minutes a great effort by Robert Gretrex from about 25 yards went over keeper Ben Hopkins to bring the score back to 2-1. Both sides had good efforts in the remainder of the first half but it ended 2-1. In recent weeks Town had fallen victim to an early second half goal but despite a few scares this didn't happen and after 8 minutes of the second half a close in header from Ryan Penny put Town 3-1 up. Rangers didn't give up and had chances but there was now an air of belief amongst the Town players and the result should have been sown up with chance after chance being wasted. In the 83rd minute a solid tackle by Garry Taylor was deemed dangerous by referee Lee James and, after a fracas between players from both sides, Garry was sent off with a straight red. This was deemed by all to be very harsh indeed. Town saw out the game quite comfortably and the 3 points were a welcome boost and all are now looking forward to the Friday evening game at Aberaman on March 12th. Pontardawe Town : B Hopkins, G Govier, S Hoskins, A Lewis, D McGrath, R Penny, G Taylor , A James, S Davies, C Owen, J Coates, C Allen (Sub for S Davies), M Nappieralla (Sub for R Penny), R Daniels (Sub for D McGrath)
Ponty Scorers : R
Penny (11m, 53m), S
Davies (14 m) Sending Off : G Taylor (83m)
Officials :
L James, B Coyle, G
Elliot |
|
Saturday 27/02/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town Res -6-2- Briton
Ferry Llansawel Res
Ponty entertained
Briton Ferry
Llansawel in Reserve
Division West on
Saturday 27th
February 2010 at the
Recreation Ground,
determined to put
the horror show in
the defeat at
Britton Ferry
Llansawel just
before Christmas
behind them.
Ponty Scorers :
I Jones, A Rees(2),
J Pickup, R
Whitelock, G Lewis |
|
Saturday 13/02/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town Res -4-1- Ammanford
Res
Ponty entertained
Reserve Division
West local rivals
Ammanford on the
13th February at the
Recreation Ground.
Ponty had the ideal
start with Luke
Michaels opening the
scoring after 5
minutes with his
second following on
15 minutes. Ponty
did not have it
their own way -
Ammanford played
some very neat
passing football and
threatened the Ponty
goal on numerous
occasions. Ponty got
their third goal
from Arwel Rees
who's cross totally
deceived the
Ammanford keeper and
crept in at the far
post. Ammanford
continued to press
and on the stroke of
half time they got
their reward with a
goal following a
defensive error.
Ponty went into the
half-time break 3-1
up.
Ponty Scorers :
L Michaels (3), A Rees |
|
Saturday 13/02/2010 |
Barry Town -0-0- Pontardawe
Town In front of a very small crowd, due to FA Cup and Six Nations, both sides showed excellent commitment and produced an exciting game that was lacking only in goals. Chances were few and far between but there were some big performances from the Pontardawe lads with a join man of the match award going to Dan McGrath and Andy Lewis
Pontardawe Town :
B Hopkins, R Daniels,
D Otten, A Lewis, D
McGrath, A Stokes, G
Taylor , M Nappieralla,
C Owen, A James, J
Coates, R Penny (Sub for A
Lewis), C Allen (Sub -
Not Used), R South (Sub - Not
Used) |
|
Saturday 06/02/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town Res -5-0- Cwmamman
Utd Res
Ponty took the short
trip to Cwmamman on
Saturday 6th February to
play their local rivals
who managed to nick some
points off Ponty last
season with two draws.
Ponty Scorers :
L Evans (2), L James (2), A Rees |
|
Wednesday 26/01/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town Res -5-2- Garden
Village Res
Our thanks go to Afan
Lido for agreeing to
host this home match for
Ponty against Garden
Village. All in all a great win against a good Village side who will be up there challenging for the title come the end of the season
Ponty Scorers :
C Allen(2), L James, OG, R Whitelock |
|
Saturday 23/01/2010
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town Res -11-0- Goytre
Res After a long layoff Ponty got back to winning ways against Goytre United with what turned out to be a resounding win. From the first minute, the result was never in doubt as Pont started as they finished, totally dominating the game against a surprisingly poor Goytre United eleven. Ponty went into the half time break well on top and after a flurry of substitutions in the second half - notably the very influential Christian Evans, Ponty eventually racked up a very impressive eleven goals
Ponty Scorers :
I Jones, OG, L James (2), J Pickup (2), A Rees (3), R Penny, C Evans |
|
Saturday 23/01/2010 |
West End -2-2- Pontardawe
Town This well anticipated local derby was attended by a good crowd despite the Ospreys v Leicester Heineken Cup Match just a few miles down the road. Unfortunately, in what was a good advert for the League, the standard of the officials once again had a major effect on Pontardawe's preparations for the FAW Welsh Cup game at Rhyl FC. Pontardawe are currently without manager Steve Price due to an incident at Ely Rangers in December, which resulted in a totally unfair lengthy ban from football by the FAW, the club will now go into next week's game without 2 key players, who were both sent off during yesterday's game, Garry Taylor and Steffan Davies. The club, and many who spoke after the game, felt that referee Nathan Mullock totally over reacted during a hard, physical but fair encounter between two evenly matched teams. Was this to do with experience or the very fact that there were a number of more senior referees and officials in the crowd or the fact that a Referee's Assessor was also present at the game ? The game opened up well during the first half with Dale Otten looking dangerous on the left for Pontardawe. In the 3rd minute Dale weaved through a number of West End players only to see is shot smothered well by West End keeper Alex Davies. After a spell of pressure from West End it was Pontardawe who took the lead when Steff Davies got beyond the home team's defence and was alleged to have been brought down by keeper Davies who earned a Yellow card for his troubles. Up stepped Otten who calmly slotted the penalty past the disappointed keeper. West End pushed on and took just 7 minutes to equalise with new signing Sam Brown putting a shot past Ben Hopkins in the Ponty goal. The rest of the half was an entertaining affair spoilt only by the constant whistle from, and inconsistency of shown by, Mr Mullock. Ponty came out of the blocks quickest in the second half and immediately took the lead again after a great through ball from Otten was put away calmly by Steff Davies. Complaints by West End that the ball didn't cross the line were waved away by the officials and the goal stood. At around the 75 minute mark Ponty's day was spoilt when Garry Taylor was booked for taking a free quick too quickly thus picking up his second yellow card of the day. This means Garry will now miss the Rhyl FC cup match because of a ridiculous decision by the referee. There was a lot of complaining at the referee due the free kcik decision and many in the crowd on the far side of the pitch were of the impression the referee had whistled and therefore the game could continue and Garry was encouraged to take the free kick only to be pulled again and this time to get sent off. Such a poor decision based on the referee's lack of communication is a difficult one to take and discussions post the match around this were waved away. Technically correct? ... yes .... but in the spirit and passion of the game .... absolutely not !!! West End's tails were now up and the introduction of substitute Alex Chrysanthou rewarded them with an equaliser as he got behind the stretched Ponty defence and calmly slotted home. As the game looked to be ending in a draw the depression that now surrounded the Pontardawe club officials, supporters and players was doubled when the referee claimed that Steffan Davies used foul and abusive language and he was awarded a straight red card. Protests from many players, including the captain and players of West End, were ignored and waved away and Steffan Davies had to leave the field. Conversations and pleading with referee Nathan Mullock after the game did not change the decision and it seems that only 1 person, Mr Mullock, heard this language whilst coaches, players and supporters in the vicinity heard nothing untoward. Pontardawe Town are now considering an appeal for the sending off of Steffan Davies but have no right to appeal against the Garry Taylor dismissal. The final question is, was it right that Mr Mullock should be awarded such a local derby that was a hard fought, but fair, game played by two committed teams who have the utmost respect for each other both on and off the field? Pontardawe Town : B Hopkins, P Lenihan, A Lewis, R South, S Cox (C), G Taylor , D McGrath, S Hoskins, S S Davies, C Owen, D Otten, J Coates (Sub for A Lewis), C Allen (Sub - Not Used), A James (Sub for D McGrath), M Nappieralla (Sub - Not Used), A Stokes (Sub for C Owens)
Ponty Scorers : D
Otten (18m, Pen), S
Davies (46 m) Sending Off : G Taylor (75m), S Davies (90m)
Officials :
N Mullock, M Jones, R
Hughes |
|
Saturday 12/12/2009 |
Pontardawe
Town -3-1- Garden
Village Pontardawe moved up to 12th place in the league with a hard earned win over their Swansea rivals. Village, who featured a host of former Pontardawe players, started the game strongly and nearly took the lead with a Rimmer header. Ponty then took command and scored two quick goals, both by Carl Owen, on 20 and 25 minutes. Despite this it was Village who increased the pressure and missed a host of chances which should have put them atleast 4-2 up. They did get one goal back though when Lee Rastatter scored on 33 minutes. But it was Ponty who scored next when Steff Davies coolly put the ball past Mark Snell to take the teams in half time. There were no goals in the second half but it was an entertaining one nonetheless. In addition it was a fiesty one and one that referee Gary Hire struggled to hang on to at times. In one incident a penalty awarded to Village was reversed once he had consulted with his assistant Gareth Elliot and a free kick was awarded to Ponty instead. Ponty host Taffs Well next week who will be well pleased with their 7-1 thumping of West End Pontardawe Town : B Hopkins, R Daniel, P Lenihan, R South, S Cox, M Nappieralla, G Taylor (C), D Otten, S Davies, C Owen, J Coates, A Stokes (Sub - Not Used), J Pickup (Sub - Not Used), G Govier (Sub), C Allen (Sub), A Lewis (Sub)
Scorers : C Owen
(20m and 25m) S
Davies (43 m) |
|
Saturday 05/12/2009
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe Town -1-2-
Ammanford
Town
A
THUNDEROUS
25-yard
drive
from
Richard
Lewis
gave
Ammanford
a
dramatic
2-1
victory
over
Swansea
Valley
rivals
Pontardawe
in the
second
round of
the
Welsh
League
Cup on
Saturday.
Lewis’ magnificent long-range strike shattered Ponty’s hopes following a quality game played in appalling conditions which was a credit to both sides. With Jamie Evans cuptied, new Ammanford signing Sam Evans came into the squad after transferring from Trimsaran and former Ponty stalwart Luke Harris was made captain for the eagerly-awaited encounter. Despite the heavy rain, the pitch held up remarkably well with just water at the corners which enhanced the play by giving the forwards a slight advantage in the testing conditions. Pontardawe had a chance early on with a free-kick on the edge of the penalty area, but the effort was cleared. The Swansea Valley outfit continued to pose problems for Ammanford in the opening quarter and a similar effort after 20 minutes was also cleared. With both teams settling down remarkably well after such a long lay-off, Ammanford took the lead in the 27th minute when a Richard Lewis cross was headed home by the unmarked Matthew Fisher. Minutes later Dean Jenkins had a chance with a snap shot before Gethin Jones went just wide minutes before half-time. Then Richard Lewis got into a great goal scoring position only to be crowded out by the Pontardawe defence. Five minutes into the second half Pontardawe drew level when a misjudged clearance was seized upon by Rob Daniels who headed into an empty net. Play remained very even until Lewis unleashed that piledriver from 25 yards which gave the Pontardawe goalkeeper no chance. With the rain getting increasingly heavy, Pontardawe pressed for the equaliser but Ammanford’s defence held firm. Ammanford’s Luke Fayres played a central role in a high-quality match which benefited from the refereeing of Eddie King. Pontardawe Town : B Hopkins, R Daniel, O Williams, R South, G Govier, A Stokes, G Taylor (C), D Otten, S Davies, C Owen, J Coates, R Whitelock (Sub), J Pickup (Sub), A Rees (Sub - Not Used), C Evans (Sub), L James (Sub - Not Used)
Scorers : R
Daniels (50m) |
|
Tuesday 01/12/2009
Watch The Action Here
|
Ely Rangers -1-3- Pontardawe
Town Pontardawe have endured a month of inactivity due to internationals and bad weather but they made up for it after just 4 minutes with a 7th goal of the season for Steffan Davies. Town had started the game on fire and swarmed all over Ely from the first whistle. Chances were coming thick and fast with Robbie Daniels and Dale Otten combining well on the right and Owain Williams ond Jon Coates on the left. Ely were not looking threatening at all but after 22 minutes an Ely player impeded Town goalie, Ben Hopkins, on his line which prevented a certain save. Referee Ian Hollyoake awarded the goal despite Town's appeals. This was against the run of play but despite the setback Town once again began to put the Ely goal under pressure with Gary Taylor having an outstanding game at the heart of the midfield. At 45 minutes Town deservedly regained the lead after Carl Owen was put through and he finished off in style. After a close call in the opening minutes of the second half Town continued to dominate but the next clear chance went to Ely as they were awarded a penalty after 60 minutes following a tackle from behind in the box. The calls were for Ben to go to his right and, whether he heard them or not, that is what he did and pulled off an excellent save. Another penalty was awarded just 8 minutes later, but this time is was to Town after Andrew Stokes was brought down in the box. Up stepped Dale Otten who hit a poor penalty by his standards but was on hand to put away the rebound. As the game moved into the closing period Carl Owen was put through by man of the match Owain Williams but was brought down in the box. To everyone's amazement Mr Hollyoake waved play on and refused to listen to Town's appeals. In the last 10 minutes both Chris Allen and James Pickup came on for Town to make their club debuts and Allen missed a chance to celebrate his debut when he headed over from close range. In the final minutes Town's manager, Steve Price, was sent off by the referee after strong words were exchanged when the frustration of some inconsistent refereeing took its toll. Pontardawe Town : B Hopkins, R Daniel, O Williams, R South, P Lenihan, A Stokes, G Taylor (C), D Otten, S Davies, C Owen, J Coates, C Allen (Sub), J Pickup (Sub), G Govier (Sub - Not Used), C Evans (Sub - Not Used), R Whitelock (Sub - Not Used)
Scorers : S
Davies (4 mins), C Owen
(45 mins), D Otten (68 mins,
Pen) |
|
Saturday 31/10/2009
Watch The Action Here
|
Pontardawe
Town -2-0- Llandudno
Town Llandudno Town had set off at 6:30am from their clubhouse and fortunately the game was able to go ahead following excellent work in poor weather by Hugh The Groundsman and his volunteers. Pontardawe lined up with an unfamiliar backline following the withdrawal of Steven Cox through suspension. In midfield the on-loan Dale Otten, who was allowed to play by Llanelli, stood in for the experienced, but injured, club captain Jon Coates. The game started at a frantic pace and Pontardawe took the lead with a goal from Carl Owen who finished off an excellent move after just 9 minutes. A move down the left saw a cross to Owen who beat Llandudno's keeper Paul Whitfield to immediately warm up the reasonably sized, but damp, crowd. Llandudno dominated the play for the remainder of an entertaining first half with midfielders Gaz Evans and Neil Coverley showing well but we unable to get the equaliser they probably deserved. This was mainly due to the commitment to the cause of the Pontardawe lads especially captain Gary Taylor and, man of the match, Stuart Hoskins. In the second half Pontardawe Town had more of the game and caused the Llandudno defence a lot more problems than in the latter part of the first half. The introduction of Andrew Stokes and Mark Nappieralla had a positive effect and on 70 minutes, after another excellent move down the left, Andrew Stokes met a great cross to put Pontardawe Town 2-0 up. This was a great game with some excellent and committed play from both teams. Llandudno's captain Craig Hogg, together with Joe Morgan, gave 100% in some bone crunching collisions but they were met full on by the Pontardawe lads with Paul Lenihan and Richard South outstanding in defence. In midfield Stuart Hoskins was definitely the outstanding player on the park whilst Steff Davies, up front, work his socks off as usual. Llandudno had their chances and Pontardawe were grateful for some of their wayward heading and shooting but, despite Mark Nappieralla's sending off after 95 minutes, it was Pontardawe who finished the victors and went into the draw for the 4th Round. An excellent game played by both sides which was well managed by Jon Twigg and his officials, Bernard Coyle and David Badger. Pontardawe Town : B Hopkins, A Lewis, O Williams, R South, P Lenihan, D McGrath, G Taylor (C), S Hoskins, S Davies, C Owen, D Otten, M Nappieralla (Sub), A Stokes (Sub), R Daniel (Sub - Not Used), D Thomas (Sub - Not Used), R Evans (Sub - Not Used) Llandudno Town : P Whitfield, P Roberts, S Eardley, W Williams, C Hogg (C), J Morgan, G Evans, B Dews, L Thomas, G Peters, N Coverley, D Hughes (Sub), A Roberts (Sub), R Chesters (Sub)
Scorers : C Owen
(9 mins), A Stokes (70
mins)
Officials : J
Twigg, D Badger, B Coyle |
|
Saturday 17/10/2009 |
Pontardawe
Town -2-3- Barry Town A good sized crowd at the Recreation Ground were rewarded with an entertaining game but the result will have not please the Pontardawe Town faithfull. After 6 games unbeaten in Cup and League there was a good a buzz around the ground but it was Barry Town who started the strongest and in the first 10 or 15 minutes Barry should have had a hatfull of goals but were kept out for some desperate defending and woeful finishing. This kept the scoreline at 0-0 until Ian Jones gave the visitors the lead on 25 minutes with a good finis just after Carl Owen had hit the post for the home team after a good run. Early in the second half a scramble in the goal mouth saw Ponty's Steffan Davies net his 6th of the season with a good finish but immediately Barry regained the lead. A move down the right allowed an offside Ian Jones to net his second at a time where everyone bar the officials saw the offside. Within 10 minutes Morgan Harris gave the visitors a 3-1 lead with a good finish and it looked as if Barry were going to run away with the game but the introduction of Mark Nappieralla on the right hand side improved the balance of the Ponty side and on 81 minutes Nappa scored a free kick from out of the box beating the Barry keeper to his left. Ponty pressed for the equaliser but it failed to come and the unbeaten run came to an end. Town : Ben Hopkins, Paul Lenihan, Andrew Lewis, Steven Cox , Richard South, Gary Taylor, Dale Otten, Stuart Hoskins, Steffan Davies , Carl Owen, Dan Mcgrath
|
|
Saturday 03/10/2009 |
Goytre United -0-3- Pontardawe
Town The South Wales Evening Post read :
and Pontardawe Town's manager, Steve Price, posted multiple copies of it on the Goytre Utd changing room to act as motivation for Town's players. Everyone at the club was determined to make the headline writers eat their words . . and with a 3-0 win we did just that. After just 3 minutes the United keeper, Ian Morgan, punched a cross directly to Town's right back, Paul Lenihan, who scored with a well directed header. This was a great start and saw Town dominate for the first 10 minutes with Carl Owen looking very sharp up front giving former Town player Michael Chaves a torrid time. United got back into the game and started to boss the midfield battle providing good service to the dangerous Richard Ryan and Richard French. Great defending by the Town back four with support from the midfield kept the United chances to a minimum. After 34 minutes Town were awarded a free kick in front of the stand and a great delivery from Gary Taylor crept through a crowd of players in to the United's goal. An upset, from the Evening Post's perspective, was on the cards. Town started the second half strongly with Steff Davies having a great battle with the experienced Dale Griffiths. It was in defence though that Town were the strongest with Richard South and Steven Cox outstanding all game. On 50 minutes a weaving run by Carl Owens saw him send a lovely low cross which Jon Coates put away in style giving Morgan no chance. The win was looking a certainty and Town pressed the United players giving them no chance of getting back into the game. By this time there were some niggle in the game and on 79 minutes Richard French saw red after he kicked out at Steffan Davies who had to leave the field soon after with a knock. Town continued to battle resolutely and kept United's prolific strike force down to one effort which came off the bar. At the final whistle the Town contingent celebrated in style and are now looking forward to a big draw in the next round. Town are also looking forward to the Evening Post's match report in the coming week. Everyone in the team deserved full credit for a performance that has been coming for some weeks Town : Ben Hopkins, Paul Lenihan, Andrew Lewis, Steven Cox [Owain Williams], Richard South, Gary Taylor, Jon Coates [Andrew Stokes], Stuart Hoskins, Steffan Davies [Dan Thomas] , Carl Owen, Dan Mcgrath
|
|
Thursday 01/10/2009
Watch The Action Here |
Neath Athletic Reserves
-0-1- Pontardawe Town
Reserves
Ponty took the short
trip to the Gnoll on
Thursday 1st October
to play a very young
Neath side. This was
always going to be a
tough game for Ponty
as this Neath team
effectively ended
Ponty's title
challenge at the
tail end of last
season with a superb
display at The
Recreation Ground. A DVD of the whole game is available - let us know if you would like to purchase a copy of the DVD for £5
|
|
Saturday 26/09/2009
|
Pontardawe Town -2-2-
West End Town welcomed local rivals West End and we were rewarded with a pulsating game which was controlled by referee Lee James West End started very well and caused trouble for the Town defence right from the start. On 20 minutes former Pontardawe Town player Richard Cleverly delivered a great ball which the unmarked Kieran Cullen put away with a quality strike. This kick started Town how then started to worry the West End defenders with Carl Owen and Steff Davies putting pressure on the back four on every occasion. Some strong but fair challenges were now starting to come into the game and neither team stood off. On 37m a good delivery by Paul Lenihan saw Cleverley put through his own goal to gave Town the equaliser they probably deserved. Within 6 minutes Town were in the lead after another great cross by Lenny was met by Steff Davies who directed his header over the advancing keeper. The second half continued to be a feisty but fair battle and on 70 minutes Town nearly took the lead when subsitute Mark Nappieralla's free kick was well saved by West End's keeper Pritchard.
West End then took
control and put Town
under pressure for the
remaining 20 minutes.
Their deserved equaliser
came from a header from
Neil Phillips and Town
clung on for a 2-2 draw
which was a fair result
on the warm sunny day. |
|
Saturday 26/09/2009
|
Garden Village Reserves
-0-1- Pontardawe Town
Reserves
Ponty visited Garden
Village on Saturday
26th September in
their second Reserve
Division West game
of the season. The
first half was a
pretty doer event
with few chances
being created. Those
chances that were
created fell to
Ponty but they
failed to take
advantage of their
dominance with the
half time score
level at 0-0.
Ponty deservedly
took the 3 points on
offer and now visit
Neath Athletic on
Thursday 1st
October. A DVD of the whole game is available - let us know if you would like to purchase a copy of the DVD for £5
Watch The Action Here
|
|
Saturday 19/09/2009
|
Newport Civil Service
-1-2- Pontardawe Town Town travelled to Newport Civil Service for a potential banana skin but came out worthy winners despite only scoring the winning goal with the last kick off the game. On a poor pitch, Town were matched early on by Civil Service who were hit by the early withdrawal of player manager Ben Burrows. Town's lack of composure on the ball was frustrating and this wasn't helped by a some poor decisions by referee A Boore. On 40 minutes Town were hit with an injury to Rob Fulford and it was whilst Rob was receiving treatment off the pitch that Civil Service took the lead when Matt Lawrence latched on to a defensive error to beat debutant keeper Ben Hopkins. The second half was dominated by Town who showed more composure but still couldn't get the break their play deserved. Then, on 75 minutes, a cross by Mark Nappieralla was bravely headed home by Man of The Match Stuart Hoskins who had earlier suffered an injury to his nose. Town continued to press and just when extra time loomed a bit of trickery in the box by Carl Owen allowed Steff Davies to bundle home a worthy winner for Town. Immediately from the kick off the referee blew up for full time. The referee's performance on the day was disappointing and ruined the game as a spectacle but nevertheless Town are happy to go through to meet Ammanford Town at home on Nov 7th in the next round. Man of the Match went to Stuart Hoskins and Minge of the Match went to Jason Dykes who could have inflicted more damage to Rob Fulford as he toppled him off the stretcher whilst taking him back to the changing rooms !!!!
|
|
Saturday 19/09/2009
|
Pontardawe Town Res
-2-1- West End Reserves
Pontardawe
welcomed a strong West
End side to the
Recreation Ground for
their first Reserve
Division West fixture of
the 2009/2010 season on
Saturday 19th September
2009.
Watch The Action Here
|
|
Saturday 12/09/2009 (Gary Thomas)
|
Pontardawe
Town -4-1- Presteigne St
Andrews Town welcomed Presteigne St Andrews to The Rec for this FAW 1st Round Cup tie. Presteigne had beaten Cwmamman Utd in the preliminary round and were looking for their second Welsh League scalp. After 4 minutes the good size crowd saw Steffan Davies put Town 1 up following a good run on the left by Carl Owen. Owen, who terrorized the Presteigne defence all game, was fed the ball by Jon Coates, took it to the bye line and delivered a teasing cross which Steffan turned in right under the nose of the stand in Presteigne keeper Sam Williams Within 9 minutes the Mid Wales side equalised from a corner. Richard South took a blow to the ahead but the referee failed to stop the game and Shane Sutton scrambled home from 6 yards giving Luke Probert in Town's goal no chance. The rest of the first half was a ding dong affair but with the better of the chances falling to Town. Some woeful shooting and confident keeping by the Presteigne keeper kept the score at 1-1 as the teams went into the half time break. The second half started with a worrying injury to Presteigne's Shaun Prince but it turned out that he was okay. The half was an exciting affair and Presteigne missed some good chances early on. On 60 minutes Town introduced Mark Nappieralla for Daniel Thomas and this seemed to give Town the edge. 'Nappa's' speed allowed him to take on the Presteigne left back and on 75 minutes he delivered a low cross for captain Jon Coates to head home. 5 minutes later Town were 3-1 up following another quick move up the right side and it was Mark Nappieralla who hit a great strike from the edge of the 18 yard box giving the Presteigne keeper no chance. Finally, and on 89 minutes, Man of the Match Carl Owen got his reward for his efforts with a scrappy goal from 6 yards. A great first game of the season at the Recreation Ground for the first team and we thank Presteigne St Andrews for adding to an excellent day. We also thank our Match Day mascots Elliot Davies and Ethan Bartlett. Both lads play for our Under 9s and we hope they enjoyed the day with us.
Watch The Action Here |
|
Saturday 05/09/2009 (Phil Govier)
|
Pontardawe
Town Reserves -1-2-
Troedyrhiw Reserves Ponty were drawn in a very sparsely populated preliminary round of the Reserve Cup against Troedyrhiw. Ponty started this game on Saturday 5th September 2009 at the Recreation Ground in confident if slow fashion but soon started to dominate the game. Chance after chance was created but the half time break came with the sides level at 0-0. The second half continued with Ponty dominating play but again the breakthrough would not come. Troedyrhiw then took the lead totally against the run of play when a mix up at the back provided the Troedyrhiw striker with an easy tap in. Ponty continued to create chance after chance and were probably trying to force the game too much as chances went begging. The breakthrough for Ponty came late in the game when Liam James headed home from a corner to level the score at 1-1. Ponty were now confident of at least taking the game into extra time if not winning before the final whistle. Again, chances were created where Ponty probably could have and probably should have won the game. However, approximately 30 seconds from the final whistle the unthinkable happened - a ball over the top of the Ponty back four and the striker looked offside but the Troedyrhiw striker carried on to eventually round the keeper and slot home the winner. Ponty did not have enough time to pick themselves up from this body blow and the game ended seconds after the restart with Troedyrhiw running out winners 2-1. The Ponty "Man of the Match" was awarded to Owain with the "Minge of the Match" being "won" by Aled Whitelock as he did not know that Ianto's name was Ian after Ianto called "Ian's ball" and Aled promptly tacked Ianto !. How long have you been playing for Ponty Aled.........
Watch The Action Here
|
|
Saturday 05/09/2009 (Gary Thomas)
|
Bryntirion Athletic
-0-1- Pontardawe
Town Town visited unbeaten Bryntirion and came away with a fully deserved 3 points following a very impressive performance. Starting with Dale Otten, a loan signing from Llanelli, and Rob Fulford, making his first team debut, Town were much the better side in the first half. Bringing in Fulford allowed Stuart Hoskins to move up to his preferred midfield role alongside Gary Taylor, who returned from injury, Otten and Daniel Thomas. It was this midfield that dominated the first half and with the front two, Davies and Owen, running the Bryn defence ragged Town had no less than 11 shots at goal in the first half. In the second half, and with the wind at their backs, Bryn started to come more and more into the game and gained a succession of corners early on which caused some concern in the Town defence. But on 12 minutes, following a clumsy tackle on Hoskins, Town took the lead. A good free kick delivery from Taylor was laid off by Davies into the path of Hoskins who gave home keeper, McCreesh, no chance as his shot from 12 yards smashed the back of the net. Bryn continued to push but the back four of Town, including the returning Paul Lenihan, stood firm. Bryn had their chances including Lenihan putting a header on his own crossbar plus a fine save from keeper Luke Probert and the 1 goal win was no more than Town deserved. The Man of the Match went to Rob Fulford who had an excellent debut but he was closely followed by Probert, South, Owen and Hoskins.
Minge of the match went to
coach Lee Brown who was
concerned that the kit was
not ready despite it hanging
up right up in front of him.
Lee wins an appointment at
SpecSavers !!!!!! |
|
Saturday 30/08/2009 (Gary Thomas)
|
Afan Lido -2-1- Pontardawe
Town Lady luck was once again missing at the Marston Stadium when Town faced a Lido side who were on a high after thumping West End in midweek. In a difficult wind Town played some good football early on with Carl Owen and Steffan Davies looking sharp in their first outing together. Meanwhile Dean Morgan in goals started well with some good saves. Against the run of play Lido took the lead with a goal from Nathan White who scored from close in on 24 minutes. Then, after 32 minutes, Dean Morgan was very harshly sent off by referee Kevin Morgan who awarded a penalty to Lido. The referee's claim that the Town keeper prevented a goal scoring opportunity was very debatable as Town had 2 men between the incident and the goal. Nevertheless the penalty stood but was easily saved by stand in keeper Owain Williams, who went on to have a good game in goal. Town, although down to 10 men, were still causing Lido problems but some woeful shooting and excellent keeping by Lido's Mike Lewis kept town out. The equaliser came on 65 minutes after good work by Dan Thomas caused the Lido keeper to drop the ball and from the subsequent cross Jon Coates headed into the Lido net. The game was now very open but Town were playing well until on 72, minutes Nathan White scored Lido's winner following a mistake by Town's Andrew Lewis. A quick free kick only found a Lido player who put White away giving the Town keeper no chance. Town continued to attack but some excellent defending by the Lido back 5, including one outstanding save by the keeper, kept us out.
Another sending off,
debatable refereeing and no
luck - another day at the
office for Town !!!! |
|
Wednesday 26/08/2009 (Gary Thomas) |
Ton Pentre -2-1- Pontardawe
Town Town suffered a 4th defeat on a miserable night up in Ton Pentre. This was a much improved performance on Saturdays's defeat at Taffs Well but lady luck was once again missing as two late goals, and a sending off, sent Town home with an undeserved loss. Early pressure resulted in Town scoring after 17 minutes after Rob Daniel closed down one of the Ton defenders, won the ball and cut inside the area to hit a belter past the Ton keeper. After suffering an injury to Dan McGrath after 25 minutes there was even more frustration when Dan Thomas was put clean through only for the Ton goalie to make a good save. The second half was a different affair with Ton playing the better football but it was Ponty who created the better chances with Andrew Stokes and Andrew Lewis both agonisingly close. Carl Owen, on his league debut for Town, was a threat throughout. The game turned on its' head after 78 minutes when Stuart Hoskins was sent off after picking up his 2nd Yellow. Ton quickly got an equaliser through Jordan Branch and late on, with just minutes to go, Shay Everson found space to put the winner past Town's goalie Dean Morgan.
Town deserved at least a
point if not all three but
will now need to bounce back
at Lido on Saturday |
|
Saturday 22/08/2009 (Gary Thomas)
|
Taffs Well -1-0- Pontardawe Town A defeat at Taffs Well leaves Town with no points after 3 games after a thoroughly disappointing game in Cardiff. Neither side produced any clear cut chances and the games was decided by a scrappy Matthew James goal after 65 minutes. Playing with a sweeper Town had the better of the first half but didn't really trouble Taffs Well's keeper. The second half was a drab affair but alteast it produced a goal - unfortunately not for Town.
To cap a miserable day Mark
Nappieralla was a sent off
after 85 minutes following
receipt of a second yellow
card from referee Kim
Fisher. This was another
poor performance by Mr
Fisher who was a very fussy
throughout and quite whistle
happy - as usual ! |
|
Wednesday 19/08/2009 (Gary Thomas)
|
Goytre Utd
-6-3- Pontardawe Town
Town's disappointing start to the season continued with some poor errors against a Goytre team who will be flattered by this scoreline. Goytre took an early lead after 8 minutes with a goal for Richard Ryan. Town matched Goytre all over the field and an Andrew Stokes shot hit the post after 15 minutes but it took 38 minutes for the equaliser to come from Mark Nappieralla penalty after Goytre keeper Chris Curtis pulled Richie Evans back. Immediately Goytre took the lead again with a Dale Griffiths speculative effort. The second half was poor from a Town perspective and Goytre took a 3-1 lead with another from Ryan but they were again pegged back by Ponty after Andrew Lewis's first goal for the club after 72 minutes. Amazingly Town again left Goytre in and Ryan got his hat trick. Just 5 minutes later, with Town the better side, Mark Nappieralla hit a brilliant penalty after Richie Evans was brought down in the box.
Once again Goytre
immediately scored with Dale
Price getting their 5th.
Again Town went on the
attack but Ryan got his 4th
of the game to give a final
score of 6-3. |
|
Saturday 15/08/2009 (Gary Thomas)
|
Garden Village
-2-1- Pontardawe Town This was a very disappointing start to the season for Town for many reasons. A positive dressing room failed to materialise on the pitch and after only 2 minutes Village took the lead with a very scrappy goal. Town played most of the football throughout this game as opposed to the long ball game from Village but chances weren't taken and on 40 minutes Village went 2-0 up with another scrappy goal. The second half started better for Town and after 50 minutes a great through ball by Richie Evans put Steffan Davies away and he hit a great shot over the approaching keeper, former Town captain Mark Snell. Town continued to press but were victims of a couple of very poor refereeing and assistant errors. Another one of these led to the sending off of Steffan Davies who followed up an opportunity and collided with Mark Snell. Admittedly it looked a bad challenge but there was no malice in the challenge for a ball that was there to be won. With only 10 men Town continued to push forward and chances still came. A good shot by Daniel Thomas went just wide as did a header at the death from Dan McGrath. Town need to pick themselves up and bounce back at Goytre Utd on Wednesday.
|
|
Saturday 18/07/2009 (Gary Thomas) |
Haverfordwest County
-1-1- Pontardawe Town
For most of this game Pontardawe Town played the better and more organised football. This was a very encouraging performance against a strong Welsh Premier outfit. After 15 minutes the County goalkeeper had to make a smart save from a good run and shot by Mark Nappieralla. This followed a goal saving tackle by Town's "Joint" Man of the Match Stuart "Dimples" Hoskins. For the next 20 minutes Town controlled the game with debutants Richie Evans and Carl Owen showing up well. Just after the half hour a mistake in defence allowed former Goytre striker Robbie Walters a sniff which he gratefully received and put away past keeper Dean Morgan. A few minutes later a smart cross by Paul Lenihan was met by Steffan Davies but his header went straight to the County keeper. After half time the game was more equal as both sides played some good attacking football. After 55 minutes County hit the bar from a free kick which was followed up by an excellent run from Richie Evans who linked up with Dan McGrath which nearly delivered the equaliser for Town. The game was now being disrupted by substitutes but it was two important changes that changed the game for Town. Andrew Lewis, another debutant, came on at the back and showed great skill and authority which led to him being voted as "joint" man of the match with Hoskins. It was another substitute, Liam "Leroy" James, who made the greatest impact as he found himself on the end of an Andrew Stokes to give Town the equaliser they deserved. Late on County's Walters hit the bar and County thought they had won the game from the follow up only for the assistant referee to rule the goal out for offside. A Walters overhead kick was easily saved by Dean Morgan and this proved to be the final action of the game. A great start to a busy period !
|
