Newtown AFC 1st Team Match Reports

Just a point after great performance
Wednesday, March 10
Despite a great team performance last night the Robins left Bala with just a single point to show from their efforts.
Adam Worton's shot in first half crashed against a post and rebounded straight into their keeper's hands.
In the second half after a great goal by Paul Roberts from a Ross Stephens corner gave Newtown the advantage but from their only chance of the match Bala equalised through Mike Thompson.
The Robins then threw everything for a winner with a magnificent run by Dylan Blain beating at least three Bala defenders then beating their keeper all ends up only again to see the ball cannon off the post to safety.
A Special mention for our young players who played their part to the full - Jack Hughes retiring mid way through the first half after a clash of heads and replaced by Dan Dawson and at half time Robbie James who suffered a gashed foot being replaced by Jamie Russell.
Craig Williams was also lucky to escape serious injury from a horrible challenge which deserved a red card.
Elsewhere Carmartehn lost 2-1 to The New Saints while Connah's Quay won 1-0 at Welshpool with a Dave McGuire howler handing them the points. Llanelli beat Port Talbot 1-0.

Hard work wasted as points slip away
Sunday, March 8
Newtown matched third placed Aberystwyth stride for stride yesterday but were up against it after a howler handed a two goal lead to the Seasiders in front of a crowd of 475 - the biggest of the day.
On loan midfielder Connal Murtagh gave Aber the lead after 10 minutes when a cross from Sion James was headed down by Luke Bowen
The Robins fought back and Dylan Blain had a shot well saved by Steven Cann and Ross Stephens his a post with a cuirling 20 yard free kick.
But then stand-in keeper Dave Jones got his wires crosed with defender Andrew Thomas and handed a gilt edged gift to give Luke Bowen the easiest of chances.
Newtown's efforts were rewarded when Dylan Blain and Bowen combined to give Paul Roberts a scoring chance but despite plenty of pressure they couldn't find an equaliser.
Stephens went closest when a 22 yard free kick was just off target.
Newtown: D.Jones, C.Williams, A.Warton(A.Webb 90), C.Hutchinson, G.Cadwallader, A.Thomas, R.James(J.Hughes 73), D.Blain, P.Roberts, R.Stephens, N.MItchell.

Great win at Haverfordwest
Sunday, February 27
Despite the disruption of the team coach breaking down on route The Robins pulled off a brilliant 2-1 win at Haverfordwest with both goals coming from Ross Stephens, the winner in the dying seconds.
The last-minute goal was a lovely opportunist effort but it left the Bluebirds claimimg that they should have turned possession into goals
The first ten minutes were brisk and even, with the Robins maybe having a slight edge as their strikers Paul Roberts and Ross Stephens ran at the defence. They combined in the 10 th minute when Roberts slipped a neat pass between two defenders and Stephens nipped in to beat Lee Idzi at the near post.
Newtown dominated for a further 15 minutes without really making any scoring opportunities and as the half wore on Haverfordwest began to get back into things and only a linesman's flag denied Jack Christopher an equaliser.
Nicky Woodrow saw a shot blocked by Dave Robnerts and then the same player saw his effort come back off the woodwork.
The Robins were on the back foot in the early stages of the second half
and an equaliser came when O'Sullivan curled his free kick in for Christopher to out-jump the defence and thump home his header.
But Newtown were not to be beaten and continued to look dangerous wioth raids on the break and it was no real surprise when in the last minute Stephens broke on the right and clipped a brilliant left foot chip over the helpless Carl Idzi
For this reason it was a huge disappointment, but not a total surprise, when the winner came, in the last minute, from Newtown's Stephens, who latched on to a through ball, out on the right, and brilliantly chipped his first time left-foot effort over and a helpless Idzi. Newtown: Dave Roberts, Craig Williams, Adam Worton, Craig Hutchinson, Gavin Cadwallader, Andrew Thomas, Robbie James, Dylan Blain, Paul Roberts, Ross Stephens, Neil Mitchell (Damian Daniels 88). Subs not used, Andrew Webb, Jack Hughes.
Haverfordwest: Lee Idzi, Terry Evans (Jamie Grimes 74'), Mark Dodds, Kyle Graves, Gareth Elliott, Jamie Bradford (Josh Hartrick 56'), Chris O`Sullivan, Tom Ramasut, Nicky Woodrow (Steffan Williams 55'), Jack Christopher, Lee Hudgell
HOW WE STAND

Pos Team Pld W D L F A Pts
1. Llanelli AFC 21 16 3 2 55 16 51
2. The New Saints 23 15 6 2 46 10 51
3. Rhyl FC 25 14 6 5 56 31 48

4. Aberystwyth Town 25 14 4 7 39 32 46
5. Port Talbot Town 22 13 4 5 40 17 43
6. Neath FC 23 10 8 5 32 26 38
7. Prestatyn Town 23 10 7 6 35 32 37
8. Bala Town 23 11 4 8 28 31 37
9. Bangor City 22 11 3 8 47 35 36
10. Airbus UK Broughton 23 8 9 6 34 21 33

11. Carmarthen Town 22 8 6 8 27 24 30
12. Haverfordwest County 23 7 6 10 26 29 27

13. Newtown AFC 21 6 5 10 30 38 23
14. Gap Connah's Quay 20 5 4 11 15 35 19
15. Technogroup Welshpool 22 3 5 14 15 43 14
16. Porthmadog FC 22 3 4 15 12 43 13
17. Caersws FC 21 2 2 17 17 55 8
18. Elements Cefn Druids 23 1 4 18 11 47 7

Saints prove too strong for plucky Robins
Saturday, February 20
Title chasing The New Saints were simply too strong for Darren Ryan's plucky side at Mid Wales Leisure Latham Park today. But had striker Paul Roberts not left his scoring boots at home it could have been a different story.
After two goal-less draws on their last two visits, The New Saints ended their Latham Park goal drought with a convincing 2-0 win to maintain their challenge for the Welsh Premier title.
A left-wing cross from Tommy Holmes found Matthew Berkeley, who seized his chance on the edge of the six-yard box to fire past keeper Dave Roberts after just 13 minutes.
Newtown should have snatched an equaliser on 19 minutes when Paul Roberts steered his header wide of the far post when unmarked in front of goal from a Jamie Breeze cross.
And the victory was virtually sealed on the half-hour when wingman Craig Jones beat his marker down the right touchline and, after his first attempt to cross was blocked, his second was volleyed home with aplomb by ex-Robins' midfielder Scott Ruscoe.
And the hosts sharpened-up some slack marking in the second period to restrict the Saints' chances and carved a couple of openings which raised hopes of a comeback.
Roberts fired wide of the far post from a good position, but it was the Saints who almost added to their tally when only Dave Roberts' outstretched leg diverted a Jones shot to safety after Sharp had created the opening down the left.
Newtown: D. Roberts, C. Williams, J. Hughes(D. Dawson 63), D. Blain (J. Russell 79), R. James, A. Thomas, A. Worton, N. Mitchell, P. Roberts (A.Webb 78), R Stephens, J. Breeze. Subs not used. T. McFadden, T. Jones.
HOW WE STAND
Pos Team Pld W D L F A Pts
1. Llanelli AFC 21 16 3 2 55 16 51
2. The New Saints 22 15 5 2 46 10 50
3. Aberystwyth Town 25 14 4 7 39 32 46

4. Rhyl FC 24 13 6 5 51 29 45
5. Port Talbot Town 22 13 4 5 40 17 43
6. Neath FC 22 10 7 5 31 25 37
7. Bala Town 22 11 4 7 26 26 37
8. Bangor City 22 11 3 8 47 35 36
9. Prestatyn Town 22 10 6 6 34 31 36
10. Carmarthen Town 21 8 6 7 27 23 30

11. Airbus UK Broughton 21 7 8 6 33 21 29
12. Haverfordwest County 22 7 6 9 25 27 27

13. Newtown AFC 20 5 5 10 28 37 20
14. Gap Connah's Quay 20 5 4 11 15 35 19
15. Technogroup Welshpool 22 3 5 14 15 43 14
16. Porthmadog FC 22 3 4 15 12 43 13
17. Elements Cefn Druids 22 1 4 17 11 46 7
18. Caersws FC 20 1 2 17 16 55 5

Late goals end hopes of a win at the seasisde
Sunday, February 14
Goals in the 87th and 90th minutes ended hopes of a shock win for Newtown at Rhyl today.
Netown led 2-1 and the score had been level at 2-2 at the interval with Robins goals from Gavin Cadwallader and Jamie Breeze.
Player-manager Greg Strong had put the hosts in front after 18 minutes and Matty Williams evened the scores before the break.
But recent signing Andy Owens put the Lillies in front three minutes from time, before Tyrone Kirk got another in the final moments.
Premier leaders Llanelli carried out a Valentine's Day massacre as they beat lowly Porthmadog 5-0 at Stebonheath Park.
Chris Venables led the way with a brace, with Stuart Jones, Chris Holloway and Stephen Evans also on the scoresheet as the Reds maintained their four-point lead at the top.
The visitors ended the game with 10-men after central defender John Keegan was sent-off for a second yellow card on 73 minutes.
Second-placed The New Saints were forced to fight back from a goal down at home to Bangor City, after former TNS midfielder Nicky Ward had set-up Jamie Reed for 53rd-minute goal.
But a foul by Michael Johnston on Matthew Berkeley enabled Scott Ruscoe to level from the penalty spot and sub Alex Darlington fired a 12-yard winner eight minutes from time.
There was heartbreak for Gap Connah's Quay who held out until the 88th-minute before Mark Dodds scored the only goal of the game at Haverfordwest County's New Bridge Meadow.
Newtown: Dave Roberts, Craig Williams, Adam Worton, Robbie James, Gavin Cadwallader, Andrew Thomas, Neil Mitchell (Callum Wright), Dylan Blain, Paul Roberts, Ross Stephens, James Breeze. Other subs: James Russell, Andrew Webb, Dan Dawson, Turone McFadden

HOW WE STAND

Pos	Team	Pld	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
1.	Llanelli AFC	21	16	3	2	55	16	51
2.	The New Saints	21	14	5	2	44	10	47
3.	Rhyl FC	23	12	6	5	49	29	42

4.	Aberystwyth Town	23	12	4	7	33	31	40
5.	Port Talbot Town	20	11	4	5	30	17	37
6.	Neath FC	21	10	7	4	30	22	37
7.	Bala Town	22	11	4	7	26	26	37
8.	Prestatyn Town	22	10	6	6	34	31	36
9.	Bangor City	21	10	3	8	44	33	33
10.	Airbus UK Broughton	21	7	8	6	33	21	29

11.	Carmarthen Town	20	7	6	7	26	23	27
12.	Haverfordwest County	21	7	6	8	23	24	27

13.	Newtown AFC	19	5	5	9	28	35	20
14.	Gap Connah's Quay	19	5	4	10	15	32	19
15.	Technogroup Welshpool	21	3	5	13	15	40	14
16.	Porthmadog FC	21	3	4	14	12	41	13
17.	Elements Cefn Druids	21	1	4	16	11	39	7
18.	Caersws FC	19	1	2	16	16	54	5

Roberts starts to provide the goals he promised
Paul Roberts pledged that he would score goals to fire Newtown into the Super 12 next season and he started by netting the winner against Neath tonight.
The strike after 81 minutes could well be the launch pad for Newtown's challenge to stay in the Welsh Premier League next season as Neath's woes continue to mount.
The Eagles, who have claimed only six points from their last seven games, are on the slide and ended the game with 10-men after defender Ian Hillier was red-carded in the final minute as frustration reached boiling point.
In the night's other game a Rhys Griffiths goal sent Llanelli four points clear at the top of the with a 1-0 win at Airbus UK Broughton.
The game's only goal arrived three minutes after half-time when Griffiths tapped-in on the line after a shot from a Chris Venables corner had hit the post.
The Reds had come close to scoring towards the end of the first-half when a succession of shots were blocked by keeper Kris Rogers and the Wingmakers' defence, with Griffiths claiming his back-heel had crossed the line before being cleared by Mark Allen.
Llanelli's goal also had a narrow escape when Marc Lloyd Williams saw his shot from close range saved by Ashley Morris.
HOW WE STAND

Pos	Team	Pld	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
1.	Llanelli AFC	20	15	3	2	50	16	48
2.	The New Saints	20	13	5	2	42	9	44
3.	Rhyl FC	22	11	6	5	45	27	39

4.	Port Talbot Town	19	11	4	4	29	15	37
5.	Aberystwyth Town	22	11	4	7	31	30	37
6.	Prestatyn Town	21	10	5	6	34	31	35
7.	Neath FC	20	9	7	4	29	22	34
8.	Bala Town	21	10	4	7	24	25	34
9.	Bangor City	20	10	3	7	43	31	33
10.	Airbus UK Broughton	20	7	7	6	33	21	28

11.	Carmarthen Town	19	7	5	7	26	23	26
12.	Haverfordwest County	20	6	6	8	22	24	24

13.	Newtown AFC	18	5	5	8	26	31	20
14.	Gap Connah's Quay	18	5	4	9	15	31	19
15.	Porthmadog FC	20	3	4	13	12	36	13
16.	Technogroup Welshpool	20	3	4	13	15	40	13
17.	Elements Cefn Druids	20	1	4	15	10	37	7
18.	Caersws FC	18	1	2	15	16	53	5

Ten man Newtown can't hold on against league leaders
Saturtday, February 6.
Newtown 0 Llanelli 2
Darren Ryan went on record as saying January was the worst month of his managerial career but February got off to the worst possible start today.
With only 22 minutes gone his Robins' side was reduced to 10 men with the sending off of defender Damien Daniels by referee Huw Jones against table topping Llanelli.
And with games against Neath The New Saints and Rhyl on the horizon the manager's bid to get Newtown into the top 10 is beginning to look like a mountain, that will take some climbing.
The Robins were well in contention when Daniels received his red card and battled bravely right up to the end when an 88th minute goal ended their hopes of snatching a point.
Llanelli took full advantage of a Friday night slip by TNS to claim the Welsh Premier summit with a 2-0 but it took until 11 minutes after half-time for defender Stuart Jones to open the scoring for Andy Legg's side.
Ryan introduced Andrew Webb and James Russell as he refused to accept defeat and the visitors only sealed the points in the 88th minute with a goal from substitute Jordan Follows.
Fifth-placed Aberystwyth came a cropper at Airbus UK Broughton, after Carl Owen forced the ball home at the near post from a corner to put the Wingmakers in front on 57 minutes.
Marc Lloyd Williams grabbed the second - his 13th of the campaign - in the 78th-minute to send the home side into the top 10.
Bala and Prestatyn both consolidated their claims for a Super 12 spot, the Lakesiders beating Neath 1-0 at Maes Tegid with a goal from sub Mike Thompson in another disappointing result for Andy Dyer's big-spenders.
Prestatyn needed a late Andy Moran penalty to see-off bottom club Caersws 1-0 at Bastion Road, where the Bluebirds finished with 10-men following the dismissal of Geraint Lewis three minutes from time.
Carmarthen Town were surprisingly held at home by Technogroup Welshpool, for whom Steff Edwards equalised a Danny Thomas goal in a 1-1 draw.
The basement battle at The Traeth went the way of Porthmadog, for whom Aden Shannon scored the only goal of the game against his former club, Elements Cefn Druids.
Newtown: Dave Roberts,Craig Williams, Damien Daniels, Craig Hutchinson (Andrew Webb 80), Gavin Cadwallader, Andrew Thomas, Adam Worton, Dylan Blain, Paul Roberts, Ross Stephens, Jamie Breeze (James Russell 68). Subs not used: Robbie James, Tyrone McFadden.
HOW WE STAND

Pos	Team	Pld	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
1.	Llanelli AFC	19	14	3	2	49	16	45
2.	The New Saints	20	13	5	2	42	9	44
3.	Rhyl FC	21	11	6	4	44	24	39

4.	Port Talbot Town	19	11	4	4	29	15	37
5.	Aberystwyth Town	22	11	4	7	31	30	37
6.	Prestatyn Town	21	10	5	6	34	31	35
7.	Neath FC	19	9	7	3	29	21	34
8.	Bala Town	21	10	4	7	24	25	34
9.	Bangor City	19	9	3	7	40	30	30
10.	Airbus UK Broughton	19	7	7	5	33	20	28

11.	Carmarthen Town	19	7	5	7	26	23	26
12.	Haverfordwest County	20	6	6	8	22	24	24

13.	Gap Connah's Quay	18	5	4	9	15	31	19
14.	Newtown AFC	17	4	5	8	25	31	17
15.	Porthmadog FC	20	3	4	13	12	36	13
16.	Technogroup Welshpool	20	3	4	13	15	40	13
17.	Elements Cefn Druids	20	1	4	15	10	37	7
18.	Caersws FC	18	1	2	15	16	53	5

Vital win eludes Darren Ryan's side
Newtown 0 Carmarthen 0
The vital win, so deperately needed by manager Darren Ryan, eluded his brave Robins at Mid Wales Leisure Latham Park.
Ryan called on his new look side to get all three points from this vital mid-table clash but it was not to be.
The results leaves both clubs still outside a top 10 place needed to guarantee a place in next season's slimmed-down league structure.
The good news for Newtown was a second clean sheet for new keeper Dave Roberts and the arrival this weekend of Lee Hartshorn from Merthyr should further tighten a defence that has been leaking too many golas.
Mark Pritchard chipped over Roberts after 15 minutes but hit the bar and Paul Roberts nearly netted on his debut but Neil Thomas saved well.
Damien Daniels could have scored a late winner but his header was just too high.
And Haverfordwest County split the pair in 12th-place after a comfortable 3-1 win at Technogroup Welshpool's Maesydre.
Jamie Bradford opened the Bluebirds' account after 23 minutes, with promising youngster Steffan Williams adding a second-half brace.
A late George Hughes goal was the Lilywhites' only consolation. Elsewhere Craig Whitfield's goal earned lowly Elements Cefn Druids a surprise 1-1 Welsh Premier draw at high-flying Neath.
The on-loan TNS youngster fired the Ancients in front after 56 minutes, with defender Ian Hillier grabbing an equaliser for the Eagles.
Newtown: Roberts, Williams, Daniels, Hutchinson, Cadwallader, Thomas, Warton, Blain(Russell 88), Roberts (Webb 82), Stephens, Mitchell (Breeze 58)

HOW WE STAND

Pos Team Pld W D L F A Pts
1. The New Saints 19 13 5 1 42 8 44
2. Llanelli AFC 18 13 3 2 47 16 42
3. Rhyl FC 21 11 6 4 44 24 39

4. Aberystwyth Town 21 11 4 6 31 28 37
5. Port Talbot Town 18 10 4 4 28 15 34
6. Neath FC 18 9 7 2 29 20 34
7. Prestatyn Town 20 9 5 6 33 31 32
8. Bala Town 20 9 4 7 23 25 31
9. Bangor City 19 9 3 7 40 30 30
10. Airbus UK Broughton 18 6 7 5 31 20 25

11. Carmarthen Town 18 7 4 7 25 22 25
12. Haverfordwest County 19 6 6 7 22 23 24

13. Newtown AFC 16 4 5 7 25 29 17
14. Gap Connah's Quay 17 4 4 9 14 31 16
15. Technogroup Welshpool 19 3 3 13 14 39 12
16. Porthmadog FC 19 2 4 13 11 36 10
17. Elements Cefn Druids 19 1 4 14 10 36 7
18. Caersws FC 17 1 2 14 16 52 5

Harris blow in Druids win - Leah on the radar
Ross Stephens grabbed The Robins three much needed points in a 2-0 success at Elements Cefn Druids, last night Friday as rumours spread that Rhyl's midfieler John Leah is set for a return to Mid Wales Leisure Latham Park.
In the worst possible start for the Robins, midfielder Richie Harris was stretchered-off just six minutes into his debut after signing from Technogroup Welshpool and taken to hospital with a knee injury.
The extent of the injury is not yet known but Manager Darren Ryan does not expect Harris to be fit for at least a month. So the news that he has Leah on his radar is a welcome boost.
Leah is one of a handful of players set to leave troubled Rhyl following the second pay cut of the season and is subject of an approach from Ryan, though other clubs are also interested in the taleneted midfielder.
A product of the Llansantffraid youth set-up who made his first-team debut in August 1996 Leah moved on to Darlington, for whom he made seven Football League appearances, and Newtown, rejoining the Saints in November 2001 where he was club captain in the 2004/5 double winning season. Named in the Welsh Premier dream team for 2007/8 and 2008/9, but was surprisingly released by TNS in April 2009 and signed for Rhyl.
Ryan would not comment on the situation other than to confirm his interest. "If John Leah is available to return to Newtown then I would certainly be interested," he said.
Sub Jamie Russell and Adam Worton both hit the woodwork in the first-half as Ryan's men failed to turn their domination into goals at Plas Kynaston, but the pressure finally told on 52 minutes when Dan Barnett fouled Neil Mitchell and Ross Stephens netted from the penalty spot.
Mitchell then added the second 12 minutes later after Stephens had robbed Ancients' keeper Chris Mullock.
Third-placed Aberystwyth saw their recent good run of form end in a 2-1 home defeat at the hands of Carmarthen Town.
Former Seasider Tim Hicks opened the Old Gold's account after six minutes and, although Bari Morgan levelled for the hosts, Kris Thomas scored what proved to be the winner 11 minutes before the break.
Prestatyn returned to form with a bang, going nap away to Technogroup Welshpool.
Gareth Wilson opened the visitors' account against the club where he spent time on loan last season, before Andy Moran grabbed a brace and midfielder Mike Parker put the gloss on the victory with two late goals to equal Prestatyn's best-ever winning margin in the Welsh Premier.
Newtown: Dave Roberts, Craig Williams, Damien Daniels, Craig Hutchinson, Gavin Cadwallader, Andrew Thomas, Adam Worton, Neil Mitchell, Ross Stephens, Richie Harris (James Russell 6).Subs: Mattie Lewis, Robbie James, Dan Dawson, Tyrone McFadden
HOW WE STAND

1.	The New Saints	18	12	5	1	41	8	41
2.	Llanelli AFC	17	12	3	2	44	14	39
3.	Aberystwyth Town	20	11	3	6	30	27	36

4.	Port Talbot Town	17	10	4	3	28	14	34
5.	Rhyl FC	19	9	6	4	38	22	33
6.	Prestatyn Town	20	9	5	6	33	31	32
7.	Bangor City	18	9	3	6	38	27	30
8.	Neath FC	15	8	5	2	24	16	29
9.	Bala Town	19	8	4	7	20	24	28
10.	Airbus UK Broughton	16	6	6	4	29	17	24

11.	Carmarthen Town	17	7	3	7	25	22	24
12.	Haverfordwest County	17	5	5	7	18	21	20

13.	Newtown AFC	15	4	4	7	25	29	16
14.	Gap Connah's Quay	16	4	4	8	13	27	16
15.	Technogroup Welshpool	18	3	3	12	13	36	12
16.	Porthmadog FC	18	2	4	12	9	33	10
17.	Elements Cefn Druids	18	1	3	14	9	35	6
18.	Caersws FC	16	1	2	13	15	49	5

Five goal drubbing at hands of Bangor
Bangor City's marksmen returned to form with a bang in a 5-2 away thumping of Newtown at Latham Park, despite the dismissal of defender Dave Swanick on 66 minutes.
Ashley Stott and Chris Sharp both grabbed a brace with Sharp's second snuffing-out any hopes of a home revival, after Jamie Breeze and Ross Stephens had pulled two goals back for the Robins.
Four goals in just 11 minutes in tghe second half was Newtown's undoing after a promising first half saw Ross Stephens fire over from 25 yards and Neil Mitchell miss a sitter after Nicky Ward's shot had rebounded off the crossbar.
There was little to suggest the onslaught that was to follow as the players left the field at halftime but goals in the 49th, 50th, 59th and 60th minutes soon changed that.
Ashley Stott struck twice, the first after a poor punched clearance from keeper Dave McGuire, and Chris Sharp and Jamie Reed added to the Robins' misery.
Substitute Jamie Breeze gave Newtown a glimmer of hope when coming on to reduce the arears and then Obi Anoruo was then brought down by Davbe Swannick on route to goal. Swannick wasa red carded and Ross Stephens netted from the spot.
Anoruo then missed a glorious chance to reduce the deficit and Newtown were punished when Sharp netted the fifth goal at the other end.
HOW WE STAND

Pos	Team	Pld	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
1.	Llanelli AFC	16	11	3	2	42	13	36
2.	The New Saints	15	10	4	1	35	7	34
3.	Rhyl FC	16	9	4	3	36	19	31

4.	Neath FC	14	8	5	1	24	14	29
5.	Port Talbot Town	15	8	4	3	24	13	28
6.	Prestatyn Town	15	8	3	4	27	27	27
7.	Aberystwyth Town	15	7	3	5	21	22	24
8.	Airbus UK Broughton	15	6	5	4	28	16	23
9.	Bala Town	16	6	4	6	14	18	22
10.	Bangor City	15	6	3	6	27	23	21

11.	Carmarthen Town	15	6	3	6	22	19	21
12.	Haverfordwest County	15	5	5	5	17	18	20

13.	Gap Connah's Quay	15	4	4	7	13	26	16
14.	Newtown AFC	14	3	4	7	23	29	13
15.	Technogroup Welshpool	16	3	3	10	13	27	12
16.	Porthmadog FC	15	2	3	10	8	28	9
17.	Elements Cefn Druids	15	1	2	12	7	29	5
18.	Caersws FC	15	1	2	12	13	46	5

Robins slip to another defeat on the road
A disappointing defeat at Gap Connah's Quay saw the Robins slip further into the bottom group and has left Manager Darren Ryan with a mountain to climb if he is to secure a top ten place for the club.
Folllowing an even opening to the game on Deeside Nomads took the lead through Mike Hayes but there was real hope for Robins followers who had made the trip North when on-loan Wrexham striker Obi Anoruo scored his fifth goal of the campaign in reply just minutes later.
Nomads stepped up a gear in ther second half and Ryan's side were mostly on the back foot. The Deesiders well and truly ended their goal drought and a run of seven games without a win with goals from Chris Herbert and Sturat Scheuber.
A 13th goal of the season for Rhys Griffiths sent Llanelli two points clear at the top of the Welsh Premier as main rivals TNS drew a blank at Haverfordwest.
But the Reds found it far from easy at Welshpool's Maesydre despite opening-up a quick two-goal lead through Antonio Corbisiero - after just two minutes - and Griffiths.
The Lilywhites mounted a fightback and reduced the deficit through Adam Jenkins on the hour to set-up a nail-biting final half-hour for Andy Legg's side.
The meanest defence in the league extended its clean sheet to 806 minutes, but The New Saints dropped two points behind Llanelli after failing to find a way through the Bluebirds at the New Bridge Meadow in a goal-less affair.
The hosts finished the game with 10 men after the 87th-minute dismissal of defender Lee Bevan.
Rhyl, who moved third on goal difference above Neath, looked to be heading for a win at Park Avenue until sub Graham Evans snatched a stoppage-time equaliser for Aberystwyth.
The Seasiders led through a Phil Doran own goal, but John Leah soon levelled for the Lillies and Lee Hunt's 75th-minute goal put them 2-1 ahead.
Port Talbot are fifth after going nap at home to lowly Porthmadog, Martin Rose leading the way with a brace in a 5-0 win.
Bangor City also got back on the winning trail, beating Caersws 3-1 away at the Recreation Ground. Defenders Dave Swanick and Dave Morley scored either side of one from skipper Marc Limbert, with Jacob Smith responding for the joint-bottom Bluebirds.
NEWTOWN; McGuire, Williams, Daniels, James (Hutchinson 46), Cadwallader, Thomas, Mitchell, Blain (Worton 71), Anoruo, Ward, Stephens (Breeze 80).
HOW WE STAND
Pos Team Pld W D L F A Pts
1. Llanelli AFC 15 10 3 2 38 12 33
2. The New Saints 14 9 4 1 31 7 31
3. Rhyl FC 15 8 4 3 32 18 28

4. Neath FC 13 8 4 1 24 14 28
5. Port Talbot Town 14 8 3 3 23 12 27
6. Prestatyn Town 14 8 3 3 26 23 27
7. Aberystwyth Town 14 7 3 4 21 18 24
8. Airbus UK Broughton 14 6 4 4 28 16 22
9. Bala Town 15 6 3 6 13 17 21
10. Carmarthen Town 14 5 3 6 21 19 18

11. Bangor City 14 5 3 6 22 21 18
12. Haverfordwest County 14 4 5 5 15 18 17

13. Newtown AFC 13 3 4 6 21 24 13
14. Gap Connah's Quay 14 3 4 7 12 26 13
15. Technogroup Welshpool 15 3 3 9 12 23 12
16. Porthmadog FC 14 2 3 9 8 27 9
17. Elements Cefn Druids 14 1 2 11 7 28 5
18. Caersws FC 14 1 2 11

Danny denies Ryan's men at the death
Airbus 2 Newtown 0
Former Newtown midfieler Danny Desormeaux denied Newtown a result at the airfield with an 88th minute goal.
The Robins were battling away for a deserved equaliser when the ex-Mid Wales Leisure Latham Park man struck to deny manager Darren Ryan's hopes of a top 10 place.
The Wingmakers were clinging on to a slender 1-0 lead handed to them by a 35th minute opener from Carl Owen as Newtown pushed forward in search of an equaliser.
A disappointing crowd of just just 114 braved the weather to watch.
Elsewhere Glyndwr Hughes became the Welsh Premier's latest centurion as Aberystwyth Town defeated Elements Cefn Druids 4-1 at Park Avenue.
The Seasiders' stalwart reached the milestone four minutes after coming off the bench in the game's 92nd-minute, and wasted no time in celebrating by grabbing another two minutes later!
The lowly Ancients had taken a surprise lead through striker Jon Rush, son of ex-Wales and Liverpool legend Ian, but Geoff Kellaway notched a goal in each half to put the Seasiders on top, before setting-up Hughes for both of his late goals to seal a somewhat flattering margin of victory.
Porthmadog stunned Carmarthen by winning 3-1 away at Richmond Park, their first win at the venue for 13 years and only their second success of the season.
The Old Gold's Tim Hicks soon levelled a sixth-minute goal from Ceri James, but Paul Roberts struck with a 25-yarder two minutes after the break and then smashed home a half-cleared corner as Tomi Morgan took all three points from one of the sides he used to manage.
Neath drew a blank in a goal-less draw at Welshpool's Maesydre to move into third place. Keeper Jack Cudworth was 'Pool's hero with a string of fine saves, while Mike Cronshaw hit the bar for the Lilywhites and had a controversial goal disallowed for offside in the closing seconds.
Neath's local rivals Port Talbot are hot on their heels a point behind in fifth after beating nine-man Bangor City 2-1 at The GenQuip Stadium.
Martin Rose struck twice for the Steelmen, the second from the penalty spot, with defender Dave Swanick scoring the visitors' consolation goal.
Peter Hoy was red-carded as he grappled for the ball following Bangor's goal and was laer followed down the tunnel by fellow defender Dave Morley for kicking-out in frustration as Drew Fahiya tried to run down the clock by the corner flag.
The match between Caersws and Gap Connah's Quay was abandoned at half time due to a waterlogged surface with the Bluebirds leading 1-0 thanks to a 26th-minute goal from Mark Griffiths.

How we stand

Pos	Team	Pld	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
1.	Llanelli AFC	13	8	3	2	32	11	27
2.	Rhyl FC	12	8	3	1	29	10	27
3.	Neath FC	12	7	4	1	23	14	25

4.	The New Saints	11	7	3	1	23	7	24
5.	Port Talbot Town	13	7	3	3	18	12	24
6.	Prestatyn Town	13	7	3	3	24	23	24
7.	Aberystwyth Town	12	7	2	3	19	12	23
8.	Airbus UK Broughton	12	5	4	3	27	15	19
9.	Carmarthen Town	12	4	3	5	18	17	15
10.	Bala Town	12	4	3	5	9	13	15

11.	Bangor City	12	4	2	6	19	20	14
12.	Newtown AFC	12	3	4	5	20	21	13
13.	Haverfordwest County	12	3	4	5	13	17	13
14.	Technogroup Welshpool	12	2	3	7	9	19	9
15.	Porthmadog FC	12	2	3	7	8	21	9
16.	Gap Connah's Quay	12	2	3	7	9	25	9
17.	Elements Cefn Druids	12	1	2	9	7	25	5
18.	Caersws FC	12	1	2	9	12	37	5

Cadwallader's late goal earns Robins a controversial point
Prestatyn Town 1-1 Newtown
November 6, 2009
Report by Alex James
An injury time Gavin Cadwallader header earned Newtown a deserved point in their Welsh Premier League clash with Prestatyn on Friday night.
The Robins had looked destined for defeat after Mike Parker curled home an opener for the home side five minutes after the break.But Newtown fought back to claim a well-deserved point thanks to Cadwallader’s last gasp intervention.
Although their wait for an away win goes on it was a performance which gave plenty of hope to the band of travelling supporters that the side can cement a place in the top half of the division.
The leveller wasn’t without its controversy as referee Lee Evans awarded a corner despite the last touch appearing to come off a Newtown player. And from the resultant Ross Stephens corner Cadwallader towered above a static home defence to plant a downward header into the net.
The first half was high on effort and endeavour but low on quality as both sides struggled to gain a foothold in a game strewn with loose passes.Driving rain and a swirling wind made good football difficult on a greasy surface but Newtown continued to try and play the passing football for which they are fast developing a reputation and enjoyed their fair share of possession against a side who have lost just once at home all season.
But it was the Seasiders who came closest to breaking the deadlock. Terrace favourite Ian Griffiths brought the first save out of visiting stopper Dave Maguire who did well to parry his effort after Griffiths broke away from the Newtown backline.
Minutes later Stephens nearly put the visitors in front with the Robins’ first foray forward. A slick passing move saw Obi Anoruo cushion the ball into the path of the creative midfielder who drove at the heart of the home defence.
The chance seemed to have gone as Stephens was forced away from goal but a moment of indecision in the home defence gave him an unexpected sight of goal and his cross shot eventually floated just wide of the far post.
The hosts probably just shaded the opening period and it took a super block from the outstanding Craig Williams to deny Griffiths the opener just after the half hour - the full back flinging himself in front of the striker’s goal bound effort.
As half time approached Prestatyn thought they should have had a spot kick after Williams appeared to handle in the box while making a challenge. There may have been contact with the arm but it would have been a harsh decision and the referee waved away the vehement home appeals.
The Seasiders started the second half the brighter and Adie Moodie headed an early warning sign just wide before Town found the breakthrough on 50 minutes.Again it came in slightly contentious circumstances as the referee correctly overruled the linesman’s decision to give Newtown a throw in.
The hosts took it quickly and after a series of mishits and blocks the ball fell to Parker whose shot took a deflection off Daniels and nestled in the far corner of the net.
That goal sparked Newtown into life and they dominated the remainder of the match as Prestatyn seemed to settle for the slender advantage they had.It was a decision that backfired as Newtown switched to 4-3-3 and pushed for an equaliser.The hosts were reduced to playing on the counter as the Robins camped inside the hosts’ half.
The lively Jamie Breeze, on as a substitute, displayed a willingness to shoot and the tactical switch seemed to bring the best out of Neil Mitchell who began to roam the right flank with increasing menace.
Anoruo sent a snapshot just past the post and Breeze and Williams both had shots blocked as the visitors pressed for a deserved equaliser which came with almost the last kick of the match.

Last updated: 06.11.2009

Pos	Team	Pld	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
1.	Neath FC	11	7	3	1	23	14	24
2.	Rhyl FC	10	7	2	1	26	9	23
3.	The New Saints	10	6	3	1	21	7	21

4.	Prestatyn Town	11	6	3	2	22	20	21
5.	Llanelli AFC	9	6	2	1	24	8	20
6.	Aberystwyth Town	11	6	2	3	15	11	20
7.	Airbus UK Broughton	11	4	4	3	25	15	16
8.	Port Talbot Town	10	4	3	3	11	10	15
9.	Bala Town	11	4	3	4	8	11	15
10.	Carmarthen Town	10	4	2	4	15	12	14

11.	Newtown AFC	11	3	4	4	20	19	13
12.	Bangor City	10	4	1	5	16	16	13
13.	Haverfordwest County	11	3	4	4	13	16	13
14.	Gap Connah's Quay	11	2	3	6	9	22	9
15.	Technogroup Welshpool	10	1	2	7	7	19	5
16.	Elements Cefn Druids	11	1	2	8	6	21	5
17.	Caersws FC	9	1	2	6	9	25	5
18.	Porthmadog FC	9	0	3	6	3	18	3

Robins bounce back with biggest win of the season
October 24, 2009
Newtown 4 Technogroup Welshpool 1
Manager Darren Ryan was all smiles after seeing his young Newtown side demolish struggling Technogroup Welshpool at Latham Park.
Welcoming back on-loan striker Obi Anoruo and defender Gavin Cadwallader, Newtown looked different class to their local rivals, who face a long hard season on this showing.
The home fans hardly had time to take their seats before a defensive lapse on the right allowed the ball to be delivered into the box for Neil Mitchell to net from close range.
And the Robins were soon further ahead to the delight of the watching Barmy Army with Obi Anoruo tucking the ball past visiting keeper Cudworth after a cross from the left.
Ross Stephens (pictured), who was named as Newtown's man of the match, finished his former club off with two second half strikes and the scoreline could have been much greater but for some wayward finishing and smart keeping by Cudworth.
The only consolation for Pool was an injury time goal from George Hughes.
"It was disappointing not to keep a clean sheet," said Ryan. "But overall it was a very good all round performance and we need to take this kind of performance forward to our next game."

Second half fightback not enough for a point
October 17, 2009
Aberywstwth Town 2 Newtown 1

Despite staging a tremendous second half performance Darren Ryan's Robins could not do enough to get the point they deserved at Park Avenue last night.
And with injury problems already mounting the Robins now face being without striker Nicky Ward after the former TNS man was red carded deep into stoppage time for the use of foul and abusive language.

Aberystwyth Town continued their improvement under caretaker manager Christian Edwards by recording their first home win of the season at the fifth attempt to move into sixth place.
Kristian James gave the Seasiders a fourth-minute lead against Newtown with a left-footed strike and Cledan Davies added a second with his first Welsh Premier goal when Robins' keeper David Maguire was only able to help a cross into his own net.
But Ross Stephens (pictured) pulled a goal back for Newtown against his former club and went close to grabbing an equaliser as the Seasiders survived a late onslaught to win 2-1.
In last night's other game Prestatyn won to move into second place. A brace from Andy Moran put Prestatyn on the road to a 3-2 home win over Gap Connah's Quay.

After a first-half in which the visiting Nomads played the better football, but failed to take their chances, the Seasiders took the lead three minutes after the break when Moran chased down a long ball and lobbed onrushing keeper Terry McCormick from the edge of the box.
Six minutes later, Moran netted his second from the penalty spot, after Alan Hooley had brought down Alec Williams.
Mike Parker added a third six minutes from time, but Nomads set-up a tense finale by scoring twice through substitutes Mike Hayes and Chris Herbert.

Newtown: Mcguire, Williams,Daniels(Fraser), Blain, James, Thomas, Warton, Mitchell (Lewis), Breeze, Ward, Stephens. Subs not used: G.Jones, McFadden, Dawson.

County sent packing by former Bluebired Blain

Newtown 2 Haverfordwest 1
October 10, 2009

The Robins maintained their challenge for a top ten finish with a stunning 2-1 home win at Latham Park with former Bluebird Dylan Blain the hero.
Newtown gained the only win of the day in the Welsh Premier League to bounce back from last week's shock in the Welsh Cup to delight manager Darren Ryan and are now ninth in the table.
Robbie Walters set the South Wales side on the right track with the first goal of the game but it was cancelled out by Jamie Breeze and then Blain sent his formerf team mates packing with the match winner.
Elsewhere int he Premier Airbus UK Broughton surrendered a two-goal lead for the second successive game as they were forced to share the spoils with Carmarthen Town.
But it was referee Darren Adie who took centre stage at The Airfield, with two controversial decisions. A mundane affair sprang to life just after the hour mark, when the Caldicot whistler harshly adjudged that Old Gold defender Neil Smothers had handled while taking avoiding action from a Matthew Cook cross, and Ryan Edwards made no mistake from the resulting penalty.
Seven minutes later, Marc Lloyd Williams hit a superb 22-yard strike from a Carl Owen head-down, but the visitors battled back and Tim Hicks reduced the arrears with a header from a Dyfan Pierce free-kick.
The second blow for the home side then arrived six minutes from time as referee Adie ordered a free-kick to be retaken and booked defender Gio Feliciello for encroachment, after failing to spot that Carmarthen's Mark Pritchard had taken the set-piece short to Paul Fowler and Kris Thomas hammered the second attempt into the far corner.
Port Talbot were forced to settle for a point and needed a 64th-minute goal from defender Lee Surman to hold Prestatyn Town at The GenQuip Stadium.
Ian Griffiths turned from hero to villain for the visitors, netting a 31st-minute opener but then being sent-off in the second-half.
The game between Gap Connah's Quay and Technogroup Welshpool also ended in a draw, with neither side able to score.
Watch this space for full match report on Newtown v Haverfordwest.

Robins lose final loosemores league cup game at rain lashed Mid Wales Leisure Latham Park last night against The New Saints 2- 4 In a highly entertaining game the Robins lead at half time through an own goal and increased their lead early in the second half. After a skilled interchange of passing , Ross Stephsn raced into the TNS area only to pulled down for a clear penalty which he converted from the spot.

TNS then stepped up their game and scored two quick goals to level with further goals giving them victory. Darren Ryan once again gave oppotunities for our young players to gain experience with Tyrone McFadden starting and subs all coming on in the 2nd half being Dan Dawson, Chris Carroll and Keiron Groves

Whilst the Robins lost they played their part in an excellent game of football greatly appreciated by the faithful robins supporters . Robins "man of the match " chosen by the match sponsors, Newtown Rotary Club was Jamie Breeze

Follow the 1st Team and Reserves scores and match reports throughout the season

Manager's warning goes unheeded in Welsh Cup upset

Holyhead Hotspur 1 Newtown 1
Holyhead won 4-3 on penalties

Manager Darren Ryan warned his players that the Welsh Cup trip to ambitious Holyhead was a potential banana skin but his words went unheeded with a costly penalty shoot out defeat.
Ther day started badly with midfielder Craiig Humphreys stretchered off and got worse when goalkeepr Dave Jones landed awkwardly and had to leave the field to be replace between the posts by defender Damien Daniels.
It got even worse for Ryan when on-loan striker Obi Anoruo was red carded for kicking out at a Holyhead player right under the referee's nose. Minutes earlier Hotspur had also been reduced to 1o when Jonathan Newall received a straight red for violent conduct.
Despite the injury and red card issues the Robins took the lead on 54 minutes when Anoruo found the target, though the lead was shortlived.
The players were still celebrating when Curt Williams headed in a corner from Gareth Caughter.
Jamie Breeze was denied what would have been a match winner by the woodwork before the game went to penalties.
Nicky Ward Ross Stephens and Dylan Blain all hit the target but Craig Williams, Adam Worton and substitute Niel Mitchell were alldenied.
It was left to home keeper Doutch to become the hero, netting the final spot kick after saving two Newtown efforts.
Newtown: D.Jones, C. Williams, Daniels, Hutchinson, James, Thomas, Worton, Blain, Anoruo, Ward, Stephens. Subs: Mitchell, Breeze, Lewis.

Robins lose final loosemores league cup game
Newtown 2 The New Saints 4

The Robins lost their final Leaghue Cup game at rain lashed Mid Wales Leisure Latham Park last night against The New Saints 2- 4 In a highly entertaining game.
The Robins led at half time through an own goal and increased their lead early in the second half. After a skilled interchange of passing , Ross Stephsn raced into the TNS area only to pulled down for a clear penalty which he converted from the spot.
TNS then stepped up their game and scored two quick goals to level with further goals giving them victory. Darren Ryan once again gave oppotunities for our young players to gain experience with Tyrone McFadden starting and subs all coming on in the 2nd half being Dan Dawson, Chris Carroll and Keiron Groves
Whilst the Robins lost they played their part in an excellent game of football greatly appreciated by the faithful robins supporters . Robins "man of the match " chosen by the match sponsors, Newtown Rotary Club was Jamie Breeze

Late goal drama robs Newtown of deserved win
TNS 2 - 2 Newtown

THE New Saints missed their chance to top the Welsh Premier after being held to 2-2 on Friday night.
TNS needed an 89th-minute goal from Scott Ruscoe to snatch a point against Newtown, after they looked headed for a straightforward night when Ryan Marriott gave them a seventh-minute lead from a Tommy Holmes cross.
But the Robins hit back two minutes later when a Ross Stephens corner was headed back across goal by Dylan Blain for Damien Daniels to head the equaliser.
And they took a shock lead from another set-piece on 36 minutes when Adam Worton's cross was headed home by Robbie James.
Despite enjoying the majority of possession, the Saints could not find a way through the Newtown defence until Andrew Thomas fouled Matthew Berkeley and Ruscoe drove the free-kick wide of goalkeeper Daves Jones's grasp.

Newtown 2 - 4 Rhyl

RHYL remained top of the Welsh Premier after a 4-2 win at Newtown, hotly pursued by The New Saints and Prestatyn Town.

The Lillies appeared to be cruising at Latham Park after two goals inside the first 16 minutes from Matty Williams, but the tenacious Robins fought back to level through a Nicky Ward penalty and a goal from on-loan Wrexham striker Obi Anuruo.

Rhyl then had striker Lee Hunt red-carded in the 70th-minute, but player-boss Greg Strong restored the advantage five minutes from time for the 10-men and Marc Connolly added another in the last minute.

Llanelli 3 - 2 Newtown

Newtown suffered their first away defeat but title contenders Llanelli were made to work hard for the points against a much improved Newtown outfit. In a even opening it was Newtown's on-loan striker Obi Anorou who put the Robins infront after cutting in from the left to fire beyond Ashley Morris. Llanelli drew level on the stroke of half time, Robins keeper Dave Maguire failed to hold a Andy Legg free kick and Rhys Griffiths was on hand to fire his side level.

The second half saw Llanelli take an early lead, Damien Daniels was dispossessed by his former colleague Craig Moses who made no mistake firing in off the post. Moses then hit the bar but the Robins drew themselves level, Adam Worton's cross was only half cleared and Neil Mitchell made no mistake from close range. The scores remained the same for only two minutes but Llanelli got the winner, a lucky high ball hit Griffiths and fell nicely in the path of Jason Bowen to fire home the winner. Worton saw red near the end after picking up his second yellow card.

The Robins face the other top two clubs in their next games, hosting top of the table and champions Rhyl before a difficult trip to TNS.

First Victory under belt for Robins
Newtown 4 v 2 Elements Cefn Druids

Newtown recorded their first win of the season thanks to three second half strikes to leave their opponents still searching for their own points of the season. It was the visitors who started the brightest but the Robins were soon infront. After going close with a couple of Adam Worton corners, Robbie James found space to head home with Druids unable to stop the ball crossing the line. New signing Obi Anorou went close with a header while Nicky Ward fired over as the Robins looked to increase their advantage.

Druids pulled themselves level on the half hour mark, a low cross from Josh Russell was bundled home by Gary Penlington from close range.

The Robins flew out of the blocks in the second half and took only three minutes from the restart to take the lead. A partial cleared corner saw Ross Stephens cross and Gavin Cadwallader to head beyond Rob Thomas. Newtown scored again soon afterwards, Dylan Blain broke forward, with Stephens centre finding Anorou and the young striker made no mistake to head home.

Stephens went close with a cute chip while Ward and Anorou tested Thomas but any through of a easy finish was changed when a clever Druids free kick saw Josh Johnson fire a low cross and Lee Bamber was on hand to tap home.

Newtown were not to be denied victory, Anorou busted down the left before being brought to the ground by Druids defender Aled Rowlands. Ward made no mistake from the spot. In the finial minutes Newtown substitute Jamie Breeze fired the wrong side of the post latching onto a Matthew Lewis ball.

Marriott Spares TNS Blushes
TNS 2 - 2 Newtown

A LAST-gasp goal from Ryan Marriott reserved the Saints' unbeaten record as they were held to a draw by Newtown in the League Cup at Park Hall.

TNS went behind to a lively Robins' side in the 18th-minute when Neil Mitchell dispossessed Aeron Edwards in midfield and ran towards goal before planting his shot inside Lee Williams' post.
Marriott hit the side netting and Steve Abbott also went close, but Mitchell could have added another before Barry Hogan featured prominently in a melee in the Newtown box on the stroke of half-time that almost produced an equaliser.

Sub Matthew Berkeley had a shot blocked soon after the restart, while Abbott headed over from Marriott's cross. But a mix-up on 67 minutes saw Newtown double their lead, Jamie Breeze first defeating Danny Holmes and then onrushing keeper Williams to fire into an empty net.
Saints got back in the game seven minutes later thanks to Abbott's turn and shot, but the game appeared to be drifting away until Craig Williams sent over a superb cross from the right for Marriott to stoop and head past keeper David Maguire.

And there was still time for Berkeley to fire wide of a gaping goal with the last kick of the game, although it would have been rough justice if the Robins had been forced to leave empty-handed.

The New Saints 2 - 2 Newtown AFC
Steve Abbott 74'
Ryan Marriott 90'
18' Neil Mitchell
67' Jamie Breeze
Marriott spares TNS blushes
A LAST-gasp goal from Ryan Marriott preserved the Saints' unbeaten record as they were held to a draw by Newtown in the League Cup at Park Hall.
TNS went behind to a lively Robins' side in the 18th-minute when Neil Mitchell dispossessed Aeron Edwards in midfield and ran towards goal before planting his shot inside Lee Williams' post.
Marriott hit the side netting and Steve Abbott also went close, but Mitchell could have added another before Barry Hogan featured prominently in a melee in the Newtown box on the stroke of half-time that almost produced an equaliser.
Sub Matthew Berkeley had a shot blocked soon after the restart, while Abbott headed over from Marriott's cross.
But a mix-up on 67 minutes saw Newtown double their lead, Jamie Breeze first defeating Danny Holmes and then onrushing keeper Williams to fire into an empty net.
Saints got back in the game seven minutes later thanks to Abbott's turn and shot, but the game appeared to be drifting away until Craig Williams sent over a superb cross from the right for Marriott to stoop and head past keeper David Maguire.
And there was still time for Berkeley to fire wide of a gaping goal with the last kick of the game, although it would have been rough justice if the Robins had been forced to leave empty-handed.
Photo: Ryan Marriott of TNS battles with Newtown's Tyrone McFadden.
Point shared for Robins

Neath Athletic 1 – 1 Newtown

A second half Nicky Ward strike was enough to give Newtown the share of the spoils to cancel out an early goal by Chris Llewellyn at the Gnoll in a game both sides had chances to win.

An under strength Newtown’s who gave debuts for new signings Gareth Jones in centre of defence and Dylain Blian in midfield nearly took an early lead but Ross Stephens fired wide when well placed. The opening goal came after only five minutes, a long free kick was looped back across goal by Craig Steins and Llewellyn was on hand to tap home. Newtown’s number one David Maguire was called into action to push wide a long drive while Newtown should have drawn level but home keeper Anthony Williams saved from Ward when clear through.

In an open game, both sides should willingness to attack but both suffered the cutting edge in front of goal. An Adam Worton shot appeared to strike a Neath arm but the appeals were turned away by an impressive refereeing performance by Lee Evans. Newtown missed the best chance of the half on the stroke of the referee’s whistle. Jack Hughes left wing centre found Matthew Lewis but fired straight at Williams from close range.

The same pattern in the second half again saw plenty of chances, but Newtown draw themselves level just after the hour, Lewis found space on the right and his inviting cross was met by Ward who made no mistake firing home on the volley.

Maguire saved well at the feet of Llewellyn while Gavin Cadwallader and Jones both made important interceptions for the tiring robins. Neil Mitchell broke through by was stopped by Williams, while Craig Hutchinson headed Newtown away from under his own bar as Neath pushed on strongly in the closing stages. The home side should have taken all three points in the final minute, a low cross was met by substitute Carl Shaw but he some how diverted the ball beyond the post from three yards out.

Both sides still search for their first win with the Robins looking to achieve that when they host Elements Cefn Druids on Saturday.

Newtown 0 - 1 Bala Town

NEW boys Bala Town are enjoying life in the top flight and Ricky Evans ensured they maintained their 100% record at Newtown.

The journeyman midfielder has scored in all three of the Lakesiders' games this season and made no mistake as early as the ninth-minute, converting from a Marc Griffiths cross following a free-kick.
The Robins battled hard to get back into the game and had plenty of possession, but found it difficult to break down the Bala rearguard, although Adam Worton saw a powerful shot tipped over the bar by keeper Leon Bimpson.

Nicky Ward and Neil Mitchell were both guilty of spurning chances for the hosts, while summer signing Ross Stephens saw his effort saved.

Things got worse for Darren Ryan's side when Damien Daniels was sent-off for his second yellow as the game ended on a niggly note.

City hold-on to deny the Robins
Newtown 1 - 2 Bangor City

BANGOR put their opening day league defeat at Bala behind them, overcoming Newtown in their opening League Cup group game. But a young Robins' outfit gave the Citizens a run for their money.
The visitors went ahead on 35 minutes when Mark Smyth struck a left-footed free-kick into the top corner beyond the reach of keeper Dave Jones.

The lead was doubled nine minutes after half-time when Chris Sharp grabbed his first goal of the season from Michael Johnston's defence-splitting pass, but the hosts hit back on 68 minutes when former TNS youth Tom Jones returned City keeper Paul Smith's headed clearance into the net.
City were down to 10 men when new signing Chris Roberts was red-carded but they held out for the points despite Newtown's efforts to find an equaliser.

Robins pay penalty for missed chances

Porthmadog 1 – 1 Newtown

Newtown opened their new season with a score draw at Porthmadog, who needed a late controversial penalty to give them an undeserved point. The contest should have been over long before Darren Adie pointed to the spot but the Robins found home keeper Richard Morgan in top form. Newtown seemed to have got off to the perfect start, an Adam Worton’s low cross was meet by Gavin Cadwallader but his celebrations were halted by a contentious assistant flag. The visitors got their rewards, a delightful one-two between Ross Stephens and Nicky Ward, saw Ward see his shot blocked but Worton was on hand to fire into the empty net with only five minutes on the clock.

Porth had their own chances with Marc Evans looping a header which clipped the bar and Robins debutant goalkeeper David Maguire was forced to stop a long range Mike Thompson effort. The visitors should have doubled their lead on the stroke of half time, a quick break saw Stephens release Ward, but after breaking clear, Morgan parried his effort over the bar.

Newtown started the second half with the same attacking vain, Worton fired an early effort which Morgan turned onto the bar before Neil Mitchell broke clear but the home keeper denied his effort again via the woodwork. Worton was denied by the over worked Morgan while McGuire saved well at the feet of Paul Roberts and Newtown defender Craig Williams did well to clear a dangerous low cross. The visitors continued their assault on the Porth goal with Williams flashing a cross past the post and Stephens miscuing when well place.

With Newtown the more likely to get the next goal, a long ball saw Williams force the ball back to his keeper under pressure from Porth striker Evans which saw both fall to the floor with referee Adie pointing to the spot. Evans made no mistake putting Maguire the wrong way. Still the Robins had chances near the end but had to settle for an opening day point.