Newtown fell to a disappointing 2–1 defeat away at Guilsfield on a rainy afternoon, struggling to cope with a heavy pitch and never really finding their rhythm. The hosts struck early in the 9th minute when Callum Bromley received the ball on the edge of the area and curled a superb effort into the top right corner, leaving Newtown chasing the game from the start.
After a lacklustre first half, Newtown came out brighter after the break and found an equaliser in the 55th minute. Aidan McCann delivered a fantastic corner and former Guilsfield player Jamie Hyne rose highest, thundering a header in off the bar to bring the Robins level. Moments later, Newtown nearly turned the game around when Ollie slid a great ball across the box for Devon Torry, who sent his effort just past the post in the 59th minute.
However, Guilsfield regained control in the 64th minute after Newtown misjudged a ball on the halfway line. Iwan Matthews drove forward and showed good composure before squaring across goal for Adam Hailes to tap in, restoring the home side’s lead. Samuel Flory, already on a yellow, was shown a straight red card in the 70th minute following a heavy tackle in midfield, leaving Guilsfield a tough task to hang on.
Overall, Newtown were poor, lacking energy and creativity, and rarely threatening in the final third. Defensively, though, JoJo Harries was outstanding, winning his individual battles all afternoon and even driving forward with purpose when possible. Dave Jones also produced several key saves to keep the scoreline respectable, preventing Guilsfield from running away with the game.
Guilsfield were deserved winners, stronger both in attack and defence throughout. Newtown will have the chance to respond quickly with a Friday night meeting against Penrhyncoch, who come into the fixture fresh off a 6–0 win over Buckley and their first victory of the season.
Man of the match – JoJo Harries.
