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107.9 Afan FM Featured News Archive - 2008
11th June 2008
Four Stories
The general consensus of thinking amongst managers has always been four strikers so they can best rotate their squad etc. After struggling along since January last year, with Chad Bond and Kerry Morgan departing for Spain, Nick Tucker used Martin Rose and from the bench, Sam Baker. The results of which weren't all too bad, with a quick-breaking midfield, Port Talbot propelled themselves to their best ever Welsh Premier record, mainly off the boot of player of the year Rose. Now, Mr Tucker has drafted in two more strikers, and the impact they'll bring to Port Talbot next year is always worth a look at.…
THE STAR – Martin Rose
A Swansea based student, Martin Rose knows Nick Tucker already. He was the manager that brought him to Llanelli in 2004. I honestly think he shortened his career by two years last season, with him playing upfront on his own last year, and taking, in conservative terms, a battering on pitches across Wales. He didn't let that deter him though, hitting a personal best 19 goals and laying on many more. This year should be his year, with a supporting cast of strikers, I still wouldn't be surprised if Tucker goes with 4-5-1 as a base formation next year, the reduced pressure on Rose to score may provide a springboard for even more next year. Martin Rose has not failed to break double figures for Port Talbot in two seasons, he's scored 29 goals so far for the Steelmen, I would be very surprised if that total doesn't read at least 50 by the end of the 08-09 season. The danger is can Port Talbot hold on to him?
THE APPRENTICE – Sam Baker
Whilst in boardrooms across the country, idiots in suits try to impersonate Sir Alan Sugar, one man did it the best way, getting his head down and getting on with it. Sam Baker did that on the pitch last year, starting with an overhead kick against Merthyr Under 19's. The clubs enthusiasm in getting him on the pitch even earned them a fine, with him being unregistered for the League Cup and having a £100 fine levied against them. Often seen as hot-headed, it was Paul Reid who got the best out of him, telling him to calm down, and it worked. Sam Baker had the last word with his feet and drilled home a rising shot from outside the area to give Port Talbot a 2-1 win over the Nomads in what was a fantastic advert for Welsh Premier football. However, last season was probably his best chance to make a starting impression on the league, with Rose being fireproof, waterproof and bulletproof, the young striker is yet to make a start in the league. I think he'll get at least one, but whether he'll be content not being the star is another matter.
THE VETERAN – Jason Welsh
Whilst researching this article (I know, I was as surprised as you), I came across Gloucester City's unofficial website. From the "T-Ender", I now know Jason Welsh lost the 2003 Welsh Cup Final, scoring a goal, but missing a penalty in the shootout. He seems to be the classical centre forward – the big bloke on the end of everything and with… (clears throat) "great feet for a big man". Other clichés that could apply are that he's got great spirit, after dislocating his shoulder and waiting until the close season before getting surgery. He's also played Welsh Premier football for Cwmbran – hitting 27 goals from almost 100 starts. Not bad, 1-in-4 seems to be his range, with 10 coming in 44 for Merthyr too. Looking back at his career, he was present at the Cwmbran squad of 2000-01, as was a certain Rhys Griffiths. They both scored one goal that year. I wonder what the odds would be on Welsh hitting the same number as his old team mate this season?
THE WILDCARD – Drew Fahiya
Nick Tucker raided his old club Powys for the 20 year old who can play midfield too, maybe he's to occupy the spot behind the striker – although he could also be used as an impact substitute with 20 minutes to go. The Dinas Powys website lists him as a "striker capable of scoring 20 goals a season". Hmm…lots of 20's in that paragraph… I've seen him play actually. I watched him against Afan Lido in April, his running was excellent, and although he didn't score, he won a penalty, being tripped in the area. Powys went on to score the penalty. I don't think he'll hit 20 goals next season, but I think he'll be drawing penalties and free kicks in crucial positions next year, which really should be a countable statistic.
Red Card continues on through the summer, with inaccurate transfer predictions, interviews with the guys that matter and oodles of rugby coverage. Can Wales overcome the French at Under 20 level? Can the Crusaders get to the final of the Northern Rail Cup? Find out first on Saturday afternoon.
We've also got a Youtube channel at www.youtube.com/afanfmsport. Theres an end of season interview with Mr Edwards up on there, but we've got stuff in the queue waiting to go up, including Rob Cockings, Scott Barrow and the first interview with Mr Tucker. To comment on anything at all, please sound off like you've got a pair to sport@afanfm.co.uk.
5th June 2008
Close Encounters of the Third Kind
Jesus, it's a long summer. The season hasn't been over long, and already I want it to start up again. I'm sure I'm not alone. But before I get to the point of the article, there's one thing that needs to be addressed - Paul Reid. Regardless of the new guy's qualities, and I'm sure there are many, I'm not entirely sure letting go of Port Talbot's most successful manager ever (played two, won two) was a wise move. Okay, the wins came against Porthmadog and the Nomads, but without those extra points, Port Talbot would have finished at the bottom of the top seven mini league that developed over the course of the season. I also saw him play a couple of times, once in Robert Cocking's testimonial and once in the Robbie James match, and I still think he's got what it takes at maybe Welsh League level. Hopefully he'll stay in the area, and maybe, a return to the Lido would suit? Young side seeks experienced head (stop giggling at the back) for fun times, promotion, maybe more? You never know, and on behalf of Afan, I hope he stays in the area and I wish him luck for the future.
Moving on, however, let's go back to that top seven league. Llanelli, TNS, Rhyl, Port Talbot, Bangor, Carmarthen and Neath formed it. Although it's early June as I write this, no-one has really strengthened their squad, with the exception of the Steelmen. Darren Davies should be a fine compliment to Mark McGibbon at the other full-back slot, the latter helping the attack more, Davies being the one to anchor the position.
I do wonder what Sam Baker makes of Jason Welsh's signing? Paul Reid got the best out of the young striker, culminating in the last kick before Nick Tucker's appointment, in the fantastic end to end game with the Nomads. Now with Reid gone, and someone, who you would have to assume to be above Baker in the pecking order coming in, he really is going to have to raise his game. I watched the Under 19's home games last year and although there were flashes when he looked ready for his first league start, there were also times when he looked a little disinterested in the game. The signing of Jason Welsh will change that. The ex-Cwmbran forward looks to be someone who grows in confidence as a season progresses. He should be a good compliment to Martin Rose, and with five league defeats coming by one goal last year, he could help bridge that gap.
However, I don't think those two by themselves is enough to secure third or better. Instead, look at the teams that finished above them. Llanelli are seemingly in a little trouble, with players not signing contracts and them cutting costs everywhere. I don't think they will be as dominant as they were last year, although, there is the ace in having players like Craig Jones and Rhys Griffiths. Over in England, TNS' Chris King is all but an Accrington Stanley player, but other than that, the squad looks strong.
Rhyl is where it gets interesting. John Hulse has left, leaving a gaping void not only in the category of "manager who most looks like a giant dog" but also a big gap in the sides' plans. I especially liked the headline of "Rhyl is not a sinking ship" that welsh-premier.com felt the need to write (although my favourite all time headline from that site is "Deakin promises final probe").
The departures of (deep breath) Dave Cameron, Lee Hunt, Mark Connolly and Stuart Graves has left them with a huge gap (100 combined appearances from them last year). I don't think they're going to be the last departures from Belle Vue either. As a result, I think third for Port Talbot is a realistic target.
Bangor haven't done much (yet), neither have Carmarthen or Neath, who, with a move to the Gnoll should certainly be intriguing. I will make a prediction here and say that Port Talbot will finish third in the Welsh Premier 08-09, although I fully expect Rhyl will go out and get 4-5 players to spite me.
Although there isn't much football going on at the moment, Red Card is still running on Saturday afternoons, with coverage of the World Under 20 Rugby Tournament and the latest stuff happening at your club. We've also started up a Youtube channel at youtube.com/afanfmsport. It's a little Spartan at the moment, but give it a week or so and they'll be interviews with Mr Edwards, Rob Cockings and Liam McCreesh up there for starters. Any suggestions for people you want up there to the usual address please.
Who takes the coveted title of "manager who looks like a giant dog" now Mr Hulse has left? Where else do Port Talbot need to strengthen? Have you got the image of John Deakin's final probe out of your head yet? Sound off like you have a pair to sport@afanfm.co.uk,
8th May 2008
Team of the Year
The end of season dream team has been announced, based on the votes given by the managers – how wise is this incidentally? No offence to Caernarfon, but I think I could manage a Welsh Premier side to higher than lower-mid table mediocrity (incidentally, to Caernarfon, enjoy playing in Welsh Tier 2 in a couple of years), so why are the mediocre managers, who have trouble picking from 16 players, picking from the entire league? Why aren’t fans, who can appreciate players who play well against them, picking the side?
Looking at how they’ve voted, Kristian Rogers was voted as best keeper in the league by Bangor boss Neville Powell, perhaps not surprising as the quiet keeper kept two clean sheets in the games between them. David Taylor of Caersws also picked him. The love up north for Rogers continued with Caernarfon manager Steve O’Shaughnessy picking him on the bench. Moving forward to the defence, Derek Brazil of Haverfordwest picked Matt Rees (Newtown benched him), with Andy Dyer picking Leigh De Vulgt at right back – a move on the cards perhaps? Lee Surman was picked as a midfielder (?!) by Llangefni manager Gus Williams, which may go some way to explaining their poor first WPL campaign. Neath and Caernarfon also selected him on the bench - as a defender hopefully. Rounding off the defence, James Burgin was selected as a midfielder by Caersws – ok, he played well, but in what, 4 games? Certainly not enough time to stake a claim for player of the season. Midfielders then, and Scott Barrow was selected by Carmarthen’s Deryn Brace, and rightly so. I’ve seen a lot of football and rugby this season, and no-one has taken a kicking like the left winger. On the other flank, Llangefni selected Lee John, who Gareth Owen of Airbus put on his bench. Porthmadog’s Harry Houdini-like Viv Williams selected the underrated Dylan Blain on his bench. I was surprised by Liam McCreesh not getting any votes but looking at one odd happening - Airbus’ Gareth Owen picked Deryn Brace of Carmarthen and guess who Mr Brace picked? Mr Owen! What a coincidence! At the expense of Liam McCreesh though? Upfront, and there could only be one steelman who could be considered. Driving runs, a strong vocal presence, and important goal after important goal… I am of course, talking about Chad…wait, no, he was let’s face it, not the player Mr. Martinez believes. Martin Rose has worked himself into the ground, probably taking 1-2 years off his career as a result of it, but his 19 WPL goals are a huge driver to 4th place. Brian Coyne of Aber was the only manager to start him, and to be honest, there was little to separate Rose and Ashley Stott of Bangor for the spot with Rhys Griffiths – Airbus, Llanelli, Porthmadog and Rhyl picked him for the bench – with Stott being the second striker for three of those!
Other debatable and possibly downright wrong selections then....
Jim Hackett of the Nomads picked Tim Hicks and Mike Wilde as his strikers! Good players, but Griffiths, Rose, Stott, Lloyd-Williams, Hill?
Welshpool, Druids and Caersws picked Chris Holloway! Chris Holloway?!? Incidentally, Holloway played as many minutes as I did against Welshpool, and played 90 anonymous minutes against Caersws. He did score against the Druids, but so did approximately 4,692 other people.
Llangefni picked Aden Shannon – a player who by my knowledge, is dynamite from the penalty spot, but…
He might be a defender, and he might have scored twice, but, Darren Ryan, Gavin Cadawallader is not a player of the season. Especially when you’ve picked him in midfield. Awesome surname though. Seriously, say it five times.
I suppose 550 words of slagging off the managers’ selections might lead them to question my own, so here’s my sixteen:
GK – David Jones - Newtown
DF – Nathan Cotterall - Carmarthen
DF – Stuart Jones - Llanelli
DF – Lee Surman – Port Talbot
DF – Chris King - TNS
MF – Richard French - Neath
MF – Sion Edwards - Bangor
MF – Liam McCreesh – Port Talbot
MF – Chris Venables - Welshpool
ST – Rhys Griffiths - Llanelli
ST – Martin Rose – Port Talbot
12 – George Horan - Rhyl
13 – Scott Barrow – Port Talbot
14 - Matt Rees - Neath
15 – Ashley Stott - Bangor
16 (GK) Lee Idzi – Haverfordwest
As for a manager, it has to be Andrew Dyer. Neath have done fantastically well to getaway and not be on the loser’s list – maybe they’ve even outgrown Llandarcy Park? I think my team of the season would do very very well. I suppose one positive to come from all of this is that the leagues’ best side doesn’t pick itself, there’s genuine quality at the top of the league and when it goes to 10 sides (the finishing top half and then Welshpool or Newtown), I can see a lot of the players in tier 2 jumping ship. Unfortunately, all the sides in the bottom half of the WPL this year are northern, which would make it rare for any of the good players (Steve Kehoe, Danny Desormeoux, Marcus Orlik etc) to wear Port Talbot blue. For the off season, I’m looking at Port Talbot to sign 2/3 strikers (Drew Fahiya, Robbie Walters and Kerry Morgan – loan), a defender (James Burgin – loan), a utility player (Geza Hajgato?) and maybe a spare winger, as a shot in the dark, I’ll suggest Steve Davies from Afan Lido. Many thanks to everyone that’s had a read this year and enjoyed it. Red Card continues into the summer, probably making up transfer rumours for a laugh (Extra! Extra! Leigh De Vulgt to Neath!), and covering Euro 2008 for all you Romanians out there, the Under 20 Rugby championships, the Olympics and any other sport we can get our grubby mitts on. Afan FM has watched and covered over 200 games this year, and next year, we’re aiming for more. You can still reach Afan (with your teams of the season, if you’ve got time) at sport@afanfm.co.uk and Red Card will be on, on 107.9FM in Port Talbot, 97.4FM in Neath on Saturdays from 2.
Hash
Red Card – Saturday 2-6PM
107.9 AfanFM
1st April 2008
The season is dead....long live the season
With Rhyl not being able to defeat the Llanelli moneybags on Sunday, the FAW Cup's UEFA place will by filled by Bangor or Newport YMCA, a team currently residing in the middle of the Welsh League. Hmm…what better way to boost the Welsh European co-efficient! Still, perhaps it's for the best that Port Talbot don't go to Europe this year. It's fairly logical that a season starting in late June is a hell of a lot more gruelling than one starting two months later. Plus, with the pitch being levelled and relaid in the off-season, where would the home games be played? Domestically, however, the next season is key. Nick Tucker and his managerial team have done a fantastic job after coming in in November, and oddly, that might be the only thing he could be knocked for! He would have had my vote for manager of the year (if I had one) or if it wasn't for Andrew Dyer and his Neath side firing on all cylinders. However, the squad is almost complete – probably about 4 players away. Let's look at it in isolation firstly. If he brings back Kerry Morgan and James Burgin from Swansea again, a backup midfielder (Dion Chambers??) and Robbie Walters from Bryntirion (assuming the Bryn board don't go into Osama Bin Laden style hiding again), then the squad, after a little pruning, would rank amongst the best in the league. If we also assume the Lido go up, then they're bound to poach a few Steelers, strictly for the purposes of this article, I'll say Lee De Vulgt, Craig Hanford and Kristian Rogers all leave. Now, if we look at Llanelli's blueprint to win the title, removing the obvious advantage of a big mountain of cash and the annoying 14 year old 'fanbase' that they seem to chaperone everywhere, then take the team that demolished Rhyl 5-2 last Sunday:
Ryan Lewis – The backup to Ryan Harrison, Josh Payne could be similar (ADV Llanelli)
Lee Phillips – Not brilliant, possibly the weak link in the side, Port Talbot have Mark McGibbon, who in the game I saw him in was fast as hell and a genuine attacking threat (ADV: PT)
Gary Lloyd – Old, experienced head in defence. PT have Lee Surman, who is young and experienced. And pacier. And Stronger. And… (ADV: PT)
Andrew Mumford – Big body in midfield. PT have Gareth Phillips, tough tackling but doesn't score (ADV: LL (Just)).
Stuart Jones – Excellent defender, probably one of the best in the league. PT could have James Burgin, who is good, but not on Jones' level yet (ADV: LL)
Wyn Thomas – Scores crucial goals apparently, against Matt Rees though, I'd take the big bald guy (ADV: PT)
Craig Jones – Ex-Lido winger who destroys teams, again, one of the best in the league, Lee John isn't at that level, yet, but could be soon (ADV: LL)
Antonio Corbisiero – Not brilliant, Liam McCreesh is better. Would be miles ahead if he scored more too. (ADV: PT)
Rhys Griffiths – Best in the league. Bar none. Will be interesting to see if Robbie Walters wants to challenge himself next year, and how he would do. (ADV: LL)
Chris Holloway – Not a bad player, but next year will be Scott Barrow's breakout season. You read it here first. (ADV: EQUAL)
Mark Pritchard - A reason why Griff is the best in the league, because he has Mark Pritchard with him. Martin Rose has worked and worked this year, and he'll do so again. (ADV: PT)
There you go then, I can't separate the sides, but if that's any indication, then there is no reason why Port Talbot cannot hit the top three next year, and in a year where crowd attendance could affect your league status, it is imperative that causal fans turn up to the games, regardless of whether Afan Lido go up or not, and there is no better advert than winning games. Port Talbot can be the standout team in the south, and it's not getting to Europe, that, surprisingly could be the catalyst. That's my view, I'd like to hear yours. Who would you take this summer to fit into the squad? How do we make the midfielders score more goals? Is next season THE key? Sound off like you have a pair, sport@afanfm.co.uk Tune into Red Card on Saturday, from 2 on 107.9FM (or at our brand new website www.afanfm.co.uk) for the match report of Port Talbot v Carmarthen, the Ospreys quest for silverware and some English-language coverage of Aberavon v Ebbw Vale in the rugby cup. Phone in on 08454741079.
Hash
Red Card – Saturday 2-6PM
107.9 AfanFM
15th March 2008
Predictionary
An excellent win on Saturday, that. Port Talbot defeated CPD Porthmadog 4-2 to keep hopes of a fourth place finish alive. And despite the hiccup in Anglesey, it’s still on. Even better, it can be directly influenced by you. Before I get all Mystic Meg on you, perhaps I should make clear why finishing fourth is good. You don’t need me to tell you that fourth would be a new high for Port Talbot in their history in the WPL, but you might need me to tell you that Llanelli, Rhyl and Bangor are in the semi-finals of the FA Welsh Cup (with Newport YMCA). If we see a Rhyl-Bangor final, then Rhyl, currently in the Intertoto cup, would graduate to the UEFA cup, with the last-ever Intertoto spot going to the fourth place side, if I remember my legislation. That gives a realistic chance to Port Talbot. Saturday the 22nd sees Carmarthen take on Bangor at home. I think every Port Talbot fan will be praying to the Easter Bunny for the draw that day whilst the Steelmen will hopefully be trouncing the Nomads. If Bangor and Carmarthen do repeat their 1-1 encounter from earlier in the season and Port Talbot win, the table would look like this:
4. Bangor City 52 +23
5. Carmarthen 51 +14
6. Port Talbot 50 +7
7. Neath Ath 46 +2
Apologies for the Vorderman-esque method. Let’s move to the Bank Holiday, which is where you come in. Neath take on Bangor in a rearranged game at Llandarcy Park. Let’s say Neath win that, they go one point behind Port Talbot and only three behind Bangor! Afan’s going to be at that game, and to be honest, we’ve never heard anyone chant for a draw, but for Neath and Bangor to cancel each other out (or a Neath win) is the desired result. That brings March to a close, and the final few games of the season. What looked like a dead season in November suddenly gets very, very interesting. The 4th April. A Friday night at Remax Stadium sees Carmarthen visit Port Talbot. Now, a few weeks ago, Port Talbot had a ‘crucial, must win’ game against Llanelli, where, despite playing well, one slip up led to Wyn Thomas getting the win for the champions-elect. Port Talbot can use this in their favour. They’ve got experience of holding the best the league has to offer for 80-odd minutes. They can dominate Carmarthen, and let’s assume they do. Bangor then have to face Rhyl, with all the pressure on the boys in blue, whilst Neath travel for their own tough game against Aber. Let’s say Rhyl beat Bangor, and Neath win in the west. How does the table look now?
4. Port Talbot 53 +9
5. Bangor City 52 +20
6. Neath Ath 52 +5
7. Carmarthen 51 +12
That does make rather nice reading, doesn’t it? However, that’s not all. The 12th sees Port Talbot visit Rhyl who have locked up 3rd, and that game is just too difficult to call, but I’m going to go for a draw. The two sides were very close in the Welsh Cup, with Lee Surman’s sending off the tipping point. Bangor have to go away to Llangefni (away win, has to be), Andrew Dyer’s men go to Caersws, a side no-one cares about (away win, again) and Carmarthen get to have Porthmadog come to their place, probably a home win. Now the table doesn’t look so good.
4. Bangor City 55 +22
5. Neath Ath 55 +7
6. Carmarthen 54 +14
7. Port Talbot 54 +9
Which takes us to the final day of the season. A cracking season, with potentially, a European spot waiting for the side in fourth. Bangor take on Neath, and would probably cancel each other out. Carmarthen go up against the Nomads, and you’d have to think they would want some revenge after the Old Gold humiliated them 8-0 at Richmond Park. The same applies on final day at the Remax, with Port Talbot taking on Llangefni, who by this point should be already down. So, if Port Talbot win…
4. Port Talbot 57 +11
5. Bangor City 56 +23
6. Neath Ath 56 +7
7. Carmarthen 55 +12
Et voila! European football possibly coming to a stadium near you! However, it all hinges on so many different victories, and I’d hate to have to work out the odds for it. However, there’s one thing that could still blow the thing out of the water. In that group of four, Port Talbot have the second worst goal difference. How gutting would it be if you missed out on Europe through goal difference? Just how bad would it be knowing that it was your other near neighbours, Llanelli who scored the eight goals that let Carmarthen, for example go through and stopped a maiden voyage to European football? It almost doesn’t bear thinking about. Often, a result will occur in the league, and the knock-on could be devastating. The goals have increased since Mr Tucker took over, against the Nomads and Llangefni, they could be the difference between playing in Slovakia, or playing preseason in f***ing Bryntirion. Find out the result of the crucial Carmarthen-Bangor game next Saturday first, with Red Card, as well as Neath-Druids, Nomads-PTT and whether the Swans screw it up when it matters. Phone in on 08454741079 or look at the brand new website at www.afanfm.co.uk. Just what would be the odds on all the above happening? How much do you hate Llanelli right now? Why do Neath have such a crucial role in this? Sound off like you have a pair, sport@afanfm.co.uk
Hash
Red Card – Saturday 2-6PM
107.9 AfanFM
4th March 2008
In the Right Place
Despite all her troubles, you’d still…erm…how to put this in family-friendly language… fraternise with Britney Spears, right? Even if it was just to sell your story afterwards? That must be how the chairman feels. I’ll explain before he sues me for slander. The Llanelli game has been arranged for ages for Friday night, but on the same night, Swansea City host Millwall at the Liberty in a game rearranged ‘on police advice’. For some odd reason, loads of drunken Londoners on a Friday night is less of a hazard than rearranging the game for a Saturday 12:45 for example. Which is the more attractive game? Right now, Swans-Millwall is the really hot girl who’s just a tease, whereas Port Talbot-Llanelli is Britney, who may be troubled, but well…I can’t write what she may be. Let’s look at it in boxing terms instead. In the red corner, weighing in at whatever Mr Parekh is bankrolling them with is Llanelli, who are chasing the title, joint top with those New Saints. In the blue corner, beginning to recover from a shell shocked start to the season is Port Talbot Town, who are looking to avenge conceding 16 goals in the past 3 games between both sides this season. That’s a rather nice subplot and a good reason to go. I like Swansea City, I do. But let’s face it, they’re up. They’re just playing out the string, and waiting to celebrate. Having Kenny Jackett coming back is not an intriguing subplot for me. If it was say…Lee Trundle coming back, okay, there’s an interesting story, but Afan has sent James and Jamie to that game and I’m at the Remax, freezing my hands off because this game, to me, is more important than the Swansea one. Mainly because of the subplots involved. Subplots are the little stories people put into games to make them seem interesting. Sometimes, they’re absolute hell to find, but here’s a significant one. Llanelli manager Peter Nicholas has just been named Manager of the Month for February in the Welsh Premier. From everyone at Afan, congratulations. But this question needs to be asked: How could the committee or the guy with the dart that the league seems to blindly throw into a board ignore Nick Tucker? If it’s just league form that is considered, which it should be, the Reds came from behind to slam Caernarfon 5-1 and threw the game away against Bangor, conceding a late Ashley Stott goal. Port Talbot failed to score at Bangor, but also didn’t concede. The Steelmen played another two games, winning 3-1 against Caersws, having two men sent off in the process and beating the resistance out of Aberystwyth by coming back from behind twice to eventually turn it round 4-2. How is scoring seven goals, winning two away trips against the side in 16th and 7th and drawing with a very even side more impressive than beating the side currently residing in 14th and tying with a side you’re above by 14 points? Perhaps the people who choose these awards looked at Llanelli’s league position and the fact that they’re a full-time squad? Maybe they’ve looked at Llanelli’s two cup successes, but in a LEAGUE award, surely that should be irrelevant? Perhaps it’s the fact that Llanelli have seemingly been on S4C every week? What should be relevant is the managerial decisions made on the pitch. In beating Caernarfon at home, Peter Nicholas sent on Mark Jones (who, to his credit, must be the find of the season) and he netted the fifth. Nothing particularly special there. In the draw with Bangor, again, nothing particularly special, although it could be argued that Matt Jones could have come on to strengthen their midfield, after Bangor brought on a striker for a midfielder. Looking at Port Talbot, bringing on James Burgin for Scott Barrow and changing the game, bringing on Dylan Blain, who scored against Aber and then keeping faith with him, allowing him to dismantle Caersws are a couple of the good decisions made by Tucker in February. Perhaps, in Llanelli’s defence, you could argue that their discipline was significantly better, but last time I checked, football is a physical game. Still, Friday night will be the test. If Port Talbot can beat Llanelli, everything is back on again. And you can show the sponsors, S4C and whomever picks the manager of the month award that Port Talbot really should have been looked at. If incidentally, you’re reading this in the match programme, you’re in the right place. It’s a shame that the manager of the month award isn’t. Find out the story of Swansea’s reunion with Jackett, Wales’ bid for the Triple Crown and those pesky Network Solutions travelling to Neath on Saturday with Red Card on Saturday on 107.9 Afan FM or online at our soon to be relaunched website www.afanfm.co.uk. Does the manager of the month even mean anything? Why have Port Talbot been ignored by TV? Is Llanelli the most crucial game of the season, until the next one? Phone in Saturday on 08454741079 or sound off like you’ve got a pair whenever you like at sport@afanfm.co.uk
Hash
Red Card – Saturday 2-6PM
107.9 AfanFM
18th February 2008
Scott Barrow is Afan’s Rising Star
107.9 Afan FM's Rising Stars identifies athletes from around South Wales who have the potential to be world-beaters. Joining Neath All Blacks flanker James Merriman and the Celtic Crusaders' prop Jamie I'Anson is Port Talbot Town left winger Scott Barrow. Although a natural left back, the twenty year old has been playing with a more attacking mindset since he arrived at the Remax Stadium, in a spell that has yielded five goals from twenty-three appearances this year, on what has been, at times, a crowded left wing. Afan FM caught up with Scott to talk about his season so far...
AFAN FM: What's been your personal highlight of the season so far?
SCOTT BARROW: How hard we've worked, after a bad start to the season, I worked hard and I got back into the team.
AFAN: You beat Daniel Lancey out on the left wing, he's now at Neath. Did you see that as a vote of confidence from Nicky Tucker?
SB: It's pretty good, start of the season, I wasn't getting in, but like I said, I battled hard and managed to get back in the team. I'm not normally a goal scorer, but I've played midfield and I hope the goals continue.
AFAN: Which position are you more suited to? Left back or Left Wing?
SB: I'm actually a more comfortable left back, but there's players here like Lee (John), who's a real help to me, which has helped me to settle in and score goals.
AFAN: With changing the manager in mid-season, how did that change the squad? What's the morale like within the squad now?
SB: Tony Pennock was a lot more direct, but in training, Tucks has given us some pointers, as well as bringing in a few new faces. Our morale is top-notch, and it's shown with four games unbeaten. We can push on and clinch that fourth place.
107.9 Afan FM is the Official Radio Station of Port Talbot Town, where Red Card is broadcast on Saturday Afternoons from 2. Scott was talking to Hash Piperdy. You can email on sport@afanfm.co.uk, or you can express your views by phoning 08454741079. You can also tune in on 107.9FM or listen by clicking this.
Hash
Red Card – Saturday 2-6PM
107.9 AfanFM
11th February 2008
Lucky Sevens
I have a theory. Actually, I have many theories. I used to think for example, that all 14 year old kids should be given pimped up lighters, with a connection to a gas tap and Bunsen burners sold to be melted down, mainly because I think they’re used by scientists to make themselves look important (look kids, it’s a tube…with fire!). Not the most popular theory ever said, and one that’s probably borderline illegal. Another theory I’ve had before is that seagulls help the trains run on time. I’m serious. Look up at the lights at the train station, you see seagulls looking a little too interested in the trains. What does any of that have to do with football? The same thing war is good for, but, a third theory I’ve had more recently is that the top six (or seven) in the Welsh Premier are going to break away, Tour de France style from the rest of the league. Looking at the top seven, Llanelli, TNS, Rhyl, Bangor, Carmarthen, Port Talbot and maybe even seventh place Neath are about to open up a gap and fight over the FAW Premier Cup seedings by themselves. Incidentally, would anyone be against an end of season playoff? Teams from third to sixth fight it out for the Intertoto cup spot, with the higher placed team having home advantage. Does that sound a little too sensible to adapt, perhaps? It could lead to the sixth placed side going into Europe, but, if they’re good enough under pressure, (as proved by winning what would be two road games against ‘better’ sides), they’d have more than a fighting chance. One big reason for the possible split is the strength the sides have over the non top seven. Only Bangor (3 points dropped by losing to Caersws), Carmarthen (4 points dropped by losing to Caernarfon and drawing with Haverfordwest) and Port Talbot (loss to Airbus, draw with Haverfordwest equals four points dropped) have not completed victories over sides not in the top 7 since 2008 started. By contrast, Llangefni at the bottom have only taken 2 points from top seven sides (draws at Bangor AND Carmarthen) all season. How you do against the teams below you is obviously important, and goes a long way to explaining why the top third of the league is about to zoom off into the distance. And the two names in Llangefni’s brackets are all important too – as they’re in Port Talbot’s sights. If I’m right, this is obviously good news for Port Talbot. To say they’re hanging on the coattails of the elite group is wrong, because at the moment, everything Mr Tucker and his coaching team is touching is turning to goals, but it seems more and more possible that fourth place could be achieved. Two games in hand over Carmarthen, one over Bangor and a crucial away trip at Farrar Road to come. Win those, and Port Talbot go top four. Factor in that there are only four away games (Bangor, Connah’s Quay, Rhyl and Llangefni) and really, the Steelmen should be looking at 16-20 more points before the season winds down. That should be enough for fourth or fifth, but next season is going to be an exciting one. With the team playing as exactly that and a coherent formation sorted out, and going into Saturday’s game unbeaten in four, now is the time to attend the five remaining home games this season. The game against Bangor on the 23rd is even more crucial after their defeat to Caersws, and with seven of Bangor’s remaining 10 games against the top seven, given their record explained above, I think they could really struggle and it’s something that Port Talbot could easily capitalise upon. Course, I could be wrong, but then, if I was, the seagulls would merely be, well, trainspotters. The 16th February is a huge show on Saturday. With Port Talbot, Aberavon Wizards, the Celtic Crusaders and the Ospreys all at home, we’re looking for your views after the Caersws game. You can email on studio@afanfm.co.uk, or you can express your views by phoning 08454741079. You can also tune in on 107.9FM or listen by clicking this. Had any exciting theories recently? Just how big is the Bangor game now? With all the talk of seagulls, does it make you think of Eric Cantona? Sound off like you’ve got a pair at sport@afanfm.co.uk
Hash
Red Card – Saturday 2-6PM
107.9 AfanFM
30th January 2008
Pendulum
When was the last time you saw a streaker at a football/rugby game? For me, it was the university Varisty game between Swansea and Cardiff last April...good times...although you never ever see attractive streakers. Maybe it's an odd coincidence. The reason I bring it up is because streaking is good for you. Or the side you support anyhow. Since Mr Tucker has taken over, he's guided the team to four wins, four draws and two losses. This is not the most impressive thing that has happened. The losses have been sandwiched by five games where at least one point was picked up, including the fixture traffic jam that accumulates over Christmas/New Year. Momentum is important in football, look at Bangor at the moment, they've sneaked into fourth very quietly. No-one has mentioned them for ages, but with the players they have, they could happily stay there for the rest of the season, Or could they? What's to stop Port Talbot finishing in the top four this year? Nothing. The crucial game will be 23/02, away at Bangor. I expect both sides to be fairly equal by that date - Bangor are at Caersws (surely a win) and could do the double against Llanelli at home (but probably won't). Port Talbot have a road trip to Aberystwyth (draw?) and then host Caersws (home win) before going to Farrar Road. Why am I telling you all this? Because, it's at this growing time that the club could do with your support. Bring friends, relatives, semi-senile family members who'll shout things, anyone at all. If not for the away game at Aber, but the home game against 16th place Caersws. I said before, momentum is important and the recent wins over TNS and Newi Cefn Druids have given the side a second wind. I first noticed this against the Nomads. The side looks happier. Discipline is still an issue, and can be much improved, but is no longer a glaring point (average of 1.8 yellows a game since Tucker’s reign), there’s a decent amount of depth (McGibbon, Sheppard, Payne) and whisper it quietly, but Mr Tucker and his team could be due manager of the year stuff if the Steelmen can nick fourth. Believe it or not, there are only five more home games to come for the firsts this year. Five! Makes you wonder where you can get your football fix from. The answer lies at the Remax. The Under 19 side are excellent, I don’t want to say we told you so, but we noticed Sam Baker right at the start of the season, when he hit an overhead kick against Merthyr. To prove that wasn’t a fluke, we’ll do it again. Rory Healey and Luke James have graduated already to first team so I won’t pick them. I’m going to go for Josh Wannacott. He’s a good, strong centre half that can play at full back equally comfortably and as my mate Adam would say has “great feet for a bald fella”. The other guy who’s going to break through next season will be Stephen Williams. I saw him against Carmarthen Under 19’s as a sub, and when he came on, ran the game. I also said at the start of this that Mr Tucker’s 4 win, 4 draw, 2 loss record isn’t the most impressive thing that has happened. Despite coming into a club who’s season was circling the drain, Saturday’s victory over the Druids lets him overtake Tony Pennock (remember him!?) on 16 points won this season. Perhaps the most impressive thing is that he’s done it in 10 games. Pennock took 15, from 11. There’s going to be a lot of fun in the remaining home games, it would be a shame if you missed it. Tune into 107.9FM on Saturdays for updates from England v Ospre- sorry, Wales, Swans v Oldham and the Welsh Cup Fourth round, as well as me laughing my head off at all the transfer deadline panic buys. You can even suggest a few yourself by phoning 0845 474 1079. Or you can listen by Clicking here. Can Port Talbot steal fourth? Is Nicky Tucker worthy of manager of the year? Who’s the next breakthrough star in the Under 19’s team? Sound off like you’ve got a pair at sport@afanfm.co.uk.
Hash
Red Card – Saturday 2-6PM
107.9 AfanFM
7th January 2008
Killer Instinct
Swansea 1, Havant and Waterlooville 1. Carmarthen 1, Neath 1. Neath Rugby 18, Llanelli 18. Port Talbot 2, Haverfordwest 2. Failure to convert appeared to be the theme across the region last week, at least the Ospreys had an uneven scoreline (they got trashed by Leinster), but looking deeper, is a failure to convert a systematic habit at Remax? Let me explain. With seven draws this year, Port Talbot are joint league leaders at the draw (with Carmarthen). This is good in a Spagetti Western, but not the WPL. Of these draws, four have been goalless. In a perfect world, they would be worth no points, but that’s a different article for a different day. These four games were against Airbus (frustrating), Bangor (lacked precision), away at Carmarthen (chances spurned) and the trip to Newtown (a stalemate). Looking at those teams, surely Airbus and Newtown are winnable? The three scoring draws were two points dropped against nine-man Welshpool, two points dropped against gutsy Neath and… two points dropped against 90-minute Haverfordwest. 5 draws at home! Is this lack of killer instinct part of the reason for the drop in attendance? 40% more draws at home already when compared with a 20% drop in spectators, do the two figures have something to do with each other? A positive result (either way) is essential to the matchday experience in my view. Why would the average person on a Saturday go watch sport if almost half (5 of 11) games end with no discernable result? Did you know, Port Talbot are on a five-game unbeaten run, but three of those are draws, and to be honest, Neath and Haverfordwest really should have been put away. Nicky Tucker has talked about getting his side to play for all 90 minutes, but late goals and comeback goals seem to be a killer. However, going to watch football at the ReMax is fantastic entertainment most of the time. In total 36 WPL goals have been scored at the Remax, 23 of which scored by the home side (the same number already as were scored in 16 games last season!), more than the top 3 (10 games, 24 goals at Rhyl). No losses in the league came at Victoria Road until December, so it does seem difficult to me why there aren’t around 5-600 bluenoses there on matchday. We discussed the idea in the studio and we came up with… BRING A FRIEND. This may sound like something I’ve been trying to get Mrs. Hash to do for the past 6 months, but bringing a friend is probably the best way to increase attendance. If 200 people go to Remax and half of those bring a mate, that’s 300. If half of those friends bring another friend to the next game, that’s 350, and so on (375, 390 etc), then in 4 home games, the attendance has been doubled! Build on it from there. Four hundred people can make a lot of noise. Another way to increase people going starts with you. There’s no better way for people to care about the game than a good story and who better to tell it than you. After the TNS game, phone in, have a chat with me about the game, vent – advertise your club and convince people to go to the next one. Although, the next home game is TNS, if that game can’t be sold to the people of Port Talbot, there’s a much more serious problem that hasn’t yet been found. Roll on the visit of the champions on the 19th! If you’re not going to Airbus, tune into 107.9FM on the 12th for all the updates, as well as Swans, Neath, Ospreys and the Lido. Or if you have one of those new fangled internet deelys. Click here. Is there a worse game than a 0-0 draw? Are the draws the main reason why people aren’t turning up? Can you tell I’m a bit of a geek from the stats in the article? I look forward to hearing from you on the 19th, but before then, sound off like you’ve got a pair at sport@afanfm.co.uk
Hash
Red Card – Saturday 2-6PM
107.9 AfanFM
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