Club News Archive February 2010 - Port Talbot Town Football Club

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Port Talbot Town Football Club - Principality Welsh Premier League - The GenQuip Stadium, Victoria Road, Port Talbot. SA12 6AD. Website best viewed 1024x768.

FEBRUARY 2010

27th February 2010
Bala Welsh Cup reward for Blues
Port Talbot Town will take on Bala Town in the Semi-Final of the Welsh Cup following Saturday’s draw. Bala reached the last four of the competition by defeating Afan Lido in extra time and the side are currently eighth in the Principality Welsh Premier League despite only achieving promotion to the top-flight last season. The match will take place at a neutral venue on Saturday, 10th April or on Sunday, 11th April. The Principality Welsh Premier League match against Newtown at The GenQuip Stadium on that weekend will now be re-arranged.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Cup page

27th February 2010
Penalty hero Kendall saves and scores in shoot-out
Goalkeeper Lee Kendall scored the winning penalty as Port Talbot Town defeated The New Saints on Saturday. The Welsh Cup Quarter-Final match at Park Hall could not be decided over 90 minutes as the two sides played out a 2-2 draw and the score remained the same after extra-time. Kendall saved the first spot kick and then scored the winner to take his side through. Aeron Edwards opened the scoring for the home side after 14 minutes after Port Talbot had pushed their full-time opponents in the opening exchanges but Martin Rose levelled the score after 26 minutes when he headed the ball home from a corner. The goal rattled The New Saints and nine minutes later a poor clearance from goalkeeper Paul Harrison enabled Lee John to hand Port Talbot Town the lead as he scored from close range to put Mark Jones side in front at the break. Only two minutes into the second half however The New Saints were level as Alex Darlington scored despite a strong appeal for offside. Lee Kendall was called into action midway through the second half to make a fine save while at the other end Martin Rose had his effort saved. The match went into extra time with Port Talbot asking the majority of the questions with a series of corners but the two teams could not be separated. The New Saints started the penalty shoot-out with Kendall making a fine save low to his right and then stepped up to make it 4-3 and send his side into the Semi-Finals.
Click here for The New Saints match report and photos

26th February 2010
Jones confident following double league win
Manager Mark Jones takes his side to The New Saints on Saturday for a place in the Welsh Cup Semi-Final. Despite making enforced changes through suspension, Jones is confident his side can carry on their recent form at Park Hall. “We have scored ten goals in our last two league games and we have not conceded so the mood in the camp is very good,” said Jones in the Evening Post. “The Welsh Cup is a different animal altogether however and while we know it will be difficult we will approach the game with the belief that we can win. The Welsh Cup offers the quickest route into Europe and we are three wins away”. The coach leaves The GenQuip Stadium at 8.45am with limited places available for supporters at £10 each. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Cup page

26th February 2010
McCreesh handed five match suspension
Midfielder Liam McCreesh has been handed a five match suspension by The Football Association of Wales. McCreesh is the clubs current leading league goalscorer with 11 goals this season in the Principality Welsh Premier League but will now miss the next five matches starting with Saturday’s Welsh Cup Quarter-Final match against The New Saints. The suspension follows on from last weekend’s match against Technogroup Welshpool when McCreesh was booked for a tackle in the last few minutes of the the 3-0 win but was then shown a straight red for dissent towards the referee when the game re-started. It was the second time this season that McCreesh has been sent off for dissent having been shown a red card at Haverfordwest County earlier in the season for the same offence. The suspension covers games against The New Saints on Saturday as well as games against Carmarthen, Llanelli, Airbus UK Broughton and Newtown, the match against Carmarthen being the only home fixture out of the five.
Click here for more information on Liam McCreesh

25th February 2010
Saints held ahead of Blues Welsh Cup visit
The New Saints were held to a 0-0 Welsh Premier League draw at Airbus UK Broughton on Wednesday night. Port Talbot Town are in action at The New Saints on Saturday in the Quarter-Final of the Welsh Cup without suspended midfield duo Gareth Phillips and Liam McCreesh while kick off for the match has been changed to a new time of 2.30pm. Recent New Saints signing Chris Sharp started for the former champions on Wednesday but the striker will miss Saturday’s match against Port Talbot Town having played for Bangor City in the competition already this season. Port Talbot Town will also make enforced changes for the match although manager Mark Jones will approach the game with a positive attitude having defeated The New Saints earlier in the season at The GenQuip Stadium. Limited places are still available for supporters at £10 each with the coach leaving The GenQuip Stadium at 8.45am. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

23rd February 2010
Mark Jones commits to 2012 with new contract
Manager Mark Jones has committed himself to Port Talbot Town Football Club until May 2012. Jones met with Chairman Andrew Edwards on Tuesday to sign the new contract which will commit him to the club for the next two seasons. “I am delighted to announce that Mark Jones has agreed to commit himself to Port Talbot Town Football Club,” said Edwards. “Mark is without doubt one of the leading managers not just in the Welsh Premier League but in Welsh football and his commitment enables us to now continue to build for the future and the challenges that the new league of twelve clubs will bring next season. We have already started negotiating new contracts with our playing staff and to add Mark to that list is just as important for both our short and long term ambitions at this football club.” Jones returned to the club for a second spell in charge when he replaced Nicky Tucker in December 2008 and achieved a top five finish after turning the clubs season around. The Cardiff-based manager first joined Port Talbot Town in 2001 from Maesteg Park and set the standard for future managers as he brought in a higher calibre of player and took the club to the Semi-Final of the Welsh Cup. Jones then went on to achieve domestic and European success at Carmarthen Town as he lifted the Welsh Cup with the West Wales side and also progressed to the 2nd round of the UEFA Cup in one of the Welsh Premier League European success stories. Since his return Jones has made a number of high-profile signings and signs a new contract with the club sitting in fifth place in the table and in the last eight of the Welsh Cup.
Click here for more information on manager Mark Jones

23rd February 2010
Condolences to Drew Fahiya and family
Everyone at the club would like to pass on their condolences to Drew Fahiya following a family bereavement. Drew’s grandmother passed away earlier in the week and the striker will now miss the Wales Under-23 Semi-Pro International match against Portugal next week to attend the funeral. He has now been replaced in the squad by Craig Jones of Llanelli. Everyone at Port Talbot Town Football Club offer their condolences to Drew and his family at this sad time.

22nd February 2010
Jones calls on same support for Welsh Cup
Port Talbot return to Welsh Cup action on Saturday when they take on The New Saints in the Quarter-Final. Port Talbot Town reached the last eight of the competition last season and manager Mark Jones has called on the clubs supporters to recreate the same atmosphere this weekend that carried his side through at Aberystwyth in the last round. “The support that we had at Aberystwyth in the last round was second to none,” said Jones. “It would be great to see as many of the blue army at The New Saints as possible as it really does make a difference. Your efforts are very much appreciated by myself and the players”. Port Talbot Town were knocked out of the competition at the Quarter-Final stage last season when Carmarthen Town scored an injury-time in extra-time equaliser to take the game to penalties at Richmond Park. Port Talbot have enjoyed an excellent run in the competition this season however and have not conceded a Welsh Cup goal following a 5-0 win over Cwmbran Celtic, a 3-0 win at Caldicot Town and a 2-0 win at Aberystwyth in the last round. Port Talbot have a difficult task ahead of them at The New Saints having already lost twice at Park Hall this season in the Welsh Premier League and in the Challenge Cup but have also claimed a 2-0 win over The New Saints back in September in the league. Jones will make enforced changes to his side for this weekend however as Gareth Phillips and Liam McCreesh will miss the match through suspension while Karl Lewis will have a fitness test on a foot injury closer to the match. Supporters places are available at £10 each with the coach leaving The GenQuip Stadium at 8.45am and those interested should email mark@porttalbottown.co.uk. Kick off is at 2.00pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Cup page

22nd February 2010
Pike takes few positives from Pontardawe draw
Under-19 Team manager Mark Pike watched on as his side produced a game of two halves on Sunday. The side were held to a 0-0 draw at Pontardawe Town in the MacWhirter Youth Division West as Port Talbot followed a poor first half with a much better second half performance. “The pitch was shocking and were not much better in the first half,” said Pike to the official website. “Some harsh words were said at half-time and we were a lot stronger in the second half and really bossed the game. Oliver Bowen forced their keeper to make a fine save from close range while Jamie Jones and Sam Baker also had chances and we deserved to win. Training has been difficult for us lately without the use of a designated facility and our lack of ball work during midweek is starting to show in our games but many of our players need to take a long look at themselves after that performance ”. Pike did however have some positives to take from the match. “I must mention the two 16 year-old Academy players, Jordan Edwards and goalkeeper Luke Martin, who were both superb,” he added. “I am sure they will again raise their game against West End at The GenQuip Stadium next week.”
Click here for the Under-19 Team page
Click here for the MacWhirter Welsh League Youth Division West page

21st February 2010
Rees celebrates goal with new contract
Captain Matthew Rees signed a new contract with the club following Saturday’s win over Welshpool. Rees scored his first goal of the season in the 3-0 win at The GenQuip Stadium and the club’s record Welsh Premier League appearance holder committed himself to Port Talbot Town after the match as he signed a new contract to keep him at the club. Rees signed for Port Talbot Town in 2004 and has made 164 Welsh Premier League starts for the club, scoring eight league goals in his six seasons at The GenQuip Stadium since he was brought to the club by then manager Wayne Davies from Newport County. Rees started his career at Millwall and was captain of their reserve team where he earned Wales Under-21 honours and was named as an unused substitute for Wales full International friendly against the USA after being called up for the squad by then manager Mark Hughes. Gained experience in the Conference with Aldershot and Dagenham & Redbridge while at Millwall but was released by manager Dennis Wise. Joined Swansea City on trial after his release and scored for the club against Lincoln City, the first goal scored under Kenny Jackett’s time in charge at the club. After not being offered a contract with his home town club he signed for Crawley Town before a move to Newport County and then signed for Port Talbot Town in 2004. Last week defender Lloyd Grist also committed himself to the club by signing a new contract.
Click here for more information on Matthew Rees

20th February 2010
McCreesh red card headlines three goal win
Port Talbot Town cruised to a 3-0 win on Saturday but Liam McCreesh was sent off in the last minute. Technogroup Welshpool were the visitors to the GenQuip Stadium as Mark Jones side carried on from their 7-0 midweek win over Elements Cefn Druids with Martin Rose, Neil Thomas and Matthew Rees all on target in the opening half of the match. Port Talbot Town failed to build on their lead in the second half but after receiving a yellow card on 87 minutes, Liam McCreesh continued to disagree with referee Huw Jones as the match re-started and was shown a straight red card for dissent. Martin Rose opened the scoring form the penalty spot on 19 minutes after he was brought down in the area and five minutes later Neil Thomas extended the lead when he capitalised on a defensive mistake to slot the ball into the empty net. Captain Matthew Rees then completed the scoring just before half-time when he found himself unmarked at the back post from a corner. Port Talbot could not add to their lead in the second half despite testing the Welshpool defence and goalkeeper. McCreesh will now be suspended for next weekends Welsh Cup match at The New Saints.
Click here for Technogroup Welshpool match report and photos

19th February 2010
Thomas talks Welshpool, Welsh Cup and the 12th man
Summer signing Daniel Thomas has spoken to the unofficial website in an exclusive interview. The former Goytre United striker scored a hat-trick against Elements Cefn Druids on Tuesday night, the first goal being his first in the Welsh Premier League, and Thomas is now looking ahead to Saturdays match against Welshpool and next weeks Welsh Cup tie. “I was landed to have a start on Tuesday night and wanted to make the most of the opportunity,” said Thomas to the Blue Skinned Beast. “The suspension that has seen me miss some key game has cost me dear and I have been patient. I just hope that I have done enough to warrant another start against Welshpool. There are no easy games in this league and we will have to be on our game not to get caught cold. If I do start I will give it my all and try to get another start for the TNS game in the Welsh Cup which will be a massive game for the football club”. Thomas also talks about the influence of the clubs support in his interview, “Port Talbot Town have the noisiest fans in the league and I love it. Its great to have a 12th man and it kicks me on during games,” he added. Manager Mark Jones has a full squad available for the match against Technogroup Welshpool at The GenQuip Stadium on Saturday. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Click here for the full interview with Daniel Thomas on the Blue Skinned Beast
Click here for more information on Daniel Thomas

18th February 2010
Jones expects tougher test against Welshpool
Manager Mark Jones is remaining cautious about Saturday’s match despite his sides 7-0 midweek win. Technogroup Welshpool are the visitors to The GenQuip Stadium on Saturday as Port Talbot Town look to continue on from Tuesday’s comprehensive victory over Elements Cefn Druids but Jones expects a tougher test for his side this weekend. “I have no doubt that under the guidance of their manager Huw Grifffiths their side will be well organised,” said Jones to the official website. “We will not be taking anything for granted as I am sure we will be in for a tough game”. Scott Barrow and goalkeeper Lee Kendall are both available after missing the midweek win leaving Jones with plenty of options in his team selection . Admission for the match is just £6 for adults and £4 for concessions. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

17th February 2010
Rose makes appearance milestone in seven goal win
Striker Martin Rose made his 100th Welsh Premier League start for Port Talbot Town on Tuesday. Mark Jones side defeated Elements Cefn Druids 7-0 at The GenQuip Stadium but the popular striker was denied a goal on his appearance milestone by the woodwork in a match that broke the clubs previous record victory in the Principality Welsh Premier League. Rose signed for Port Talbot Town in 2006 having previously played for Llanelli and Cardiff Grange Quins in the Welsh Premier League and despite scoring ten goals in his first season with the club he was used mainly as a substitute. The following season however Rose became the clubs main striker and added to his goal tally with 19 goals in 2007-2008 and then scored a further 25 in his third season with the club in 2008-2009 to become the clubs top goalscorer for two consecutive seasons. A hugely popular figure with the Port Talbot Town fans, Rose now has 62 Welsh Premier League goals from his 100 appearances and is one of six current players who have now achieved this appearance record with the club.
Click here for more information on Martin Rose

17th February 2010
Druids boss praise for Blues performance
Elements Cefn Druids joint-manager Lee Jones has praised Port Talbot Town after Tuesday’s win. Port Talbot cruised to a 7-0 win over Druids at The GenQuip Stadium and the former Liverpool and Wrexham striker was impressed by the attitude and performance of Mark Jones side in an interview with his clubs official website after the game. “You can't legislate for nights like that but, being honest, I think it's probably been a long time coming,” said Jones to www.cefndruidsafc.co.uk. “We've had decent a result against Neath and decent performances against Bala and Bangor but I think they've papered over a few cracks. I think as a club, with the constraints we've got put on us, what's happened could become the norm. We've come across a team in the top five who, once they got a goal in front of us, steamrollered us. The first goal had a bit of fortune to it. To be honest, for the first 35 minutes I thought our lads were fantastic. We could have possibly gone in the lead when Craig Whitfield had a chance and Jamie Crowther's had a good header but, as soon as the first goal went in, we collapsed like a pack of cards. The game was dead and buried within a ten minute spell. It's one-nil after 36 minutes and we go in four down at half-time. The game's dead and buried and we're playing for pride. All credit to Port Talbot. They came out for the second half and started on the front foot. Most teams would have taken their foot off the gas but they've come out and steamrollered us again. If I'm being honest I think, at seven, we got away with it a little bit. It could have been nine or ten and I think they'll be a bit disappointed they didn't get that many.” Daniel Thomas scored a hat-trick on the night with Liam McCreesh and Lee John completing the scoring with two goals each in the convincing win.
Click here for Elements Cefn Druids match report
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

16th February 2010
Thomas treble headlines Druids demolition
Daniel Thomas made the most of his opportunity in the starting line-up with a hat-trick on Tuesday. Elements Cefn Druids were the unfortunate visitors to The GenQuip Stadium as Port Talbot Town cruised to a 7-0 victory, the sides biggest ever win in the Welsh Premier League while for Thomas it was his first ever hat-trick in the league following his arrival in the summer, and also his first Welsh Premier League goal. Thomas opened the scoring on 36 minutes before further goals from Lee John and a double from Liam McCreesh put Mark Jones side 4-0 ahead at half-time. Thomas then added two more to complete his hat-trick early in the second half before John added his second of the night to complete the scoring. Port Talbot were also denied by the woodwork more than once in what was a dominating performance. With goalkeeper Lee Kendall unavailable, new signing Duncan Roberts made his first start for the club but was a virtual spectator for long periods.
Click here for Elements Cefn Druids match report
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

16th February 2010
Jones delight as Grist commits to Blues
Defender Lloyd Grist has signed a new contract at Port Talbot Town to the delight of manager Mark Jones. Summer signing Grist has been in superb form this season and has now committed himself to the club for next season following Tuesday’s 7-0 win over Elements Cefn Druids. “I am extremely pleased that Lloyd has committed himself to the club,” said Jones. “He is an important player for us and has been in fantastic form this season. For me this is the best result of the night”. Grist started his football career with Shrewsbury Town and has also played for Caersws, Aberystwyth, Newport County and Canadian side Toronto Lynx.
Click here for more information on Lloyd Grist

15th February 2010
International call for Port Talbot Town trio
Lee Surman, Scott Barrow and Drew Fahiya have again been selected for the Wales Under-23 side. The trio will now represent Wales at Semi-Pro level away against Portugal on Wednesday, 3rd March with kick off at 3.00pm. Manager Terry Boyle has named two new players in his eighteen man squad with fourteen of the eighteen being selected from Welsh Premier clubs. In their opening match the side were held to a 2-2 draw against Northern Ireland in Portadown despite being two goals ahead while the two new players selected for the squad are Alex Darlington from the The New Saints and Rob Williams of Altrincham. The club would like to congratulate the three players selected from Port Talbot Town. Here is the full squad for the International Challenge Trophy match -
Goalkeepers: Lee Idzi (Haverfordwest County); Stephen Cann (Aberystwyth Town)
Defenders: Lee Surman (Port Talbot Town), Michael Johnston (Bangor City), Kyle Critchell (Dorchester United), Rob Williams (Altricham FC), Curtis McDonald (Forest Green Rovers), Michael Pearson (Barrow FC)
Midfielders: Scott Barrow (Port Talbot Town), Craig Jones (The New Saints FC), Aeron Edwards (The New Saints FC), Drew Fahiya (Port Talbot Town), Luke Sherbon (Aberystwyth Town), Ashley Williams (Airbus UK Broughton FC)
Strikers: Jack Christopher (Haverfordwest County), Craig Moses (Llanelli AFC), Alex Darlington (The New Saints FC), Jamie Reed (Bangor City)
Stand-By: Craig Williams (Newtown AFC), Ryan Batley (Llanelli AFC), Lee Bevan (Haverfordwest County), Craig Jones (Llanelli AFC), Sion Edwards (Bangor City), Jordan Follows (Llanelli AFC)
Click here for more information on Lee Surman
Click here for more information on Scott Barrow
Click here for more information on Drew Fahiya

15th February 2010
Blues aim for Druids double on Tuesday night
Port Talbot Town are back in Welsh Premier League action on Tuesday against Elements Cefn Druids. A goal from Drew Fahiya was enough for Mark Jones side to defeat Druids on the opening day of he season and manager Mark Jones would be more than happy with a report scoreline at The GenQuip Stadium on Tuesday night following last Friday’s defeat. Matthew Rees and Lee Surman are both available after missing the defeat at Aberystwyth through suspension but Scott Barrow is unavailable due to his accumulation of bookings. Kick off is at 7.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

14th February 2010
Roberts signs as Jones adds Kendall cover to squad
Mark Jones has completed the signing of former Newport County and Llanelli goalkeeper Duncan Roberts. An experienced player in both the Welsh Premier League and the English pyramid, Roberts will act as cover for goalkeeper Lee Kendall following Tony Pennock’s move to Aberaman and could be in the squad for Tuesday’s match against Elements Cefn Druids. Roberts came through the ranks at Norwich City in the 1990’s before joining Mansfield, King’s Lynn, Spalding, Harrow Borough, St. Albans and Bedford Town before earning a trial at Oldham Athleitc and then at Luton Town. Moved to the Welsh Premier League with Barry Town but made just one appearance during the clubs financial crisis and signed for Newport County. Roberts returned to England with Cambridge City in 2004 but left the following season to start-up a business in South Wales and signed for Llanelli. A recurring knee injury forced him out of the game in November 2008 and he has recently been part of the coaching staff at Barry Town. Roberts has made a total of 69 Welsh Premier League appearances and will bring a wealth of experience to Mark Jones squad.
Click here for more information on Duncan Roberts
Click here for the 1st Team page

14th February 2010
Youth test league favourites Llanelli despite defeat
The Under-19 side suffered a 3-1 defeat to Llanelli on Sunday despite being ahead at half-time. A goal from Sam France rounded off an impressive opening half from Mark Pike’s side against champions and league favourites Llanelli in the early kick off at The GenQuip Stadium but the visitors came back to score three goals in the second half to claim the victory. Striker Tom Gigg forced Llanelli goalkeeper Craig Richards to make a fine save after just fifteen minutes before Gigg combined with France two minutes later to put Port Talbot ahead. Llanelli came back in the second half with goals from Daniel Smale, Craig Frater and James Secker however with Antonio Facciuto and Frater also hitting the crossbar for the visitors. Port Talbot will take plenty of positives from the match however after causing their opponents a number of problems in the opening half as well as scoring the only goal that Llanelli have conceded in the league so far this season.
Click here for Llanelli match report and photos
Click here for the Under-19 Team page

13th February 2010
Barrow suspended for Druids test on Tuesday
Scott Barrow will miss Tuesday nights home match against Elements Cefn Druids through suspension. Barrow has been handed a one-match suspension for an accumulation of bookings but manager Mark Jones will be boosted by the return of defensive duo Matthew Rees and Lee Surman who missed Friday’s defeat at Aberystwyth through a one-match ban. The match is the first of two home games as Port Talbot Town look for a return to form with Technogroup Welshpool the visitors to The GenQuip Stadium on Saturday. Kick off on Tuesday night is at 7.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

12th February 2010
Aber move above Blues with Friday night victory
Goals from Ryan Fraughan and Luke Bowen earned Aberystwyth a 2-1 win over Port Talbot on Friday. Aberystwyth made the most of the enforced defensive changes in the Port Talbot Town side when they took the lead after 20 minutes and then doubled it midway through the second half with a goal from Bowen before Liam McCreesh scored a consolation goal. Port Talbot were without defensive trio Matthew Rees, Lee Surman and Gary Bansor as Karl Lewis and Leigh De-Vulgt stepped into the central defensive positions but were exposed on 20 minutes when Luke Bowen combined with Ryan Fraughan for Aber to take the lead. Bowen then added a second against his former club in the second half. Port Talbot dominated the last 15 minutes of the match and a header from McCreesh offered Mark Jones side a chance to take something form the match but despite creating a number chances before the final whistle they equaliser would not arrive. The win moves Aberystwyth above Port Talbot Town in the Welsh Premier League table and also completes a league double over Port Talbot Town this season.
Click here for Aberystwyth match report

11th February 2010
Both sides on revenge mission this Friday night
Port Talbot are in action at Aberystwyth on Friday night with both sides out to avenge previous defeats. Aberystwyth claimed a 2-1 victory at The GenQuip Stadium earlier in the season but were knocked out of the Welsh Cup a fortnight ago by Port Talbot Town leaving both sides looking for a revenge win that would also overtake Rhyl in the league table. Port Talbot and Aberystwyth are currently both on 37 points and hold the 4th and 5th positions in the league table respectively although Port Talbot have played three games less than their Friday night opponents while Rhyl are currently in 3rd place with 38 points but like Aberystwyth have played three games more than Port Talbot ahead of their match at home to Newtown on Sunday. The Principality Welsh Premier League match between Port Talbot Town and Aberystwyth last September resulted in the visitors claiming a 2-1 victory against nine men as both Drew Fahiya and Danny Thomas were controversially sent off by referee Dean John while regular goalkeeper Lee Kendall missed the match through injury and was replaced by Tony Pennock. The two sides were then drawn against each other in the 4th round of the Welsh Cup but with Port Talbot in good form leading up to the match goals from Liam McCreesh and Leigh De-Vulgt earned a comfortable 2-0 win at Park Avenue. Recently-appointed Aberystwyth Town manager Alan Morgan was far from happy with his sides performance on the day and will be expecting better from his players on Friday night while Port Talbot Town manager Mark Jones will make enforced changes to his side with both captain Matthew Rees and his defensive partner Lee Surman suspended following an accumulation of bookings. The coach leaves The GenQuip Stadium at 3.15pm with supporters places available at £10 each. Kick off is at 7.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

9th February 2010
Blues look for more support at Aber this weekend
Port Talbot Town are back in Principality Welsh Premier League action at Aberystwyth on Friday night. A fortnight ago Mark Jones side claimed a 2-0 win at Aberystwyth in the Welsh Cup backed by a large travelling support and transport details have now been confirmed for Fridays match with the coach leaving The GenQuip Stadium at 3.15pm. Spaces are available on the coach priced at £10 each. Kick off at Aberystwyth is at 7.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

9th February 2010
Jones watches on as Under-19s claim three points
The Under-19 side defeated Haverfordwest County 2-1 on Tuesday night at The GenQuip Stadium. Port Talbot Town 1st Team manager Mark Jones was in attendance as Sam France and Jack Germain scored the goals either side of a Haverfordwest penalty in the second half to earn the side their first victory from their opening four league games. Sam Baker and Jamie Jones both had chances to open the scoring in the opening half but it was Sam France who would score the first goal of the game with a superb volley on 68 minutes. From the re-start however, France brought down Haverfordwest substitute Atueyi Vincent in the area and Ashley Edwards scored from the penalty spot to level the score. Minutes later Port Talbot Town were back in front as Jack Germain made the most of a defensive mistake to score the winner and earn his side a well-deserved three points. The side are now back in action on Sunday when Llanelli are the visitors to The GenQuip Stadium with an early kick off time of 11.00am.
Click here for the Haverfordwest County match report
Click here for the Under-19 Team page

8th February 2010
Suspended defensive duo force team changes
Mark Jones will make the first changes to his starting line-up since the start of 2010 on Friday night. Jones has named the same eleven for four consecutive games but will be without captain Matthew Rees and his defensive partner Lee Surman for Friday’s match at Aberystwyth as the pair serve a one match suspension for their accumulation of bookings. During the last four games Port Talbot Town have claimed an impressive Welsh Premier League victory over champions Rhyl but the side side then suffered a 1-0 reverse at The New Saints. Jones kept faith with the same starting line-up for the Welsh Cup 4th round match at Friday’s opponents Aberystwyth Town and was rewarded with a comfortable 2-0 win and then side then followed that up with a 1-0 home win over Haverfordwest County at The GenQuip Stadium last Friday. The victory moved Port Talbot Town above Aberystwyth in the Welsh Premier League and another competitive match is expected at Park Avenue on Friday night. Kick off is at 7.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

8th February 2010
Under-19’s back in action on Tuesday night
On Tuesday Mark Pike’s Under-19 side are in action at The GenQuip Stadium against Haverfordwest. The side have struggled due to postponements in recent months but have the opportunity to move themselves off the bottom of the MacWhirter Welsh League Youth Division West on Tuesday night before another difficult home match on Sunday against Llanelli. A number of players from the side have been training regularly with the 1st Team this season in addition to training with the Under-19 side and manager Mark Pike will be looking for a good performance on Tuesday following a disappointing second half display against current league leaders Bryntirion Athletic in their last match a fortnight ago.
Click here for the Under-19 Team page
Click here for the MacWhirter Welsh League Youth Division West page

7th February 2010
Boost for Blues as league rivals slip up
Port Talbot Town received a huge boost at the weekend as their league rivals all suffered defeats. A goal from Martin Rose was enough for Port Talbot Town to defeat Haverfordwest County at The GenQuip Stadium on Friday but over the course of the weekend The New Saints, Rhyl, Aberystwyth and Neath were all defeated to move Mark Jones side into a strong position. The New Saints suffered the most surprising defeat of the weekend as they went 1-0 to GAP Connah’s Quay on Friday night while on Saturday Aberystwyth slipped further behind Port Talbot Town with a 2-0 defeat at Airbus UK Broughton. Local rivals Neath could have caught up with Port Talbot with their games in hand but following last weekend’s draw against Elements Cefn Druids they were defeated 1-0 at Bala Town. In Sunday’s North Wales derby third placed Rhyl were defeated 3-1 at local rivals Bangor City to leave Port Talbot Town two points behind Rhyl despite having played three games less.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

7th February 2010
Golding and Weatton in CYP Wales squad
Port Talbot Town youngsters Taylor Golding and Michael Weatton will represent Wales in May. The duo who play for the Under-14 Blues team, made it through the final trials and will represent Wales against Scotland in May in the Clubs for Young People squad, formerly known as the Boys and Girls Clubs of Wales and will play a total of four games for the side. “Taylor and Michael have worked extremely hard over the last two seasons and have improved in many ways,” said Under-14 team manager David Davies. “As their coach at Port Talbot Town I am very proud of what they have achieved and for the lads who didn’t make it keep working hard and keep your heads up. Well done to Taylor and Michael, the players, parents and everyone else involved at the club are very proud of you”.
Click here for the Under-14 Team page

5th February 2010
Rose blooms after winter freeze
Striker Martin Rose scored the only goal of the game on Friday night to earn his side three points. Rose scored his first goal for two months as Port Talbot Town defeated Haverfordwest County 1-0 at The GenQuip Stadium but the margin of victory should have been greater as Mark Jones side dominated for long periods of the match in the deserved win. Haverfordwest were undefeated at Port Talbot Town for five seasons before the match and included former Port Talbot Town players Mark Dodds and Gareth Elliott in their squad together with a host of recent signings. Drew Fahiya created a number of chances in the opening half while midfielder Neil Thomas was in superb form against his former club but the side could not take a lead into half-time. Rose then headed home after 63 minutes and further chances followed. Referee Neil Morgan caused controversy in injury time as he awarded Haverfordwest a free-kick inside the area after adjudging that goalkeeper Lee Kendall had held onto the ball for more than six seconds. The set piece was wasted however and Port Talbot claimed another important victory.
Click here for Haverfordwest County match report and photos

5th February 2010
Jones aims to put County record straight
Manager Mark Jones will be using Haverfordwest’s recent form at Port Talbot in his pre-match preparations. Haverfordwest are the visitors to The GenQuip Stadium on Friday night having won three and drawn two of their last five Welsh Premier League games there. “I shall be putting that record on the wall of the dressing room and I expect another big effort from my players to bring that run to an end,” said Jones in the Evening Post. “Haverfordwest were the big movers in the transfer market last month. Although I have seen them this season, they have a lot of new faces, some of whom I managed at Carmarthen. Tom Ramasut and Mark Dodds have both done well for me in the past and were part of the Welsh Cup-winning team. It will be an interesting match as they have bought to try to achieve a top 10 finish.” Jones is also looking for another big performance off the field following last weeks support at Aberystwyth. “It was great to have 200 supporters at Park Avenue and I hope they all return tonight and that the players can put on a performance to thank them. We have a superb home record this season. We have won eight, drawn one and lost one of our past 10 matches. That's the consistency we need to continue.” Jones has a full squad of players available. Kick off is at 7.30pm.
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5th February 2010
Brazil full of praise for Blues
Haverfordwest County manager Derek Brazil has praised Mark Jones and his side ahead of Fridays match. Brazil is assisted at Haverfordwest by former Port Talbot Town midfielder Mark Evans and despite making a number of signings during the January transfer window the duo are expecting a tough match. “I'm full of praise for Jonah and his team and how well they have done,” said Brazil. “I've seen them at home a few times and there aren't too many weaknesses in the team. But if there are on the night we aim to exploit them. I'm sure it will be end to end stuff, given the players that are on show from both teams.” Haverfordwest have an excellent record at The GenQuip Stadium in recent years and held Port Talbot to a 1-1 draw at The New Bridge Meadow earlier in the season.
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5th February 2010
Pennock makes Aberaman switch
Goalkeeper Tony Pennock has transferred from Port Talbot Town to Welsh League side Aberaman. Pennock, a former Port Talbot Town manager and current Head of Youth Development at Swansea City, signed for Port Talbot Town in September last year as emergency cover for Lee Kendall and played two games for the club while Kendall was out through injury. Last week the clubs two Under-19 goalkeepers, Ryan Dummer and Luke Martin, signed Welsh Premier League forms at the club.
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5th February 2010
Former Blue Jade selected for CYP Wales
Young Jade Dawkins has been selected to play for Wales at the Clubs for Young People level. Jade played for Port Talbot Town as a junior player for a number of seasons but moved to Margam to play 11-a-side football in a girls team last year. The Clubs for Young People association is the new name for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wales group and everyone at the club would like to wish Jade well. Jade is also the grand-daughter of club Secretary John Dawkins.

3rd February 2010
January signing Dodds returns for Friday night derby
Former Port Talbot Town striker Mark Dodds returns to the club on Friday as a Haverfordwest defender. Originally signed for Port Talbot Town on-loan from Merthyr Tydfil by Mark Jones back in 2001, Dodds has enjoyed almost a decade of top-flight football in which he has been converted from a striker to a central defender and now has a new challenge at Haverfordwest. The West Wales side are currently in twelfth place in the Principality Welsh Premier League and manager Derek Brazil has made a number of changes to his squad in the January transfer window with the signing of the experienced Dodds doubling-up to add strength and experience to his defence as well as weakening nearest league rivals Carmarthen Town who are currently in eleventh position. With both South Wales clubs desperate to earn a place in the new league of twelve clubs from next season, a place in the top ten is required to guarantee qualification subject to meeting the FAW domestic licence criteria and Brazil has made his intentions clear during the January transfer window. Two players surprisingly released from The New Bridge Meadow were former Cardiff City defender Damon Searle and leading goalscorer Robbie Walters, but Brazil has been shrewd in his January moves by bringing back four former players with a wealth of experience of both the Welsh Premier League and the club itself in Tom Ramasut, Lee Hudgell, Chris O’Sullivan and Tom Billing but it is the arrival of Dodds from Carmarthen that could make their season. Dodds first made himself known as a young striker in the Welsh League with Goytre United in 2000 and his performances caught the attention of Merthyr Tydfil manager John Lewis who took him to Penydarren Park. Mark Jones had recently been appointed as manager of Port Talbot Town in 2001 and knew Dodds from his time in the Welsh League as manager of Maesteg Park and quickly brought him to Port Talbot on-loan as his opportunities at Merthyr became limited. Dodds made over 60 Welsh Premier League appearances for Port Talbot Town over the next three seasons, scoring 18 goals and turning his loan deal into a permanent move. Dodds was also capped by the Wales Semi-Pro side while at Port Talbot Town. Mark Jones left in 2004 and Dodds moved with him to Carmarthen Town where he remained an upfront targetman until a defensive crisis in 2005. Dodds was asked by Jones to play an unfamiliar defensive role in the absence of a recognised central defender and Dodds more than impressed in the position, remaining in the back four for the remainder of his time at Richmond Park before being approached by Newport County. Dodds made the move to the English pyramid and continued where he had left off at Carmarthen with a string of commanding performances in defence at Spytty Park, his finest hour coming in the FAW Premier Cup in February 2008 when his side defeated Cardiff City and Dodds put in a man of the match performance. Dodds returned to Carmarthen Town the following season due to increasing work commitments and has been one of the first names on manager Deryn Brace’s teamsheet ever since. An approach from Newtown manager Darren Ryan during last months transfer window sparked interest from a number of other clubs and Dodds eventually opted to join up with Haverfordwest County manager Derek Brazil and their challenge to move into the top ten of the Welsh Premier League. With 192 league starts to his name Dodds will be a key player for Haverfordwest but his former mentor Mark Jones will be keen for his influence to take a little longer to come into effect when he turns out at The GenQuip Stadium against Port Talbot Town on Friday night. Admission for the match remains at £6 for adults and £4 for concessions. Kick off is at 7.30pm.
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3rd February 2010
Reds & Blues the most settled of South Wales clubs
Llanelli and Port Talbot Town both made the least changes to their squads during the transfer window. Neither club signed a single player during January but more importantly both only had one player leave their respective squads which has delighted manager Mark Jones. “The team spirit that we have can be seen in the fact that we have not made any changes,” said Jones to the official website. “That was our aim when the window opened and I am delighted that we have retained our current squad of players as we look to achieve our season aim. Only young Andy Boslem decided to move on for regular football having found his chances limited and on behalf of everyone at the club I would like to wish him well on his return to the Scottish leagues”. Llanelli manager Andy Legg also kept faith with his squad of players, allowing only youngster Ross Jones to join Haverfordwest County on-loan. By comparison Haverfordwest County were the busiest of the South Wales clubs during the transfer window, signing a total of seven players and releasing a further five as they challenge local rivals Carmarthen Town for a place in the top ten and they did their chances of finishing above Carmarthen no harm with the signing of Mark Dodds from Richmond Park. Carmarthen manager Deryn Brace meanwhile brought in Sean Cronin on-loan from Neath to replace Dodds in the centre of defence and also added Dale Griffiths from Merthyr Tydfil to his squad. Neath brought in experienced midfielder Kevin Cooper as well as striker Chris Jones who arrived on-loan from Grimsby Town with three players leaving the Gnoll to be loaned out to various clubs. In North Wales current Principality Welsh Premier League champions Rhyl made the most changes due mainly to off the field financial problems with five senior players leaving and eight new players being brought in. The least activity in the transfer window from the North came from Prestatyn Town who did not make any signings after an impressive season and only Matthew Towns left the club. The two biggest transfers of the window involved Bangor City as their star striker Chris Sharp signed for The New Saints but was replaced at Bangor by Lee Hunt from local rivals Rhyl.
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2nd February 2010
Kendall, John & Thomas ready for County reunion
Port Talbot trio Lee Kendall, Lee John and Neil Thomas take on one of their former clubs on Friday night. Haverfordwest County are the visitors to The GenQuip Stadium and the three players have previously played an important part at the club. Kendall made his name as the best goalkeeper in the league at Haverfordwest after joining the club in 2003. During a five-year spell at the club Kendall made 146 Welsh Premier League appearances but was released from his contract to join Rhyl in 2007 and went onto lift the Welsh Premier League title with the North Wales club last season. A summer move to Port Talbot Town followed but his return to Haverfordwest earlier in the season saw him suffer a leg injury in a 1-1 draw which kept him out of action for a fortnight. Lee John made 18 appearances for Haverfordwest in two separate spells at the club in 2003-2004 and again in 2005-2006 before returning to Port Talbot Town for a second time. Midfielder Neil Thomas also joined Port Talbot Town in the summer after two seasons at Haverfordwest County where he made over 50 Welsh Premier League starts and was voted the Supporters Player of the Year at the club last season. One other Port Talbot Town player has also featured for Haverfordwest County in the Welsh Premier League is Liam McCreesh made one appearance for the club in 2007 while on dual-registration with Welsh League side Afan Lido. Manager Mark Jones has a full squad to choose from for the match. Kick off on Friday is at 7.30pm.
Click here for more information on Lee Kendall
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1st February 2010
Druids fixture brought forward to February
Port Talbot Town will play a re-arranged match against Elements Cefn Druids on Tuesday, 16th February. The home fixture was originally scheduled for December last year but was postponed due to the frozen playing surface at The GenQuip Stadium. Mark Jones side are also home the following Saturday when Technogroup Welshpool are the visitors. A goal from Drew Fahiya was enough to defeat Elements Cefn Druids 1-0 at Plaskynaston on the opening day of the season but the side have struggled this season and are currently in 17th place in the Principality Welsh Premier League.
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1st February 2010
Jones delighted at victory and support
Manager Mark Jones has spoken to the official website following Saturdays win at Aberystwyth Town. Port Talbot claimed a comfortable 2-0 win in the 4th round of the Welsh Cup through goals from McCreesh and De-Vulgt and were backed by the entire junior section of the club and a large number of travelling fans with five coaches making the journey to Park Avenue. “The lads were magnificent and I was delighted with the quality of our play,” said Jones. “This was a big result for us as Aberystwyth are above us in the league. We bossed the game from beginning to end and I want to thank our supporters. Our players were superb from one to fourteen on the day and thoroughly deserved the victory. Saturday was also a fantastic day for the club with the number of fans we had behind us. There was a superb atmosphere and for me that should be what the Welsh Premier League is all about. I would like to personally thank all the junior players, the coaches and the parents who came to support us on the day and I would like to credit the fans of Aberystwyth too as it really made for a great occasion with the banter between the two sets of fans.” Port Talbot will now take on The New Saints away from home in the quarter-final of the competition on Saturday, 27th February.
Click here for Aberystwyth Town match report and photos
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1st February 2010
Academy praise for Aberystwyth efforts
Everyone involved with the clubs Academy would like to thank their Aberystwyth counterparts for Saturday. The hard work of Aberystwyth Academy administrator David Hinton-Jones made it possible for the Port Talbot Town Academy to take players from Under-7 right through to Under-16 to Aberystwyth to play in the morning of Saturdays Welsh Cup match. In addition the Academy would like to thanks Aberystwyth Town for the hospitality provided to the club in the afternoon with all the players thoroughly enjoying the experience. The Academy would also like to thank Junior Secretary Gary Dawkins for all his efforts in arranging the fixtures in what was a hugely successful day for the club.
Click here for Aberystwyth Town match report and photos

1st February 2010
Two-year Swans scholarship for Josh Pike
Former Port Talbot Town junior player Josh Pike has signed a two-year scholarship with Swansea City. Josh played for Port Talbot Town for four seasons in the Port Talbot & District Junior League before signing forms with Swansea City at the age of 10. Since then Josh has progressed through the ranks at Swansea City and has gained International recognition having played for the Wales Under-16 side against Switzerland and Belgium as well as twice against France, twice against Northern Ireland and twice against the Republic of Ireland. Josh also played for Wales at The GenQuip Stadium last November when he represented his country in the Victory Shield match against Northern Ireland live on Sky Sports. Josh has been involved in the Swansea City Under-18 side this season and remains a keen Port Talbot Town supporter where his father Mark runs the clubs Under-19 team. Everyone at the club would like to congratulate Josh on this latest football achievement and wish him all the best in his career.

1st February 2010
Carmarthen derby switched to Saturday
Port Talbot Town will now take on South Wales rivals Carmarthen Town on Saturday, 6th March. The match was fixtured for Friday, 5th March but has now been moved to the Saturday at The GenQuip Stadium.. Manager Mark Jones enjoyed a successful three seasons at Carmarthen Town and their squad includes a number of former Port Talbot Town players. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
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