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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.
JULY 2008
31st July 2008
Williams signs after trialist cut as five are released
Goalkeeper Gareth Williams has signed for Port Talbot Town for the second time in his career while the remaining five trialists have been released by manager Nicky Tucker. Robbie Walters, Darren Griffiths and Nicky Jones together with the experienced Football League pair of Layton Maxwell and Jonathan Coates have not been offered terms for next season and are free to find another club, with former Cardiff City player Maxwell expected to sign for Welsh League ENTO Aberaman before the weekend. “We have a strong squad at the moment and unfortunately we are not in a position to offer the five players terms for the forthcoming campaign”, said manager Nicky Tucker. “I would like to wish them all well for the future and thank them for their tremendous efforts in both training and in the matches that they have played for us during pre-season”. With goalkeeper Josh Payne now being loaned out to Bryntirion Athletic, Gareth Williams will now offer competition to Kristian Rogers.
30th July 2008
Darren Davies appointed new Academy Director
New signing Darren Davies has been handed the opportunity to develop the next generation of Port Talbot Town players after being appointed as the club’s Academy Director. Huw Lloyd stepped down from the position at the end of the season due to increasing family and work commitments, allowing Davies the opportunity to build on the foundations already at the club. “I am delighted to have been offered this position”, said Darren. “I would like to thank the club, the chairman and the Academy for allowing me this opportunity as well as to Huw Lloyd for his excellent efforts in making the Academy what it is today. As a Port Talbot boy now playing for the club, I am very proud and excited to have the chance to develop the next generation of players”. Chairman Andrew Edwards was equally excited by the appointment, “Darren is a local player currently taking his UEFA A Licence. As a young coach I am immensely pleased that he has agreed to become Academy Director and build on the excellent work of Huw Lloyd before him. I am positive the Academy, which is already one of the best in Wales, will continue to move from strength to strength with this appointment”.
29th July 2008
Burgin sparks goals for Blues in Bridgend win
Swansea City’s James Burgin created the opening goal for Port Talbot Town on Tuesday night as Nicky Tucker’s side cruised to a comfortable 3-0 win over Bridgend Town and The University of Glamorgan Playing Fields in Treforest. The match was played on a 3G artificial surface as part of the preparations for the opening Principality Welsh Premier League match at The New Saints and Port Talbot looked more than comfortable when Sam Baker opened the scoring from Burgin’s cross after just six minutes. Kristian James added the second goal on 19 minutes and trialist Darren Griffiths completed the scoring on 76 minutes when he scored with an excellent strike from outside the area. Drew Fahiya also returned to the starting line-up for the match as new signing Jason Welsh was moved to the centre of defence to partner Lee Surman. Port Talbot are now back in action on Saturday when they travel to Mangotsfield United. The coach leaves The GenQuip Stadium at 11.30am and spaces are limited at £10 each. Kick off is at 3.00pm. Click here to book your place on the coach.
29th July 2008
Welsh League confident over GenQuip Stadium surface
The MacWhirter Welsh Football League have announced the fixtures for both the Reserve Division and Youth Division West. Port Talbot return to the Reserve Division this season with an opening home match against Garden Village on the 23rd of August despite the extensive work on the playing surface over the summer and will start 2009 with a controversial programme of SEVEN consecutive home games between the 10th of January and the 7th of March, the period of the season widely regarded as the worst time of year for playing surfaces. The Youth Division season will start their league fixtures in November with the League Cup taking preference for the opening two months of the season. Our Under-19 side start their cup campaign at Goytre United on the 15th of September and start their league fixtures on the 10th of November at Carmarthen Town.
28th July 2008
Reading the visitors for Swans reserves opener
Port Talbot Town will welcome Reading Football Club to The GenQuip Stadium in September as Swansea City Reserves start their new season in The Football Combination Wales & West Division. Colin Pascoe’s side start with a trip to Cheltenham on the 19th of August and then play Reading in the new Challenge Cup competition on Wednesday, 3rd September. The Swans will play Reading, Southampton, Plymouth Argyle and Bristol City in Group A of the cup, bringing higher profile opposition to The GenQuip Stadium. With manager Roberto Martinez investing in a larger squad for the Championship campaign a number of well known players are expected to feature alongside players from Tony Pennock’s Youth Team to make up the Swansea City Reserve side. Reserve coach Colin Pascoe and Head of Youth Development Tony Pennock are no strangers to Port Talbot Town having both started their senior coaching careers with the club. Port Talbot Town season ticket holders are entitled to free admission for all Swansea City Reserve matches played at The GenQuip Stadium.
26th July 2008
Goals the concern after Clevedon defeat
Port Talbot Town suffered a 1-0 defeat at Clevedon Town on Saturday leaving manager Nicky Tucker concerned about his sides lack of pre-season goals. Due to holiday commitments Tucker was unable to witness an uninspiring debut by new signing Jason Welsh although Youth Team striker Sam Baker did his chances of working his way into the managers thoughts with a strong and committed performance. Lee Surman and Darren Davies also made their first appearances of the season and Port Talbot played the better football in the opening half but struggled to test the home goalkeeper. A superb long range effort opened the scoring for Clevedon midway through the first half and it proved to be the difference between the two sides on the day although Kristian Rogers was the busier of the two goalkeepers in the second half after Port Talbot made a number of changes. The side are now in action against Bridgend Town at Treforest on Tuesday night. Kick off is at 7.00pm.
25th July 2008
Blues prepare for Clevedon Town test
This Saturday Port Talbot Town cross the Seven Bridge to take on Clevedon Town at their Hand Stadium in Somerset. Clevedon play in the BGB Southern League Premier Division which is also the same league in which South Wales rivals Merthyr Tydfil play. The ground has a capacity of 3,500 with covered terraces for 1,700 and 300 seats in the main stand while there is a large clubhouse located just behind the ground. There is also a club shop at the ground as well as a canteen with a full range of food available. Last season former Port Talbot Town striker Kerry Morgan made seven starts for the club after being loaned out by Swansea City on his return from Spain in March and this season former player Tom Hooper has been on trial at the club and could feature in Saturday’s match. Missing from the Port Talbot Town side on Saturday will be Liam McCreesh through holiday commitments while manager Nicky Tucker is also away leaving new coach Matthew Bishop in charge of the side for the first time. The coach for Saturday’s friendly will leave The GenQuip Stadium at 11.45am and will cost £10 for supporters. Kick off is at 3.00pm with admission £5 for adults and £3 for concessions.
23rd July 2008
Football in the Community programme launched
Port Talbot Town Football Club are delighted to announce the launch of a Football in the Community programme in conjunction with the Welsh Football Trust and South Wales Police which will start with a Summer Soccer School next month. 1st Team Players Gareth Phillips and Lee John will be holding a three day coaching session on the 11th, 12th and 13th of August at the Afan Lido sports complex between 10am and 3pm. Both players are UEFA qualified coaches and the three day coaching session is open to both boys and girls aged 7-14 years. The cost of the Soccer School is £10 per day or just £20 to attend all three days which includes a certificate on completion. This is the first in a number of community initiatives planned by the club over the next few months. Please click here to request an application form to attend the Soccer School. Closing date is the 8th of August 2008.
23rd July 2008
Edwards closes book on Lee Phillips saga
Chairman Andrew Edwards has added his thoughts to the many similar opinions already voiced over Lee Phillips return to Llanelli just 27 days after signing for Port Talbot Town Football Club. Speaking to the Port Talbot Guardian, Edwards made his stance more than clear. “Lee will never play for Port Talbot Town again as long as I am chairman at the club”, said Edwards “He basically used us as a pawn after signing for Port Talbot. He has been about a long time in football so it was not naivety on his part. We are not going to be messed about and it is important that we now send out the right messages. He has gone purely for money and to ask for a transfer before kicking a ball in the Welsh Premiership is shameful”. Edwards comments follow on from manager Nicky Tucker’s reaction to the chain of events, “I am very surprised and disappointed this has happened and find very strange and unprofessional. No player is bigger than the club and as Lee obviously hasn’t got the commitment to play for Port Talbot Town he will not be returning to us”.
21st July 2008
Blues complete James double signing
Port Talbot Town Football Club are delighted to confirm that brothers Kristian and Adam James have both signed for the club. The two defensive players will offer manager Nicky Tucker a range of options through their versatility and for older brother Kristian it will be his third spell at Port Talbot Town. Kristian first joined the club on-loan from Swansea City in 2001 before moving onto Dover Athletic, Barry Town, Newport County and Cwmbran Town while Adam has also represented Barry Town and Cwmbran Town in the Welsh Premier League after starting his career as a youngster with Manchester City and Cardiff City. “We are delighted to bring two more talented players into the squad”, said Chairman Andrew Edwards. “We now have strength in depth and cover in a number of positions and we will be looking to improve on last seasons fourth place finish with the players we have in place”. Both players are expected to feature in Saturday’s friendly at Celvedon Town.
21st July 2008
Important week for recent trialists
Manager Nicky Tucker is expected to complete is squad ahead of Saturday’s friendly at Clevedon Town by either releasing or offering terms to a number of new faces who have featured in our opening three friendlies. Former players Jonathan Coates, Kristian James, Nicky Jones and goalkeeper Gareth Williams are the more familiar faces to have featured in pre-season to date and they have been joined by Layton Maxwell, Adam James, Robbie Walters, Dale Griffiths and Lewis James while the surprise exit of a recent summer signing could be of benefit those named above. “There is money available to replace Lee Phillips”, said manager Nicky Tucker. “We will now look to strengthen the squad rather than bring in just one player and negotiations are continuing. I would like to complete the squad ahead of Saturday’s game so that we can work towards preparing for the start of the season”. The coach for Saturday’s friendly will leave The GenQuip Stadium at 11.45am and will cost £10 for supporters. Spaces are very limited and those interested should click here to register their interest. Kick off is at 3.00pm with admission £5 for adults and £3 for concessions.
20th July 2008
Hash slams Phillips over Llanelli return in latest feature
Afan FM Sports Editor Hash Piperdy questions if Lee Phillips can ever wear a Llanelli shirt with pride again on his return to the club and asks why Llanelli would even want him back in his latest exclusive feature for the official website. In addition Hash talks to manager Nicky Tucker about the surprising move.
20th July 2008
Tucker aims to complete squad in next seven days
Manager Nicky Tucker is close to completing his squad for the new season. With a number of trialists waiting to be offered a contract at the club, Tucker will be looking to sign at least two more players in the next few days and release the majority of trialists that have featured in the friendlies so far. Elsewhere former striker Kerry Morgan is one of three Swansea City players who have been loaned to local rivals Neath Athletic, Kerry impressed during his time at Port Talbot Town last season with five Welsh Premier goals from just four starts.
19th July 2008
Phillips fills his pockets with Llanelli reverse
Lee Phillips has left Port Talbot Town Football Club after just 27 days and is expected to sign for former club Llanelli in the next week. Despite leaving Llanelli on principle after the Reds offered him a reduced contract, Phillips has now agreed to re-negotiate with the Welsh Premier League champions. “Lee has informed us that he wishes to speak to Llanelli following their seven day notice of approach and for that reason we have released him from the club”, said manager Nicky Tucker. “I am very surprised and disappointed this has happened and find very strange and unprofessional that the two parties could not come to an agreement while they were negotiating his new contract at the end of the season. No player is bigger than the club and as Lee obviously hasn’t got the commitment to play for Port Talbot Town he will not be returning to us”. Phillips move to Port Talbot Town appears to have prompted Llanelli into making an improved offer for the experienced defender, making the club nothing more than a pawn in his contract negotiations. Phillips can now expect a frosty reception at Port Talbot Town after appearing to have used the club to simply broker himself a better deal with Llanelli.
17th July 2008
Swans show Championship credentials with tournament win
Swansea City cruised to comfortable victories over Port Talbot Town and Carmarthen Town on Thursday as the Liberty Stadium’s latest influx of foreign stars followed on from a 5-0 win over Neath Athletic on Wednesday to defeat Port Talbot Town 4-0 and Carmarthen Town 3-0. Port Talbot kicked off the inaugural three match tournament with a 0-0 draw against Carmarthen in the opening 45 minute match but a hat-trick from new recruit Gorka Pintado and a goal from fellow newcomer Jordi Gomez allowed Swansea a convincing win over Nicky Tucker’s side in the second match of the evening. Guillem Bauza then scored another hat-trick in the third match of the night as Swansea claimed another win over Carmarthen in front of a thousand strong crowd. Nicky Tucker again fielded a mix of trialists and established players and will take a number of positives despite his side failing to find the back of the net over the course of their two games.
15th July 2008
Three games for the price of one as Swans headline tournament
On Thursday night Port Talbot Town will take on both Welsh Premier rivals Carmarthen Town and Championship Swansea City at Carmarthen’s Richmond Park ground. The three-team tournament will start at 7.00pm when Port Talbot take on Carmarthen in a 45 minute match before Nicky Tucker’s side then play Swansea City in a second 45 minute match at 7.50pm. The last match of the tournament will then start at 8.40pm when hosts Carmarthen take on the Swans. The tournament is in place of the originally arranged friendly between Port Talbot and Swansea City that has had to be postponed due to the extensive work that has taken place on the playing surface at The GenQuip Stadium over the summer. “This is the best alternative to the original friendly”, said manager Nicky Tucker. “It will be interesting to see how the squad adapt to playing against two different sides and will again offer us the chance to take a closer look at a few new faces”. Admission is just £6 for adults and £4 for concessions, offering excellent value for money to watch three different sides over 135 minutes of football in a unique pre-season occasion that could become a regular event.
15th July 2008
Griffiths captains Reds to historic UEFA Champions League win
Former Port Talbot Town striker Rhys Griffiths captained Llanelli to a superb 1-0 win over Ventspils of Latvia on Tuesday in the opening round of the UEFA Champions League at Stebonheath. The only goal of the game was scored by defender Stuart Jones and the side must now travel to Latvia for the second leg next week. On Thursday night Bangor City and The New Saints are in UEFA Cup action and are both priced at a very tempting 23 /4 for a victory against their respective Danish and Lithuanian opponents with our betting partners Betway.
15th July 2008
Home draw for Under-19‘s in FAW Welsh Youth Cup
Our Under-19 side have been drawn at home to Caerleon in the 1st round of the FAW Welsh Youth Cup. The match will played on Sunday, 28th September. In addition the side have confirmed that they will travel to Clevedon Town on the same day as the 1st team for a pre-season friendly on Saturday, 26th July.
14th July 2008
Tucker plans double squad boost ahead of new season
Manager Nicky Tucker has revealed his plans to bring two more players to the club following Saturday’s friendly against Llanrumney. “There will be further developments this week with regard to the squad”, said Tucker in an interview with 107.9 Afan FM at the weekend. “I would like to bring a couple more players in and in fairness the Chairman and the board have shown great support so far. Obviously we will not be keeping all the trialists but we need a squad of seventeen or eighteen players to get through the season”. One player returning to the club on Saturday was former Swansea City midfielder Jonathan Coates who played three games for the club in 2006. Coates is better remembered by his 250 Football League appearances for Swansea City where he also represented Wales at Under-21 level and has played for Haverfordwest County in the Welsh Premier League for the last three seasons. The player who stood out most for Tucker on Saturday however was an established favourite as Liam McCreesh picked up the managers man of the match award.
13th July 2008
GenQuip partnership to take club forward
Port Talbot Town Football Club are delighted to announce that locally based market leading company GenQuip are to be their new stadium sponsor in a 3-year deal. The GenQuip Stadium will replace RE/MAX who have been the stadium sponsor for the last 3 years, and the club would like to thank them for their fantastic support during that period. “We are delighted to announce GenQuip as our new stadium sponsor”, said Chairman Andrew Edwards. “GenQuip are a leading local company and I am sure this will be the start of a long association between GenQuip and Port Talbot Town Football Club as we continue to progress on and off the field”. GenQuip Managing Director Mr Dennis Hughes said “We are very pleased to be the new sponsors of Port Talbot's Stadium and we look forward to a successful partnership”. In addition Port Talbot Town are also delighted to announce that Crown Security will be shirt sponsors for the 2008-2009 Principality Welsh Premier League season. Crown Security Managing Director Mr Alun Evans is also a Director of the football club.
12th July 2008
Debut goal for Phillips in opening friendly draw
New signing Lee Phillips scored on his Port Talbot Town debut on Saturday as manager Nicky Tucker’s experimental side were held to a 1-1 draw by Llanrumney United. A number of new faces started the match including Layton Maxwell, Robbie Walters, Jonathan Coates and Kristian James before the side made a number of second half changes. Port Talbot took the lead after dominating for long periods on 65 minutes when Phillips rose above the home defence at a corner to head home but Llanrumney equalised with the last kick of the match when they capitalised on a defensive mix-up between Leigh De-Vulgt and goalkeeper Josh Payne. Unfortunately both Sam Baker and Scott Barrow picked up ankle injuries during the game. “It was a good workout for us”, said Nicky Tucker after the match. “Llanrumney are a decent side and they worked hard against us. It was a good opportunity to see some of the new faces that have been training with us in a match situation and there are a few positives we can take from the game despite injuries to Sam Baker and Scott Barrow”. Port Talbot are now back in action on Thursday when they take on Swansea City at The GenQuip Stadium. Kick off is at 7.15pm.
11th July 2008
Wrexham dream over as Fahiya returns home
Drew Fahiya has returned home after a fortnight’s trial at Blue Square Premier club Wrexham after manager Brian Little decided against offering the former Dinas Powys striker a pro contract. Fahiya was one of three trialists at the club and all three have now left the Racecourse. “It was a close call with a couple of them”, said Little. “But in the end I have decided to pursue other options. That’s not to say we won’t revisit them in the future and we will certainly be keeping an eye on how they progress this season”.
11th July 2008
James brothers boost for Tucker
Brothers Kristian and Adam James both trained with Port Talbot Town on Thursday night. The duo have a wealth of experience in the Welsh Premier League with Kristian making 66 appearances in total, 12 of which came from two separate periods with Port Talbot Town in 2001 and 2005.
10th July 2008
New friendly venue directions for Saturday
This weekends friendly against Llanrumney United will now take place at the home of Llanrumney RFC. The match was originally scheduled for the University playing fields but will now take place on a football pitch adjacent to the rugby ground. Here are the directions - From the M4 take junction 30 (Cardiff Gate) and take the A46232 to A48. Leave A48 at Moat House Hotel junction and take A4161. Take a sharp left and cross Rumney Bridge on B4487 and pass the Police Station and Carpenters Arms before turning left after the Cross Inn into Llanrumney Avenue. Turn into Ball Road and then a sharp left into Hartland Road. Continue into Riverside Park and then into Rumney RFC. Kick off is at 2.30pm and the Rugby Club will be open for hospitality.
10th July 2008
Steve Evans moves back to Welsh League
Midfielder Steve Evans has decided to return to the Welsh League. “I wish him well for the future”, said manager Nicky Tucker. “I understand he wants regular football but we are unable to offer him that”. Evans signed for the club from Cwmbran but has yet to confirm which club he will join next season.
9th July 2008
Journeyman Maxwell covers Anfield to Sandfields
The only player with a 100% scoring record for Liverpool Football Club is expected to feature at Llanrumney United on Saturday. Layton Maxwell has also achieved a 100% attendance record in pre-season training after recently returning to live in Cardiff and has impressed manager Nicky Tucker with his commitment over the last fortnight. “Layton, like the rest of the squad, has knuckled down during pre-season and his fitness is at a good level”, said Tucker. “He can bring a lot of Football League and Welsh Premier League experience to the side and he will play a part at the weekend”. Maxwell scored in front of the Kop in his only Liverpool appearance before moves to Stockport County, Mansfield, Cardiff City, Swansea City, Rhyl, Carmarthen and Caernarfon.
9th July 2008
John Rogers
Everyone at Port Talbot Town would like to pass on their condolences to goalkeeper Kristian Rogers on the recent passing of his father John. The funeral will be held this Friday in his home town of Chester.
8th July 2008
Tucker talks training, trialists and opening friendly test
Port Talbot Town manager Nicky Tucker has spoken to the official website ahead of Saturday’s opening friendly of the new season. Tucker takes his new look side to Llanrumny United this weekend and was quick to express his delight at how pre-season training is progressing. “Training has been extremely good,” said Tucker. “The players have reacted well to new coach Matthew Bishop and he has quickly settled into the club. We have benefited from some good quality sessions over the last fortnight and the players are now ready to work towards their match fitness starting at Llanrumny this Saturday. I will be looking to use the majority of the squad during the game and will also use the opportunity to take a look at a couple of trialists who have been part of our preparations so far. The attitude of the players has been excellent and I am looking forward to a constructive afternoon”. The match will take place at the University playing fields in Llanrumny, Cardiff with kick off at 2.30pm. New signing Lee Phillips will make his debut for the club after his high profile transfer from champions Llanelli although Darren Davies is unable to take part in the match due to holiday commitments.
8th July 2008
Fahiya books different friendly date with Wolves
After signing for Port Talbot Town one month ago, Drew Fahiya was expecting to appear in his first friendly of the season with his new team-mates against Llanrumny United this Saturday. Instead the former Dinas Powys forward will prepare to make his first appearance for Wrexham when they take on Championship promotion chasers Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Racecourse. Fahiya is currently on trial at Wrexham and manager Brian Little could introduce him this weekend. “We want to fetch out the best in the players and allied to that we are trying to bring in another player if we can but we have three trialists to look at”, said Little.
8th July 2008
Hash looks at what Swans kids can bring to the Welsh Premier
Afan FM Sports Editor Hash Piperdy takes a closer look at Swansea City Chairman Huw Jenkins comments that the club will be looking to loan their young players to various Welsh Premier League clubs this season.
5th July 2008
Crown Security named as new shirt sponsors
The new shirt sponsor of Port Talbot Town Football Club for the 2008-2009 Principality Welsh Premier League season will be Crown Security. Crown will now have their name on the front of this seasons shirts starting with the forthcoming friendly against Swansea City. Crown Security are already an official partner of the club while Managing Director Alun Evans is also a board member at Port Talbot Town.
5th July 2008
Welcome to The GenQuip Stadium
In addition to the shirt sponsorship, an announcement was made on the night confirming that the ground will now be named The GenQuip Stadium. A press release will follow shortly.
4th July 2008
Little on Fahiya - “It’s early days”
Wrexham manager Brian Little has spoken about the three trialists currently at the Racecourse, one of which is Port Talbot Town striker Drew Fahiya. “If they do really well we’ll try to bring them on board,” said Little. “We’ve done one training session and at the moment we want to integrate them in training with us and make sure their fitness levels are high”. Fahiya is joined on trial at the Blue Square Premier club by Irish youngster David Ogilby and former Trinidad & Tobago International defender Brent Sancho. “We’ll be pushing them in game situations in the next couple of weeks and take it on from there. At the moment they’re just getting involved in a little bit of fitness work so in terms of how their trials are going it’s early days,” added the former Aston Villa manager. Fahiya signed for Port Talbot Town just one month ago from Dinas Powys and was recommended to Wrexham scout Brian Carey by Dinas manager Mark Jones. Wrexham have recently lost the services of striker Chris Llewellyn to Grimsby Town despite interest in the forward from Welsh Premier League side Rhyl, leaving Fahiya as an option to strengthen the clubs attacking options as they attempt to return to the Football League.
3rd July 2008
Few tickets remaining for Sponsors Dinner
This Friday, 4th July, is the annual club Sponsors Dinner at Blanco’s. Guest speakers for the evening will be former Ospreys coach Lyn Jones and former Wales and Celtic striker John Hartson and there are a few tickets remaining for those wishing to attend this popular night. Tickets are on sale at just £20 per person and at a reduced price of £30 per couple which includes a three course meal and an evening of entertainment. The main draw of the night will determine which company will become the new main shirt sponsor of Port Talbot Town for the 2008-2009 Principality Welsh Premier League season, companies wishing to add their name to the draw can purchase tickets at £250 each which includes two tickets for the evening and as a special offer companies buying two draw tickets will be entered into the draw four times to quadruple their chance of success. To attend the evening or to add your company name into the draw please contact Commercial Manager Tony Bowen on 07788 490367.
3rd July 2008
Pennock in charge of Swansea City’s future stars
This time last year Tony Pennock was looking forward to his first season in management after recently being named the new manager of Port Talbot Town Football Club. Today he has been handed a very different challenge after being appointed the new Director of Youth Football at Coca-Cola Championship side Swansea City. After an unsuccessful six months in charge at Port Talbot, Pennock returned as a player at Newport County and then signed for Neath Athletic at the end of the season. Expecting to reunite with Pennock at the Swans is former Port Talbot Town coach Paul Reid who was Pennock’s assistant during his time at the club. Reid stated in a recent interview that he was waiting for news on who would take over the Director of Youth Football position at the Swans before deciding on his footballing future and is now expected to be named as a coach in the Swansea City set-up. Pennock is expected to continue his playing career at Neath Athletic although he has resigned as manager of the Wales Semi-Professional side.
2nd July 2008
Door to stay open for Carl Evans return
Port Talbot Town manager Nicky Tucker has stated that “the door will always be left open” for defender Carl Evans should he decide to test himself in the Welsh Premier League once again. Evans left Port Talbot to return to Welsh League side Afan Lido after only six months at the club but Tucker fully understands the highly rated youngsters reasons. “Carl did a great job for us last season. He didn’t want to do all the travelling in the Welsh Premiership and to be fair it is a big commitment,” said Tucker, who has just completed the first part of his UEFA A licence. “For away games we are either travelling fair distances on a Friday night or early Saturday mornings. Carl is a very good player and he is welcome back to the club any time and the door will always be left open for him,” he added. Meanwhile former Port Talbot Town duo Rhys Griffiths and Andrew Mumford will play their first UEFA Champions League match in two weeks time after Llanelli were drawn against Ventspils of Latvia in the opening round of games. In the UEFA Cup Bangor City have been drawn against Midtjylland of Denmark while The New Saints will play Suduva of Lithuania.
1st July 2008
Dragons eye Drew on Jonah’s Wrexham recommendation
Drew Fahiya has been invited for a trial at Blue Square Premier club Wrexham. Fahiya signed for Port Talbot Town just three weeks ago from Welsh League side Dinas Powys but was recommended to the former Football League club by Dinas manager and former Port Talbot Town manager Mark Jones. This time last year Jones recommended Kaid Mohammed to the Dragons from Carmarthen Town and he impressed enough to be offered a contract but chose an improved offer from Swindon Town after an impressive trial. With Jones scouting reputation in good order with the Racecourse side, Wrexham manager Brian Little has decided to offer Fahiya a trial as his side look to return to the Football League. “It’s a great chance for me and hopefully I’ll get some game time in the friendly games that have been arranged,” said Fahiya. “I’ve been offered a contract by a few clubs in South Wales, including Merthyr Tydfil, Haverfordwest and Port Talbot, but once I was invited to come to Wrexham I knew I had to put that at the top of the list,” he surprisingly added, despite having already signed for Port Talbot Town.
31st July 2008
Williams signs after trialist cut as five are released
Goalkeeper Gareth Williams has signed for Port Talbot Town for the second time in his career while the remaining five trialists have been released by manager Nicky Tucker. Robbie Walters, Darren Griffiths and Nicky Jones together with the experienced Football League pair of Layton Maxwell and Jonathan Coates have not been offered terms for next season and are free to find another club, with former Cardiff City player Maxwell expected to sign for Welsh League ENTO Aberaman before the weekend. “We have a strong squad at the moment and unfortunately we are not in a position to offer the five players terms for the forthcoming campaign”, said manager Nicky Tucker. “I would like to wish them all well for the future and thank them for their tremendous efforts in both training and in the matches that they have played for us during pre-
30th July 2008
Darren Davies appointed new Academy Director
New signing Darren Davies has been handed the opportunity to develop the next generation of Port Talbot Town players after being appointed as the club’s Academy Director. Huw Lloyd stepped down from the position at the end of the season due to increasing family and work commitments, allowing Davies the opportunity to build on the foundations already at the club. “I am delighted to have been offered this position”, said Darren. “I would like to thank the club, the chairman and the Academy for allowing me this opportunity as well as to Huw Lloyd for his excellent efforts in making the Academy what it is today. As a Port Talbot boy now playing for the club, I am very proud and excited to have the chance to develop the next generation of players”. Chairman Andrew Edwards was equally excited by the appointment, “Darren is a local player currently taking his UEFA A Licence. As a young coach I am immensely pleased that he has agreed to become Academy Director and build on the excellent work of Huw Lloyd before him. I am positive the Academy, which is already one of the best in Wales, will continue to move from strength to strength with this appointment”.
29th July 2008
Burgin sparks goals for Blues in Bridgend win
Swansea City’s James Burgin created the opening goal for Port Talbot Town on Tuesday night as Nicky Tucker’s side cruised to a comfortable 3-
29th July 2008
Welsh League confident over GenQuip Stadium surface
The MacWhirter Welsh Football League have announced the fixtures for both the Reserve Division and Youth Division West. Port Talbot return to the Reserve Division this season with an opening home match against Garden Village on the 23rd of August despite the extensive work on the playing surface over the summer and will start 2009 with a controversial programme of SEVEN consecutive home games between the 10th of January and the 7th of March, the period of the season widely regarded as the worst time of year for playing surfaces. The Youth Division season will start their league fixtures in November with the League Cup taking preference for the opening two months of the season. Our Under-
28th July 2008
Reading the visitors for Swans reserves opener
Port Talbot Town will welcome Reading Football Club to The GenQuip Stadium in September as Swansea City Reserves start their new season in The Football Combination Wales & West Division. Colin Pascoe’s side start with a trip to Cheltenham on the 19th of August and then play Reading in the new Challenge Cup competition on Wednesday, 3rd September. The Swans will play Reading, Southampton, Plymouth Argyle and Bristol City in Group A of the cup, bringing higher profile opposition to The GenQuip Stadium. With manager Roberto Martinez investing in a larger squad for the Championship campaign a number of well known players are expected to feature alongside players from Tony Pennock’s Youth Team to make up the Swansea City Reserve side. Reserve coach Colin Pascoe and Head of Youth Development Tony Pennock are no strangers to Port Talbot Town having both started their senior coaching careers with the club. Port Talbot Town season ticket holders are entitled to free admission for all Swansea City Reserve matches played at The GenQuip Stadium.
26th July 2008
Goals the concern after Clevedon defeat
Port Talbot Town suffered a 1-
25th July 2008
Blues prepare for Clevedon Town test
This Saturday Port Talbot Town cross the Seven Bridge to take on Clevedon Town at their Hand Stadium in Somerset. Clevedon play in the BGB Southern League Premier Division which is also the same league in which South Wales rivals Merthyr Tydfil play. The ground has a capacity of 3,500 with covered terraces for 1,700 and 300 seats in the main stand while there is a large clubhouse located just behind the ground. There is also a club shop at the ground as well as a canteen with a full range of food available. Last season former Port Talbot Town striker Kerry Morgan made seven starts for the club after being loaned out by Swansea City on his return from Spain in March and this season former player Tom Hooper has been on trial at the club and could feature in Saturday’s match. Missing from the Port Talbot Town side on Saturday will be Liam McCreesh through holiday commitments while manager Nicky Tucker is also away leaving new coach Matthew Bishop in charge of the side for the first time. The coach for Saturday’s friendly will leave The GenQuip Stadium at 11.45am and will cost £10 for supporters. Kick off is at 3.00pm with admission £5 for adults and £3 for concessions.
23rd July 2008
Football in the Community programme launched
Port Talbot Town Football Club are delighted to announce the launch of a Football in the Community programme in conjunction with the Welsh Football Trust and South Wales Police which will start with a Summer Soccer School next month. 1st Team Players Gareth Phillips and Lee John will be holding a three day coaching session on the 11th, 12th and 13th of August at the Afan Lido sports complex between 10am and 3pm. Both players are UEFA qualified coaches and the three day coaching session is open to both boys and girls aged 7-
23rd July 2008
Edwards closes book on Lee Phillips saga
Chairman Andrew Edwards has added his thoughts to the many similar opinions already voiced over Lee Phillips return to Llanelli just 27 days after signing for Port Talbot Town Football Club. Speaking to the Port Talbot Guardian, Edwards made his stance more than clear. “Lee will never play for Port Talbot Town again as long as I am chairman at the club”, said Edwards “He basically used us as a pawn after signing for Port Talbot. He has been about a long time in football so it was not naivety on his part. We are not going to be messed about and it is important that we now send out the right messages. He has gone purely for money and to ask for a transfer before kicking a ball in the Welsh Premiership is shameful”. Edwards comments follow on from manager Nicky Tucker’s reaction to the chain of events, “I am very surprised and disappointed this has happened and find very strange and unprofessional. No player is bigger than the club and as Lee obviously hasn’t got the commitment to play for Port Talbot Town he will not be returning to us”.
21st July 2008
Blues complete James double signing
Port Talbot Town Football Club are delighted to confirm that brothers Kristian and Adam James have both signed for the club. The two defensive players will offer manager Nicky Tucker a range of options through their versatility and for older brother Kristian it will be his third spell at Port Talbot Town. Kristian first joined the club on-
21st July 2008
Important week for recent trialists
Manager Nicky Tucker is expected to complete is squad ahead of Saturday’s friendly at Clevedon Town by either releasing or offering terms to a number of new faces who have featured in our opening three friendlies. Former players Jonathan Coates, Kristian James, Nicky Jones and goalkeeper Gareth Williams are the more familiar faces to have featured in pre-
20th July 2008
Hash slams Phillips over Llanelli return in latest feature
Afan FM Sports Editor Hash Piperdy questions if Lee Phillips can ever wear a Llanelli shirt with pride again on his return to the club and asks why Llanelli would even want him back in his latest exclusive feature for the official website. In addition Hash talks to manager Nicky Tucker about the surprising move.
20th July 2008
Tucker aims to complete squad in next seven days
Manager Nicky Tucker is close to completing his squad for the new season. With a number of trialists waiting to be offered a contract at the club, Tucker will be looking to sign at least two more players in the next few days and release the majority of trialists that have featured in the friendlies so far. Elsewhere former striker Kerry Morgan is one of three Swansea City players who have been loaned to local rivals Neath Athletic, Kerry impressed during his time at Port Talbot Town last season with five Welsh Premier goals from just four starts.
19th July 2008
Phillips fills his pockets with Llanelli reverse
Lee Phillips has left Port Talbot Town Football Club after just 27 days and is expected to sign for former club Llanelli in the next week. Despite leaving Llanelli on principle after the Reds offered him a reduced contract, Phillips has now agreed to re-
17th July 2008
Swans show Championship credentials with tournament win
Swansea City cruised to comfortable victories over Port Talbot Town and Carmarthen Town on Thursday as the Liberty Stadium’s latest influx of foreign stars followed on from a 5-
15th July 2008
Three games for the price of one as Swans headline tournament
On Thursday night Port Talbot Town will take on both Welsh Premier rivals Carmarthen Town and Championship Swansea City at Carmarthen’s Richmond Park ground. The three-
15th July 2008
Griffiths captains Reds to historic UEFA Champions League win
Former Port Talbot Town striker Rhys Griffiths captained Llanelli to a superb 1-
15th July 2008
Home draw for Under-
14th July 2008
Tucker plans double squad boost ahead of new season
Manager Nicky Tucker has revealed his plans to bring two more players to the club following Saturday’s friendly against Llanrumney. “There will be further developments this week with regard to the squad”, said Tucker in an interview with 107.9 Afan FM at the weekend. “I would like to bring a couple more players in and in fairness the Chairman and the board have shown great support so far. Obviously we will not be keeping all the trialists but we need a squad of seventeen or eighteen players to get through the season”. One player returning to the club on Saturday was former Swansea City midfielder Jonathan Coates who played three games for the club in 2006. Coates is better remembered by his 250 Football League appearances for Swansea City where he also represented Wales at Under-
13th July 2008
GenQuip partnership to take club forward
Port Talbot Town Football Club are delighted to announce that locally based market leading company GenQuip are to be their new stadium sponsor in a 3-
12th July 2008
Debut goal for Phillips in opening friendly draw
New signing Lee Phillips scored on his Port Talbot Town debut on Saturday as manager Nicky Tucker’s experimental side were held to a 1-
11th July 2008
Wrexham dream over as Fahiya returns home
Drew Fahiya has returned home after a fortnight’s trial at Blue Square Premier club Wrexham after manager Brian Little decided against offering the former Dinas Powys striker a pro contract. Fahiya was one of three trialists at the club and all three have now left the Racecourse. “It was a close call with a couple of them”, said Little. “But in the end I have decided to pursue other options. That’s not to say we won’t revisit them in the future and we will certainly be keeping an eye on how they progress this season”.
11th July 2008
James brothers boost for Tucker
Brothers Kristian and Adam James both trained with Port Talbot Town on Thursday night. The duo have a wealth of experience in the Welsh Premier League with Kristian making 66 appearances in total, 12 of which came from two separate periods with Port Talbot Town in 2001 and 2005.
10th July 2008
New friendly venue directions for Saturday
This weekends friendly against Llanrumney United will now take place at the home of Llanrumney RFC. The match was originally scheduled for the University playing fields but will now take place on a football pitch adjacent to the rugby ground. Here are the directions -
10th July 2008
Steve Evans moves back to Welsh League
Midfielder Steve Evans has decided to return to the Welsh League. “I wish him well for the future”, said manager Nicky Tucker. “I understand he wants regular football but we are unable to offer him that”. Evans signed for the club from Cwmbran but has yet to confirm which club he will join next season.
9th July 2008
Journeyman Maxwell covers Anfield to Sandfields
The only player with a 100% scoring record for Liverpool Football Club is expected to feature at Llanrumney United on Saturday. Layton Maxwell has also achieved a 100% attendance record in pre-
9th July 2008
John Rogers
Everyone at Port Talbot Town would like to pass on their condolences to goalkeeper Kristian Rogers on the recent passing of his father John. The funeral will be held this Friday in his home town of Chester.
8th July 2008
Tucker talks training, trialists and opening friendly test
Port Talbot Town manager Nicky Tucker has spoken to the official website ahead of Saturday’s opening friendly of the new season. Tucker takes his new look side to Llanrumny United this weekend and was quick to express his delight at how pre-
8th July 2008
Fahiya books different friendly date with Wolves
After signing for Port Talbot Town one month ago, Drew Fahiya was expecting to appear in his first friendly of the season with his new team-
8th July 2008
Hash looks at what Swans kids can bring to the Welsh Premier
Afan FM Sports Editor Hash Piperdy takes a closer look at Swansea City Chairman Huw Jenkins comments that the club will be looking to loan their young players to various Welsh Premier League clubs this season.
5th July 2008
Crown Security named as new shirt sponsors
The new shirt sponsor of Port Talbot Town Football Club for the 2008-
5th July 2008
Welcome to The GenQuip Stadium
In addition to the shirt sponsorship, an announcement was made on the night confirming that the ground will now be named The GenQuip Stadium. A press release will follow shortly.
4th July 2008
Little on Fahiya -
3rd July 2008
Few tickets remaining for Sponsors Dinner
This Friday, 4th July, is the annual club Sponsors Dinner at Blanco’s. Guest speakers for the evening will be former Ospreys coach Lyn Jones and former Wales and Celtic striker John Hartson and there are a few tickets remaining for those wishing to attend this popular night. Tickets are on sale at just £20 per person and at a reduced price of £30 per couple which includes a three course meal and an evening of entertainment. The main draw of the night will determine which company will become the new main shirt sponsor of Port Talbot Town for the 2008-
3rd July 2008
Pennock in charge of Swansea City’s future stars
This time last year Tony Pennock was looking forward to his first season in management after recently being named the new manager of Port Talbot Town Football Club. Today he has been handed a very different challenge after being appointed the new Director of Youth Football at Coca-
2nd July 2008
Door to stay open for Carl Evans return
Port Talbot Town manager Nicky Tucker has stated that “the door will always be left open” for defender Carl Evans should he decide to test himself in the Welsh Premier League once again. Evans left Port Talbot to return to Welsh League side Afan Lido after only six months at the club but Tucker fully understands the highly rated youngsters reasons. “Carl did a great job for us last season. He didn’t want to do all the travelling in the Welsh Premiership and to be fair it is a big commitment,” said Tucker, who has just completed the first part of his UEFA A licence. “For away games we are either travelling fair distances on a Friday night or early Saturday mornings. Carl is a very good player and he is welcome back to the club any time and the door will always be left open for him,” he added. Meanwhile former Port Talbot Town duo Rhys Griffiths and Andrew Mumford will play their first UEFA Champions League match in two weeks time after Llanelli were drawn against Ventspils of Latvia in the opening round of games. In the UEFA Cup Bangor City have been drawn against Midtjylland of Denmark while The New Saints will play Suduva of Lithuania.
1st July 2008
Dragons eye Drew on Jonah’s Wrexham recommendation
Drew Fahiya has been invited for a trial at Blue Square Premier club Wrexham. Fahiya signed for Port Talbot Town just three weeks ago from Welsh League side Dinas Powys but was recommended to the former Football League club by Dinas manager and former Port Talbot Town manager Mark Jones. This time last year Jones recommended Kaid Mohammed to the Dragons from Carmarthen Town and he impressed enough to be offered a contract but chose an improved offer from Swindon Town after an impressive trial. With Jones scouting reputation in good order with the Racecourse side, Wrexham manager Brian Little has decided to offer Fahiya a trial as his side look to return to the Football League. “It’s a great chance for me and hopefully I’ll get some game time in the friendly games that have been arranged,” said Fahiya. “I’ve been offered a contract by a few clubs in South Wales, including Merthyr Tydfil, Haverfordwest and Port Talbot, but once I was invited to come to Wrexham I knew I had to put that at the top of the list,” he surprisingly added, despite having already signed for Port Talbot Town.