Club News Archive March 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.

MARCH 2010

30th March 2010
Blues move upto fourth with Prestatyn win
Port Talbot Town claimed a 3-0 win at Prestatyn Town on Tuesday to move above Rhyl and into fourth place. Martin Rose, Daniel Thomas and Drew Fahiya scored the goals while at the other end Lee Kendall kept his third consecutive clean sheet. Manager Mark Jones named an attacking line-up with Rose and Thomas joined by Fahiya and Liam McCreesh while Lee John was named on the bench. Rose opened the scoring after 30 minutes before Thomas doubled the advantage just before the break. Fahiya then completed the scoring in the 78th minute to round off a superb result for Mark Jones side. Tuesday’s other Principality Welsh Premier League match between Technogroup Welshpool and Aberystwyth Town was postponed and as a result Port Talbot move within two points of third-placed Aberystwyth having played the same number of games but with a superior goal difference. Mark Jones side are now back in action at Bangor City on Saturday with supporters places available at £10 each. The coach leaves The GenQuip Stadium at 7.45am.
Click here for Prestatyn Town match report

30th March 2010
Pike talks South African friendly benefits
Youth Team Manager Mark Pike has spoken to the official website ahead of Thursday’s friendly match. The Under-19 side are in action against South African Under-18 representative side Gauteng and Pike is looking forward to seeing how the clubs youngsters play and compete against their South African counterparts and also how far they have developed as a team. “There are a number of very young promising talents emerging from the youth squad and in particular the Under-16 Academy,” said Pike. “It will be a challenging game for the boys involved, but a great lesson to all. I am certain this game will help them to develop with the end aim of creating a side which can confidently compete at youth level and then push on into the first team in future years. Chris Silva, Jack Germain, Ryan Dummer and Youth Team captain Josh Wonnacott are already training with the first team and under the watchful eye of manager Mark Jones and all are expected to take part Thursday night, together with Academy players Alex Williams, Jordan Edwards, Jonathan Michael who will feature at some point of the game. This will be a very difficult and testing game for our youngsters hopefully one they will remember for a long time and for the right reasons. It is not very often we get to play teams from Africa and when the opportunity came from Cardiff City scout Jason Bekker I was only too pleased to accept. The opportunity to experience playing against a different culture will only enhance the knowledge of our youngsters and help them in their future development. Ahead of the game, the players are expected to rest to give them the best opportunity to compete against the African counterparts,” added Pike. All the visiting players are currently playing senior or youth football for their respective clubs, these sides all play in the highest amateur league in South Africa while some of the players already have Semi-Professional or Academy experience and Jason Bekker spent a week in South Africa during July of 2009, helping to identify most of the boys who make up the squad. “We would like to thank all the clubs who have made themselves available for all the friendly games,” said an official statement from the Gauteng Representative side. “It is a wonderful privilege playing against some of the best sides from this region. We hope to learn something from you guys, to improve technical aspects of our game in the British way. It is the dream of every South African player to make it in the English game, and we are grateful that this opportunity enhances the chance of making that dream a realisation. Europe is the front runner in world football, and Britain is leading the pack while the Premier league attracts the best players from around the globe. This tour will provide the boys with an opportunity to glimpse into that style. The hustle and bustle, outlined with technique and quality. This style has filtered through the levels and into youth football. The opportunity to experience a different culture, a different way of life and a different style of football, an opportunity not many people get in life. Knowledge, everybody should be looking to learn every day. This gives the boys a chance to do just that, a chance to go home wiser and more knowledgeable than when they arrived, and an opportunity to be transformed, even if it is just little. We would like to thank Jason Bekker and Owen Roberts for all the behind the scenes organisation, without them this tour would not be possible, also a special thank you to Porthcawl AFC for making their facilities available to us for the duration of this tour for training.” Last weekend Mark Pike’s side claimed an impressive 3-2 win over MacWhirter Youth Division West leaders Bryntirion Athletic away from home. The match takes place at The GenQuip Stadium on Thursday, 1st April 2010. Kick off is at 7.00pm.
Click here for the Under-19 Team page
Click here for the Welsh League Youth Division West page

29th March 2010
Double away test in crucial week for Blues
Manager Mark Jones takes his side to Prestatyn Town on Tuesday night in the first of two North Wales games. On Saturday the side are back in action at Bangor City but Jones is confident his side can continue their recent form having won their last two Welsh Premier League games without conceding a single goal. “This week is crucial for us,” said Jones following Saturday’s 1-0 over GAP Connah’s Quay at The GenQuip Stadium. “It’s just a matter of ticking off the results now as we only have six matches to go. Although it was 1-0 it was a comfortable win as they rarely threatened us but you are always nervous that they could break away and equalise.” Jones also paid tribute to the form of the clubs leading league goalscorer Liam McCreesh who scored the only goal of the game to move above striker Martin Rose in the top scorer list. “When Liam was banned for five matches we only won once so it makes you wonder what would have happened if he was on the field.” Kick off at Prestatyn on Tuesday night is at 7.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

28th March 2010
Youth edge past league leaders in superb win
On Sunday the Under-19 side defeated top of the table Bryntirion Athletic 3-2 away from home. Jack Germain, Sam Baker and Jamie Jones scored the goals as Mark Pike’s side bounced back from last weekend’s surprise home defeat to bottom of the table Briton Ferry Llansawel to show superb character against one of the best teams in the division. The side are now in action at The GenQuip Stadium on Thursday night when they take on Gauteng, a representative South African touring Under-18 team in a friendly before they return to league action at Briton Ferry Llansawel on Sunday.
Click here for Bryntirion match report

27th March 2010
McCreesh on target in Nomads win
A goal from Liam McCreesh earned Port Talbot Town a 1-0 win over GAP Connah’s Quay on Saturday. McCreesh scored the only goal of the game in the 28th minute of the match to claim a second consecutive Welsh Premier League victory for Mark Jones side and with it another clean sheet. Port Talbot wasted a number of chances in the opening half to extend their lead over their opponents but with goalkeeper Lee Kendall rarely troubled he other end the side held on for a comfortable victory. Port Talbot Town are now back in Welsh Premier League action on Tuesday night when they make the long journey to Prestatyn Town. Kick off is at 7.30pm.
Clcik here for GAP Connah’s Quay match report and photos

26th March 2010
Jones ready for improving Nomads
Port Talbot Town are in action against GAP Connah’s Quay on Saturday with the visitors in fine form. A 1-0 win over Llanelli in midweek means the side have only lost once in their last six league games and are now just three points off a top twelve position. Manager Mark Jones is aware of the Nomads recent run of results however and and will not be taking them lightly. “We are expecting a difficult test as GAP Connah’s Quay have already defeated The New Saints, Neath and Llanelli without conceding a goal this year,” said Jones to the official website. “They know they must win their remaining games to have a chance of earning a place in the league next season.” Jones also spoke about the teams challenging to earn a place in the reduced Welsh Premier League next season. “Although there are still a lot of points to play for, the league is certainly taking shape and I said at the start of the season that with so many clubs desperate to take their place in the reduced league next season, there will be a few surprises and one or two established clubs in this league could miss out”. Liam McCreesh will have a fitness test before the match on Saturday after picking up a slight strain in last weekend’s win over Caersws. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

26th March 2010
South African friendly for Under-19 side
On Thursday the Under-19s will play a friendly against South African representative side Gauteng. The match will take place at The GenQuip Stadium as part of a tour for the South African youngsters who will bring a representative side made up of Under-18 players from the Eastern Gauteng region of the country which is in Pretoria, just outside Johannesburg. All the visiting players are currently playing senior or youth football for their respective clubs, these sides all play in the highest amateur league in South Africa while some of the players already have Semi-Professional or Academy experience and Cardiff City scout Jason Bekker spent a week in South Africa during July of 2009, helping to identify most of the boys who make up the squad. “We would like to thank all the clubs who have made themselves available for all the friendly games,” said an official statement from the Gauteng Representative side. “It is a wonderful privilege playing against some of the best sides from this region. We hope to learn something from you guys, to improve technical aspects of our game in the British way. It is the dream of every South African player to make it in the English game, and we are grateful that this opportunity enhances the chance of making that dream a realisation. Europe is the front runner in world football, and Britain is leading the pack while the Premier league attracts the best players from around the globe. This tour will provide the boys with an opportunity to glimpse into that style. The hustle and bustle, outlined with technique and quality. This style has filtered through the levels and into youth football. The opportunity to experience a different culture, a different way of life and a different style of football, an opportunity not many people get in life. Knowledge, everybody should be looking to learn every day. This gives the boys a chance to do just that, a chance to go home wiser and more knowledgeable than when they arrived, and an opportunity to be transformed, even if it is just little. We would like to thank Jason Bekker and Owen Roberts for all the behind the scenes organisation, without them this tour would not be possible, also a special thank you to Porthcawl AFC for making their facilities available to us for the duration of this tour for training.” The match will take place on Thursday, 1st April with kick off at 7.00pm.
Click here for the Under-19 Team page
Click here for the Welsh League Youth Division West page

24th March 2010
Nomads bring Super 12 intentions after latest win
Saturday’s opponents GAP Connah’s Quay moved within three points of a top twelve place on Tuesday. A surprise victory over Llanelli in midweek extended their run of form to just one defeat from their last six Welsh Premier League games and they are now closing in on a place in the top twelve ahead of Saturday’s match against Port Talbot Town at The GenQuip Stadium. The North Wales side also have a superb record against the top sides this season as their victory over Llanelli followed on from earlier wins over Neath, The New Saints and Aberystwyth Town in the league while they also claimed a 2-1 win over Rhyl in the Challenge Cup. Despite three managerial changes since pre-season, the most recent being just a few weeks ago when assistant Ken Price swapped roles with manager Mark McGregor, the Nomads have found form at the right time and will full of confidence for the match on Saturday after their midweek result. Port Talbot Town manager Mark Jones is well aware that the side will prove difficult opposition however and will have a fully-fit squad to choose from with Karl Lewis expected to return after a foot injury and Liam McCreesh recovering from a slight strain picked up in last weekends win over Caersws. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

23rd March 2010
Jones looking for more home goal form
Manager Mark Jones was delighted that his side scored four goals without reply against Caersws on Saturday. Port Talbot Town have been in excellent goalscoring form at home this season and Jones is looking for that to continue on Saturday when GAP Connah’s Quay are the visitors. “It was fantastic to return to form after a run of four games without a win,” said Jones to the official website. “Although for us it was a drop in form, during that run of four games we picked up two points from two difficult away games at Newtown and at Airbus UK. Last weekend both those sides claimed victories and with both pushing for a place in the league next season we will look at it as two points gained. It was also important for us to score a few goals last weekend as apart from the defeat to Carmarthen we have been in excellent form in front of goal at home and we must look to continue that on Saturday against GAP Connah’s Quay”. Liam McCreesh marked his return to the side with the opening goal before captain Matthew Rees and a brace from Martin Rose completed the scoring in the comfortable victory. GAP Connah’s Quay could prove difficult opponents for Port Talbot on Saturday however as they have already defeated Neath as well as league leaders The New Saints this year and on Tuesday night they claimed an impressive 1-0 win over title challengers Llanelli. The victory means that the side are still competing for a place in next seasons reduced Welsh Premier League and are just three points behind twelfth-placed Haverfordwest County. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

23rd March 2010
Rose back in top scorer contention
With three Welsh Premier goals in his last two games Martin Rose is back on top of the club scoring chart. His lead is matched however by Liam McCreesh who returned on Saturday to open the scoring in the 4-0 win over Caersws and the pair have now scored 12 goals each in the league this season although Rose edges ahead on his Challenge Cup and Welsh Cup return. In all competitions this season McCreesh has scored an impressive 14 goals although Rose has been in fine Welsh Cup form to take his total return to 22 goals during the campaign. While Rose has been the clubs leading goalscorer over the last few seasons, McCreesh had pushed himself ahead of the former Llanelli forward with an outstanding return but allowed Rose to catch him at the top of the club leaderboard during his recent suspension. The combination of the two players has had a huge influence on the form of Mark Jones side this season however and with both players finding the back of the net on Saturday Jones will be looking for an even bigger return from the pair in the remaining games. Rose has now scored 66 goals for the club from 106 Welsh Premier League starts since he signed for the club in 2006 while McCreesh, who signed for the club a year later, has scored 26 goals from 74 starting appearances.
Click here for more information on Martin Rose
Click here for more information on Liam McCreesh

22nd March 2010
Supporters arrangements for Welsh Cup Semi-Final
Travel arrangements for the match against Bala Town at Aberystwyth Town next month have been confirmed. The match will take place on Saturday, 10th April at Aberystwyth’s Park Avenue and places are available on the supporters coach at £10 each. The coach will be leaving The GenQuip Stadium at 9.15am and those interested should book their place early. To book your place on the coach and for more information please email mark@porttalbottown.co.uk. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Cup page

22nd March 2010
Newtown fixture arranged for April
Port Talbot Town will take on Newtown in the Welsh Premier League at home on Tuesday, 13th April. The original fixture was scheduled for Saturday, 10th April Mark Jones side are in Welsh Cup Semi-Final action that weekend and the fixture has now been moved to the following Tuesday night. Port Talbot Town were held to a 2-2 draw at Newtown in the reverse fixture last week. The Welsh Cup run together with a string of January postponements has left Port Talbot Town with a busy fixture list in April with midweek games against Neath and Newtown either side of the Welsh Cup match.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

21st March 2010
Surprise Ferry defeat for Under-19’s
The Under-19 side suffered a 2-1 defeat against Briton Ferry Llansawel at The GenQuip Stadium on Sunday. With manager Mark Pike unavailable, Wayne Edwards and Rob Wonnacott took charge of the side against bottom of the table Briton Ferry Llansawel but could not prevent the visitors claiming their first win and also their first points of the season in a surprise result. Imran Ali scored for Briton Ferry Llansawel after just eight minutes and after Jamie Jones had an equaliser disallowed, the visitors increased their lead on 41 minutes through Daniel Williams despite strong appeals for offside. Port Talbot played a more attacking game in the second half with Sam Baker, Jamie Jones and Liam Pullen leading the front line and it was Baker who pulled a goal back on 80 minutes after having a strong penalty appeal waved away by the referee. Briton Ferry Llansawel had chances to increase their lead but were denied by two fine saves from Ryan Dummer in the second half as they held on for their first win of the season.
Click here for Briton Ferry Llansawel match report and photos

20th March 2010
McCreesh returns with opening goal in Caersws win
Liam McCreesh scored within seven minutes of his return following a five match suspension on Saturday. Caersws were the visitors to The GenQuip Stadium as Mark Jones side cruised to a 4-0 win with goals from McCreesh, captain Matthew Rees and a double strike from Martin Rose either side of half-time to keep Port Talbot Town in fifth place in the Welsh Premier League. Midfielder Karl Lewis failed a fitness test before the match while McCreesh was named in the starting line-up after serving his five match ban and Daniel Thomas also returned from suspension to take a place on the bench. McCreesh opened the scoring after just seven minutes as he found himself in space on the left and drilled an unstoppable shot past Caersws goalkeeper David Jones. Matthew Rees increased the lead after 40 minutes when he capitalised on a loose ball in a goalmouth scramble and within a minute of the restart Martin Rose made it three. The second half started in similar style as Rose scored his second of the game and is sides fourth after 48 minutes. Leigh De-Vulgt came close to increasing the lead but his effort from a free-kick his the crossbar midway through the second half as Port Talbot claimed a comfortable victory.
Click here for Caersws match report and photos

18th March 2010
Trio return with return to form challenge
Port Talbot Town trio Daniel Thomas, Karl Lewis and Liam McCreesh are all set to return this weekend. Caersws are the visitors to The GenQuip Stadium as manager Mark Jones looks for his side to return to form having failed to record a victory in their last four games. Both Thomas and McCreesh return from suspension while Lewis has recovered from a foot injury. “There is a saying in football that every team suffers a blip during the season and I was determined that we would be the exception to the rule,” said Jones to the official website. “However, defeats at home to Carmarthen and away at Llanelli followed by a goalless draw at Airbus and our midweek draw at Newtown have left us off where we want to be and we must now start to grind out some results to return to our previous form. Only last month we scored ten goals in two games without reply against Cefn Druids and Welshpool and what we would give for that sort of form now is nobody’s business. We have not become a bad side overnight however as our performances against Llanelli and Airbus were good enough to earn six points but I believe in my players and know that once the goals start coming they wont stop with the quality that we have in our ranks this season.” Port Talbot claimed a 2-1 win at Caersws earlier in the season through goals from Liam McCreesh and Drew Fahiya. The Mid-Wales side are managed by former Wrexham player Mickey Evans but are currently one place off the bottom of the table. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

18th March 2010
Juniors warm up for final with GenQuip win
The Under-14 Blues team warmed up for next weeks Cup Final with a 5-1 win over Corus Steel. The midweek match took place at The GenQuip Stadium and for the side coached by David Davies it was an important occasion to prepare for Monday’s Cup Final against Port Talbot & District Junior League rivals Afan Lido Rangers at the Lido’s Marstons Stadium. Before that the side return to league action when they take on Porthcawl this weekend when they will look to keep up their title challenge ahead of Monday’s match. Kick off at Afan Lido is at 6.30pm.
Click here for the Under-14 Team page

17th March 2010
Welsh Cup Semi-Final venue confirmed
Port Talbot Town will take on Bala Town in the Welsh Cup Semi-Final at Aberystwyth on 10th April. The news was welcomed by manager Mark Jones and by the clubs supporters who are expected to travel to Aberystwyth in big numbers. “The facilities and the pitch are excellent at Park Avenue so we're already looking forward to it,” said Jones to the official Welsh Premier League website. Port Talbot defeated Aberystwyth at Park Avenue in the 4th round of the competition with the backing of the clubs entire junior section and a large travelling support and an even better crowd is expected for the Semi-Final match. The other Semi-Final between Bangor City and Prestatyn Town will take place at Newtown on Sunday, 11th April and will be shown live on S4C with an earlier kick off of 1.15pm. The match between Port Talbot Town and Bala Town will take place on Saturday, 10th April with kick off at 2.30pm. Travel arrangements for the match will be confirmed shortly.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Cup page

16th March 2010
Blues twice surrender lead in Newtown draw
Goals from Martin Rose and captain Matthew Rees were not enough for maximum points on Tuesday night. Mark Jones side were in Principality Welsh Premier League action at Newtown and Rose opened the scoring before Ross Stephens levelled for Newtown minutes later however before Matthew Rees put Port Talbot back in front only for Stephens to again equalise. Port Talbot Town had failed to score in their previous three league fixtures having suffered defeats to Carmarthen and Llanelli before being held to a 0-0 draw at Airbus UK Broughton at the weekend. Despite the goals Jones will be concerned over his sides inability to twice hold onto a lead as third place rivals Aberystwyth Town claimed a 2-1 home win over Bangor City to move ten points ahead of Port Talbot Town although they have played two more games. In Tuesday’s other games GAP Connah’s Quay claimed an impressive 2-0 win at home to Neath and The New Saints moved to the top of the table with a 5-0 win over Porthmadog at Park Hall.
Click here for Newtown match report and photos

16th March 2010
Llanelli charged by FAW over alleged racial abuse
The Football Association of Wales has made an official charge against Llanelli after last weeks match. The 1-0 win over Port Talbot Town at Stebonheath was marred by a report of racial abuse towards Port Talbot Town’s Drew Fahiya by the match assessor and the club have now been charge by The Football Association of Wales under rule 24.2.13. An official statement from Llanelli states that -
“Llanelli AFC is charged for the alleged failure of its supporters to refrain from abusive, obscene or provocative behaviour, conduct or language whilst attending the Welsh Premier League match, Llanelli v Port Talbot on Tuesday 9th March. The club still appeals to any supporter who was present at the match and who witnessed the alleged abuse, to come forward and make a statement. Likewise, the club would like those supporters who were sitting in Block A of the main stand and who didn't hear any racist remarks, to also come forward and make a statement”.
The league leaders issued a statement after the match stating that such behaviour would not be tolerated.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

15th March 2010
Jones sets top three target ahead of Newtown test
Manager Mark Jones has set his side a new target as they prepare for Tuesday’s match at Newtown. A drop in form has left his side without a win or even a league goal from the last three games but Jones has called on his players to make a quick return to form and push for a top three place in the Principality Welsh Premier League from their remaining games. “I said at the start of the season that our aim this year was to gain a top ten place,” said Jones to the official website. “As we move into the business end of the season we now have a new target of a place in the top three which is certainly achievable if we can avoid injuries and suspensions as these have hit us hard over the last few weeks. This is not an excuse for our results however and we must now return to form even it it means winning ugly”. Liam McCreesh and Daniel Thomas will miss the match at Newtown through suspension while midfielder Neil Thomas could return to the side having taken a place on the bench in Saturday’s draw at Airbus UK Broughton. Kick off at Newtown on Tuesday night is at 7.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

15th March 2010
Kendall makes it fifteen clean in Airbus draw
Goalkeeper Lee Kendall kept his 15th competitive clean sheet of the season at Airbus UK on Saturday. The summer-signing was up against the man he replaced as former Port Talbot Town goalkeeper Kristian Rogers started for Airbus UK in the 0-0 draw. Kendall has made 33 competitive appearances since signing for the club from league champions Rhyl and his form has played a vital part in the club still pushing for a top three place in the league and also being in the last four of the Welsh Cup. Last week Kendall signed a new contract with the club until May 2011.
Click here for more information on Lee Kendall

14th March 2010
Derby defeat for Under-19’s despite two goal lead
Afan Lido claimed a 4-2 win over Port Talbot Town in the MacWhirter Youth Division West on Sunday. It could have been a very different derby result however as goals from Alex Williams and Luke Paynton inside the opening ten minutes of the match handed Port Talbot Town a two goal lead at The Marstons Stadium before the home side came back to score four and with it move into second place in the table. Williams and Paynton both scored with well-taken headers inside the area but a double strike from Lido striker Luke Borrelli and two from his attacking partner Ellis Harris earned Afan Lido the points. It was a frustrating afternoon for manager Mark Pike as his side went into the match following three consecutive league wins.
Click here for Afan Lido match report and photos
Click here for the Under-19 Team page

13th March 2010
Defences on top in Airbus stalemate
Port Talbot Town were held to a 0-0 Welsh Premier League draw at Airbus UK Broughton on Saturday. Chances were few and far between as the strong wind made things difficult for both sides although Manager Mark Jones was pleased with his sides performance on the day despite rarely testing former Port Talbot Town goalkeeper Kristian Rogers in the Airbus goal. Drew Fahiya appeared to be brought down in the area during the opening exchanges as Port Talbot had the wind in their favour but referee Carmelo Lo Faro waved away the appeal. Port Talbot forced a number of corners with the wind behind them but lacked the quality to make their chances count while at the other end goalkeeper Lee Kendall was forced into action midway through the half to save from Marc Lloyd-Williams. Port Talbot enjoyed more of the possession in the second half but could not produce enough quality from their final ball to test the home defence. The match ended in controversy as referee Lo Faro showed Airbus UK defender Matty Woodward his second yellow card of the game for time wasting as he attempted to retrieve the ball after it had blown forward in the wind to take a set-piece. Port Talbot Town are now back in action on Tuesday night at Newtown. Kick off is at 7.30pm.
Click here for Airbus match report and photos

12th March 2010
Llanelli red card earns Thomas two match ban
Daniel Thomas will miss the next two games through suspension following his red card on Tuesday night. Thomas was shown two yellow cards inside the opening 24 minutes in the derby defeat at Llanelli and his second dismissal of the season means he will now miss Saturday’s Welsh Premier League match at Airbus UK Broughton and Tuesday’s match at Newtown. The summer signing was sent off against Aberystwyth Town early in the season and now joins Liam McCreesh on the suspension list as he will also miss the same two games to complete his five match ban. Manager Mark Jones is also expected to be without midfielders Neil Thomas and Karl Lewis for the match at Airbus UK Broughton on Saturday as they remain injured. The coach leaves The GenQuip Stadium at 8.00am with 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 Premier League page

12th March 2010
France strike headlines Under-19’s win at Carmarthen
Sam France scored a superb goal for the Under-19 side in a 2-1 win at Carmarthen on Thursday. France opened the scoring before Oliver Bowen scored a second half winner to earn Mark Pike’s side their third consecutive victory in what was another impressive performance from the young side. Port Talbot are now six points clear of Carmarthen in fourth place. France scored directly from a free-kick on the edge of the area to hand his side the lead at Richmond Park but the home side were allowed back into the match before Bowen grabbed the winning goal midway through the second half. The side are now back in action on Sunday when they take on local rivals Afan Lido away from home. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Click here for the Under-19 Team page
Click here for the Welsh League Youth Division West page

11th March 2010
Blues need change of Airfield form after double defeat
Manager Mark Jones will be looking for his side to return to form on Saturday in a traditionally difficult fixture. Port Talbot Town have only ever one once at Airbus UK Broughton but will need to claim their first three points at the Airfield since 2006 if the side are to return to league form after consecutive 1-0 defeats to Carmarthen Town and Llanelli. Last season Wayne Davies was in temporary charge of the side for the visit before Jones returned to the club and earned a point in a 1-1 draw through a goal from on-loan Swansea City player James Burgin. Davies was also in charge the last time Port Talbot Town won at Airbus UK in April 2006 when Rhys Griffiths scored the only goal of the game. Airbus UK joined the Welsh Premier League in 2004 and have continually developed their ground on the site of the Airbus factory while also improving their playing standards. Their reward this season has been the decision of the Welsh Premier League to choose the ground as the venue for the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup Final while the Football Association of Wales have decided to host the Women’s International World Cup Qualifier between Wales and Sweden at the Airfield. Airbus UK are currently managed by former Middlesbrough midfielder Craig Harrison and have a number of experienced players in their side including the league’s all-time record goalscorer Marc Lloyd-Williams and former Port Talbot Town goalkeeper Kristian Rogers. Port Talbot Town will be without suspended duo Liam McCreesh and Daniel Thomas while midfielders Neil Thomas and Karl Lewis are also expected to miss the match through injury. The coach leaves The GenQuip Stadium at 8.00am with supporters places available at £10 each. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Click here for the 1st Team page
Click here for the Welsh Premier League page

9th March 2010
Kendall commits for next season with new contract
Goalkeeper Lee Kendall has committed himself to Port Talbot Town Football Club with a new contract. Kendall signed the new deal on Monday night after an impressive first season at the club following his arrival from champions Rhyl in the summer. “I am delighted that Lee Kendall has agreed a new contract with the club,” said Chairman Andrew Edwards. “Lee is without doubt one of the best goalkeepers in the country and his commitment to this club is a huge boost as we plan for next season. Lee has been in fantastic form since he joined Port Talbot Town and I am sure he will play a vital part in our future successes”. A former Wales International at Under-21 level, Lee returned to Wales with Cardiff City before moving into the domestic top-flight with Barry Town and then moving to Haverfordwest County in 2002 where he later signed a five-year contract, the longest deal ever agreed in the league. A high-profile move to Rhyl in 2007 followed and he won the Welsh Premier League title with the North Wales club in 2008-2009 before signing for Port Talbot Town in August 2009 after playing for Rhyl in the UEFA Champions League against Partizan Belgrade.
Click here for more information on Lee Kendall

9th March 2010
Llanelli quickly act on racial abuse
Following Tuesday’s Welsh Premier League match Llanelli Football Club have issued an official statement. Port Talbot Town were defeated 1-0 by Llanelli but alleged racial comments directed towards Port Talbot Town player Drew Fahiya by a number of Llanelli supporters prompted Llanelli Chairman Nitin Parekh to issue the following statement directly after the match on the clubs official website -
“Llanelli AFC wishes to officially condemn the alleged racist abuse by a number of so called Llanelli Supporters towards Port Talbot player Drew Fahyia at the game with Port Talbot on Tuesday night. Reds Chairman, Nitin Parekh, who was present at the game, was quick to issue the following statement - Llanelli Football Club will NOT tolerate any form of racial abuse aimed towards any player, official or supporter. We would like to apologise to Port Talbot FC and their player Drew Fahyia for the embarrassment caused by a minority of our supporters at the game. If we can identify the people concerned, they will be banned for life from the ground and the club!" This incident comes after Llanelli AFC recently held a “ Kick Racism Out of Football” seminar at the club and are actively involved in supporting the campaign. The Club will take the appropriate steps to ensure that such an incident never happens at the ground again”.
Port Talbot Town Football Club would like to thank Llanelli for their co-operation and swift action following this unfortunate incident and join them in their zero tolerance approach to racism in football.
Click here for Llanelli match report and photos

9th March 2010
Thomas sees red at the Reds in second straight defeat
Port Talbot Town were defeated 1-0 for the second time in four days while Daniel Thomas was sent off. An opening half goal from Lee Jarman earned Llanelli a single goal victory over Mark Jones side at Stebonheath on Tuesday night but the scoreline did not tell the story of the match as ten man Port Talbot created enough chances to take at least a point from the game. Thomas was booked after 15 minutes for dissent and was then shown a second yellow card nine minutes later for a high challenge by referee Kevin Morgan who proceeded to caution a number of players during the match and levelled the numbers by showing Llanelli’s Owain Warlow a second yellow card in the last ten minutes. Jarman opened the scoring for the home side on 15 minutes but Port Talbot pushed forward and Martin Rose could have levelled the score just before half-time from a Scott Barrow cross and the side created a number of chances in the second half but could not find a way past the Llanelli defence. Rhys Griffiths could have made the game safe for the home side but the striker squandered his opportunities in front of goal before referee Morgan brought the game to a close. The win keeps Llanelli at the top of the table on goal difference as The New Saints defeated Carmarthen Town 2-1 at Richmond Park.
Click here for Llanelli match report and photos

9th March 2010
Neil Thomas sidelined as midfield problems continue
Midfielder Neil Thomas is set for a spell in the treatment room after picking up a groin strain against Carmarthen. Thomas will be joined on the treatment table by Karl Lewis who remains on the sidelines with a foot injury to add to the suspensions currently being served by Liam McCreesh and Daniel Thomas who was shown a red card during Tuesday’s defeat at Llanelli. Gareth Phillips returned to the side on Tuesday night while Matthew Thompson and Nicky Holland were also named in the starting line-up.
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8th March 2010
Jones to pick up his players for league leaders test
Manager Mark Jones must pick his players up from their weekend defeat to take on Llanelli Tuesday night. The Reds are currently top of the Principality Welsh Premier League after defeating Elements Cefn Druids 5-2 on Saturday and the derby at Stebonheath will offer Port Talbot the opportunity to return to form following the weekend defeat to Carmarthen Town. The former Welsh Premier League champions were held to a draw at The GenQuip Stadium early in the season. Llanelli have a number of former Port Talbot Town players in their squad including their leading goalscorer Rhys Griffiths who currently leads the goalscoring chart and is on course to claim his fifth consecutive Golden Boot award, his first coming with Port Talbot Town back in 2005-2006. Another former Port Talbot Town player in the Llanelli squad is midfielder Andrew Mumford who scored the winning goal for Port Talbot against Swansea City in the FAW Premier Cup Quarter Final while defender Lee Phillips had a short and controversial time at Port Talbot Town at the start of last season after he signed from Llanelli but returned to Stebonheath when they offered him improved terms. The side are currently managed by former Swansea City and Cardiff City defender Andy Legg and he remains a key player for the side due to his long throw which has accounted for a number of goal assists this season. Port Talbot Town have enjoyed many memorable league and cup victories at Llanelli over the last few years and the match is usually a highly competitive fixture. With Llanelli challenging to regain their league title and Port Talbot pushing to improve their league position at the top of the table another big match is expected. There is no official transport for the match while kick off is at 7.30pm.
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7th March 2010
Baker and Bowen move Youth upto fourth
Sam Baker and Ryan Bowen were both on target as the Under-19 team defeated West End 2-0 on Sunday. A fine performance from goalkeeper Luke Martin was a major plus for Mark Pike’s side who registered their third consecutive clean sheet with the victory at The GenQuip Stadium as well as their second win this week to move upto fourth place in the table. Baker opened the scoring with a well taken goal early in the second half and the lead was extended by a fine effort from Ryan Bowen after 68 minutes. The side are now back in action on Thursday night when they take on Carmarthen Town at Richmond Park. Kick off is at 7.00pm.
Click here for West End match report and photos
Click here for the Under-19 Team page

6th March 2010
Cup hangover costs Blues in Carmarthen defeat
Carmarthen Town claimed an important victory over Port Talbot Town at The GenQuip Stadium on Saturday. Former Port Talbot Town player Neil Smothers scored the only goal of the game as Mark Jones side failed to repeat the level of performance that earned a Welsh Cup win at The New Saints the weekend before as Carmarthen cruised to a deserved win. Carmarthen named five former Port Talbot Town players in their starting line-up as Smothers, Dyfan Pierce, Nathan Cotterrall, Craig Hughes and goalkeeper Neil Thomas all returned to The GenQuip Stadium. Martin Rose was denied by the crossbar from a header in the opening half before Smothers scored on 65 minutes following a fine save from Lee Kendall to deny Hughes. Rose then had a fine chance to level the score but could not direct his header on target. It was a disappointing performance from Mark Jones side against his former club and he must now pick his players up before Tuesday night when they take on leaguer leaders Llanelli at Stebonheath. Kick off is at7.30pm.
Click here for Carmarthen Town match report and photos

5th March 2010
Jones wary of Carmarthen away form
Manager Mark Jones is well aware that his side are in for a difficult match against Carmarthen on Saturday. Carmarthen visit The GenQuip Stadium looking to extend their unbeaten away record to nine games and Jones has acted quickly to focus his players on the challenge ahead after last weeks win. “It was a great win but it's back to league points,” said Jones in the Evening Post. “Carmarthen pose a great threat as they are unbeaten on the road in eight matches. That's a terrific record and I feel they are in a false position in the league. But our home record is impressive too so it should be a cracking encounter. My players are showing great spirit, the work rate is phenomenal and it's important we play at that tempo week in week out if we are to achieve anything next season.” Midfielder Karl Lewis is expected to miss the match with a foot injury while Liam McCreesh serves the second match of his five match suspension although Gareth Phillips and Neil Thomas are both available after missing last weeks win at The New Saints. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
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5th March 2010
Rees ready for Old Gold challenge
Captain and club record Welsh Premier appearance holder Matthew Rees as spoken to the unofficial website. Rees is set to to lead Port Talbot out against South Wales rivals Carmarthen on Saturday and the Blue Skinned Beast caught up with the long-serving defender to talk about the derby match, last weeks in at TNS and this months Welsh Premier League fixtures. “Carmarthen have given us some serious battles down the years,” said Rees to the unofficial website. “They are a physical outfit and even though we have got ourselves ten points in front of them it will count for nothing on Saturday. They want in on the Super 12 next season. Port Talbot need the 3 points and to focus on the Welsh Premier League once again and kick on. They will try and cut us down as we have so much pace. Drew, Scott, Danny, Lee are no secret no more. The whole league have got to know about us. I think at times we are too honest and we just get up and carry on when we have been hacked down and given the treatment. Other clubs are much more shrewd at playing the refs.” Visit the Blue Skinned Beast for more interviews and features including an interview with defender Lloyd Grist who was named Man of the Match at The New Saints last weekend.
Click here for the full interviews with Matthew Rees and Lloyd Grist

4th March 2010
Thomas and Phillips add to Jones selection headache
Manager Mark Jones welcomes back Neil Thomas and Gareth Phillips to his squad on Saturday. The midfield duo had their places in the side more than covered last week however as Port Talbot Town defeated The New Saints in the Welsh Cup Quarter-Final and Jones will have some big decisions to make as he prepares to take on his former club Carmarthen Town. Jones led Carmarthen to both domestic and European success and will be more than familiar with a number of players in the Carmarthen squad having managed them during his first spell in charge at Port Talbot Town and also at Carmarthen as Neil Smothers, Nathan Cotterrall and Craig Hughes all return to The GenQuip Stadium. Other former Port Talbot Town players Dyfan Pierce, Craig Hanford and goalkeeper Neil Thomas are also expected to play for the visitors in the derby match which is also the featured game on S4C highlights programme ‘Sgorio Cymru’. Jones will however be without midfielder Karl Lewis who remains sidelined with a foot injury but the return of Thomas and Phillips will make for an interesting team selection after last weeks success at The New Saints when Matthew Thompson made his first start of the season and Gary Bansor and Nicky Holland both came off the bench and scored in the penalty shoot-out. Admission for the match remains at £6 for adults and £4 for concessions. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
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3rd March 2010
Duo start but Wales suffer defeat in Portugal
Lee Surman and Scott Barrow both started for the Wales Under-23 side on Wednesday afternoon. The Port Talbot Town duo could not prevent a 7-2 defeat in the International Challenge Trophy match against Portugal in Fatima however as Wales were outclassed by a strong Portugese side that included two full International players. Wales had the better of the opening exchanges with Haverfordwest striker Jack Christopher combining with TNS forward Alex Darlington to create a chance on goal. Portugal took the lead but Wales came back to level the score through Christopher before the hosts restored their lead and then went 5-1 ahead. Wales then pulled a goal back through Rob Williams of Altrincham before Portugal completed the scoring with two further goals. Eight of the eleven players who started for Wales were from clubs in the Principality Welsh Premier League with Port Talbot Town defender Lee Surman again named as captain.
Click here for more information on Lee Surman
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3rd March 2010
International honours for five Academy players
The Port Talbot Town academy has received a boost with the selection of five of its players for Wales. Oliver Bowen, Sam Hodge, Luke Edwards, Ryan Morgan and Jonny Michael have all been named in the CYP Wales squad, the new name for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wales group. Youth Team manager Mark Pike had nothing but praise for the individuals and the Academy. “This is a great achievement to get so many players through from one of our academy teams,” said Pike to the official website. “It is a testament to all the hard work they have put in over the years with myself, Mark Pursey & David Morgan. Oliver has broken into and become a regular in the youth squad this term while Jonny and Sam have played a number of games in the youth league at just 16 years of age. In addition to these achievements, additional players who have come through into the youth squad from the Under-16's include Jordan Edwards, Luke Martin and Adam Thornton. These are all fantastic achievements and just illustrate the structure I set at start of the year of bringing players through to the youth team early. It is certainly working and it is a policy that I am keen to and will continue to promote. This forms the foundation of the club and develops the players early for the future. We wish all players all the very best with the CYP Wales squad and I look forward to seeing them play at that standard. I am sure they will rise to the occasion and do themselves, their parents and our club as well as myself very proud. Well done lads, all that shouting and advice you had from me has certainly paid off although at the time you probably did not realise it! Good Luck!”. Everyone at the club would like to endorse Mark’s comments and wish the five players all the best and congratulate them on there achievement.

3rd March 2010
Grist and Kendall talk to the Blue Skinned Beast
Man of the Match Lloyd Grist and penalty hero Lee Kendall have both spoken to the unofficial website. Both players played starring roles in Saturday’s Welsh Cup Quarter-Final win over The New Saints and have both been interviewed by The Blue Skinned Beast to talk about the win, playing under Mark Jones, the supporters and the Welsh Cup amongst other things. The unofficial website also includes a number of other interviews and features.
Click here for the Blue Skinned Beast

1st March 2010
Surman and Barrow set for Portugese test
Port Talbot Town duo Lee Surman and Scott Barrow will represent Wales in Portugal on Wednesday afternoon. The Under-23 Semi-Pro International Challenge Trophy match will take place in Fatima where the Wales squad arrived at their base on Sunday evening. Portugal have named a very strong squad for the match headlined by Yannick Djalo of Sporting Lisbon and Ricardo Vaz Te of Bolton Wanderers. Yannick played for Sporting Lisbon in the Europa League victory over Everton last week and also played and scored for his side in the league win over Porto at the weekend. Defender Lee Surman is again expected to captain the side while Drew Fahiya withdraw from the squad last week due to a family bereavement. Portugal National Team manager Carlos Queiroz, the former assistant manager of Manchester United, is expected to call up a number of the Portugese squad for the full national team after the match indicating the strength of their squad for this match. Kick off on Wednesday is at 3.00pm.
Click here for more information on Lee Surman
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1st March 2010
Win emphasises squad importance for Jones
Manager Mark Jones has praised his squad of players after Saturday’s Welsh Cup win over The New Saints. Port Talbot Town booked their place in the Semi-Final of the Welsh Cup with a penalty shoot-out win at Park Hall but had to do it without four important players as Liam McCreesh, Neil Thomas, Gareth Phillips and Karl Lewis all missed the match. “We went into the match without our four regular midfielders and few people thought we had any chance of progressing,” said Jones to the official website. “The character and spirit that the team showed on Saturday was second to none and emphasised the importance of carrying a squad of at least sixteen players who are all good enough to play week in week out in this league. Our performance on the day was excellent and we deserved the victory against a side who many feel are the best side in the Welsh Premier League”. Port Talbot will now take on Bala Town in the Semi-Final of the competition at a neutral venue on either Saturday, 10th April or Sunday, 11th April.
Click here for The New Saints match report and photos
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