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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.
OCTOBER 2008
30th October 2008
Gazza set to play through pain barrier on Saturday
Influential midfielder Gareth Phillips is set to make a surprise start on Saturday when Port Talbot Town take on Denbigh Town in the 3rd round of the Welsh Cup. Despite struggling with a groin strain, suspensions to Liam McCreesh, Matthew Rees, Lee Surman and Lee John will leave manager Nicky Tucker desperate for some experience in his young side while the injured Scott Barrow remains sidelined. “It looks as if Gareth Phillips will return from injury as well as Drew Fahiya and David Biggs, who both return after being unavailable last week, so I still have a very good team to select from”, said Nicky Tucker to the official website. “With five first team regulars out however, it will obviously make the task of reaching the next round more difficult. I have had Denbigh watched and they are a decent side and we will not underestimate them, but we still have enough quality in the squad to progress to the next round”. Admission for the match remains at just £5 for adults, £3 for concessions and jut £1 for kids. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
28th October 2008
Experienced Denbigh duo warm-up with double victory
Port Talbot Town take on experienced Cymru Alliance side Denbigh Town in the Welsh Cup at The GenQuip Stadium on Saturday without four key players through suspension. When the draw was made at the start of the month Denbigh had claimed just one league win during the campaign but their experienced duo of Calvin Davies and Kenny Burgess have played an important part in their recent upturn in fortunes and they visit Port Talbot Town on Saturday following two consecutive league victories. Davies has an incredible goal return of 54 Welsh Premier League goals in 105 starts during spells at Cefn Druids, Caernarfon and Welshpool while midfielder Burgess racked up 21 goals from his 131 starts for Bangor City, Rhyl and also at Welshpool Town. Port Talbot Town will be without the suspended Liam McCreesh, Lee John, Lee Surman and captain Matthew Rees although Gareth Phillips and Scott Barrow will have fitness tests and could make a surprise return to the side. Admission for the match remains at the reduced price of £5 for adults, £3 for concessions and only £1 for kids. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
27th October 2008
Tucker talks indiscipline in Caersws aftermath
“I would like to apologise to everyone connected with our football club for the 60 seconds of indiscipline that we had to witness on Saturday”, said Tucker. “The players involved will be disciplined as it cost us the chance of winning the game and has put us under extreme pressure for this weeks match. We are not a dirty side, yet we are near the bottom of the fair play table. We are picking up needless bookings and need to grow up and realise you have to accept the referee's decisions and more importantly that we keep eleven players on the pitch. The season is certainly not going as planned and I feel as hurt and as frustrated as everyone. I could come out and try to make excuses and blame different things for our bad start, but I will take full responsibility. I am not going to start feeling sorry for myself, I will get on with the job and rebuild our season and make sure that we progress in the Welsh Cup. The first half performance on Saturday was as good as I have seen this season, but it is about consistency and results. For all the negatives there were positives from Saturday and we must take that into our next game. I will make sure though we never see a repeat of the indiscipline that we did on the weekend”.
27th October 2008
Weekend Wrap
The Reserve Team extended their 100% record into cup competition as they defeated Bryntirion Athletic 6-1 away from home in the opening round of the Reserve Division Cup. The Exiles also maintained their 100% record in the Port Talbot & District First Division with a 2-0 win at Gwynfi United. The Under-12 girls side were back in action at Cardiff on Sunday and started the day by defeating Caerphilly 5-0 with Courtney Sawyers grabbing a hat-trick and Demi Brady completing the scoring with a double strike but it was Lauren Amor and Rachael Sheehy who were awarded the best player awards by the opponents. In the second match the side were defeated 2-0 by Mardy Tigers and had goalkeeper Lauren Garrett to thank with a fine performance. Lauren Garrett and Billie Elley were the pick of the side from the opposition vote. The Under-12‘s impressed against local rivals Afan Lido with a 13-1 victory while the Under-10 Athletic team were held to a 1-1 draw by Afan Lido Colts. Meanwhile this Wednesday’s Under-19 match at Afan Lido has been postponed.
25th October 2008
Rees, Surman and John sent off in four goal defeat
Port Talbot Town suffered a 4-2 defeat at Caersws on Saturday but the embarrassment of the defeat centred around the triple dismissal of captain Matthew Rees, defender Lee Surman and midfielder Lee John in one single incident midway through the second half. Port Talbot cruised a two goal lead at the break thanks to goals from James Burgin and Matthew Thompson but a fast start to the second half from the home side saw Caersws reduce the deficit and then equalise by the 62nd minute. With Port Talbot rattled by the comeback, Matthew Rees reacted to an off the ball incident from the home side’s Ross Jefferies and both players saw red from referee Wayne Tregonning for their actions. Lee Surman then received his second yellow of the game when he became involved in the subsequent melee before Lee John received a straight red for verbally abusing the match officials during the same incident. Caersws then stormed into a 4-2 lead as the remaining eight players of the visitors did little but chase shadows for the remainder of the match.
25th October 2008
Principality Welsh Premier League round-up
GAP Connah’s Quay triker Aden Shannon did little to help his former club Technogroup Welshpool on Friday night as he scored the only gaol of the game to hand his side maximum points. The Saturday games started at Bangor City as their match against rivals Rhyl was postponed at midday due to a waterlogged pitch and so attentions turned to the live S4C match between Aberystwyth Town and The New Saints which ended in a 2-2 draw. Llanelli moved to the top of the table but made hard work of a 3-2 home win over bottom of the table Caernarfon Town who were reduced to eight men before Rhys Griffiths added to Mark Pritchard’s earlier brace to claim the win. Port Talbot Town wee also reduced to eight players in their 4-2 defeat at Caersws while a double from Nick Woodrow and a goal from Luke Bowen handed Haverfordwest a 3-1 home win over Prestatyn Town. Stuart Roberts scored the only goal of the game as Carmarthen defeated Airbus UK Borughton 1-0 while Richard Ingram scored for Neath Athletic in their 1-0 win over NEWI Cefn Druids. In the other match of the weekend Porthmadog claimed a 3-1 home win over Newtown.
23rd October 2008
Blues plan away day win at Caersws
Port Talbot Town visit Caersws on Saturday looking for their first Principality Welsh Premier League away win of the season. Defeats at The New Saints and Bangor City combined with draws at Aberystwyth and Carmarthen have yielded Nicky Tucker’s side just two points from a possible twelve on the road this season and his team will be looking to take confidence from last weekends home win over Caernarfon Town together with the return of a few important players into the match. Although Gareth Phillips has been added to the injury list with a groin strain, James Burgin and Leigh De-Vulgt are both expected to return to the squad along with captain Matthew Rees. Caersws warmed up for the match in style on Tuesday with a 6-1 win over a very inexperienced Bangor City side in the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup, the result meant both sides progressed to the Quarter Finals and that holders Llanelli would drop out of the competition at the group stage. The coach for Caersws leaves The GenQuip Stadium at 10.30am on Saturday. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
23rd October 2008
Youth Welsh Cup match against Cardiff City postponed
This Sunday’s Under-19 fixture against Cardiff City in the FAW Youth Cup at The GenQuip Stadium has been postponed and will now be played on a yet to be confirmed later date. Port Talbot Town will now look to build on last weekend’s win over West End against local rivals Afan Lido on Wednesday night when they make the short journey to their opponents. With the MacWhirter Youth League yet to start, Port Talbot Town are currently in second place in the League Cup Group D table having claimed victories over Pontardawe Town and West End although they suffered a heavy defeat at leaders Llanelli and now play Afan Lido away and Carmarthen Town home the following Sunday to complete their League Cup fixtures. In the Welsh Cup Port Talbot drew Cardiff City following a comfortable home win over Caerleon and their form has already seen goalkeeper Lloyd Clement, Chris Thornton and Sam Baker drafted into Nicky Tucker’s Welsh Premier League squad.
22nd October 2008
McCreesh out for Welsh Cup match after five bookings
Midfielder Liam McCreesh will miss the Welsh Cup 3rd round match against Denbigh Town on the 1st of November through suspension after picking up five bookings already this season. McCreesh will be available for this weekends match at Caersws however as his one match suspension does not start until the following week. James Burgin is again available for Saturday after sitting out last weekends win over Caernarfon with a head injury sustained in the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup match against Neath although influential midfielder Gareth Phillips is expected to miss the next two games with a groin injury and he joins Scott Barrow on the injury list. Sam Baker returned for the Under-19‘s last weekend but sat out training on Tuesday with a slight hamstring problem while captain Matthew Rees returned to light training after spending last weekend in hospital and could be available for Saturday’s match at Caersws. The coach leaves The GenQuip Stadium on Saturday at 10.30am and supporters are welcome to travel at a cost of £10 each. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
22nd October 2008
Girls held by league rivals
The Under-12 girls side started their away double at Penydarren in fine form with a convincing 5-0 win over the hosts. Courtney Sawyers impressed on the scoresheet with four of the five goals with Lauren Amor also scoring to complete the comfortable and impressive win. Demi Brady and captain Megan Davies were named as the best players by Penydarren. In the next match the girls were up against league rivals Georgetown who are one of the strongest sides in the league. Excellent individual performances from Megan Davies, Rachael Sheehy and Demi Brady together with some superb saves from Lauren Garrett prevented Georgetown from claiming a victory. Demi Brady was again named one of the two best players for Port Talbot Town together with Rachael Sheehy. A special mention for coach Chris Rees who kept the girls together with his positive attitude.
20th October 2008
Tucker delighted with three points from scrappy win
Manager Nicky Tucker rounded off one of his hardest weeks in management with maximum points and his sides first clean sheet of the season on Saturday as Port Talbot Town defeated Caernarfon Town 1-0 at The GenQuip Stadium. “It certainly wasn't a good game of football with both sides scrapping for long periods, but with three games in six days and several players unavailable, in eleven years as a manager it has been one of the hardest weeks I've ever had”, said Tucker. “Lee Surman, Gareth Phillips and striker Martin Rose should not have been playing but because of the unavailability of other players, along with injuries they had to play, and if the three hadn't come through late fitness tests I would have struggled to put eleven players on the pitch. I'm delighted with the three points and it really moves us forward. This victory is dedicated to Matthew Rees and his family following the passing of his father Colin while Matthew himself has been in hospital as a precaution after suffering severe headaches. I’m proud of my lads as they showed tremendous attitude and commitment.”
19th October 2008
McCreesh strike earns maximum points over Caernarfon
Liam McCreesh scored the only goal of the game on Saturday as Port Talbot Town defeated Caernarfon Town at The GenQuip Stadium. McCreesh scored on 58 minutes after some good work from Martin Rose after a disappointing opening half when Caernarfon appeared to be in full control of the game. The visitors arrived in a blue strip forcing Port Talbot Town to play in yellow and had the better chances in the first half against a much changed Port Talbot Town side. Darren Davies made a return to the starting line-up at left back in place of Matthew Walsh while Matthew Thompson was moved to an unfamiliar right back role as manager Nicky Tucker made a number of enforced changes to his side. Despite struggling in the opening half, the goal sparked a mini-revival from the Port Talbot and they looked far more comfortable with the one goal advantage. Caernarfon had chances to equalise however and there was relief around the ground when referee Neil Morgan signalled for the end of the match and with it the sides first league clean sheet of the season.
19th October 2008
Baker brace eases Blues past ten man West End
Striker Sam Baker scored twice for the Under-19 side on Sunday as they defeated West End 3-0 at The GenQuip Stadium in the MacWhirter Youth League Cup. Baker opened the scoring on 14 minutes before Christian Lodwig doubled the advantage early in the second half. Baker then added the third midway through the second half as the side prepare for next weeks Welsh Cup match against Cardiff City.
19th October 2008
Juniors impress in eight goal win
The Under-8 side impressed on Saturday as they defeated Cynffig 8-1. Kyron Joseph, Kye Stephens, Jack Larkman grabbed two goals each while goalkeeper Keenan Bailey also added his name to the scoresheet. Man of the match was Kye Stephens who set up four of the goals with an excellent display. Next weekend the side are back in action against Porthcawl Town.
18th October 2008
Principality Welsh Premier League round-up
Aberystwyth Town started the weekend’s games with a 1-0 win over struggling Welshpool Town on Friday night thanks to an 89th minute goal from Andrew Evans. Jon Fisher-Cooke was the hat-trick hero for newcomers Prestatyn Town as they defeated Porthmadog 5-2 while Airbus UK Broughton held GAP Connah’s Quay to a goalless draw at the Airfield to complete the Friday night action. A goal from defender Peter Hoy was enough for Bangor City to claim a 1-0 winwhile former Cardiff City defender Lee Jarman scored the only goal of the game for Haverfordwest County as they defeated NEWI Cefn Druids. Neil Roberts grabbed two goals for Rhyl as they cruised to a comfortable 3-0 win over Carmarthen Town at Belle Vue while Llanelli maintained second place with a 6-2 win over Newtown with the help of a hat-trick from Rhys Griffiths. Liam McCreesh scored the only goal of the game at Port Talbot as his side defeated Caernarfon Town 1-0 while goals from Tommy Holmes and John Toner were enough for The New Saints to defeat Neath Athletic 2-1 and stay in third place.
17th October 2008
Key trio set to play through pain barrier on Saturday
Manager Nicky Tucker received a welcome boost following training on Thursday with the news that defender Lee Surman, midfielder Gareth Phillips and striker Martin Rose are likely to be available for Saturday’s match against Caernarfon at The GenQuip Stadium. The important trio were expected to join James Burgin, Scott Barrow and Sam Baker on the injury list together with the currently unavailable Leigh De-Vulgt and captain Matthew Rees but following a positive reaction on Thursday all three are expected to play a part at the weekend. Admission remains at just £5 for adults, £3 for concessions and only £1 for kids. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
17th October 2008
Youth warm-up for Welsh Cup against West End
With the FAW Youth Cup match against Cardiff City fast approaching, our Under-19 side are home in the MacWhirter Youth League Cup on Sunday when the take on West End at The GenQuip Stadium.
17th October 2008
Bishop and Evans play part in impressive Wales display despite defeat
Port Talbot Town Coach Matthew Bishop and Assistant Manager Martin Evans both played their part in another impressive night for the next generation of Welsh footballers as the Wales Under-16 side were narrowly defeated by Scotland 2-1 at Clyde live on Sky Sports Friday night. Bishop is currently employed by the FAW Trust as Regional Director in addition to his coaching work at Port Talbot Town and joined FAW Technical Director Osian Roberts in the dugout for the match in which Scotland opened the scoring despite the run of play in the opening half before an inspired change by Wales saw Bristol City defender Aaron Connolly move forward into attack and he equalised as Wales continued to have the far better of the game. With the game heading for a draw Scotland grabbed a last minute winner to move them up the table in this seasons Victory Shield competition. Martin Evans managed the side for eight seasons before moving up to assist Under-21 manager Brian Flynn in overseeing the development of the Welsh players moving upto Under-17 level and he joined Flynn at Clyde on Friday as they assessed the next crop of Welsh Internationals.
16th October 2008
Injury crisis hits ahead of must win home match
Port Talbot Town take on bottom of the table Caernarfon on Saturday with manager Nicky Tucker facing the daunting prospect of being without upto eight of his players. Ahead of training on Thursday Lee Surman, James Burgin, Gareth Phillips, Sam Baker together with top scorer Martin Rose joined Scott Barrow on the injury list while defensive duo Leigh De-Vulgt and captain Matthew Rees are unavailable for the match at present. “Things are certainly against us at the moment”, said manager Nicky Tucker. “Luck has not been with us recently and the injury situation ahead of this weekends match could hardly be worse. I have faith in the players who are available however and while we will obviously miss key players in key positions I am confident we can achieve a result on Saturday”. Darren Davies is one player who will return to the side having served his three match suspension while the injury situation will be reassessed following training and again closer to the match. Kick off at The GenQuip Stadium on Saturday is at 2.30pm.
16th October 2008
Canaries desperate for long awaited GenQuip victory
Bottom of the table and without a win at Port Talbot Town since 2002, Caernarfon Town visit The GenQuip Stadium on Saturday desperate to move themselves out of trouble. New manager Dave Rowe recently improved his squad with the signing for experienced Football League defender Dave Ridler while they have attacking options in Lee Furlong and Timmy Ojapah. On Tuesday the side raced into a two goal lead against NEWI Cefn Druids in the Challenge Cup but lost the match 3-2, a display that emphasised the defensive problems that Port Talbot Town manager Nicky Tucker will need his side to exploit if they are to earn a much needed three points themselves. With only one win and six defeats from their opening seven games and an awful record at Port Talbot Town, the match provides Tucker with an ideal opportunity for his side to return to form after last weekends defeat against Bangor City. Port Talbot approach the game with a daunting list of injuries although a few will be assessed on their fitness to play at the weekend during training on Thursday night. Admission remains at a reduced price for the match. Kick off on Saturday is at 2.30pm.
14th October 2008
Blues held by local rivals in Challenge Cup exit
Port Talbot Town were knocked out of the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup on Tuesday night as Nicky Tucker’s side were held to a 3-3 draw by local rivals Neath Athletic in the group stage of the competition. Port Talbot needed to win by at least three goals to have any chance of progressing and opened the scoring through Drew Fahiya on 15 minutes only for Kerry Morgan to level the score two minutes later before Lee John handed Port Talbot the advantage after half an hour. Neath went in front at the interval however as Morgan added his second of the game and Neath midfielder Matthew Rees added a third before the break. In the second half Martin Rose levelled for Port Talbot Town in the entertaining encounter. Swansea City manager Roberto Martinez was an interested spectator at the match with a number of his loan players on view across the two sides. Already without Lee Surman, Matthew Rees and Scott Barrow, the side were dealt a further concern when James Burgin suffered a head injury and was taken to hospital.
13th October 2008
Tucker plans for Challenge Cup win after disappointing defeat
“Sunday was certainly a game of two halves”, said manager Nicky Tucker to the official website. “We were by far the better side in the first half and should have been ahead at half time, but in the second period we looked a totally different side. In fairness Bangor dominated after the break and Kristian Rogers was outstanding in goal for us. It is disappointing as we are capable of beating anyone in this league on our day, as we have done in the past, but at present we are just not consistent enough to get a run of wins. We missed Martin Rose who was unavailable and the early injury to Lee Surman didn't help matters but we should have done better over the full 90 minutes. We play Neath Tuesday and we want to get back to winning ways straight away. There is talk about us having to win by six goals to qualify from the group, but we are just looking to win the game first and foremost. Neath are a very good side and it would be nonsense to plan to win by six goals against anyone in this league. You can hope that strange score lines happen from time to time in football, but a win is our main objective”.
13th October 2008
Colin Rees
Port Talbot Town Football Club are sorry to announce that Colin Rees, father of 1st team captain Matthew Rees, sadly passed away earlier today. Colin, like his brother Conrad, was a popular local football figure having played in the Welsh League himself for many years. Everyone at Port Talbot Town offers their deepest sympathy to Matthew and his family at this time.
13th October 2008
Lee Mac set for Challenge Cup recall
After impressing last week at Llanelli, defender Lee MacLauchlan is again expected to make the step up from the Reserves on Tuesday night when Port Talbot Town take on Neath Atlhetic in the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup. Lee Surman will miss the match following his head injury on Sunday although top scorer Martin Rose is expected to return having been unavailable for Sunday’s defeat at Bangor City.
13th October 2008
Powell praise for positive approach
Bangor City manager Neville Powell was quick to praise Port Talbot despite his cruising to a 4-2 victory on Sunday. “Port Talbot, to be fair to them, were the first side to come here to have a go at us”, said Powell. “Although we took an early lead and they equalised just on half time, in second half the lads were absolutely superb and it was only the brilliant goalkeeping of Kristian Rogers that prevented us getting double figures. We created chance after chance and showed tremendous character as we looked a little heavy-legged before the break”.
13th October 2008
Challenge Cup challenge is in the maths
Port Talbot Town still have an outside chance of qualifying for the Quarter Finals of the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup. A three goal win over Neath is the minimum requirement to offer Nicky Tuckers side the chance to qualify as one of the two best runners-up across the six groups while a six goal win would guarantee them a place regardless of the results from the other groups.
12th October 2008
Town fail miserably in game of two halves
Port Talbot Town produced another frustrating performance on Sunday as Nicky Tucker’s side were comfortably defeated 4-2 at Bangor City. An impressive opening half performance from the side was overshadowed by an abysmal second half display as goalkeeper Kristian Rogers was called into action and had to be at his best on a number of occasions to prevent the home side considerably increasing their advantage. Tucker was forced to make changes to his defence after just five minutes when Lee Surman suffered a head injury and had to be taken to hospital for stitches as the home side took the lead minutes later. Port Talbot impressed in the opening half however as Drew Fahiya equalised just before the break. Bangor restored their lead early in the second half as Port Talbot allowed the strong and experienced home side to dominate the remainder of the game. Matthew Rees grabbed a consolation for the visitors on 77 minutes but Bangor had already taken a 4-1 lead and should have been a lot more in front if not for the form of Rogers in the visitors goal.
12th October 2008
Youth claim home win in League Cup
Despite striker Sam Baker being on duty for Port Talbot Town at Bangor City on Sunday, the Under-19‘s claimed a comfortable 2-0 victory over Pontardawe Town at The GenQuip Stadium to move them upto second place in their MacWhirter Youth League Cup group.
12th October 2008
Weekend Wrap
The Port Talbot Town Exiles moved to the top of the Port Talbot & District League Division One table with a convincing 6-0 win at Cefn Cribbwr over the weekend. There was also friendly action for our junior sides as the Under-10 Athletic team claimed a 12-1 win over Cynffig while the Under-10 Town team defeated Cwmafan. Match reports from both games are on each teams page.
12th October 2008
Double win for Girls in opening home games
The Under-12 girls side again impressed on Sunday with another well deserved double victory against Pantyscallog and Cyncoed at Western Avenue. In the first match Courtney Sawyers grabbed the headlines with three goals with Lauren Amor completing the scoring with a brace to hand the side a 5-0 win. The opposition picked Rebekah Williams and Lauren Amor as the best players for Port Talbot Town on the day. In the second game Courtney Sawyers scored her second hat-trick of the day before two goals from Demi Brady and a strike each from Rebekah Williams and Megan Davies completed the 7-1 win over Cyncoed. Despite the comfortable scoreline some excellent defending from Billie Eley played an important part in the win while a good passing performance from Lauren Paddison made it an impressive team display. The side are now in action at Penydarren next Sunday and will be looking to keep up their excellent form.
12th October 2008
Principality Welsh Premier League round-up
Due to Wales World Cup qualifying games, this weekends fixtures were arranged over both Friday and Sunday. Caersws produced the first surprise of the weekend as a goal from Ross Jeffries handed the side an opening half lead at Carmarthen Town before Stuart Roberts equalised for the home side. Haverfordwest then produced the second surprise as goals from Nick Woodrow and the impressive Jack Christopher handed Derek Brazil’s side the lead over The New Saints but a double striker from John Toner earned the visitors a share of the points. NEWI Cefn Druids claimed their first win of the season as they defeated Porthmadog 3-2 while Rhyl scored twice in the last ten minutes to complete the Friday night fixtures with a 2-0 win over GAP Connah’s Quay. On Sunday Llanelli maintained their climb up the table with a 6-1 win over Prestatyn while Aberystwyth defeated Airbus UK Broughton through a single goal from Geoff Kellaway. Bangor City defeated Port Talbot Town 4-2 at while Andy Hill scored all three goals for Neath Athletic in their home win over Technogroup Welshpool.
11th October 2008
Bond out to impress Saunders in Wrexham trial
Former Port Talbot Town striker Chad Bond is training with Wrexham for one month with the possibility of making a loan move to the Blue Square Premier club. Bond signed for Swansea City for a second time after making 40 Welsh Premier League apperances for Port Talbot Town but has been restricted to Reserve games since his return to the Liberty Stadium. “I am just training at the moment,” said Bond in the Wrexham Evening Leader. “Dean Saunders does not know me as a player so he is taking a look at me and hopefully I will impress. I will be trying to do that, maybe with a view to coming in on loan. I would do that, Wrexham is a great club. The lads have welcomed me and I have enjoyed it here. I am looking for first team football but there is a big squad here with everyone fighting for a place so it won't be easy. We will have to see how it goes, but I would be willing to come on loan if there is the option”. Chad featured for Wrexham in a practice match against Stockport County last week while Swansea City team mate Joe Allen has also joined Wrexham on a months loan.
10th October 2008
Selection headache for Tucker after midweek win
Manager Nicky Tucker will make some difficult decisions on Sunday when he names his side for a difficult away match at Bangor City. Captain Matthew Rees is set to return to the side after sitting out Tuesdays impressive victory over Llanelli together with influential midfield trio Gareth Phillips, Matthew Thompson and Liam McCreesh who all missed the Challenge Cup win through injury and illness while McCreesh sat out the last match of a three match suspension. Despite naming an experimental side on Tuesday against a full strength Llanelli team, Port Talbot claimed a fully deserved 4-2 win and those involved in the victory did more than enough to stake their claim for a place in the side this weekend. Darren Davies will be one player missing the match however as he serves the second game of his three match suspension following his red card in the Welsh Cup win over ENTO Aberaman while Scott Barrow is also a doubt after suffering another ankle injury on Tuesday. The coach leaves The GenQuip Stadium at 7.30am on Sunday. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
8th October 2008
Tucker talks Challenge Cup success against the odds
“Seven days is a long time in football, and the last seven have been as hard as ever but far more enjoyable”, said Tucker. “We followed our win over Aberaman with a fantastic performance against a full strength Llanelli side. I must credit the players as we had five players out through injury or suspension and a further three players who had been in bed the previous three days with flu and should not have been involved, but they showed great commitment to the club and typified the team spirit we now have in the squad. Drew Fahiya had his best game for the club by far, and it was an outstanding debut by Lee McLauchlan who stepped up from the reserves and never looked out of place, although he did worry me when he started making 70 yard runs from the back with five minutes remaining! Everyone played there part but I thought Leigh De-Vulgt was outstanding in midfield and Lee John is starting to show a lot more consistency and his work rate has been excellent in the last couple of games. We have now set our standards and we will have to keep them at a high level as we have a very tough game away to Bangor this weekend, but it has been a very good week so let's enjoy it!”.
7th October 2008
Town set new standard in four goal Llanelli victory
Port Talbot Town produced their best performance of the season on Tuesday night as despite fielding a weakened side through injuries, unavailabilities and suspensions they stormed to a 4-2 win against Welsh Premier League champions and Challenge Cup holders Llanelli at Stebonheath. Reserve team defender Lee McLachlan made his debut for the side in the centre of defence as captain Matthew Rees joined Matthew Thompson, Gareth Phillips, Darren Davies and Liam McCreesh on the unavailable list and more than impressed with an excellent display. Despite conceding in the opening exchanges, Port Talbot went onto build up a 4-1 lead after just 65 minutes though goals from James Burgin, Martin Rose and a brace from Drew Fahiya. Llanelli mounted a comeback when former Port Talbot Town striker Rhys Griffiths scored from the spot on 70 minutes but Tucker’s side battled hard to maintain their lead and left with a convincing, impressive and thoroughly deserved win.
7th October 2008
Hash talks S4C, Russell Brand, McCreesh and October
Afan FM Sports Editor Hash Piperdy looks at the month of October in his latest exclusive feature for the official website. ‘Oktoberfest’ talks about the coverage from S4C, emotional speeches of deliverance from manager Nicky Tucker, Windsor Davies, Russell Brand, Kristian Rogers, Liam McCreesh and the Europa League amongst other diverse topics in his alternative look at our upcoming fixtures.
7th October 2008
Bond and company take on Bristol City stars on Wednesday
On Wednesday Swansea City Reserves are in action at The GenQuip Stadium when they take on Bristol City in a Group Cup match. The two sides met a few weeks ago in the Combination League as former Swansea City striker Lee Trundle made an appearance for Bristol City and is again expected to play this week.
6th October 2008
Tough Tuesday Test for Tucker and Town
Port Talbot Town visit Stebonheath on Tuesday night to take on Principality Welsh Premier League champions Llanelli in the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup. Llanelli won the competition last season and can claim their place in the next round with a victory on Tuesday while Nicky Tucker’s side must win both on Tuesday and against Neath Athletic the following week to have any chance of qualifying from the group having lost their opening two games in the competition. Liam McCreesh and Darren Davies both miss the match through suspension although Scott Barrow is set to return after his recent injury.
6th October 2008
Weekend round-up from all our local league teams
Visit each teams page on the website for a round-up of the weekends action while our Under-10 Town team are the latest side to provide a match report from their game.
5th October 2008
Denbigh Town to provide Welsh Cup opposition
Port Talbot Town have been drawn at home in the 3rd round of the Welsh Cup against Cymru Alliance strugglers Denbigh Town. Currently fourteenth in the table with just one league win, the North Wales side have former Welsh Premier duo Kenny Burgess and Calvin Davies in their ranks but have struggled so far this season and manager Nicky Tucker will be confident of his side progressing to the next stage of the competition following a much improved performance against ENTO Aberaman in the 2nd round on Friday night in which Lee John scored the only goal of the game to take Port Talbot Town into the next round.
5th October 2008
Reserves make it six wins out of six
The Reserve Team stormed to another convincing win on Saturday against Bryntirion Athletic.
3rd October 2008
Lee John strike takes Blues into Welsh Cup draw
Lee John scored the only goal of the game on Friday night as Port Talbot Town kept their first clean sheet of the season and ended Welsh League side ENTO Aberaman’s undefeated record with a 1-0 win at The GenQuip Stadium in the 2nd round of the Welsh Cup. An inspired performance from ENTO Aberaman goalkeeper Neil Collins prevented Port Talbot Town claiming their place in the third round draw by a more convincing margin but manager Nicky Tucker was more than pleased to have guided his side through a potentially difficult game in front of the S4C cameras. David Biggs made his starting debut for Port Talbot Town at right back as Leigh De-Vulgt was pushed into midfield leaving Darren Davies on the bench. The former Merthyr Tydfil defender made himself known when he replaced Biggs on 77 minutes however when he received a straight red card from referee Mark Whitby for an apparent elbow on his opponent in injury time and will now miss the next three games. Llanelli and Carmarthen Town both join Port Talbot in the 3rd round draw following convincing home wins.
2nd October 2008
Tucker “Lets get the feel good factor back”
“Friday is a massive game for us as like all sides we want a good cup run, but we are also capable of winning the tournament. League form has been very inconsistent and it is now time we move forward”, said Tucker to the official website. “I can't wait for the game Friday as I want to see us produce a performance full of pride, commitment, passion, effort, and be totally focused for the full 90 minutes. We have plenty of ability within the side, but it is time we deliver and not just for one game but for every game we play. It is inevitable that we will lose occasionally which I can accept, but I will not accept anything less than 100% from anyone anymore. Times have now changed and we move on with confidence. I will guarantee a totally committed performance from my side tomorrow, and I ask all our supporters to back us 100%. Let's get the trumpets, drums and flags out and get the vocal support that has been fantastic in the past back and create an atmosphere we all enjoy. Now is the time we all need to stick together as we all want success for this club. My players, Management team, and I will deliver, and I am sure the supporters will do the same. Let's get the feel good factor back into the club”.
1st October 2008
Under-19‘s draw Cardiff City in FAW Youth Cup
Cardiff City will visit The GenQuip Stadium on Sunday, 26th October after being drawn away to Port Talbot Town in the 2nd round of the FAW Youth Cup. Port Talbot progressed through the opening round with a 2-0 win over Caerleon on Sunday and have now been handed a much tougher task with regular Wales Under-19 players James Bloom, Adam Matthews, Jonathan Brown, Rhys Kelleher and Kye Edwards all available for Cardiff. Holders Swansea City have been drawn against Newport County. On Tuesday Port Talbot were comfortably defeated 5-1 at Llanelli in the latest match of the MacWhirter Youth League Cup Group D.
1st October 2008
All the stats from the season so far
The 1st Team page has been updated with this seasons player stats and a new team photo.
30th October 2008
Gazza set to play through pain barrier on Saturday
Influential midfielder Gareth Phillips is set to make a surprise start on Saturday when Port Talbot Town take on Denbigh Town in the 3rd round of the Welsh Cup. Despite struggling with a groin strain, suspensions to Liam McCreesh, Matthew Rees, Lee Surman and Lee John will leave manager Nicky Tucker desperate for some experience in his young side while the injured Scott Barrow remains sidelined. “It looks as if Gareth Phillips will return from injury as well as Drew Fahiya and David Biggs, who both return after being unavailable last week, so I still have a very good team to select from”, said Nicky Tucker to the official website. “With five first team regulars out however, it will obviously make the task of reaching the next round more difficult. I have had Denbigh watched and they are a decent side and we will not underestimate them, but we still have enough quality in the squad to progress to the next round”. Admission for the match remains at just £5 for adults, £3 for concessions and jut £1 for kids. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
28th October 2008
Experienced Denbigh duo warm-
27th October 2008
Tucker talks indiscipline in Caersws aftermath
“I would like to apologise to everyone connected with our football club for the 60 seconds of indiscipline that we had to witness on Saturday”, said Tucker. “The players involved will be disciplined as it cost us the chance of winning the game and has put us under extreme pressure for this weeks match. We are not a dirty side, yet we are near the bottom of the fair play table. We are picking up needless bookings and need to grow up and realise you have to accept the referee's decisions and more importantly that we keep eleven players on the pitch. The season is certainly not going as planned and I feel as hurt and as frustrated as everyone. I could come out and try to make excuses and blame different things for our bad start, but I will take full responsibility. I am not going to start feeling sorry for myself, I will get on with the job and rebuild our season and make sure that we progress in the Welsh Cup. The first half performance on Saturday was as good as I have seen this season, but it is about consistency and results. For all the negatives there were positives from Saturday and we must take that into our next game. I will make sure though we never see a repeat of the indiscipline that we did on the weekend”.
27th October 2008
Weekend Wrap
The Reserve Team extended their 100% record into cup competition as they defeated Bryntirion Athletic 6-
25th October 2008
Rees, Surman and John sent off in four goal defeat
Port Talbot Town suffered a 4-
25th October 2008
Principality Welsh Premier League round-
23rd October 2008
Blues plan away day win at Caersws
Port Talbot Town visit Caersws on Saturday looking for their first Principality Welsh Premier League away win of the season. Defeats at The New Saints and Bangor City combined with draws at Aberystwyth and Carmarthen have yielded Nicky Tucker’s side just two points from a possible twelve on the road this season and his team will be looking to take confidence from last weekends home win over Caernarfon Town together with the return of a few important players into the match. Although Gareth Phillips has been added to the injury list with a groin strain, James Burgin and Leigh De-
23rd October 2008
Youth Welsh Cup match against Cardiff City postponed
This Sunday’s Under-
22nd October 2008
McCreesh out for Welsh Cup match after five bookings
Midfielder Liam McCreesh will miss the Welsh Cup 3rd round match against Denbigh Town on the 1st of November through suspension after picking up five bookings already this season. McCreesh will be available for this weekends match at Caersws however as his one match suspension does not start until the following week. James Burgin is again available for Saturday after sitting out last weekends win over Caernarfon with a head injury sustained in the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup match against Neath although influential midfielder Gareth Phillips is expected to miss the next two games with a groin injury and he joins Scott Barrow on the injury list. Sam Baker returned for the Under-
22nd October 2008
Girls held by league rivals
The Under-
20th October 2008
Tucker delighted with three points from scrappy win
Manager Nicky Tucker rounded off one of his hardest weeks in management with maximum points and his sides first clean sheet of the season on Saturday as Port Talbot Town defeated Caernarfon Town 1-
19th October 2008
McCreesh strike earns maximum points over Caernarfon
Liam McCreesh scored the only goal of the game on Saturday as Port Talbot Town defeated Caernarfon Town at The GenQuip Stadium. McCreesh scored on 58 minutes after some good work from Martin Rose after a disappointing opening half when Caernarfon appeared to be in full control of the game. The visitors arrived in a blue strip forcing Port Talbot Town to play in yellow and had the better chances in the first half against a much changed Port Talbot Town side. Darren Davies made a return to the starting line-
19th October 2008
Baker brace eases Blues past ten man West End
Striker Sam Baker scored twice for the Under-
19th October 2008
Juniors impress in eight goal win
The Under-
18th October 2008
Principality Welsh Premier League round-
17th October 2008
Key trio set to play through pain barrier on Saturday
Manager Nicky Tucker received a welcome boost following training on Thursday with the news that defender Lee Surman, midfielder Gareth Phillips and striker Martin Rose are likely to be available for Saturday’s match against Caernarfon at The GenQuip Stadium. The important trio were expected to join James Burgin, Scott Barrow and Sam Baker on the injury list together with the currently unavailable Leigh De-
17th October 2008
Youth warm-
17th October 2008
Bishop and Evans play part in impressive Wales display despite defeat
Port Talbot Town Coach Matthew Bishop and Assistant Manager Martin Evans both played their part in another impressive night for the next generation of Welsh footballers as the Wales Under-
16th October 2008
Injury crisis hits ahead of must win home match
Port Talbot Town take on bottom of the table Caernarfon on Saturday with manager Nicky Tucker facing the daunting prospect of being without upto eight of his players. Ahead of training on Thursday Lee Surman, James Burgin, Gareth Phillips, Sam Baker together with top scorer Martin Rose joined Scott Barrow on the injury list while defensive duo Leigh De-
16th October 2008
Canaries desperate for long awaited GenQuip victory
Bottom of the table and without a win at Port Talbot Town since 2002, Caernarfon Town visit The GenQuip Stadium on Saturday desperate to move themselves out of trouble. New manager Dave Rowe recently improved his squad with the signing for experienced Football League defender Dave Ridler while they have attacking options in Lee Furlong and Timmy Ojapah. On Tuesday the side raced into a two goal lead against NEWI Cefn Druids in the Challenge Cup but lost the match 3-
14th October 2008
Blues held by local rivals in Challenge Cup exit
Port Talbot Town were knocked out of the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup on Tuesday night as Nicky Tucker’s side were held to a 3-
13th October 2008
Tucker plans for Challenge Cup win after disappointing defeat
“Sunday was certainly a game of two halves”, said manager Nicky Tucker to the official website. “We were by far the better side in the first half and should have been ahead at half time, but in the second period we looked a totally different side. In fairness Bangor dominated after the break and Kristian Rogers was outstanding in goal for us. It is disappointing as we are capable of beating anyone in this league on our day, as we have done in the past, but at present we are just not consistent enough to get a run of wins. We missed Martin Rose who was unavailable and the early injury to Lee Surman didn't help matters but we should have done better over the full 90 minutes. We play Neath Tuesday and we want to get back to winning ways straight away. There is talk about us having to win by six goals to qualify from the group, but we are just looking to win the game first and foremost. Neath are a very good side and it would be nonsense to plan to win by six goals against anyone in this league. You can hope that strange score lines happen from time to time in football, but a win is our main objective”.
13th October 2008
Colin Rees
Port Talbot Town Football Club are sorry to announce that Colin Rees, father of 1st team captain Matthew Rees, sadly passed away earlier today. Colin, like his brother Conrad, was a popular local football figure having played in the Welsh League himself for many years. Everyone at Port Talbot Town offers their deepest sympathy to Matthew and his family at this time.
13th October 2008
Lee Mac set for Challenge Cup recall
After impressing last week at Llanelli, defender Lee MacLauchlan is again expected to make the step up from the Reserves on Tuesday night when Port Talbot Town take on Neath Atlhetic in the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup. Lee Surman will miss the match following his head injury on Sunday although top scorer Martin Rose is expected to return having been unavailable for Sunday’s defeat at Bangor City.
13th October 2008
Powell praise for positive approach
Bangor City manager Neville Powell was quick to praise Port Talbot despite his cruising to a 4-
13th October 2008
Challenge Cup challenge is in the maths
Port Talbot Town still have an outside chance of qualifying for the Quarter Finals of the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup. A three goal win over Neath is the minimum requirement to offer Nicky Tuckers side the chance to qualify as one of the two best runners-
12th October 2008
Town fail miserably in game of two halves
Port Talbot Town produced another frustrating performance on Sunday as Nicky Tucker’s side were comfortably defeated 4-
12th October 2008
Youth claim home win in League Cup
Despite striker Sam Baker being on duty for Port Talbot Town at Bangor City on Sunday, the Under-
12th October 2008
Weekend Wrap
The Port Talbot Town Exiles moved to the top of the Port Talbot & District League Division One table with a convincing 6-
12th October 2008
Double win for Girls in opening home games
The Under-
12th October 2008
Principality Welsh Premier League round-
11th October 2008
Bond out to impress Saunders in Wrexham trial
Former Port Talbot Town striker Chad Bond is training with Wrexham for one month with the possibility of making a loan move to the Blue Square Premier club. Bond signed for Swansea City for a second time after making 40 Welsh Premier League apperances for Port Talbot Town but has been restricted to Reserve games since his return to the Liberty Stadium. “I am just training at the moment,” said Bond in the Wrexham Evening Leader. “Dean Saunders does not know me as a player so he is taking a look at me and hopefully I will impress. I will be trying to do that, maybe with a view to coming in on loan. I would do that, Wrexham is a great club. The lads have welcomed me and I have enjoyed it here. I am looking for first team football but there is a big squad here with everyone fighting for a place so it won't be easy. We will have to see how it goes, but I would be willing to come on loan if there is the option”. Chad featured for Wrexham in a practice match against Stockport County last week while Swansea City team mate Joe Allen has also joined Wrexham on a months loan.
10th October 2008
Selection headache for Tucker after midweek win
Manager Nicky Tucker will make some difficult decisions on Sunday when he names his side for a difficult away match at Bangor City. Captain Matthew Rees is set to return to the side after sitting out Tuesdays impressive victory over Llanelli together with influential midfield trio Gareth Phillips, Matthew Thompson and Liam McCreesh who all missed the Challenge Cup win through injury and illness while McCreesh sat out the last match of a three match suspension. Despite naming an experimental side on Tuesday against a full strength Llanelli team, Port Talbot claimed a fully deserved 4-
8th October 2008
Tucker talks Challenge Cup success against the odds
“Seven days is a long time in football, and the last seven have been as hard as ever but far more enjoyable”, said Tucker. “We followed our win over Aberaman with a fantastic performance against a full strength Llanelli side. I must credit the players as we had five players out through injury or suspension and a further three players who had been in bed the previous three days with flu and should not have been involved, but they showed great commitment to the club and typified the team spirit we now have in the squad. Drew Fahiya had his best game for the club by far, and it was an outstanding debut by Lee McLauchlan who stepped up from the reserves and never looked out of place, although he did worry me when he started making 70 yard runs from the back with five minutes remaining! Everyone played there part but I thought Leigh De-
7th October 2008
Town set new standard in four goal Llanelli victory
Port Talbot Town produced their best performance of the season on Tuesday night as despite fielding a weakened side through injuries, unavailabilities and suspensions they stormed to a 4-
7th October 2008
Hash talks S4C, Russell Brand, McCreesh and October
Afan FM Sports Editor Hash Piperdy looks at the month of October in his latest exclusive feature for the official website. ‘Oktoberfest’ talks about the coverage from S4C, emotional speeches of deliverance from manager Nicky Tucker, Windsor Davies, Russell Brand, Kristian Rogers, Liam McCreesh and the Europa League amongst other diverse topics in his alternative look at our upcoming fixtures.
7th October 2008
Bond and company take on Bristol City stars on Wednesday
On Wednesday Swansea City Reserves are in action at The GenQuip Stadium when they take on Bristol City in a Group Cup match. The two sides met a few weeks ago in the Combination League as former Swansea City striker Lee Trundle made an appearance for Bristol City and is again expected to play this week.
6th October 2008
Tough Tuesday Test for Tucker and Town
Port Talbot Town visit Stebonheath on Tuesday night to take on Principality Welsh Premier League champions Llanelli in the Loosemores Solicitors Challenge Cup. Llanelli won the competition last season and can claim their place in the next round with a victory on Tuesday while Nicky Tucker’s side must win both on Tuesday and against Neath Athletic the following week to have any chance of qualifying from the group having lost their opening two games in the competition. Liam McCreesh and Darren Davies both miss the match through suspension although Scott Barrow is set to return after his recent injury.
6th October 2008
Weekend round-
5th October 2008
Denbigh Town to provide Welsh Cup opposition
Port Talbot Town have been drawn at home in the 3rd round of the Welsh Cup against Cymru Alliance strugglers Denbigh Town. Currently fourteenth in the table with just one league win, the North Wales side have former Welsh Premier duo Kenny Burgess and Calvin Davies in their ranks but have struggled so far this season and manager Nicky Tucker will be confident of his side progressing to the next stage of the competition following a much improved performance against ENTO Aberaman in the 2nd round on Friday night in which Lee John scored the only goal of the game to take Port Talbot Town into the next round.
5th October 2008
Reserves make it six wins out of six
The Reserve Team stormed to another convincing win on Saturday against Bryntirion Athletic.
3rd October 2008
Lee John strike takes Blues into Welsh Cup draw
Lee John scored the only goal of the game on Friday night as Port Talbot Town kept their first clean sheet of the season and ended Welsh League side ENTO Aberaman’s undefeated record with a 1-
2nd October 2008
Tucker “Lets get the feel good factor back”
“Friday is a massive game for us as like all sides we want a good cup run, but we are also capable of winning the tournament. League form has been very inconsistent and it is now time we move forward”, said Tucker to the official website. “I can't wait for the game Friday as I want to see us produce a performance full of pride, commitment, passion, effort, and be totally focused for the full 90 minutes. We have plenty of ability within the side, but it is time we deliver and not just for one game but for every game we play. It is inevitable that we will lose occasionally which I can accept, but I will not accept anything less than 100% from anyone anymore. Times have now changed and we move on with confidence. I will guarantee a totally committed performance from my side tomorrow, and I ask all our supporters to back us 100%. Let's get the trumpets, drums and flags out and get the vocal support that has been fantastic in the past back and create an atmosphere we all enjoy. Now is the time we all need to stick together as we all want success for this club. My players, Management team, and I will deliver, and I am sure the supporters will do the same. Let's get the feel good factor back into the club”.
1st October 2008
Under-
1st October 2008
All the stats from the season so far
The 1st Team page has been updated with this seasons player stats and a new team photo.