REPORTS COURTESY OF ANDREW CHALLIS

Saturday 7 November 2009

Troedyrhiw 2, Llantwit Fardre 1

from Troedyrhiw FC  

Following the previous week's disappointing 1-1 draw at lowly Garw, 'Rhiw played host to old foes Llantwit Fardre at The Willows. 

The game was very much nip and tuck from the outset with both sides looking to gain a stranglehold on the match. 

Both sides battled it out and opportunities came and went for both sides but neither were able to capitalise on their efforts and find the net. 

'Rhiw's defence was relatively staunch and kept the visitors at bay. Lloyd Martin in particular a lynch pin at the heart of the defence. When the 'Rhiw defence was breached on rare occasions, Fardre found 'Rhiw custodian Jon Jones in fine form. 

It was 'Rhiw that eventually took the lead through Chris Quinlan whose thunderbolt of a shot from distance blasted into the net. Despite the 'keeper getting a hand to it, the power Quinlan put into his shot made sure it reached the net. 

Both sides then continued to battle it out until the break and at the interval it was 1-0 to the hosts. 

The second half carried on in very much the same vein as the first, with opportunities coming for both sides and said chances going begging. Jones protecting his sides' lead with a number of good saves. 

Later on in the half though, Fardre made things all square at 1-1 with a scrappy equaliser.

'Rhiw heads though remained unbowed as they continued with the job in hand. They exerted pressure on Fardre and later in the half were awarded a free-kick.

Quinlan was the man to take it and again his superb strike hit the back of the net for his and his team's second, much to the delight of everyone in the 'Rhiw camp. 

'Fardre tried their hardest to haul themselves level, and to be fair they refused to give up but again the 'Rhiw defence stood firm.

When the final whistle eventually sounded after what seemed like an eternity 'Rhiw claimed a great 2-1 victory and more importantly the much valued three points to add to their league tally.

With no fixture this Saturday, 'Rhiw will travel to play Briton Ferry Llansawel this Friday. Kick off is at 7pm.

 

Saturday 17 October 2009

Newport Civil Service 1, Troedyrhiw 2

from Troedyrhiw FC

'Rhiw made the journey to Gwent where high-fliers Newport Civil Service awaited them.

'Rhiw were more than keen to make amends for the previous week's poor showing against Goytre and personnel changes were made.

The game got underway amid glorious sunshine as both sides looked to gain the ascendancy.

As the first half progressed it was 'Rhiw who looked the better side as they took the game to the hosts and indeed had numerous chances to take the lead. Shaun O'Brien and Chris Quinlan both coming close to getting on the scoresheet.

Newport had a handful of opportunities themselves, but nothing of great note. When they did manage an attempt on goal they found visiting 'keeper John Jones in inspired form.

With both sides battling it out, the half drew to a close with the score at 0-0 and it was 'Rhiw who looked the more confident of the two teams.

This confidence was rewarded early on in the second half when they took the lead.  Quinlan unleashed a venomous effort from around 25 yards that left the keeper helpless and his team-mates delirious.

'Rhiw now had the bit between their teeth and were hungry for more and they didn't have to wait long as O'Brien put his side 2-0 up and stun the hosts.

'Rhiw were by now rampant and goalscoring chances came at regular intervals. Michael Murphy especially going close. Striker Ceri Kinsey caused no end of problems in the Newport defence as he won the battle against the imposing centre half.

The Gwent side looked to have no answer to 'Rhiw but they did muster up a few chances.  One effort was seemingly goal-bound but 'keeper Jones pulled off an incredible save to deny the Newport man.

As the game wore on, Newport got themselves back into the game as they made the score 2-1 scoring a goal that was suspiciously offside, so much so even Newport were apparently surprised that the referee allowed it to stand.

'Rhiw were suitably aggrieved but refused to let it dent their confidence as they pressed further.

The remainder of the game was somewhat nervy for 'Rhiw but as the final whistle went it was the men from The Willows who travelled back home with the vital three points. 'Rhiw thoroughly deserved their win and those in the Newport camp acknowledged the fact.  Indeed the scoreline flattered the home side as 'Rhiw could have won the game by a far greater margin.

There is no fixture this Saturday so the next game sees the team travel to take on strugglers Garw on October 31st.

* 'Rhiw's Reserve side entertained Bryntirion at home and despite an impressive performance lost the game 0-4, a scoreline that didn't reflect on the game and flattered the visitors.

* 'Rhiw's Youth side travelled the short distance to Penydarren for a local derby. An enthralling encounter saw 'Rhiw emerge 3-2 winners. It was 'Rhiw who took the lead through Curtis Colcombe before Penydarren equalised. 'Rhiw went ahead again when Gareth Tedstone smashed the ball home following a great solo run. It was all 'Rhiw from then on and Man of the Match Tedstone latched on to a sublime through ball from Aaron Farmer and coolly slotted home the winner for 'Rhiw. A great victory for 'Rhiw for whom Ashley Tandy and Dan Jones also shone. The Management team of Ceri Kinsey and Matt Driscoll were extremely pleased with their side's performance especially their second half showing.

 

Saturday 10 October 2009

Troedyrhiw 1, Goytre 4

from Troedyrhiw FC

Gwent side Goytre visited The Willows last Saturday to face a Troedyrhiw side who had played extremely well against Cambrian in the Welsh Cup the previous week.

However, 'Rhiw were a shadow of the side they were in that game.

They were decidedly lacklustre and often bereft of ideas and dare it be said belief and desire.  Therefore it came as no surprise when they went a goal down.

Owen McGill though gave his side hope when he equalised for 'Rhiw but from then on Goytre ran riot and 'Rhiw allowed them to.

The 'Rhiw midfield was at times non-existent and their defence was out of sorts on occasions.

Goytre took advantage of this and scored three further goals to make it 1-4.

'Rhiw were by now severely downbeat and looked to have no answer to their visitors and chances were at a minimum and as time ran out they were beaten 1-4.

'Rhiw look to put this to bed and put things right next Saturday when they travel to play Newport Civil Service. Kick off 2.30pm.

* 'Rhiw's Welsh League Reserve side travelled to the capital last Saturday where they faced Caerau Ely. They returned home with a creditable 2-2 draw. Scorers were Lloyd Martin and Dan Hanson who was the hero of the hour securing the draw in the dying seconds.

Meanwhile 'Rhiw's under 18s drew 5-5 with Abercwmboi on Sunday. Hitting the mark for 'Rhiw were Gareth Tedstone, Ashley Nash, Dan Jones, Rhys Tandy and Man of the Match Luke Tarr who was outstanding throughout. Some goalkeeping errors cost 'Rhiw victory and the management team were hugely disappointed with the result. Ceri Kinsey's men travel the short distance to near neighbours Penydarren next Sunday.

 

Friday 2 October 2009

Cambrian & Clydach 3, Troedyrhiw   1

FAW Welsh Cup Round Two

from Troedyrhiw FC

Last Friday saw 'Rhiw travel to the King George V Field in Rhondda, where Division One high- flyers Cambrian & Clydach awaited them in this Welsh Cup clash.

'Rhiw were looking to 'put the cat amongst the pigeons' and cause a great upset.

Indeed 'Rhiw were by no means overawed by the job in hand as they matched their hosts from the outset. Some strong tackling and constant harrying from 'Rhiw knocking Cambrian off their stride at times and often restricting them to a long ball game.

Midway through the half though Cambrian took the lead after some sloppy 'Rhiw defending.

'Rhiw refused to lie down though and carried on with their task, again often upsetting Cambrian's rhythm. They set off in search of the equaliser and did their utmost but as the first half reached it's conclusion it remained 1-0.

The second half saw 'Rhiw come out as valiant and determined as the first as they looked to get back on level terms and they got their just rewards early on in the half.

A defensive error let in Adam Callan who made no mistake in stroking the ball past the helpless 'keeper and send the travelling 'Rhiw contingent wild.

The game had now burst into life as a slightly shocked Cambrian looked to regain superiority.

Again 'Rhiw continued to frustrate their opponents as they themselves looked to snatch the lead.

Later in the half though the home side made it 2-1. 'Rhiw heads remained unbowed and they were highly confident of getting something out of this game.

Opportunities came and went and with the game nearing it's end and the score at 2-1 'Rhiw were still toiling away as this was not yet a lost cause.

However, it was Cambrian who scored again to make it 3-1 with a goal that looked to be suspiciously offside to everyone in the ground apart from the men who matter - the officials.

This was desperately disappointing for 'Rhiw and they were suitably aggrieved as they battled away towards the final whistle.

When it sounded it was Cambrian who went through to the next round but 'Rhiw can hold their heads high after a superb performance and effort and 'Rhiw boss Kevin Rogers proudly told his players that after the game.

'Rhiw look to take this into to their next game which is this Saturday when they welcome Goytre to The Willows in a league fixture..

*' Rhiw's Reserve side travelled to Radyr where they faced Cardiff Corries in a league encounter. A goal from Jason Launchbury was all they had to show for after an excellent performance as they returned to the Valleys with a 2-1 defeat.

* Troedyrhiw Under 18's took on St. Albans OB in a South Wales Youth League Cup game last Sunday. They were edged out 7-6 by the visitors after extra-time in an enthralling game.

 
Welsh League Division Three
 
 
Troedyrhiw   2    Abertillery Bluebirds   5
 
 
Troedyrhiw played host to Gwent side Abertillery Bluebirds at The Willows for the second time in a matter of weeks.  The first meeting between the two sides saw 'Rhiw emerge 2-1 winners in a closely contested Welsh Cup match.  Therefore 'Rhiw knew they were in for a stern test this time around.
 
'Rhiw started the game well, and indeed they could have took the lead almost immediately through Ceri Kinsey whose thumping header narrowly missed the target.
 
From then on it was very much 'Rhiw who were in the ascendancy as they took the game to the visitors and indeed had the Bluebirds defence in disarray at times. However, 'Rhiw were unable to convert this pressure into goals.
 
Later in the half they were punished for this when Bluebirds took the lead very much against the run of play much to the dismay of the 'Rhiw contingent. This understandably stunned the hosts and they looked to make amends but as the half-time whistle went it remained 0-1.
 
'Rhiw looked to re-group and come out fighting in the second half but their hopes of getting back on level terms early on were dented when Bluebirds scored their second within around six seconds of the restart.
 
A shell-shocked 'Rhiw responded almost immediately when Adam Callan's powerful effort hit the net to get his side back in the hunt at 1-2.  The game now really came alive as a contest as both sides battled it out.
 
It was the Gwent side though that found the net again to make it 1-3.
 
'Rhiw's reply was again a swift one when soon after a hefty long range strike from Shaun O'Brien made it 2-3 to give 'Rhiw hope.
 
This was now a real humdinger of a game as the two sides fought it out.
 
Bluebirds though seemed to be gaining the advantage over 'Rhiw and this was compounded when they scored two further goals to put 'Rhiw to the sword.
 
'Rhiw though toiled away in the vain hope of salvaging something from this game but with time eventually running out it was Bluebirds who travel back to Gwent with the three points.
 
'Rhiw had their chances in this game but unlike their opponents were unable to capitalize on them.
 
'Rhiw must now pick themselves up as they look to put things right in their next game.  This game is a tough away encounter at high flying Division One side Cambrian & Clydach in the second round of the prestigious Welsh Cup. This game will be played tomorrow (Friday) at King George V New Field, Clydach Vale. Kick off is at 7.30pm. Please get behind Kevin Rogers and his men as they look to upset the applecart and progress into the next round.
 
*Troedyrhiw's Under 18's side recorded an extremely impressive victory over MacWhirter Youth League outfit Dinas Powys in the Welsh Youth Cup last Sunday. 'Rhiw won the the tie 5-3 with goals coming from Dan Jones who notched up a hat-trick, Gareth Tedstone and Matthew Saunders. 'Rhiw played a large amount of the game with ten men as the referee brandished the red card to Matthew Rudge for dissent. Despite this blot on their copybook, 'Rhiw boss Ceri Kinsey was extremely pleased with his team's performance and understandably proud of his side's excellent achievement as they go into the hat for the next round.
 
 

 

Saturday 19 September 2009

 

Llangeinor 1, Troedyrhiw 0

 

Nathaniel Car Sales League Cup Round One

 

from Troedyrhiw FC

'Rhiw took to the road last Saturday to take on Division Two side Llangeinor in this cup tie.

Having beaten Abertillery Bluebirds in the Welsh Cup the previous week with a less than satisfactory performance, 'Rhiw were looking to improve on that display.

Sure enough they didn't disappoint as they set about the job in hand and played some good football, putting their hosts on the back foot for large periods of the first half.  Such was their dominance at times any neutrals watching would be forgiven for thinking that it was 'Rhiw who were the Division Two side and not Llangeinor. Ceri Kinsey was his usual self battling away in midfield.

Despite being the better side, 'Rhiw had very little in the way of goalscoring chances, the nearest they got to scoring was when Shaun O'Brien's effort struck the crossbar. Llangeinor too created very little and when they did manage to get an opportunity they found Chris Siers and his defence in defiant mood ably assisted by 'keeper Jason Pendry. Thus the score remained goalless at half time.

The second half saw the hosts creep into the game a little and 'Rhiw were losing their shape at times. Yet again though goal scoring chances were at a minimum.

With both sides battling it out to break the deadlock, it was Llangeinor who got the opener with around 25 minutes left. A good strike which left Pendry helpless.

This stunned 'Rhiw and they set off in search of the equaliser but it was the hosts who were now exerting the pressure and putting 'Rhiw on the back foot.

With the final whistle beckoning 'Rhiw tried their utmost to salvage something from this game but it was to no avail as when the whistle came it was Llangeinor who booked their passage to the next round and leave 'Rhiw to travel back scratching their heads and wondering what could and perhaps should have been.

'Rhiw look to get back on track this Saturday when they welcome back Abertillery Bluebirds to The Willows, this time in a league fixture. 

* Troedyrhiw's reserve side continued their excellent start to the season when they defeated Rhondda side Cambrian & Clydach 2-1 at home. 'Rhiw found themselves 1-0 down early on but Jason Launchbury levelled the scores and Kai Phillips scored the decisive goal. Reserve Manager Roland House named Rhys Nolan as Man of the Match and heaped praise on Lloyd Martin whose display was outstanding throughout.  'Rhiw 'keeper Jonathan Jones also deserves great credit for pulling of a fine save from a penalty.

* Troedyrhiw's Youth side were involved in a goal fest  last Sunday. Man of the Match Gareth Tedstone (3), Dan Jones and Matthew Saunders all getting on the score sheet in a 5-5 draw with St Alban's. 'Rhiw's Youth Manager Ceri Kinsey was disappointed to have dropped two points as he felt his youngsters were the better of the two sides and deserved victory

 

WELSH CUP ROUND ONE
 
 
Troedyrhiw    2     Abertillery Bluebirds   1
 
 
Gwent side Abertillery Bluebirds were the visitors to The Willows last Saturday for this Welsh Cup match.
 
The visitors were something of an unknown quantity as this was the first time the two sides had met be it cup or otherwise.
 
The opening encounters were tentative to say the least with neither side looking to make a mistake.
 
It was 'Rhiw though that took the lead courtesy of Andrew Diggle following a corner, although it was helped on it's way by a Bluebirds defender.
From then on the game was very much nip and tuck with chances coming and going for both sides. 'Rhiw custodian Jason Pendry gave a good account of himself when called into action.
 
On around the 70 minute mark 'Rhiw went 2-0 in front when substitute Gavin O'Connor broke through the visiting defence and beat the Bluebirds 'keeper with aplomb.
 
Bluebird's response was almost instant as their reduced the arrears and made for a tense climax to the game for their hosts.
 
'Rhiw though stood firm and despite being put under a little pressure from the visitors they held out to record a 2-1 victory that sees their name go into the hat for the second round.
 
This Saturday sees 'Rhiw in cup action again, this time in the league cup where they travel to Llangeinor.
 
 
*Troedyrhiw's Reserve team played their first game in the Welsh Reserve League Central Division away to Bettws and came away with a very creditable 1-1 draw. 'Rhiw fought back from a goal down with Lloyd Martin scoring from the penalty spot.  'Rhiw can be pleased with a very good point but were slightly disappointed not have claimed all three.
 
** Troedyrhiw's Under 18 side maintained their 100% record when they recorded a 4-2 home win over Cardiff outfit Rhiwbina. On target for 'Rhiw were Rhys Tandy, Gareth Tedstone, Dan Jones and Matthew Rudge.
 
 
Monmouth Town   3    Troedyrhiw   4
 
 
'Rhiw travelled to the Chippenham Sports Ground, Monmouth last Saturday to take on Monmouth Town in this league clash.
 
The travelling squad were more or less back to full strength following injuries etc.
 
There were goals aplenty in this enthralling encounter and it was 'Rhiw who raced into a 0-2 first half lead. The first a fine strike from Michael Cope, followed by a thumping trademark header from Chris Siers.
 
The Kingfishers were shell-shocked to say the least but despite their best efforts they were unable to find a reply and the first half ended 0-2.
 
The second half saw 'Rhiw a shadow of the the side they were in the first half and they were decidedly lack-lustre and out of sorts.  This was apparent when Town made it 1-2 early on in the second half and soon after made things all square. Later in the half 'Rhiw restored their lead when Adam Callan scored with a superb 30 yard effort.  However, this lead was short-lived as Town levelled the scores yet again. Time was ticking as both sides battled it out in search of the winner.  It was Siers who provided it, again scoring with his head to make it 3-4 and  break Town's hearts. When the final whistle sounded after what seemed like an eternity, it was 'Rhiw who travelled back victorious and with the all important three points under their belt.
 
This Saturday sees 'Rhiw welcome Abertillery Bluebirds to The Willows in the first round of the prestigious Welsh Cup competition. Having already disposed of Cwmbran Town in the preliminary round, 'Rhiw will be looking to proceed further.  Kick off is at 2pm.

 

Saturday 22 August 2009

Cwmamman United 1, Troedyrhiw 1

by Andrew Challis, Troedyrhiw FC

'Rhiw took to the road last Saturday to Grenig Park where Cwmamman were the opponents in this league game.  'Rhiw were more than keen to make amends for the 1-3 defeat at Pentwyn Dynamos in midweek.

Kevin Rogers was forced to field a changed side due to injuries and work commitments etc., and indeed 'Rhiw travelled to the Amman Valley without a recognised strike-force.

The first half was a tentative and cagey affair with neither side wanting to put a foot wrong, however as the half wore on it was the visitors who were gaining the ascendancy. Attempts on goal came and went for both sides but neither were able to find the net as both sides continued to battle it out. with neither team managing to break the deadlock the first half ended goalless.

The second half saw the game carry on in very much the same vein as the first but it was again 'Rhiw who looked the the better side.

However, midway through the half, it was Cwmamman who snatched the lead. A defensive error letting them in to find the net.  This wasn't what 'Rhiw deserved and they set off in search of the equaliser. They didn't have to wait too long when substitute Lloyd Martin scored on his league debut, finishing from close range to level the scores at 1-1.

'Rhiw were well and truly in their stride by now as they searched for the winner and put their hosts under pressure. Michael Murphy showed promise after coming on as a substitute and had the home defence in turmoil at times. Alas, despite their efforts they were unable to find a winning goal and at the final whistle the game ended all square.

Although disappointed not to have taken what should have been all three points, Manager Rogers was reasonably happy at the end of the game especially with the hard work and commitment from his depleted side.

'Rhiw look to improve on this result when they welcome Cynon Valley outfit Cwmaman Institute to The Willows this Saturday. Kick off is at 2.30pm

 

Saturday 15 August 2009

Troedyrhiw 3, Cwmbran Town 1

FAW Welsh Cup, Preliminary Round

from Andrew Challis, Troedyrhiw FC

Saturday saw ‘Rhiw play their opening game of the new season when they welcomed Division Two and ex-Welsh Premier outfit Cwmbran Town to The Willows for this Welsh Cup encounter.

Despite their visitors being a division higher, ‘Rhiw were quietly confident going into the game and this confidence showed in their play as they took the game to Cwmbran.  Indeed this confident attitude paid dividends when ‘Rhiw took the lead early on when an excellent strike from prodigal son Craig Howells put his side 1-0 up.

This lead was no less than ‘Rhiw deserved and it was Kevin Rogers’ men who looked to be the division two side and not the visitors, such was their dominance at times.

This dominance was compounded when ‘Rhiw doubled their lead when it was Howells again finding the net. This time heading home from a corner.

At 2-0 ‘Rhiw were controlling the game and Shaun O’Brien and Matthew Glassey both proving to be constant thorns in Cwmbran’s side.

With half-time looming, Cwmbran made it 2-1 when a defensive mix-up allowed them to reduce the deficit and this was the score at the break.

The second half saw Cwmbran slowly get back into the game as was expected, but ‘Rhiw were sticking to the task in hand and did so incredibly well. With the score at 2-1 chances came and went for both sides and you could feel the tension.

‘Rhiw looking to extend their lead and give themselves a cushion and Cwmbran looking to at least take the game into extra-time and who knows maybe penalties.

However, Cwmbran were running out of time and with the game well into time added on, the impressive O’Brien compounded their misery when his long range lob bounced in front of the Cwmbran ‘keeper and went over his head much to the custodian’s embarrassment and give his side a 3-1 lead.

The final whistle eventually sounded and it was ‘Rhiw who emerged deserved victors which sees them going into the draw for the first round.

All in all ‘Rhiw were deserved winners and gave new Manager Kevin Rogers an excellent start to the season.

This Saturday sees ‘Rhiw travel to Grenig Park where Cwmamman Utd await them in a league clash.  Kick off is at 2.30pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

23rd May 2009

TROEDYRHIW  2-5  NEWPORT C S

 
Troedyrhiw finished their season with a 5-2 loss at The Willows against Newport Civil Service. With nothing to play for for a while, Rhiw's season fizzled out with players being given a chance to play Welsh League Football. Rhiw's scorers were Gavin O Connor with both. The target of keeping Welsh League Football was achieved and Rhiw can now look forward to building next season.
 
RHIW:  PENDRY, K CALLAN(STENTIFORD), REYNOLDS, L JONES, NOLAN(RUDGE), SIERS, C HARBORD(PHILLIPS), MINETT, GLASSEY, KINSEY, O CONNOR

 

16th May 2009

TROEDYRHIW   1-4   CWMAMMAN INSTITUTE

'Rhiw took on lowly Cwmaman Institute at The Willows in their penultimate game of the season.  The reverse fixture earlier in the season saw 'Rhiw come away from the Cynon Valley defeated after a decidedly poor showing and were keen to make amends.

The game started with cagey approaches from both sides and with neither team wanting to put a foot wrong. Despite a handful of chances, there was nothing of great note.

On around 25 minutes though 'Rhiw took the lead when Matthew Glassey found the net with a fine finish to put his side 1-0 up.

However, this lead was extremely short-lived. In fact, a minute had barely passed when 'Rhiw's Scott Reynolds conceded a penalty and the resulting spot-kick was successfully dispatched past 'Rhiw custodian Neil Winstone to level things at 1-1.

Further chances came and went as the two sides tentatively played out the first half and at the break it was 1-1.

The second half saw the teams continue to battle and chances were at a minimum. However, midway through the half Cwmaman made it 1-2.

Shortly afterwards, 'Rhiw goalscorer Lear received his marching orders from the man in the middle for what the official deemed to be retaliation.

This made 'Rhiw's already difficult task even harder and at times the ten men of 'Rhiw were overwhelmed and this was compounded when Cwmaman found the net on two more occasions to put 'Rhiw to the sword. There was no way back for the hosts, as they succumbed to a disappointing 1-4 defeat.

This Saturday 'Rhiw welcome Newport Civil Service to The Willows in their final game of the season, looking to avenge defeat by the Gwent men just a matter of weeks ago. 'Rhiw will be determined to finish the season with a win. Kick off is at 2.30pm.

RHIW:  N WINSTONE, REYNOLDS, K CALLAN(R THOMAS), SIERS, COPE(ROBINS), L JONES, GLASSEY, G HARBORD, MINETT(STENTIFORD), LEAR, O CONNOR

 

9th May 2009

ABERBARGOED BUDS  3-1  TROEDYRHIW

 
Troedyrhiw travelled to Aberbargoed Buds, who like Rhiw, are just seeing their season out with nothing to play for. Rhiw started brilliantly, passing the ball around and dominating the play. Rhiw took the lead through Luke Lear after some good play from Rhiw. As the half went on, the home side's long ball game caused problems for Rhiw, and they deservedly equalised after sloppy play from Rhiw. The second half started like the first, with Rhiw's passing game causing problems for the home side. Again though, the home side's long ball game created chances for the home side and they took the lead midway through the half. Rhiw almost equalised but for the keeper making a great save and missed chances. It was the home side that scored again though as another long ball was calmly finished to earn the home side the three points.3-1

RHIW:   PENDRY, K CALLAN(D JONES), L JONES, REYNOLDS, SIERS, COPE(C HARBORD), GLASSEY, G HARBORD, O CONNOR, LEAR, MINETT(STENTIFORD)

 

2nd May 2009

NEWPORT C S   3-2   TROEDYRHIW

 
Troedyrhiw travelled to play Newport Civil Service for the first ever meeting between the two teams. Rhiw didnt play at all first half against an inform team who went 3-0 up early in the game. Rhiw were lucky to be only three down but pulled a goal back before half time through Stephen Minett. Rhiw did up their game a little second half, although the home team could have added more goals. Rhiw got a second in the late stages through Gavin O Connor to make the scoreline a little more flattering for Rhiw.3-2 
 
RHIW:   PENDRY, GLASSEY, L JONES, REYNOLDS, SIERS, COPE(KINSEY), C HARBORD, G HARBORD, O CONNOR, LEAR(ROBINS), MINETT(STENTIFORD)
 

28th April 2009

SEVEN SISTERS   2-4   TROEDYRHIW

 
Troedyrhiw travelled midweek to Seven Sisters hoping to get back to winning ways against a team in decent form. Rhiw got off to a great start when top scorer Adam Callan earned and scored a penalty. Gavin O Connor made it 2-0 with a fine finish from a difficult angle. Rhiw were dominant and added a third before the break with Chris Stentiford finishing from close in. The second half started as well as the first with Rhiw missing golden opportunities to add to the score. As the half went on, the rain made the field very difficult. Sisters upped their game and pulled a goal back from a free kick, but hopes of a comeback were soon put to bed as a Jason Pendry kick found its way over the home keeper to score his first goal for Rhiw. The referee did award a penalty late on for the home side to give them another consolation goal.2-4
 
RHIW:  PENDRY, K CALLAN, L JONES, REYNOLDS, SIERS, COPE, ROBINS(C HARBORD), G HARBORD, O CONNOR, A CALLAN(LEAR), STENTIFORD(D JONES)
 

25th April 2009

TROEDYRHIW   1-2   BRITON FERRY

Troedyrhiw welcomed Briton Ferry to The Willows looking for revenge after losing twice to their visitors already this season. Rhiw earned a penalty early on but Luke Lear missed the target. Ferry were the better side first half and took a deserved lead with a bit of fortune when a weak shot was deflected into the path of a waiting forward to score an easy goal. Rhiw played better second half and deservedly equalised when the ball fell to Gareth Harbord who finished from 18 yards. Rhiw looked for the winner but Ferry were awarded a penalty late on which was coolly finished to earn the three points for the visitors.1-2
 
RHIW:  PENDRY, GLASSEY, L JONES, REYNOLDS, SIERS, K CALLAN(C HARBORD), COPE, G HARBORD, D JONES(MINETT), LEAR(A CALLAN), STENTIFORD

22nd April 2009

AFC PORTH   3-0   TROEDYRHIW

Troedyrhiw travelled midweek to Porth to face a side battling for the league title. Due to work and traffic, the players were struggling to make kick off time but managed to field a side in time. This caused Rhiw to start slowly and again went a goal behind early on. Conceding a goal yet again kick-started Rhiw and they were soon playing the better football of the two teams. Rhiw continued to play the better football throughout the remainder of the game but were unable to cause an experienced Porth team any problems. As the game was closing Porth managed to score a second after a defensive mistake gifted them a goal. This was a bit harsh on Rhiw but was made even more so with minutes left as Porth scored a third to make the scoreline tell a different story to the game itself.3-0
 
RHIW:  PENDRY, GLASSEY, STENTIFORD(ROBINS), REYNOLDS, SIERS, C HARBORD(D JONES), MCGILL(L JONES), G HARBORD, K CALLAN, LEAR, O CONNOR
 
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18th April 2009

LLANSAWEL  1-1   TROEDYRHIW

 
Last Saturday saw 'Rhiw make their way to Cwrt Herbert in Neath where lowly Llansawel awaited them.  'Rhiw were looking to extend their recent unbeaten run but all the same knew that this game was a potential banana skin as their hosts were fighting to stay in Welsh League football.
 
The game got underway amid glorious sunshine but the warm weather coupled with a severely uneven pitch made for a difficult encounter and indeed the game was not a spectacle by any means as both sides toiled away in the sun.
 
Goalscoring chances were at a minimum in the first half as the two teams searched for the games opening goal, however despite chances neither 'keeper was really tested. As expected Llansawel were proving a tough nut to crack as they scrapped away and made 'Rhiw work hard for everything and at the interval the score was 0-0.
 
'Rhiw were not getting it all their own way and this was compounded when the league strugglers took the lead minutes into the second half. The player was left unmarked and punished 'Rhiw with a thumping header that left Jason Pendry helpless. 'Rhiw couldn't have been surprised such was the hosts determination and their own lacklustre display. This said 'Rhiw did have their chances but nothing of great note, however Gareth Harbord's effort wasn't far off.
 
With around 10 minutes left though, things were all square when skipper Chris Siers stabbed home following a goalmouth melee to make it 1-1.
 
Cohen Griffith introduced youth player Dan Jones to the fray late in the game and the youngster gave a good account of himself as he gave the Llansawel defence no end of problems with his pace and energy. Indeed Jones came close to scoring but saw his free-kick off just off target.
 
With the game nearing it's end, Chris Stentiford had the chance to be 'Rhiw's hero, only to see his effort go agonisingly wide of the post. As the final whistle sounded the two sides shared the spoils and 'Rhiw were  disappointed not to have taken all three points against a spirited Llansawel. Having said that their recent unbeaten run continues.
 
'Rhiw play host to Briton Ferry next Saturday after having played promotion chasing AFC Porth in midweek. Kick off for Saturday's game is 2.30pm.
 
RHIW:   PENDRY, K CALLAN, L JONES, REYNOLDS, SIERS, ROBINS(D JONES), G HARBORD, COPE, STENTIFORD, CANNON(C HARBORD), LEAR
 
 

11th April 2009

TROEDYRHIW   3-1   PONTYCLUN

Troedyrhiw welcomed Pontyclun to The Willows who are directly above them in the table. Rhiw again started slowly and gifted Pontyclun the lead with a mix up between keeper and defender, allowing the visitors a soft goal. It took a while for Rhiw to get going and it wasn't until the second half that they equalised. Gavin O Connor raced through from a Luke Lear flick and buried it past the advancing keeper. Rhiw were dominant and took the lead when Luke Lear squeezed the ball in from a tight angle. The game was sealed when Gavin O Connor again raced through and calmly beat the keeper for a well deserved three points.3-1

RHIW:   HOOPER-NASH, GLASSEY, L JONES, REYNOLDS, SIERS, BADHAM(COPE), MINETT, G HARBORD, A CALLAN, LEAR, O CONNOR

 

4th April 2009

LLANTWIT FARDRE  1-2   TROEDYRHIW

Troedyrhiw travelled to Llantwit Fardre looking to do the double over the promotion chasing team. Rhiw had a slow start and conceded in the first minutes after slack marking allowed a free shot. It took Rhiw 15 minutes to get going but when they did they bossed the game. Rhiw's equaliser came from a spectacular volley from Luke Lear, thundering past the keeper. Rhiw controlled the game, which saw three players sent off second half, two from the home side and Ceri Kinsey for Rhiw. With injury time looming, Rhiw pushed for a winner, substitute Michael Cope broke and got on the end of Chris Stentiford's ball. His vision was pure class as he saw the keeper off his line and coolly chipped him into the far corner to earn the three points and get mobbed by his team mates.1-2

RHIW:   PENDRY, GLASSEY, L JONES(STENTIFORD), REYNOLDS, SIERS, KINSEY, BADHAM(COPE), G HARBORD, MINETT, O CONNOR, LEAR(CALLAN)

21st March 2009

GOYTRE   0-2   TROEDYRHIW

Troedyrhiw travelled to Goytre near Abergavenny looking for revenge for an earlier loss at The Willows. On a bumpy field it was always going to be a battle and Rhiw didnt shirk the challenge. It took until the second half until a goal came and it was Gavin O Connor who beat the offside trap and finished well. The game was finely balanced until Gareth Harbord broke through and lofted over the advancing keeper to seal the points for Rhiw.0-2

RHIW:   PENDRY, GLASSEY, L JONES, REYNOLDS, SIERS, BADHAM(MCGILL), ROBINS(STENTIFORD), KINSEY, G HARBORD, O CONNOR, LEAR(CANNON)

 

14th March 2009

CWMAMMAN INST.  3-0   TROEDYRHIW

If the previous week was one to remember then this was one to forget. The short trip to strugglers Cwmamman Institute brought Rhiw back down to ground. Rhiw started slowly against a fired up home side but as soon as they started they started to play the better football. Just as Rhiw were getting to grips with the game, the home side scored a from a 30 yard screamer. Rhiw were rocked by this and soon gifted them a second. Rhiw went after the game second half but failed to trouble the home keeper. Cwmmaman sealed the three points with a free shot from inside the box midway throught the second half.3-0

RHIW:    PENDRY, COPE, NOLAN(MCGILL), SIERS, GLASSEY(O CONNOR), BADHAM(KINSEY), ROBINS, G HARBORD, L JONES, A CALLAN, LEAR

 

7th March 2009

TROEDYRHIW   1-0   AFC LLWYDCOED

 Troedyrhiw entertained local rivals AFC Llwydcoed looking for revenge for the earlier loss this season. With players returning for Rhiw, they were confident of a good performance which showed as they out battled and out played their visitors. Rhiw's winning goal came after a quick free kick and some good football created a crossing opportunity which found its way eventually to the feet of Luke Lear who coolly drove home from six yards. Rhiw continued to control the game against a decent Coed team. Rhiw had the ball in the net again only for the referee to disallow the indirect free kick from Adam Callan finding the net even though visiting keeper Rhys James touching the ball on its way. Rhiw battled throughout the game to earn the three points against the league leaders.1-0.

RHIW:  PENDRY, REYNOLDS, SIERS, NOLAN, GLASSEY, L JONES, G HARBORD, ROBINS, COPE(KINSEY), A CALLAN, LEAR(O CONNOR)

 

28th February 2009

PORTHCAWL TOWN  3-1  TROEDYRHIW

 Troedyrhiw travelled to Porthcawl who are second place in the league, with six first team members missing. Rhiw knew they were up against it but it was a good chance to see younger players play. Rhiw had a disastrous start, sloppiness allowing the home side two early goals. Top scorer Adam Callan pulled a goal back with a chip over the keeper. The second half was dominated by the home side with their long ball game penning Rhiw back in their own half for most of it. Porthcawl scored again late on with a curling shot from the edge of the box. A difficult game for Rhiw but impressive performances from Greg Badham and youth team player Gareth Tedstone were big plusses.3-1 

RHIW:   PENDRY, REYNOLDS(WEBB), BADHAM, SIERS, GLASSEY, L JONES, G HARBORD, K ROBINS, C HARBORD, STENTIFORD(TEDSTONE), A CALLAN(N MINETT)

 

21st February 2009

MONMOUTH TOWN   1-2   TROEDYRHIW

 Troedyrhiw travelled to Monmouth looking to do the double over their opponents. The game was end to end throughout but it was Rhiw who took the lead after a Mon defender handled on the line to receive his marching orders. Adam Callan put the penalty away before a disastrous spell for Rhiw. Stephen Minett was sent off, the home side equalised and Adam Callan missed a penalty all before the break. The second half was played ten v ten, and again went from end to end. Rhiw had the better of these chances and should have been a couple up but for poor finishing. The winner came from Rhiw though with a good bit of play from Rhiw resulting in Gavin O Connor finishing in the far corner.1-2

RHIW:  PENDRY, COPE, REYNOLDS, SIERS, L JONES(KINSEY), GLASSEY, G HARBORD, S MINETT, K ROBINS, A CALLAN, LEAR(O CONNOR)

14th February 2009

TROEDYRHIW   6-1   YSTRYDGYNLAIS

Ystrydgynlais were the visitors to The Willows and started the game very brightly. Rhiw took a while to get going but as soon as the first goal came more followed quickly. Rhiw were four nil up at half time with goals from Luke Lear, Adam Callan, Stephen Minett and Chris Siers, but came out second half looking for more. Rhys Nolan made it 5-0 before the visitors scored a consolation. Adam Callan added his second of the game late on to make it 6-1.

RHIW:  PENDRY, COPE, L JONES, REYNOLDS, NOLAN, SIERS, MINETT(O CONNOR), G HARBORD(C HARBORD), GLASSEY, LEAR(STENTIFORD), A CALLAN

 

31st January 2009

MERTHYR SAINTS   0-0