Denbigh Town Res 6-3 Prestatyn Town Res at Colwyn Bay F.C.
12th May 10 - Prestatyn 3 vs 6 Denbigh Town
Report by Steve Redfern Jones

Six goals - it could have been double figures to be fair - ensured Denbigh Town Reserves won the inaugural North Wales Reserve League Presidents Cup against a quality Prestatyn Reserves outfit.

Denbigh legend Sion y Bodiau may have had four thumbs, but Gary Madoc wrote his own history with four goals which ultimately gave his side the trophy.

To be fair to the Seasiders, they played the soccer in the first 45 minutes. But when Referee Wallace peeped for half time, it was the Vale side that had the smiles, three goals without reply putting the Central Park mob in sight of silverware.

In the opening quarter of the first stanza it was all ‘Statyn, and Denbigh had to be grateful to Lee Mason and Russ Vaughan who both prevented their opponents from grabbing a lead. Impressing for Prestatyn was Glyn Lewis and his shot on 16 minutes was well pouched by Denbigh keeper Stu Griffiths.

More opportunities knocked for the Prestatyn brigade but after those opening salvoes Denbigh began to put their own stamp on proceedings. Gary Madoc was played in by Lew Worthing but he fluffed with only the keeper to beat. Next Gaz John was profligate and dragged his effort wide. At the other end Griffiths had to be brave to gather ball amidst a number of Prestatyn boots. It was nail biting fare.

Suddenly the game got a little silly. Dave Davies pinged the crossbar with what he claimed was a shot but had the word cross written all over it. Ian Williams hesitated rather than shot as the Red defence opened up like a can of beans. A goal was coming. Madoc took full advantage of Prestatyn hesitancy and after a little nudge on the last defender lifted the ball into the net after a deft free kick from Worthing had caused panic in the Prestatyn back line.

Next a mix up between gloves man Roberts and a full back allowed Madoc to eventually grab sight of the ball and roll same into an unguarded net. And on the stroke of half time the same man bullied his way to goal after superb work from wingman Ian Williams -and the Denbigh contingent were delirious to see the ball onioned despite the best efforts of Jamie Roberts in the Seaside goal.

Was there a way back for the Bastion Road team? You would not have backed them after 48 minutes when Madoc grabbed his own - and his team's-fourth - with a peach of an effort. Great running, strength and finish from the strong man.

Madoc-Jones had grabbed the limelight and yet one must be fair in giving the goal of the game to another. Madoc was naturally involved in the build up and some sweet incisive action via Stubbs, Worthing and Gaz John let in Ian Williams into a one on one situation and the finish was of the highest quality, the youngster dinking ball over an onrushing Roberts to basically seal the match with a further half hour remaining.

Yet Haf-wen herself must have been biting her nails when a reversal of fortune threatened to snatch all the good work from the grasp of Central Park mob. One goal...another...and a third. The Seasiders were back in it - one might say a combination of Lady Luck and incisive finishing - and now another strike would see them within touching distance of a game that was seemingly beyond them.

Russ Pierce bellowed his men forward, threw on Jac Glover to add a little spice to the brew and it almost paid off - nay it definitely paid off - with opportunities for Madoc and Gaz John which had their opponents on the back foot yet again, the former dragging wide and then firing over, the latter thumping one effort onto the bar and sending another for a throw in when my granny could have scored.

It was enough to rattle the Prestatyn side - let's be fair here , the Sea mob were of a quality that could have earned the Cup for themselves , but on this occasion had met up with a side that were creating goal scoring chances for fun , most of which were squandered.

A Denbigh goal would settle it. And another for the Prestatyn mob would put them in the box seat. It was end to end and heart in mouth. It was difficult to watch yet you could not keep your eyes off the action. Vaughan saw yellow for a combo of fouling and time wasting. Denbigh skipper Lee Mason put three match balls into the Colwyn nettles and next Stu Griffiths had to dive full length to prevent a strike that would have given a last glimmer of hope to the Prestatyn side.

Ultimately it was Gaz John - he hadn't really sparked in the 90 minutes - but come the time added on for stoppages he put the game to rest for good and all. The wee man jinxed his way into the Seasiders penalty box and seeing an outstretched limb took the hint and plummeted over it. Referee Wallace pointed to the spot and the same man thundered home to ensure victory that had been too long coming.

Saturday 1st May 2010

Sychdyn 3 Mochdre Sports 3 - Premier Division

From the whistle sychdyn took the game to mochdre, time after time losing
there markers and on 20mins sports paid for there slack marking down
the wing, 1-0 up, with mochdre still defending for much of the time,
naveen coming worst off in a tackle causing him to fall fracturing a
bone in his shoulder, with the game stopped for an hour, on the restart
mochdre were caught cold, coupled with some awful defendind sychdyn
went 2 up, this seemed to spur mochdre into playing a bit better with
robby pulling one back, sychdyn then broke down the middle and were
awarded a penalty on 43mins, sychdyn didn't play like they were nearly
bottom of the league, they were more hungry for the ball and deserved
to go in 3-1 up at half time.
half time nothing was said to the team by martin, i think the silence
told them he wasn't happy, the travelling fans were getting frustrated
with some of the refs decisions.
things went a bit better second half as mochdre pulled one back after
some neat passing and robby getting his second. sychdyn worried the
sports defence with high balls coming in and only for our stand in
keeper, who made some fine close up saves kept sports in the game,
mochdre then had a penalty appeal turned down which would have levelled
the score, after more heavy pressure robby scored his 3rd, mochdre had
there heads up hunting for a winner but it never came.
mochdre sports commitee wish naveen a speedy recoverey.

Saturday 24th April 2010

Rhuddlan Town 2 Mochdre Sports 1 - Premier Division
With the league being so close, this games result meant either town would finish fifth from top or forth from bottom, so it was an important win for them. In really hot conditions, town started well and took the game to Mochdre creating chances for Mike Roose and Sean Burrows and it only took until the 10th minute when Ben Roberts smashed in a sweet left foot free-kick, to put town ahead. More chances followed and excellent play from Martin Halewood and Jack Williams put in Roose, whose header just went over the bar. With Halewood, Kyle Parry and Captain Dan Grindley in great form, It was pretty much one way traffic in the first half, however the second half Mochdre showed why they have had a good season and began creating chances. Slightly against the run of play, in the 60th minute, Town were awarded a penalty for a foul on Roose, who stepped up to finish himself. An excellent turn and shot on 82mins from Glyn Knowles led to a goal from the rebound for Dean Hughes to make it a nervy end for Rhuddlan but overall they deserved the win. After a season of much change at the club, they deserved the decent position finish to the league.

Rhuddlan Town 2 Mochdre Sports 1 - Premier Division

A game mochdre should not have lost is was a case of rhuddlan slipping
past the back four and scoring 1-0 after ten minutes, it was end to
end football with mochdre having all the chances and not scoring, as
the field was not marked the ref had a job deciding if the ball was out
and even asked spectators which way for the throw in, by half time
sports should have been 3 or 4 up, but if you dont hit the net you
don't get goals, second half was the same story for mochdre, on 60mins
adam henley rose above the rhuddlan forward and headed the ball clear,
there was no pushing but the ref who was on the half way line blew for
a foul, rhuddlan players were then claiming it was in the box so he
gave a penalty, this put them 2-0 up, things remained the same until
the manager put a couple of subs on and dean pulling the defenders all
over the place scored from just inside the box, chapman so frustrated
with the game got himself sent of but sports carried on pressuring for
a second goal that never came.

Saturday 17th April 2010

Penmaenmawr last minute winner knocks wind from Shotton sail.

Penmaenmawr Phoenix 3 Shotton Steel 2 - Premier Division

The Steelmen were left licking their wounds this afternoon as they went down 3-2 to a hardworking Penmaenmar outfit. Without the services of Powell, Bibby, Mason, Butler and Hewitt, Shotton did not look half the side that has gone from strength to strength over the last few months.

The game started brightly. 15 minutes in, a scramble in the Pen box led to a Marc Edwards shot. Stand-in 'keeper Craig Roberts parried with an excellent save but Owen Pierce was on hand to put the visitors ahead.

Pen worked hard to get themselves back in the game. Their breakthrough came through Blythin Jones who was able to get enough whip on his corner to fire the ball directly into the back of the Shotton net.

The home side were far more dominant in the second half and it wasn't long before they put themselves in the lead, Danny Mercer doing the honours. Shotton didn't give up, and when the referee awarded them with an indirect free kick for Roberts holding on to the ball for too long, Shaun Hughes was on hand to convert the opportunity.

At 2-2 both teams began to push for the winner. Pierce was gifted two excellent one-on-one chances but couldn't make the most of either.

The killer blow came in the final minute when Gareth Hughes who was clearly offside, was able to knock the ball home from a couple of yards out.

A bitter pill for Shotton to swallow and not the way they would have wished to end their campaign. All focus will now switch to their preparations for their Presidents Cup Final on May 14th.

Tuesday 13th April 2010

Mochdre Sports 4 Llansannan 2 - Premier Division

From the whistle mochdre took the game by the scruff and pressured
Llansannan, some great balls played down the left wing for robby, he cut
inside and hit a cracking left foot shot passed llansannan's keeper, 1-0
up mochdre controlled the game and on 35 kyle put mochdre 2 up, to be
fair llansanan did hit us on the break a few times but didn't score,
another great chance when a cross from the left wing was met by a
flying header from kyle but just went the wrong side.
second half a long ball in to sannan's area which they coudn't clear
land at adam laveneder feet who then cooly TOE poked it in 3-0, mochdre
doing what they do best when winning started to give to much space to
sanan's players and slowy they got a couple of goals back but in the
84min kyle johnson put the game to bed with mochdre's fourth.

Presidents Cup Semi-Final.
Saturday 10th April 2010.

Shotton Steel FC 2 - St Asaph 1

Shotton rallies 2-1 win to secure place in Final

The first half of the highly-anticipated Semi-Final clash between Shotton Steel and St Asaph failed to live up to expectations in a goalless first half at Deeside Leisure Centre. This was likely to be a clear case of nerves as neither side wanted to over-commit to attack in the early stages.
As expected the Premier Division outfit enjoyed the majority of possession but, like so many occasions before, failed to create a clear-cut opportunity while the away side was often content just to sit behind the ball and look long where possible.
The teams went in all square at half time after a first 45 minutes that was a monument to mediocrity

The game was sparked in to life shortly after the restart. An astute Owen Pierce initiated a lightning quick counter attack. Pierce's shrewd throw-in found key man Dave Powell wide left in space. Powell sprayed the ball cross field to fellow attacker Shaun Hughes. Hughes popped the ball up for the onrushing Scott Hewitt to head the ball home and Put the Steelmen in the driving seat.

Less than five minutes later, another delightful Hughes delivery was met by the head of defensive giant Lewis Weatherley, to give Shotton the two goal cushion the so much wanted.

Being two down was enough to reignite St Asaph's Final aspirations. They took a hold on the game and some excellent passing left the home side wanting. The game became an end-to-end affair with both teams now creating far more opportunities. It was the high-scoring away side that took advantage. An exquisite move found Dave Gray with a chance to get his team back in to the tie, Gray obliged with a deft finish. 2-1 and game on.

With 20 minutes to go, it was St Asaph who dominated possession and created wave after wave of attack. Shotton's defence, now with Quinn, Weatherley, Howard and Tanton stood strong and 'keeper Karl Crichton bossed his area well.

The final minutes saw an excellent chance for either side, but neither could seize their opportunity.

Shotton will be more than pleased with their progression to the final, but they will have to improve in all areas if they are to stand a chance of lifting the illustrious trophy.

Saturday 3rd April 2010

Denbigh Town 1 Glan Conwy 3 - Reserve Premier League

Denbigh Town Reserves recent good run of results was halted with a 3-1 home reverse against Glan Conwy Reserves , reports Peter Glynn.
This was an open game of football with lots of goal scoring opportunities for both sides. Denbigh just about deserved the lead in the first stanza , grabbing a 45th minute goal through Gaz John who's fierce shot could only be parried into the net by Glan keeper Dwaine Jones. The game ebbed and flowed throughout the first 45 minutes , with David Davies shooting wide on 15 minutes and Ian Taylor scooping over from two yards the pick of the opportunities for a profligate home side. At the other end , the Green and Whites could have scored first through Jon Turner whose fizz-bang inched wide and next via Costa Yianni who fired wide when one on one with Denbigh stopper Stuart Griffiths.
After the break the visitors took the game by the scruff and once they had grabbed the leveler on 70 minutes through Howie Vaughan , one feared for a now back pedaling Town outfit.
Jamie Ainsworth put Glan ahead 4 minutes later and after intense pressure on the Denbigh defence the ball fell to Turner who completed the game's scoring on 77 minutes. a deserved win from Glan Conwy who upped the tempo second half and dominated for long periods.

Greenfield 0 Shotton Steel 4 - Premier Division

STEELMEN BLAST GREENFIELD WITH FOUR SECOND HALF GOALS

Four second half goals gave Shotton all 3 points from their visit to Upper Gronnant based Greenfield earlier today.

Winning this match was always going to be a tough task for the Steelmen. Greenfield have the toughest defence in the Premier Division and before today had conceded a mere 8 goals.

The first half was a fairly dull affair, both teams struggled to keep the ball on the floor and the chances were few and far between.

Whatever the Shotton manager said to his team at half time surely made an impression. Instantly the game was changed. The passing was free flowing and on the 50 minute mark Tom Stacey found captain Zac Bell inside. Bell’s first time ball to in form striker Dave Powell created a spectacular one on one, and Powell calmly slotted the ball home. The away fans had hardly finished celebrating when an almost identical attack led to Bell feeding Powell once more for his second of the game.

The Steelmen’s defence stood strong, with Matthew Howard in exceptional form. In the 72nd minute it was time for the goal scorer to become provider as Powell fed a delightful ball through to team mate Shaun Hughes who duly obliged to find the back of the net. The pair joined forces once more five minutes later. Powell with some excellent skill setup Hughes for his second of the game. A brace a piece for the Liverpool Uni boys.

That’s four wins on the bounce for the Steelmen and they are in fine form going in to what is sure to be tough semi final against Division One table toppers St Asaph on Saturday.

Saturday 27th March 2010

Mochdre Sports 2 Brynford United 0 - Premier Division

The first half was awful to watch mochdre could not string more than two
passes together,time after time losing the ball in midfield causing
unnecessary prolems for themselves, brynford forwards were quick to
latch on to the mistakes putting carlo under pressure in goal, brynford
should have gone in 3 up at half time but some fine point blank saves
kept it 0-0 till half time.
mochdre played better second half with a few shots on target or just
over the bar, with fez, glyn and tommo on the rampage brynford
struggled to cope in defence, a double substitution late second half
totally change the game for mochdre with adam lav coming on up front,
they could not get the ball of him (nor could sports) sniffer ripped
through the brynford defence to slot the ball home from a neat header
layed of from lav. 1-0 , brynford kept hitting mochdre on the break and
were close to scoring but for the mochdre keeper's great saves, the
game was finally put to bed when a move started by evo in midfield, lay
the ball of to tommo down the right wing who then put it squar for evo
to neatly curl it over the keeper.

Saturday 20th March 2010

Connah's Quay Town 4 Shotton Steel 8 aet - Presidents Cup Round 3

Shotton Steel book their Semi-final place as they come out on top in 12 goal thriller

It was the ‘Battle of the Deeside big guns’ down at Dock Road today, as Connah’s Quay Town locked horns with local rivals Shotton Steel FC. And what a match it turned out to be.

The home side hit shell-shocked Steel with 2 early goals through Bobby Ragget and top marksman James Gambino. The Town moved the ball well and dominated the first 20 minutes.

The Steelmen finally got off the mark thanks to Shaun Hughes and his exquisitely struck free kick. At half time and 2-1 Shotton Manager made a controversial decision and opted to bring himself on for the injured Dane Mason.

Both teams continued to attack in a very end-to-end affair. However both teams were confused with the referee’s next decision. As Lewis Weatherley floated in an excellent free kick from 40 yards, referee Chris Price blew his whistle for a reason we are still unsure. The ball ended up directly in the back of the net. Price awarded the goal. After this, The Town began to lose their way a little and on 78 minutes, the in-form Dave Powell found himself in an excellent goal scoring position and he duly obliged. It looked like game over, but the home side refused to give up and their persistence paid off as a scramble inside the Shotton box led to midfield linchpin Shane Parry tapping home from close range.

For extra time, Shotton, on winning the toss, opted to continue kicking in the same direction. Within a minute Powell had scored his second and the scales tipped in the Steelmen’s favour. This was then topped off with three goals in three minutes for the away side. Powell showed exactly what he is capable of as he zigzagged his way through the Town’s defence and fired in his third from what seemed an impossible angle. His strike partner Owen Pierce slotted home Shotton’s 6th a minute later, and 30 seconds after the restart Captain Zac Bell beat the usual unbeatable Roberts at his near post.

The final 15 minutes seemed a fairly dull affair in comparison, although both teams still managed to grab a goal a piece. Bobby Ragget claiming his brace and Anthony Quinn was on hand to finish off the final attack and the 12th goal of the game.

With twelve goals and some excellent football from both sides, excitement at its very best.

Hat Trick Hero Dave Powell

Saturday 13th March 2010

Rhuddlan Town 2 Brynford United 1 - Premier Division
After the disappointment of their last home game this was an important match for town against a team on the same points as them. Brynford are always a strong physical side and this game was no exception in what turned out to be a real battle. Town started well with Mike Roose going close a couple of times and on 27 minutes a great ball from Ben Roberts put in Kyle Parry to finish sharply and put town in front. Roose then had a blatant penalty turned down after being fouled by the Brynford keeper when clean through. How this wasn't seen is a mystery and town were still feeling aggrieved when a minute when Mike Prydderch was put through to chip the keeper and bring Brynford level. A horrendous tackle on Roberts left the classy midfielder with a ripped shirt and smashed shin pad as the game threatened to get out of hand. The second half started with much of the same however on 52 minutes Town were awarded a penalty after a handball and captain Dan Grindley stepped forward to smash home. Town then lost Roose to the injury picked up in the penalty incident and were up against it for long periods but with the back four and midfield staying strong and a good performance form custodian Anthony Gunther, Town hung on for the points and indeed could have extended the lead when a great chance from Dean Moss was missed after pinpoint cross from sub Jack Williams. A bruising battle has left town with three new serious injury problems but are happy for the points.

Mochdre Sports 4 Greenfield 1 - Premier Division

From the start greenfield pressured mochdre with good passing football,
time after time they were on the ball first, so as expected greenfield
went ahead from t jones losing his marker he cooly hit the ball past
carlo, mochdre still played some good passing football but and had one
or two chances, on 40mins a lively kyle johnson slipped passed the
last defender and should have scored but greenfield did just enough to
put him off with both players falling over, the ref decided it was a
penalty!!, jonhson cooly slotting the ball into the corner 1-1
halftime.
second half sports played much the same but it was not till the last
15mins they came to life, with joe doing what he does best bossing the
midfield he lay some good passes to the forwards, with dean hughes
having good chances he slipped his marker and mochdre were 2-1 up,
greenfield did not give up and they kept on attacking but mochdre's
defence got stronger as the game progressed, after more good play in
midfield dean got passed the defence to make it 3-1, "dicky" knowles
finished them of with another to make it 4-1, mochdre played well as a
unit today.

Aston Park Rangers 1 Shotton Steel 2 - Premier Division

ROBINSON GRABS LATE DERBY WINNER

A last minute goal from sub Tom Robinson handed Shotton Steel a 2-1 victory over Aston park Rangers in the local derby at Shotton Lane.
In an eminently forgettable, end of season affair, both sides found it impossible to play creative football or keep the ball down on a hard and bumpy surface and in a slight wind.
The Steelmen were without the services of key players Tanton, Pierce and Butler, and chances were extremely hard to come by, the visitors restricted to a handful of chances.
The Steelmen did have a half-time lead when new-signing Dave Powell added a calm finish to a Dane Mason through ball.
The second half was equally poor affair, with the chances being few and far between for either side.
However, Rangers were back level in the 80th minute with a rare moment of quality football. A free kick from the right was met perfectly by the reliable Anthony Weaver.
The game looked headed for an inevitable draw until the three Shotton substitutes linked well with only a minute of normal time remaining. Winger Tom Stacey, from wide on the left chipped the ball into the Aston box, Dylan Evans' speculative over-head kick was saved by 'keeper Chris Pearce, but he could not stop the advancing Robinson from forcing the ball home.

Match winner Robbo

Saturday 6th March 2010

Mochdre Sports v Abergele Rovers - NWCFA Intermediate Cup Round 3

A game that nobody dominated, plenty of passing football by mochdre and
as usual gave gele to much time on the ball resulting in gele going
one up just before halftime, i lost count second half how many got
booked some undeserved, sports pulled level and eventually went 2-1 up
with gele being kept in there own half for much of the second 45mins,
mochdre had enough chances to kill the game off, gele then got there
second goal with about ten mins to go, 2-2 fulltime, the game ending on
pens with mochdre coming out on top, mochdre had four players carrying
injuries for most of the game with all subs used so all in all sports
deserved the win.

FC Nomads Win Battle of the Giants
Rhuddlan Town Res 1 FC Nomads 5 - Division Two

FC Nomads today won the battle of the top 2 in the Clwyd League Division 2. Rhuddlan Town Reserves have spent most of the season at the top of the league but have played 3 more games than FC Nomads. Todays game was a 6 pointer and both teams went into the game on the back of good records.

A hat trick from Mark Evans making an outstanding debut helped FC Nomads to a concinving 5-1 away win making the gap just 1 point and FC Nomads still have the 3 games in hand.

A penalty from John Faulkner and a Chris Taylor header showed how good FC Nomads have become during the season. Every player putting in a huge performance full of effort and energy to out skill and out fox a Rhuddlan side who started the day hoping to be the first team to take points off FC Nomads this season.

FC Nomads have now won 12 out of 12 in the league, the 100% record continues.

Saturday 27th February 2010

Penmaenmawr Phoenix 4 Greenfield 2 - Premier Cup Round 1

Saturdays game started brightly with both teams passing style complimenting each others with Pen forcing the early chances a foul on Craig Roberts just outside Greenfield’s area after nine minutes gave Darren Hughes the opportunity to step up and slot home in the bottom corner for 1-0. A couple of chances followed for Pen but unfortunately one of these resulted in a collision between Greenfield’s keeper and Pen’s Peter Williams who didn’t recover from a dead leg and was replaced by seventeen year old Tom Pinkerton. The game carried on in the same fashion. Half time

The second half started much as the first then on forty nine minutes manager Denley Smith set up Pinkerton for his first and Pen’s second goal.

From this Greenfield cultured a couple chances and on fifty seven minutes a cross from the right wing found Shaun Pritchard free at the back post to hit a sweet volley into the far corner. Greenfield were buoyed by this and pushed forward again but started to leave gaps at the back that Phoenix exploited when another lofted pass from Denley Smith found Pinkerton again to volley home!! Again Greenfield rallied and forced home another goal from Shaun Pritchard. 3-2

With time running out the pressure told and one player from either side got their marching orders for violent conduct much out of character for what had been a very entertaining game!!

When the game was restarted it was Pen who gained the upper hand again and in the ninetieth minute another sweeping move ended with fullback Darren Hughes hammering a shot low under the keeper for his second goal of the game!!

Rhuddlan Town 1 - Llansannan 2 - Premier Division
It seemed Rhuddlan had removed the inconsistency tag over the past month or so with some good wins and performances however Saturday saw Town plagued again in a below par performance against llansannan. After probably their best performance of the season against a strong Prestatyn Town team last week, they put in probably their worst performance of the season this week! Town started brightly enough, with Tom Roberts and Dan Grindley both having excellent games, they created a couple of early chances for Mike Roose and Dean Binns, however Llansannan really took control of the game and were first to most second balls all over the pitch. Somewhat against the run of play, town were awarded a penalty which Roose finished well but the expected onslaught didn't materialise, in fact it seemed to inspire Llan and the got a deserved equaliser through Gareth Lewis after hesitant goalkeeping by Jamie Morgan. With Town really out of sorts, Llan started the second half better and took the lead after some poor defending and goalkeeping allowed Jake Walker to get behind right back Jack Williams and smash home from an acute angle after 60 mins. It was no more than Llansannan deserved and although Town huffed and puffed for the next half an hour, they failed to create many clear chances and though a Roberts header did seem to have crossed the line from a late corner, nothing was given. Llan deserved the points and completed a double over Rhuddlan who need to pick themselves up for the remainder of the season.

Saturday 20th February 2010

Prestatyn Town 4 Rhuddlan Town 1 - after extra time - NWCFA Intermediate Cup Round 2
With Prestatyn fielding six league of Wales players, this tie was always going to be difficult for Rhuddlan however they more than held their own in a game of so many chances. The game started with Prestatyn dominating and creating chances for Ian Griffiths, Dan Evans, Gaz Wilson and Neil Gibson but it took until the 37th minute when Jack Lewis broke the deadlock with a great direct free kick from the edge of the area. Instead of the possible collapse, this seemed to inspire Rhuddlan and within a minute Dean Binns forced keeper Jay Roberts into a great save with Mike Roose hitting the inside of the post which somehow stayed out, on the follow up. This didnt deter Rhuddlan and on 44 minutes Roose fired a deserved equaliser to level it up at the half. The send half followed a pattern of lots of possession from Prestatyn with Rhuddlan dangerous on the break in particular when Binns hit the crossbar and Dean Moss missed a golden chance to put Rhuddlan in front. With Evans a constant threat down the wing Prestatyn also had chances through Griffiths and Carl Murray but Rhuddlan keeper Jamie Morgan was great form along with outstanding contribution from Dan Grindley, Martin Halewood, Ben Roberts and Shaun Jones in particular. The turning point of the game came during Rhuddlans best period, when the game opened up a bit but controversial referee Mike Gray dismissed Binns for something only he heard and effectively spoilt the game. The whole game was played in a great spirit by both teams yet it finished with seven bookings and one sending off, which was utterly bizarre. Prestatyn then dominated the game against ten men but Chris Morrells men bravely battled on to force extra time. From another Prestatyn free kick five minutes in, the ball came back to Lewis, off a blatently offside player, however after Lewis smashed in from the scramble the goal was given to put Prestatyn ahead again. Rhuddlan finally ran out of steam and Prestatyn creating chances at will with Griffiths and Higgins completing the scoring to send Prestatyn through. A proud display from Rhuddlan against an outstanding Prestatyn team who now face a trip to Boderen in the next round, where it may certainly be a very different line up.

Saturday 13th February 2010

Penmaenmawr Phoenix 1 Rhuddlan Town 3 - Premier Division
After an excellent away win at Aston park last weekend, Town followed it with an even better win away at title contenders Penmanmawr in a game they dominated. It started in the worst possible way for Town as an early mistake in midfield led to a Pen goal after just 2 minutes through striker Peter Williams. Town were in disarray for a while and Pen nearly took further advantage but a great penalty save from Jamie Morgan finally woke town up and from then on they took command of the game. With Ben Roberts pulling the strings in midfield town created chance after chance but somehow didn't score until good work from Shaun Jones put in Mike Roose to smash home an equaliser in the 29th minute. Only a couple of dubious off side decisions, good goalkeeping and the Pen woodwork kept the score level at half time. The second half began in the same manner and it was only a matter of time before town took the lead which they did after a great cross from Roberts was met by a bullet header from Jones in the 48th minute. More chances followed and with Martin Halewood a constant thorn in the Pen defence with tireless work across the pitch, town wrapped up the points after Roose went through again, rounded the keeper to finish the game. With Dan Grindley and John Jones outstanding at centre half, Pen failed to create any real chances and would be disappointed with their overall performance. Town now have a massive cup game against Prestatyn to focus on but although they are huge underdogs, they'll look forward to the test.

Saturday 6th February 2010

Aston Park Rangers 0 Rhuddlan Town 3 - Premier Cup Round 2
With a cup the only possibility of any silverware this year, Town were given yet another tough away draw at Aston, however an excellent display put town into the semi-finals. Right from the start town dominated the game and after just six minutes John Jones fired home the opener. Aston worked hard and tried to compete but with several outstanding performances, particular from full backs Dan Grindley & Jack Williams, they were no match for Town and after another quality strike from Mike Roose put town in a strong position . A brilliant passing move ended up with Dean Moss smashing the crossbar just before the break. The second half saw Aston start much better and come into the game creating half chances for Weaver but town weathered the storm and after good work from Moss drew a penalty, Roose smashed to home to end the tie. An all round excellent display from Town and most pleasing is keeping a clean sheet and they are now looking for a good finish to the season.

Saturday 30th January 2010

Abergele Rovers 4 Rhuddlan Town 3 - Premier Division
For the second week running, Town lost out with a 4.3 result, however this game was much more encouraging than the last. Town started much the stronger and for the first 15 mins had most of the played culminating in Mike Roose smashing home an opener, after a great through ball from Ben Roberts. Instead of capitalising on this, Town became nervy and Abergele are too good a team to accept defeat and so their pressure told in the 26 minute when Paul Demilow netted a close range equaliser. Aber really raised their game and with Alan Jones pulling the strings he put them two up with a powerful drive on 32 mins. A goal from James Davies putting in from a rebound just before the half put Gele in pole position. The second half began as the first with town conceding a well worked goal from Danny Campbell, after great work from Jones and this looked to put the tie out of reach, however Town showed good character and got themselves back into it with a Dean Jones header and after a Roose penalty on 85, it seemed that Town might find an unlikely equaliser, however they ran out of time and Gele hung on to go top of the league.

Saturday 23rd January 2010

Rhuddlan Town 3 Sychdyn 4 - Premier Division
With eight first team players missing, this game was always going to be a struggle for town, not helped by several new ex-Buckley players turning out for new look Sychdyn, but it was simply a woeful second half performance that cost Town dear. From the outset, Town were so dominant and a great turn from Ian Dunn resulted in an early penalty, which Mike Roose fired home and the good form continued with Roose finding the net again after 30 mins, although he was then denied two clear, blatant penalties after the referee was not close enough to play to see. Town shrugged this off and after a brilliant finish by Dean Moss, Town looked untouchable. The complete collapse of the second half was a shock and it stemmed by Town failing to do what was successful in the first half. An early second half goal from Dale Lovett put doubt in the mind and after a terrible defensive mistake,Tim Hughes really turned the game in Sychdyns favour. Another questionable decision with a town penalty claim turned down but yet even more poor defending led to Mark Pointon equalising. With Rhuddlan at sixes and sevens there was only one winner and Lovett came up with his second goal four mins from time to seal the points. A true game of two halves, Town really let themselves down, however to give credit to Sychdyn, they never gave in and worked hard even at 3 down.

Mochdre Sports 3 - Brynford United 2 - Presidents Cup Round 2
From the start sports pressured the Brynford defence with some great
wing play, deano latching on to the ball and just skimming the cross
bar several times, glyn and robby terrorizing the brynford back four,
the pressure paid of when sports score there first on 20mins, a one two
between deano and glyn for the 1st and ten mins later fez scoring after
a great run down the wing cutting in past the defender 2-0, it should
have been 4 or 5 nil but the team wre a bit rusty due to a lack of
games.
second half sports went of the boil and brynford were allowed to much
space on the ball creating a couple of goals 2-2 brynford had more
chances to score but failed to hit the net, on 73mins adam henley broke
through from mid field and taking the ball past a couple of players he
sent a looping shot over the keeper to make it 3-2 , 10mins to go glyn
was clean through on goal beating the offside for once and with only
the keeper to beat he was chopped down outside the box by the brynford
keeper, down to ten men brynford held on not letting any more goals in.

Saturday 12th December 2009

Joe Jennings scores from the spot in extra-time

Barritt Cup Round 1
Blaenau Ffestiniog 1 Mochdre Sports 2 aet.
In a game that sports were expected to lose it was any thing but,
first half hour mochdre were under pressure and were kept mostly in
there own half, giving to much respect to a team that on the day were
not as good as mochdre, blaenau were quick to the ball but did not have
the finish, a long range shot hit the cross bar in the first half,
other than that Carlo the sports keeper handled everything Blaenau had.
Second half mochdre came on with determination and played some good
one touch football which blaenau could not handle, the unknown warrior
putting sports in front to which blaenau had no reply until they had a
dubiase free kick which went passed the wall to hit the net 1-1 full
time
mochdre dug deep and played some of there best football during xtra
time and unlucky not to have scored more, blaenau put more pressure on
to try and score but the mochdre defence held out.
the whole mochdre team deserve a mention for the spirit they put
into todays game and considering some of our best players were out it
shows we have the players to step into the breach.
Also a mention to the travelling fans that turned up to support
mochdre.

Saturday 21st November 2009

Premier Division

Aston Park Rangers 2 Rhuddlan Town 3
In Chris Morrell's first game in sole charge, Rhuddlan were looking to build on a great win away at Shotton last time out and started this game meaning business. With Liam Murray, Shaun Jones and Martin Halewood supplying chance after chance, its not exaggeration to say Town should have been 5.0 up at the half and only hesitant finishing and great goalkeeping, somehow kept the score at 0.0 at the half. Aston started the second more competitive but Town still dominated, then totally against the run of play, confusion within the Town defence allowed Anthony weaver to run through and put Aston 1.0 up. To their credit, Town then showed great character and were awarded a penalty when Mike Roose was fouled to which he then smashed home the resulting penalty. Once again though lack of concentration let in Shaun Connor to put Aston back in front on 57 mins and for all the good football Town had played, it just looked like one of those days, however showing great togetherness and spirit, Roose again equalised after a great ball from Murray and with 14 mins remaining, Dean Moss smashed home a brilliant winner to give Town all 3 points. With a huge cup game against Prestatyn Reserves next week, this was a vital, confidence boost for Rhuddlan.

Just a footnote - manager Damien Foxbyrne has left the club this week due to other commitments. we would like to thank Damien and wish him all the best in what he does.

Also we have a huge Cup game coming up this week against Prestatyn Town reserves and are looking to gain as much support as possible. The match is at Pengwern College (Hospital Road), Kick off 1.30pm.

Division Two

FC NOMADS KEEP 100% RECORD ON THE DAY THEY REVEAL NEW CLUB BADGE

FC Nomads 6 Llanrwst Utd Res 0
(Ian Swindell 18, Jamie McConnell 21, Lee Williams 42 & 50, Gary Jones 57, own goal 61)

On a very wet afternoon on Deeside, FC Nomads faced Llanrwst United Reserves in a Clwyd league fixture. The pitch was difficult to play on however FC Nomads still managed to play some attractive football. It took until the 18th minute for Gary Jones to send in a cross for Ian Swindell to poke home for the first goal, Swindell playing as a striker for the 2nd time this season. Just 3 minutes later Gary Jones played in another great cross for Jamie McConnell to volley in a great goal to make it 2-0 to FC Nomads. Nomads threatened for the rest of the half and were rewarded in the 42nd minute when new signing Lee Williams met a Kyle Reid corner with his head and scored 3 minutes after coming on as a sub. Half time score FC Nomads 3 Llanrwst 0.

The second half got under way with FC Nomads still dominating, it wasn't long before Lee Williams scored his 2nd goal of the game finishing off a nice move started by a Jamie McConnell cross, Lee Williams found the net from just inside the corner of the 18 yard box. On 57 minutes Kyle Reid crossed the ball and it went past everyone to find Gary Jones unmarked who placed the ball into the net to make the score 5-0. Four minutes later Brian Hughes played a cross low and hard across the box and a Llanrwst defender put the ball into his own net. The final half an hour was played in poor weather and despite FC Nomads having a few more chances they couldn't convert any of them. They were satisfied with a 6-0 win against a team who have not let in a lot of goals this campaign. Captain Carl Thomas is this weeks fcnomads.co.uk man of the match.

Saturday 14th November 2009

Division Two

Abergele Rovers Reserves 1 FC Nomads 4

A match dominated by high winds, driving rain and controversial decisions was won by FC Nomads, giving them their first league double of the season.

For the first quarter of an hour it was hard to seperate the two teams with shots coming at both ends, but during the 18th minute the deadlock was finally broken when Abegele failed to properly clear a corner and the ball fell kindly for Dave Smith to rifle the ball past the Abergele keeper. It then took just 5 minutes for Nomads to double their lead when top scorer Lee Molynuex beat the last defender and the keeper to make it 2-0. The driving rain started to come down heavily and the wind started to hold the ball up making it a difficult remainder of the half for both teams. At half time it was Abergele 0 FC Nomads 2.

The second half started the way the first had ended and six minutes into the half Abegele's man of the match, Stu Roberts took a free kick for Abergele from 35 yards which found its way past everyone and into the back of the net. The two goal cushion was restored in the 66th minute when a goal mouth scamble ended with numerous shots, saves and clearances until the ball fell to substitute Neil Boden who camly stroke the ball home. During the second half both Chris and Tom Taylor were booked for handball and an Abegele player was also booked for a challenge which didn't look as bad as some had been in the first half. Then with 5 minutes remaining a hell broke loose, Craig Williams and Stu Roberts went up for a ball from a corner and Craig felt he'd been elbowed in the face (after the game it transpires it was a total accident) however when the ref ignored Craigs claims the referee decided to show a red card to the Nomads keeper for continuing to protest. Tom Taylor had to take the gloves for the remainder of the game, the referee restarted the game as Tom Taylor was putting the gloves on whilst manager Dave Johnson was asking him to hold the game whilst Tom got the keeper shirt and gloves on, the referee then sent Dave Johnson from the touchline. The cheer from the Abergele supporters when Nomads went down to 10 men made it clear that they thought they had an opportunity to take something from the game, but the cheers were soon silenced 2 minutes later when Lee Molyneux put in a cross which was converted by Neil Boden for his second of the game.

The game was difficult for both teams in the conditions and other reports may make it look like a dirty game, however it was far from it, both teams played the game in good spirit and following the game were both confused over what happened 5 minutes from the end.

Saturday 7th November 2009

Premier Division

Shotton Steel 2 Rhuddlan Town 4
After having a bad spell of late, confidence was always going to be low for Town but after a nervous start, the team worked hard in the second half and got the reward for it. Shotton started well and things looked ominous when after only 6 minutes, Anthony Quinn smashed in a great goal from a near impossible angle, which did nothing for the town mentality. Shotton continued to press and only a couple of great saves from Tony Ridgeway kept town in it, however a bizarre incident suddenly changed the game. The Shotton keeper wrongly assumed he had been awarded a free kick and threw the ball down to which Mike Roose was quick thinking, stole in and put the ball in an empty net. Shotton felt aggrieved but this type of thing has been going against town in the past few weeks, so perhaps its a little evening up. From this town finished the first half on top with Roose, Moss and Binns having chances before the break. Second half started much better for Town and their pressure told when Kyle Parry smashed home to give town the lead. With Liam Murray becoming a real threat, Town had more chances but a ball lost cheaply deep in the Shotton half, left Town exposed to the counter and Owen Piece levelled things up with a great finish. The game was in the balance when Roose was put through and fouled in the area, Dean Billinsley fired home the penalty. Shotton then became the better team and came close a couple of times, but in the 85th min a brilliant ball from Towns Dan Grindley put in Roose again and his sweet finish killed the game. This wasn't the best Town have played but lacking in some confidence they showed great character to grind out a win and Shaun Jones deserves special mention for an upstanding performance in the middle.

Saturday 31st October 2009

Premier Division

Connahs Quay Town 4 Rhuddlan Town 2
Once again the Jekyll & Hyde was evident in Rhuddlans performance away to Connahs Quay this Saturday. After an outstanding win the week before against Brynford, town were simply out-worked, out-fought and out-run by a Connah Quay team with desire to win. Town actually stated well but a bad injury forced off keeper Gary Higham early on but not before his injury prevented him from saving a Carl Wilson drive on 7 minutes, and although Martin Halewood was outstanding when taking over, town conceded again from a freak cross shot from Ben Howarth on 25 mins. From that moment on Town finally woke up and took control of the game for the rest of the half culminating in a great goal from striker Dean Moss to close the game up. The second half again saw Town start strong and when an equaliser from Mike Roose on 50 minutes came, it looked as though there was to be only one winner as rhuddlan were on top, however suddenly the Town team stopped playing and working and to their credit Connahs Quay simply over powered Town to dominate the match. First Gambio scoring in the 54 min after some slack defending and then again on 65 minutes following up a great Halewood save. Quay could have increased their lead but for more great work from Halewood. The stop start season continues for Rhuddlan who didn't really deserve anything out of this match.

Division Two

(Photo - Player/Manager Dave Johnson roles back the years with great performance)

FC NOMADS CONTINUE WINNING LEAGUE RUN

Fflint Mountain 0 FC Nomads 8

From the 1st minute FC Nomads started to threaten the Flint Mountain goal and on the 12th minute Gary Jones broke the deadlock. The rest of the first half seemed to be one of the most lackluster of the season but a Joao Rato effort on 38 minutes followed by the first of four Lee Molyneux goals on 44 minutes meant that FC Nomads had a comfortable half time lead. Without veteran player/manager Dave Johnson bossing the midfield it could have been an embarrising start to a game FC Nomads were expected to win.

Carl Thomas and Mike Hopkinson came on to replace Joao Rato and Brian Hughes at half time so FC Nomads could try a different formation, which seemed to work well, within 7 minutes of the restart Lee Molyneux scored his 2nd of the game and then followed that up on 65 minutes. Gary Jones completed his brace just 4 minutes later and in a crazy 10 minute spell just 2 minutes after Gary Jones goal Lee Molyneux got his 4th and final goal of this game. Chances came and went for FC Nomads with the woodwork and some misses from close range until Dave Smith scored the 8th and final goal on 83 minutes, this time he didn't need to use the back of his head, credit where it's due, it was a good goal Dave.

FC Nomads have now scored an average 6.2 goals a game with an average of 1 against.

Man of the match was player/manager Dave Johnson for the effort he put in which gave us the momentum to go on an win this game so well.

Saturday 24th October 2009

Rhuddlan Town 4 Brynford 1 - NWCFA Intermediate Cup Round 1
To say this game could have ended in double figures for town, is a major understatement. After being deservedly beaten by Brynford last week, Town had something to prove and did so in some style. From the kick off town produced wave after wave of attacking football and had chances been taken, could have been seven up at half time. Moss, Roose and Binns all had chances along with a memorising run from Liam Murray, beating six players but just missing the target. The break through came via Mike Roose who was put through to rounded the keeper for his first in four games. Soon after Dean Binns inch perfect chip found the corner of the net to send Town in two nil. To their credit, the second half started with a determined Brynford side who began to create some pressure however as they pushed on they were hit by the counter attack, after a great ball by Murray to Roose who added his second. A goal from an indirect free-kick, re taken three times, gave Brynford a glimmer of hope, however not long after nerves were settled and Mike Roose completed his hat-trick to essentially end the game. For the last twenty minutes, Brynford stood up to the onslaught of Town attacks and the Brynford keeper made a few outstanding saves to keep the score down. Brynford never gave stopped working or dropped their heads which will stand them in good set for the season to come. Moss, Barratt, Gilmore & Milne were outstanding and with a much better shape to the team, Rhuddlan showed how good they could be this year however its yet to see if they can find the consistency needed to win trophies.

Mochdre Sports 5 Llanfairfechan Town 0 - NWCFA Intermediate Cup Round 1
On a very windy afternoon mochdre decided to play against the wind and
were soon under pressure from llan, they played some decent football to
keep sports in there own half for much of the first half, mochdre only
breaking once or twice, town's poor finishing let them down, second
half mochdre played better using the wind to there advantage, the goals
soon started coming, mochdre played there best one touch football all
season with tom and joey bossing the midfield also fred's (flintstone)
telling runs from deep in his own half unnerved town, mochdre's goals
came from joe and kyle with two each but the goal to be remembered will
be adam henlys 35yard volley with towns keeper rooted to the spot, a
mention for towns keeper as he made a least two great saves to keep the
score down, back to league action next week.

Saturday 17th October 2009

Halkyn Cup

FC Nomads 5 Rhyl Athletic 0

(Photo Mike Hopkinson)

FC Nomads 5 Rhyl Athletic 0

FC Nomads won this first round Halkyn Cup tie against Rhyl Athletic by the same 5 goal margin as in thier league game a few weeks ago. However it looked like it would be a much closer affair in the first half with both sides seeming to cancel each other out until a 27th minute wonder strike by Lee Molyneux broke the deadlock. The rest of the half continued as before the goal with both sides not showing much in the attack department.

The second half was more one way traffic after FC Nomads broke the resistance of Rhyl with a great passing move leading to a well taken goal by Mike Hopkinson on 63 minutes. Mike Hopkinson controlled the midfield in the second half when everything seemed to go through him. Danny Wynne came on for Gary Jones on the hour and within 10 minutes was bought down in the box with the referee awarding a penalty. Dave Smith came up to take the penalty and drilled the ball into the back of the net to make it 3-0. With 10 minutes to go Danny Wynne got on the score sheet himself as he got onto a great cross by Chris Taylor. Deep into injury time Dave Smith managed to get the back of his head onto a corner to score his second of the game and FC Nomads 5th.

Saturday 10th October 2009

Mochdre Sports 4 Rhuddlan Town 2 - Premier Division (Rhuddlan report)
The disappointing run of win one lose one continued for Rhuddlan this week at Mochdre Sports. Going into the game with a strong squad, town were confident of taking the points however Mochdre were a physically strong team and dominated the early play with Murphy and Ash both going close. Once the game settled, Town did creat openings for both Mike Roose and Dean Binns and along with a couple of free kick opportunities, honours were rightly even at half time. The second half began so poorly by the Rhuddlan team and Mochdre took full advantage to take a quick two goal lead. After having a penalty saved by Town keeper Gary Higham, Mochdre immediately then scored through Murphy from the resulting corner after poor defending from Rhuddlan. Only four minutes later, more confusion in the town team let in Ash to net the second with a great finish. It took this to finally wake town up and they did push on to try and create openings, however this left massive gaps in midfield and caught them short at the back allowing Mochdre to break twice and finish the game with goals by Johnston and Knowles in the final five minutes. To their credit Town rallied and through Dean Moss and Binns pulled a couple of late goals back but although credit to Mochdre who played to their strengths and did well, this was overall a very poor performance from town. Improvements need to be made to have any chance of silverware this season.

Mochdre Sports 4 Rhuddlan Town 2 - Premier Division (Mochdre report)

mochdre sports played a lot of one touch football and rhuddlan coudn't
cope with fez in midfield, well he was every where running down the
ball, the keeper made some good saves to keep them level till half
time, second half mochdre went ahead from a corner, it was met by fred
with a rocket of a header that was so powerfull allthough the keeper
held it he fell into the goal, that put mochdre on a high and were
hungry for more, mochdre piled on more pressure scoring three more, ad
ash tip toeing like a lightweight in the box putting mochdre two up,
some fine wing play put kyle through for no3 then beating the offside
trap fez hit a 30 yarder thunder bolt to hit the net making it four,
mochdre sat back for the last ten letting rhuddlan claw back two goals,
praise must be given to there keeper for some great saves keeping them
in the game for a while including a penalty save.

Saturday 3rd October 2009

Clwyd Premier Division.
Saturday 3rd October 2009.

Shotton Steel FC 2 - Brynford United 0

Debutant Hewitt makes an impact as Steelmen get back to form.

Shotton manager Marc Edwards was delighted with the performance of new signing Scott Hewitt in his sides 2-0 home victory against promotion hopefuls Brynford United.
Speaking after the game, it was clear that the young defender has made a positive impact on Edwards. "I thought Scott was awesome today. I knew he was special, and I've wanted him here for a long time. He was involved from the off today, never put a foot wrong and won the instant respect of the rest of the lads. All previous reports were extremely complementary of his performances and I'm sure he'll be a great asset to our side. I would still like to add a couple of new faces to increase competition for places, and finally complete the squad. Losing Dave Bibby so early on in the season has been a big loss, but we are determined to fight through and secure our future in this division. I'm sure that Flint's loss will be our gain".

Shotton were determined to build a good home record this season. After a 2-1 win over local rivals Connahs Quay Town in their last home outing, nothing but 3 points would be acceptable. New signing Hewitt replaced captain Zac Bell who has been suffering with tonsillitis. Dane Mason took armband duties in the absence of Bell.

The home side made their intentions clear with a few early chances. Shaun Hughes was running riot on the wing and produced some excellent balls across the box. It was in fact the work of Hughes which led to the Steelmen's opener. In the 13th minute, a trademark weaving run took Hughes past 3 lunging defenders, before a neat touch inside fell to marksman Owen Pierce to blast home. An excellent run and Pierce's 9th of the season.

Shotton continued to apply pressure, creating numerous chances but the determined Danny Roberts in the Brynford goal was proving unbeatable. In fact, it was a well worked Shotton goal kick which led to their second goal. A long kick from 'keeper Crichton was flicked on, firstly by Hewitt, then by the head of Mason into the path of Pierce for him to claim Shotton's second and his 10th of the campaign.

The second half was a much closer affair, with both teams battling it out all over the field. The midfield work of Woodward did not go a miss, with Weatherly and Howard in the centre of defence proving hard to break down. Chances were few and far between for both teams. Each side did actually manage to get the ball in the back of the net, but were both disallowed, Shotton's for offside and Brynford's due to a foul.

Shotton will be happy with the 3 points but would have liked to have converted more of their first half chances. That said, a good solid performance and a rare clean sheet.

Man of the Match
The Steelmen: Shaun Hughes
Brynford United: Daniel Roberts

Presidents Cup Round 1

Connahs Quay Town 2 Rhuddlan Town 1
With probably the hardest cup draw Rhuddlan could have faced, Town did go to Connahs quay in good spirits, however in the strong wind and against a good footballing team, the inconsistency of town was on display with probably their worst first half performance of the season and their best second half! With little resistance, Quay were stronger, quicker and played some good football creating chance after chance. Thye ran town ragged from the start and but for some excellent defending from Luke Abbott and a couple of vital saves from Gary Higham, Quay could have been 3 or 4 up, however a solitary strike from James Gambino was all they had to show for the first half. After some half time home truths and a couple of changes to the Rhuddlan team, Town looked a different team in the second half and dominated the first twenty minutes creating many chances which culminated in the turning point of the game when Liam Murray beat the full back and was brought down for a penalty. Mike Roose stepped up to take it but the Quay keeper guessed right and pushed it away. To their credit town didn't give up and Martin Halewood, Dean Binns and a brilliant Dean Jones free-kick brought the best out of the Quay custodian, then quite against the run of play another outstanding, solo goal from James Gambino put the game beyond Rhuddlan. Showing good character though, Rhuddlan again came back at Quay and were rewarded with a Dean Binns goal 6 mins from time, but it was too little too late, with the damage being done in the first half. Connahs Quay will take some stopping at their own ground and overall deserved their win.

FC NOMADS SHOCK PREMIER DIVISION OPPOSITION

FC Nomads 3 Llansannan 1

Presidents Cup Round 1

A very windy Wepre Park was the venue for this Presidents Cup 1st round tie between Clwyd League Division 2 side FC Nomads and Clwyd Premier Division Llansannan. FC Nomads won the toss and chose to play against the wind in the first half, a brave decision against a team 2 leagues above them. The FC Nomads defence stood firm and dealt well with any threat thrown at them by Llansannan, not allowing the forward line any space at all. Llansannan were reduced to long range efforts that were easily dealt with by Craig Williams in the Nomads goal. Mike Hopkinson gave a man of the match performance in the centre of midfield, laying off some excellent passes and controlling the ball well. FC Nomads also had a few chances to take the lead in the first half but found the Llansannan goalkeeper in inspired form. The half time whistle went with the score at 0-0.

FC Nomads kicked off the second half with the wind behind them and the game changed from being a stalemate into a game Nomads controlled. During the 55th minute FC Nomads broke the deadlock when a Mike Hopkinson shot from the edge of the area took a slight deflection and found it's way past the Llansannan keeper. Confidence built and just 7 minutes later in the 62nd minute Lee Molyneux finally scored the goal he richly deserved after many chances during the first hour. Lee chased a long up and over ball and gambled that the last defender would let the ball bounce over him, his gamble paid off and he was able to get beyond the defender, take it round the keeper and slot it into the net. After the 2nd goal Llansannan suddenly woke up and realised they'd have to fight to get anything from the game. They began to pass the ball better but still couldn't break through the solid Nomads back line. On the 83rd minute Nomads substitute Joao Rato beat the offside trap and played the ball across the area for Gary Jones to put the ball in the net and score Nomads third goal. 3 minutes from the end Llansannan won a free kick on the edge of the area, the Nomads wall was in a bad position which gave Llansannan substitute Osain Williams the opportunity to curl in a free kick and make the score 3-1. The final few minutes was end to end with Llansannan having an opportunity to make it a nervous end and FC Nomads finding the woodwork denying them an even bigger victory margin.

Mike Hopkinson - Man of the Match

With Dave Johnson on holiday this week, Dean Duncan had this to say "The game was affected by the wind but we decided to play against it in the first half which worked in our favour. We deserved the win and without the wind it may have been more convincing." Website editor Phil Woods said "It was a great result for us and showed us we can compete with higher level opposition."

Neighbours Connah's Quay Tigers (also 2nd division) nearly pulled off a shock when they led Penmaenmawr Phoenix 1-0 until 3 goals in the 85th, 86th and 87th minute put paid to their hopes of a surprise. Penmaenmawr are currently top of the Clwyd Premier with the Tigers 2nd bottom of the 2nd Division. A great effort by our friends down the road.

FC Nomads will travel away to Division 1 Point of Ayr for the 2nd round of the Presidents Cup.

Saturday 26th September 2009

Premier Division

Sychdyn 1 Rhuddlan Town 4
Never the easiest place to go, Town came away from sychdyn with an impressive performance and all three points. From the start town settled the quicker and chances for dean moss, mike roose and dean binns came early but it took a defensive mix up to allow liam murray to score his first goal for the club on 12 minutes. Town continued to dominate but had to wait until a minute before half time, when Jon Staziker reacted in the box to smash the ball home and give town a 2.0 half time lead. Sychdyn began the 2nd half much better and were worthy of their goal through Tim Hughes on 55 mins, indeed sychdyn then had the better of the game for the next 15 mins and town defence had to be solid under pressure however Staziker once again pounced from a corner in the 85th minute to kill the game off. Mike Roose then added a brilliant goal involving dean binns and kyle parry to seal the game in the last minute. With three new signing available for town from next week, the squad looks strong for the season ahead and consistency will now be the goal.

Division Two

Rhyl Athletic 2 FC Nomads 7

(Photo - Man of the match - Kyle Reid)

For the second week in a row FC Nomads scored 7 goals. This week FC Nomads were missing strikers Lee Molyneux and Gary Jones, instead Ian Swindell and Dave Parsonage stepped into the forward positions. It took just 9 minutes for FC Nomads to open the scoring when a Dave Parsonage close range effort was deflected in for an own goal. Four minutes later Carl Thomas got on the end of a cross to send a powerful header past the Rhyl keeper to make it 0-2. In the 20th minute, Rhyl's on fire striker James Price pulled a goal back after a quick free kick to make it 1-2 and Rhyl were back in the game. FC Nomads had numerous chances to extend the lead but had to wait until the 41st minute for Dave Smith to find the net after a goalmouth scamble. HALF TIME : RA 1-3 FCN

The 2nd half began with FC Nomads firing blanks as chances went begging, that was put right on 54 minutes when Dave Parsonage claimed a goal he deserved, having had one in the first half given as an own goal. A lapse of concentration just a minute later led to a second goal for Rhyl putting them back in the game at 2-4. Jamie McConnell took the ball past 3 Rhyl defenders to slot the ball home for a fine individual goal during the 65th minute making the game safe for FC Nomads. Tom Taylor came on for Neil Boden in the 80th minute and made an immediate impact going down in the box under a challenge from a Rhyl defender, the ref awarded a penalty and Ian Swindell stepped up to Score Nomads 6th of the day with just 8 minutes remaining. The 7th came with the last kick of the game, scored by Danny Wynne.

This win keeps FC Nomads 2nd in the league, level on points with Rhuddlan Town Reserves but with a game in hand. FC Nomads still mantain a 100% record in the league.

Clwyd Premier Division.
Saturday 19th September 2009.

Shotton Steel FC 3 - Connah's Quay Town 2

Steel claim bragging rights on derby day.

After their humiliating 7-1 defeat away at Rhuddlan Town, the Steelmen's confidence had taken a big knock. With only 4 points taken from their opening five games, all concerned were well aware that this was a must win game. Going into today's fixture the two teams had met five times in the past 2 years. Shotton had won 3, with the other two ending in a stalemate.

Mason was back from holiday, and replaced Weatherley, who was out with a knock picked up during last weeks match. Tom Robinson also returned to the starting line up ahead of Reynolds.

As is common within these fixtures, it was the Quay who started the brighter of the two teams. Their passing was crisp and the pace of James Gambino and Carl Wilson up front looked dangerous. Within minutes Gambino had his first real chance of the game. An excellently struck shot, but rocketed against the upright. It was all hands to the pump in the Steel's defence as the Quay produced attack after attack.

The Quay's efforts were duly rewarded on 34 minutes, with some excellent work down the left hand side created a crossing opportunity and Gambino was hand to put the visitors ahead. The goal actually sparked Shotton into life and they too created their own chances before the half was out.

Being only 1-0 down at half time didn't worry in the slightest. They attacked from the off at within 2 minutes of the restart some excellent defensive work from Matty Howard was topped of with an exquisite forward pass, for Pierce to even up the score line. A calm finish by Shotton's top scorer.

Confidence has growing with each attack and 5 minutes later some excellent work by Robinson on Shotton's right side allowed Marcus Davies to shrug off his marker and power the ball past the outstretched arms of Nathan Jones in the Quay's goal. At this point the game became more of an end to end affair with both teams creating good chances. Edwards opted to change Robinson for Tom Stacey. Minutes after joining the game Stacey's persistence forced and error in the away sides defence. Stacey pounced on the free ball and fed Davies with all the ammunition he needed to secure his second, and what would surely be the home side's winner.

However, the Quay were not finished yet. They continued to press and worked some excellent chances in the closing minute. Gambino reacted quickly inside the home side's box, fired a shot low. It was too much for Anthony Quinn to control. He looked on in despair as the ball ended up in the back of his own net. This was nothing but a slight blemish on Quinn's record as he had a truly excellent game at right back.

Overall an excellent second half performance and a well earned (and much needed) 3 points. Shotton boasted the best home record in the league last season and will be determined to produce a similar achievement during this campaign.

Man of the Match
The Steelmen: Unknown
Connah's Quay Town: Carl Wilson

Premier Division - Saturday 19th September

Llansannan 1 Rhuddlan Town 0
Town were more than worthy of a point yesterday, however a bizarre, controversial last minute goal gave Llan all the points. Always a difficult place to go it was a scrappy game that never really got going for either team. Town probably shaded the chances with Mike Roose and Dean Binns going close a couple of times, however Llan did hit the post and have a second half penalty saved by Jamie Morgan. With the referee indicating as soon as the ball was active the game was over, Llan keeper took a chance and shot from a free kick from his own half which was mis-judged by Morgan who parried the ball down, then appeared to be clearly fouled as Emry Owen slotted the ball into an empty net. Another disappointing day for Town who are failing to find the consistency needed to win titles.

Video link for the winning goal http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1J8ECVhpqck

Division Two - Saturday 19th September

Magnificent Seven

FC Nomads of Connah's Quay 7 Shotton Steel Reserves 0

FC Nomads continued their fine start to the season with a comfortable win against a team that started the day top of the league. Lee Molyneux returned after two weeks out to add another four goals to his impressive haul so far this season.

It took just 9 minutes for FC Nomads to open the scoring, Lee Molyneux controlled the ball on the edge of the area and let fly with a net bursting effort to make it 1-0. Gary Jones had a few chances to add to the score but wasn't able to convert his early opportunities. On the 31st minute FC Nomads scored a second goal as Brian Hughes' persistence paid off and he was able to score his first goal in only his second start for the Nomads. On the stroke of half time Lee Molyneux scored his second goal of the game to take FC Nomads into the break 3-0 up.

The second half began as the first half ended with FC Nomads dominating, Ian Swindell and Carl Thomas were solid at the back, cutting out any opportunity Shotton had to make an impression on the game. In the 62nd minute Gary Jones finally found the net, having been unlucky in the first half, a goal that was well deserved. Joao Rato found the ball near to the goal line and played a one two with Neil Boden before playing the ball hard and low across the box for Gary Jones. Gary Jones found the net again just 8 minutes later beating the offside trap and neatly lobbing the goalkeeper from the edge of the goal area. With just five minutes left on the clock, Lee Molyneux stole the ball from a Shotton defender and placed the ball neatly into the back of the net to get his hat trick. He wasn't finished there as in the 1st minute of injury time he struck again from a FC Nomads corner.

A mention has to go to Craig Williams who kept FC Nomads second ever clean sheet. The goalkeeping competition hots up as it's 1-1 between Darren and Craig for clean sheets now.

Manager Dave Johnson said after the game "I'm pleased with the win and the performance, however I believe that our players have not hit top gear yet and there is more to come from them." It is a frightening thought to think that FC Nomads have yet more in the tank and great testament to the players that despite winning 4 out of 4 and scoring seven today, the manager believes they are even better. You have to fear for the team that meets FC Nomads when they shift into top gear.

Division Two - Saturday 12th September

FC NOMADS MAKE IT 3 OUT OF 3 IN LEAGUE

FC Nomads 3 Abergele Rovers Res 0

FC Nomads got back to winning ways on Saturday with an impressive performance against Abergele Rovers Reserves. The result was due to three stunning goals, Nomads first ever competative clean sheet (congratulations to Darren Gillmore) and a man of the match performance by a returning Tom Taylor.

FC Nomads opened the scoring in the 4th minute, Danny Wynne took the ball into the area and scored a superb goal from an impossible angle. FC Nomads controlled the game in the first half not allowing Abergele any time on the ball. A second goal was to come on the 14th minute when a well planned corner saw Carl Thomas running into the area to get his head onto the ball in free space, the Abergele keeper had no chance to save that. The Abergele goalkeeper was arguably one of their best players pulling off two great saves later in the half.

The second half began with Abergele starting to get into the game more but it wasn't long before they went further behind. On 54 minutes Kyle Reid was given the ball 25 yards out and let rip with a screamer past the stranded Abergele keeper. The second half saw changes for FC Nomads with Joao Rato replacing Brian Hughes on 53 mins, Elliot Davies replacing Danny Wynne after an hour and player/manager Dave Johnson replacing an injured Chris Taylor in the 70th minute.

During the 75th minute a foul in the area resulted in a penalty being given to FC Nomads and Gary Jones stepped up to try and make it 4, however the Abergele goalkeeper managed to cap off a fine performance with a penalty save.

3-0 is how it stayed and FC Nomads continue with their 100% record in the league.

Premier Division - Saturday 12th September

Rhuddlan Town 7 Shotton Steel 1
Rhuddlan have always been capable of scoring goals however it is at the other end they have struggled but with a couple of new faces bolstering the defence, this result has been coming from Town. Shotton actually started brightly with a couple of early strikes on goal however once the first goal was scored from Mike Roose on 14 minutes, Rhuddlan became dominant and added three more from Jamie Foxbyrne and 2 from Dean Binns before the half was out. Once again Shotton started the better in the second half but with Sean Jones and Luke Abbott outstanding in the spine of the team and Liam Murrey having an excellent debut, Town once again made their quality felt when Dean Binns completed his hat tick with a stunner. A minute later his strike partner Mike Roose got his second after great work from captain Sean Burrows and with a wonder strike from jamie Foxbyrne completed the Town scoring. Town really should have converted two maybe three more chances but to their credit Shotton kept going and were awarded a penalty, due converted by Zak bell 3 mins from time. A good day all round for Town who will now hope to find the consistency previous missing from their season.

FC Nomads 2 Mostyn Dragons 3 AET - NWCFA Junior Cup Round 1

FC Nomads were without top striker Lee Molyneux due to a hamstring injury, Danny Wynne was out with a foot injury and Ian Swindell was also unavailable. John Faulkner was injured in the first half and had to be taken to hospital with a leg injury, we are still awaiting news of how long he will be out. Winger Karl Thomas was also injured just before half time.

Following the pre season win only a few weeks ago FC Nomads went into this game knowing that it would be a completely different affair. It was clear Mostyn Dragons wanted revenge for the earlier defeat as they played much better than they did in the last game. The first half was very close with FC Nomads slightly shading it with a Carl Thomas goal after 30 minutes. Mostyn Dragons thought they had equalised later in the half, but the goal was disallowed for offside, it was a close decision. These things have a habit of equalling themselves out, and in the second half FC Nomads were given offside when 1 on 1 with the keeper, the referee apologised when realising his error, decisions like these happen and both teams got on with the game. At half time FC Nomads were 1-0 in front.

As the second half began, Mostyn came out fighting and their pressure paid off when a mistake at the back meant they equalised with an own goal. That is the way it stayed until full time.

Extra time was a rather open affair with both sides going for the win, first blood went to Mostyns in form striker Sam Watson scoring in the 95th minute. In the second half of extra time it was clear that both sides were tiring and on 113 minutes FC Nomads were given a penalty after applying a lot of pressure on the Mostyn goal, Gary Jones stepped up to make it 2-2 with just 7 minutes remaining. The remaining 7 minutes were very open and it would take something special to win the game, up stepped Sam Watson to score with just 2 minutes remaining, scoring his 9th goal already this season (If he continues in this form it may be difficult for Mostyn to keep him). Mostyn hung on for the last few minutes to record a great win for them and FC Nomads first ever defeat.

Brynford United 3 Mochdre Sports 5 - Clwyd Prem 05-09-2009
From the start Mochdre played a good passing game, great balls laid
of to steph down the left wing, Mochdre were three up at half time,
second half bryn had most of the play for the first twenty mins using
the wind to there advantage, thet clawed they way back to 3-3 and were
up for winning, but a couple of changes to the sports turned the game
and mochdre got back to winning ways with two more goals to kill the
game, there were a few bad tackles and one off the ball incident that
injured one of sports players. The game was hard and i thought the ref
was good, but i'm not surprised the league is short of refs.

NWCFA Intermediate Cup - Preliminary round..
Saturday 5th September 2009.

Llandudno Junction 1 - Shotton Steel FC 3

QUINN BRACE SINKS JUNCTION'S HOPES

Shotton travelled to Llandudno to play Junction Reserves in the Intermediate cup full of confidence following the previous weeks win over table topping Brynford. Despite manager Edwards selecting the same starting XI the Steelmen started slowly and struggled to get their rhythm, allowing Junction to have the better of the early exchanges. Within 10 minutes Junction had taken the lead, a long ball over the top was latched onto by forward James Shone who duly lobbed Shotton keeper Karl Crichton to put the home team a goal up.

Going a goal down sprang Shotton into life and they began to play some football and take the game to the hosts, winning corners and throw ins to put the home side under pressure. With 20 minutes gone Shotton scored a deserved equaliser. A succession of corners saw captain Zac Bell swing one in and Shotton winger Anthony Quinn headed into the Junction net, before the keeper could even move. Continued Shotton pressure resulted in them taking the lead. Good play from winger Shaun Hughes down the left hand side saw the ball swung into Owen Pierce, who was the victim of shirt pulling as he tried to get a shot away. A soft penalty to give away for Junction, but the pulling of Pierce's shirt was there for all to see. Captain Bell stepped up and converted to give Shotton the lead their pressure deserved. Both sides continued to have chances with both keeper's making saves. With the half drawing to a close a Pierce bicycle kick narrowly missed. With just minutes remaining in the half the Steelmen extended there lead, Quinn scoring his second of the game. More good work by Hughes saw him pass the ball cross field, Quinn beat the Junction left back to the ball, taking it into his stride perfectly. As he approached the Junction 18 yard box he fired a curling shot past the 'keeper into the top corner. You just don't stop those.

The second half started as most expected, Junction keen to pull back the deficit and Shotton keen to extend their lead and put the game to bed. Chances came and went at both ends as a stalemate ensued. As the half wore on Junction used their substitutes to try and get something, moving big forward Matty Hughes up front. Near the end of the game Junction were denied what seemed like a clear cut penalty as Hughes was brought down in the box fighting for the ball with Shotton centre half Lewis Weatherly. The Steelmen breathed a sigh of relief as he referee waved play on, Junction's chance of taking the match to extra time fading fast. The referee blew the whistle for the end of the game to give Shotton a deserved 3-1 win against a very good Llandudno Junction side, and send them into the next round of the cup. The Steelmen will now face a home draw against Anglesey side Gaerwen FC. All in all a good day's work for the Steelmen who now travel to Rhuddlan Town next week for more league duty.

Man of the Match
Junction: James Shone
The Steelmen: Zac Bell

Sat 5th Sept- Penmaenmawr Phoenix v Aston Park Rangers

Result: 2-0

First half:

High winds at Cae sling proved problematic for both sides from the start on Saturday with most of the play being kept to midfield area. Soon Aston Park forced a couple of corners but Phoenix cleared their lines well and pushed forward more now gaining a foothold in the game.

Phoenix started to use the flanks more and soon made a couple of half chances when Peter Williams was put through on goal only to be thwarted by a last ditch challenge by Aston’s centreback then Richie Roberts was sent clear only to drag his shot across goal..

Soon the pressure told and just on the stroke of halftime Chris Owen lost his marker at the front post to head home a wickedly whipped corner from Captain Bleddyn Jones.

Second half:

The second half continued the same sort of pattern as the first with both midfields proving hard to break down. The ball seemed to be contested more in the air than on the floor as the prevailing winds were still causing problems for both sides.

Ten minutes into the second half Pen rightback Darren Hughes directed a speculative cross into the box only for the wind to catch hold and send the ball looping over the despairing Rangers keeper and into the far top corner of the net.

After the second goal Penmaenmawr sat off and became a bit complacent letting Aston Park come more into the game and soon started to create some chances of their own. A slide rule pass from midfield left Aston’s striker through on goal but was denied not once but three times in quick succession by Pen’s keeper Carl Roberts returning in goal after a training ground accident which had left him with eight stiches in his hand. Roberts was playing his first league game of the season for Pen as first team keeper Jamie Tharme had had a freak accident the previous week leaving him with two hairline fractures in his lower back.

Ten minutes from time Chris Owen,having another good game for the Phoenix since signing from Llandudno Junction whipped in a cross from the left for the advancing Richie Roberts only to be foiled by the keeper and from the rebound Roberts couldn’t find the right finish and the ball went away for a goal kick.

Overall good performance from home team but have a couple of tricky fixtures over the next few weeks with the visit of Brynford on Saturday12th then Pen-y-Cae visit Cae Sling in the FAW Welsh Trophy on the 19th.

Reserve Premier - Friday 4th September 2009.

Rhyl 1 GAP Connah's Quay 2

Rhyl lose 100% record

Rhyl suffered their first defeat and conceded their first goals, as GAP Connah's Quay fought back from a goal down to claim the points in tonight's league game at Belle Vue. The home side were caught cold with two late strikes after controlling most of the game and Ryan Roberts in the Rhyl goal had very little to do until the 85th and 90th minutes, when he twice had to pick the ball out of the net.

Rhyl the stronger side in the first half, with Dave Cameron holding the line up front, and deservedly took the lead following a run and cross by Alex Nattress, which was met at the far post by Sebastian Walker. For Rhyl, Cameron was replaced at half time by Declan Thomas, but GAP gradually came back into the game and following the introduction of subs Lucas Cruse and Martin Greenhall in midfield, with Leon Pickford moving from full back to forward GAP began to take control of the game. Pickford broke down the right wing and Graeme Long collected his low cross before turning two defenders to fire low into the net. Almost on full time the unthinkable happened to Rhyl, when Lucas Cruse was allowed to ghost in at the near post to score with a glancing header from a long throw.

Flint Town Utd vs Denbigh Town
Flint finished as 5-1 winners in a game which they were the 2nd best from the whistle and a battling denbigh opened the scoring though a gary madoc-jones strike on 23 minutes put into the bottom corner giving goalkeeper leigh williams no chance,
flint responed on 35 mintues though player-manager lee acott with a volley from a graham dyment cross the 1st time flint played 5 passes together.
on 39 minutes flint pulled further ahead though steve alcock a well worked move giving steve a easy side foot home,
flint started the 2nd half brightly with lee acott adding his 2nd beating the offside trap to slot away.
flint continued to press and were rewarded with a 4th,
which came on 63 minutes when a missed placed header was neatly finished again for acott to complete his hatrick,
the 5th was quickly added when carl hodges ball over the top was deflected over a helpless denbigh goalkeeper on 64 minutes,
denbigh battled hard but flints quailty was to much to deal with and they couldn't find away back in the game.

Reserve Premier - Saturday 29th August 2009.

Denbigh Town v Llandudno Junction

Denbigh Town Reserves were held to a 1-1 draw against Llandudno Junction Reserves in a game that the hosts should have won , reports Peter Glynn at Central Park.
A solo Gary Madoc Jones strike - cancelled out by a close range effort from the visitors - was poor return for a bagful of chances created by Russ Pierce's men.
After dominating the early play , Town were awarded a penalty on ten minutes , but the Jamie Evans spot kick was straight down the Junction keeper's throat and he easily claimed the ball to deny Denbigh an early lead.
Town were not to be denied and excellent work by former Flint Town striker Ian Taylor presented Gary Madoc with a chance and the powerhouse slammed home in delight on 22 minutes. It could have been two moments later when a flag kick was bundled home by the same man , but the referee signalled the ball had entered touch on its way into the box.
It was all Denbigh at this stage , playing good football without making it really count. And they found Mike Hughes in the Railwaymen's goal in fine form.
The move of the match saw Lee Mason's perfect cross volleyed towards the net by the incoming Lewis Worthing , but Hughes was well placed to palm the stinging effort round a post.
Junction grabbed parity on 33 minutes when a quick fire breakaway saw shone cross for Matty Hughes who was on his own-some in front of goal and the big fella couldn't miss. It was to be Junction's only clear cut chance of the game.
The second stanza was more of the same , with the Central Park outfit close on several occasions through Madoc , Worthing and Taylor but find no way past the impressive Hughes.

Clwyd Premier Division.
Saturday 29th August 2009.

Brynford United 2 - Shotton Steel FC 5

Hard work finally pays off for Steelmen .

This could have been such a bad day for Shotton. Sitting second to bottom of the table and their fourth away fixture on the bounce led them to The Recreation Ground, home of table toppers Brynford United. Pre-match manager Marc Edwards tried to reinforce the point that even though they had only gathered a single point from their opening games, the side had played some excellent football and had not been far from winning every match so far.

For the first time this season, the Steelmen started a game with a 'nothing to lose' attitude and it showed. Confidence grew early, and with only 5 minutes on the clock winger Shaun Hughes provided Marcus Davies with the opportunity to open the scoring. He duly obliged, and neatly slotted the ball into the bottom right hand corner.

Shotton began to build pressure. A trademark Chris Woodward long throw found Davis's head and he scored once more. Shotton were now cruising. Their continued pressure resulted in another long throw opportunity. Woody did the honours, once again finding the head of Davies, who this time flicked the ball into the run of stand in left back Dane Mason. Mason with the composure of Steven Gerrard rifled the ball home for Shotton's third. Take a bow son!

Now 3-0 down, Brynford began to show glimpses of why they are top. Their passing got crisper and their runs far more dangerous. A Lewis Weatherly goal line clearance nullified their best attack of the half. With the attacks now going from end to end, it was Shotton who ended the half the strongest, a poor clearance left Hughes with an excellent shooting opportunity. His powerful strike missed the target but deflected to Pierce who slotted home Shotton's fourth just before half time.

The second half was a far closer contest. Attacks for both teams were common and both goalkeepers saw a lot more of the ball. Five minutes in, a poor clearance dropped to Brynford's Roger Dakin. Dakin took an excellent touch and then blasted the ball to the left of Shotton's goal. The battle continued, until the 78th minute. A long ball out of Shotton's defence found Davies once more in an attacking position. Davies struck the ball with venom, a great save by Lewis Dakin in the Brynford sticks, was undone as Pierce once again was on hand to mop up the spill and claim Shotton's 5th of the day. The game looked all over until in the 90th minute. Some slack defending in the middle of the pitch led to a foul inside the Shotton box, a whistle was heard, and the finger of referee Allan Cureton pointed to the spot. Striker Davis Williams shrugged off the pressure and struck home nothing more than a consolation goal for Brynford.

The win moves the Steelmen up to 7th in the league, but more importantly they now look like they actually believe that they can do well this season.

Man of the Match
Brynford United: Steven Blair
The Steelmen: Zac Bell

Clwyd League Division Two - Tuesday 25th August 2009

FC Nomads Roar to Victory in First League Game
Connah's Quay Tigers 2 FC Nomads 8
FC Nomads totally dominated against a young Tigers side with Lee Molyneux in fine form yet again. Molyneux opened the scoring on 5 minutes with his third chance of the game. Danny Wynne was next to find the net for the Nomads in the 22nd minute. FC Nomads seemed to over power the Tigers in the middle of the park with strong performances from John Faulkner and Mike Hopkinson. On the half hour mark Lee Molyneux added his second of the game followed quickly by a John Faulkner goal 2 minutes later. Tigers found a glimmer of hope in the 35th minute when Richard Foster pulled a goal back. Their hope was short lived as Lee Molyneux completed his first half hat-trick in the 42nd minute making the half time score 5-1 to FC Nomads. The Tigers seemed to start the 2nd half brightly but were undone yet again in the 59th minute by another goal from man of the match Lee Molyneux. In the 74th minute Richard Foster yet again scored for the Tigers, this time the hope was even more short lived as Dave Parsonage scored just 1 minute later to make it 7. FC Nomads then had numerous chances to add to their tally but the woodwork denied them any more goals in open play. When the Tigers keeper took down Lee Molyneux in the box during the 84th minute the referee gave FC Nomads a penalty, defender Ian Swindell stepped up to score the 8th and final goal of the night.

A resounding victory for FC Nomads in their first ever competative game, the fact that it was an away win makes it even more impressive. Next up is Flint Town 3rds away on Saturday 29th August.

Clwyd Premier Division.
Saturday 22nd August 2009.

Abergele Rovers 4 - Shotton Steel FC 3

Pierce hat-trick not enough as Steelmen fail once more.

Today's game saw the unveiling of Shotton's new kit, kindly donated by Corus UK. Unfortunately, a very poor first half performance took the shine on what could have been a great day.

Shotton initially well, with exchanges common in the first 20 minutes. Lewis Weatherly's free kick found Pierce unmarked but he headed over. Shortly afterwards 'Gele's Andrea Alvarado was unlucky with an attempted lob.

The break through came in the 21st minute when Arwyn Davies played an excellent ball between the Shotton defence, perfect for James Davies to slot the ball home. 1-0 Abergele. There was no let up for the Steelmen as a little over 2 minutes later, as scorer became provider when James Davies was able to make an excellent weaving run allowing Arwyn Davies to put Abergele 2-0 in front.

With it all to do, Shotton winger Shaun Hughes tried to get his side back in the game. On 25 minutes he made an excellent zig-zagging run, taking on 5 players in the process only to be rewarded with a corner. Shotton were starting to finally play some nice football, with captain Zac Bell and new comer Tom rose both coming close. It was all to no avail. In the 36th minute, the referee awarded 'Gele with a dubious free kick on the edge of the Shotton box. Alan Jones did the honour of whipping the ball in to the top right corner. Put a postage stamp on that. There wasn't much reply from the Steelmen, only Howard, whose chance was cleared off the line by James Davies.

Edwards called for all three substitutions to be made at half at half time. Robinson, Quinn and Rose made way for Edwards, Stacey and Reynolds. A 3-4-3 all out attack formation was preferred. Instantly the substitutions had a positive effect. All over the pitch Shotton now seemed like they were here for a game off football, and were not simply going to roll over a die.

On 62 minutes Tom Stacey made an excellent run, brushing aside his marker, and whipping in an inch perfect cross for striker Owen Pierce to lob the oncoming 'keeper. The Steelmen continued to pile on the pressure and five minutes later it was Dane Mason who turned Provider for Pierce to collect his second. Shortly later, in search of an equaliser winger Hughes had to watch the agony of having his shot cleared off the Abergele goal line.

With only three at the back Shotton were riding their luck at time, and Abergele were creating a fair number of chances. The pressure paid off when they were awarded a free kick once again on the edge of the area. Up stepped Alan Jones once again and a repeat performance produced the same result, 4-2 Abergele.

Shotton were determined to get something out of the game. An excellent long pass by Howard, found Hughes once again. He made a strong run, and an superb pass allowed Pierce to slot home Shotton's third and claim his hat-trick. Shotton continued to press but it was a definite case of too much too late.

Once again Shotton managed to put together an awe inspiring second half performance, but they must learn to start their first halves as they do their seconds. Abergele will be happy with the three points as they will be expected to win the division after their performances last year.

Man of the Match
Abergele Rovers: Sean Morris
The Steelmen: Owen Pierce

Rhuddlan Town 2 Aston Park Rangers 5
With 8 players missing this was always going to be a tough day for Rhuddlan but basic poor defending cost them dear. Town started the brighter team, however after a serious injury to Gav Butler held play up, Aston came back much stronger and two goals by Aldon & Weaver put them in front. After some strong half time words Town stared much better and were unlucky to have an early second half goal disallowed however poor delivery from a Town corner ended with Aston running the ball all the way down pitch and Aldon increasing the lead to three. To their credit Rhuddlan came back and Kyle Parry clipped in a cross which went in, however the old problems came to light and Town gave away another two soft goals for Weaver and Aldon's hat-trick to put the game beyond doubt. Town then reduced the arrears with a Sean burrows strike, then had a goal dismissed for off-side and were awarded a penalty which was missed, however this masked the defensive problems Town dislayed.

Black Dragon Badges - Reserve Premier League

The Reserve derby at Llandyrnog resulted in Denbigh Town owning the bragging rights after a 4-1 result , reports Peter Glynn at Cae Nant.
Goals from Gary Madoc-Jones , Jonny Bowen , Gaz John and Mike Hinds gave Town the three points , with the solo reply coming from David Clayton for the hosts.
The game burst into immediate life when on 50 seconds Gary Madoc Jones latched onto a superb ball from Adrian Hoyle and the Denbigh hitman slammed home first time past Gareth Pope in the Dyrny goal.
It was all Denbigh to be fair , and a nuumber of opportunities were squandered before the second goal arrived from an unexpected source. Full back Jonny Bowen found himself in front of goal on 25 minutes and from a flowing move his firm hit gave Pope no chance. Next Hoyles and Gaz John had good efforts well saved by Pope as Russ Pierce's men in blue looked to be on for a hatful.
But Dyrny responded well and began to gain some ground as Town suddenly took their foot off the pedal. Excellent play on the right flank by David Davies presented Clayton with an opportunity and the youngster , still with work to do , got his foot to ball and in it flashed on 40 minutes.
It was now game on , and the second stanza saw the Villagers doing most of the pressing in the early stages without particularly threatening to score. At the other end Lewis Worthing was unlucky to strike a post after a sublime ball from Andy Booker, quickly followed by Gaz John Williams who also hit wood when it looked easier to score.
Denbigh always looked likely to add to their tally and on 80 minutes finally put the result beyond doubt. Worthing did good work out on the right , fed a ball into the box to Madoc-Jones who allowed the ball to run across his chest , gifting an open goal to Williams and the striker stroked home with glee.
The goal of the game fell to Mike Hinds , deservedly so for his man of the match performance. Booker again was instrumental in a move that saw the ball come out to Hinds 25 yards from goal and the Town man lashed home to cap a fine opening game for Denbigh Town Reserves.

Clwyd Premier Division.
Tuesday 18th August 2009.

CPD Sychdyn 3 - Shotton Steel FC 2

Steelmen left ruing missed chances

Shotton Steel were looking to pick up their first three points of their Premier Division campaign but were left with nothing but ruing a number of missed chances. The Steelmen failed to win their second successive league game away at Sychdyn this evening although Marc Edwards believed his side did create enough chances to win the game.

"We were concerned with our first half performance on Saturday (at Llansannan), but today we were much better. We created 12 good goal-scoring chances in the first half, but we only managed to convert one of them. Sychdyn only had the one first half chance and made it count. We need to learn quickly, that if we are to compete at this level we must start to put away a higher percentage of our chances".

Shotton had a number of early chances. Owen Pierce almost scored from the kick off but the ball managed to bounce over the bar. The Steelmen continued to press but the Sychdyn held off the wave after wave of attacks. In the 36th minute Sychdyn's only attack of the half led to Shotton's 'keeper Karl Crichton came out to close down the striker on the edge of his box, stopping the shot with his chest. To his astonishment he found himself with a yellow card as referee Glen Gray thought he handled the ball outside the area! A well worked free kick ended with a calm finish by Jack Murphy.

The continued Shotton attacks did finally pay off when a long throw by Chris Woodward made its way to captain Zac Bell at the back post. A Van Basten esc side volley into the top right stanchion - take a bow son.

The second half was a different affair. Sychdyn started to play some impressive football and a mistake by Tom Robinson at the back was punished with a penalty. Dave Lovett stepped up, held his nerve and slotted the ball low to Crichton's left. Minutes later Matty Howard went to clear the ball; it spun off his foot and struck him on the hand. Not convinced that this was embarrassing enough, Referee Gray awarded Sychdyn with a second penalty. Once again Lovett did the honours, this time choosing to rifle the ball top and centre. Calm as you like!

The final minutes were a very familiar affair as Shotton continued to pile on the pressure. Striker Owen Pierce produced a calm finish to a Dave Bibby through ball on 85 minutes, but it ultimately turn out to be nothing more than a consolation. Overall, a very bitter result for the Steelmen to swallow, and things will not be getting any easier as they travel away to Abergele on Saturday.

Man of the Match
CPD Sychdyn: Matty Williams
The Steelmen: Dave Bibby

Clwyd Premier - Saturday 15th August 2009

Rhuddlan Town 5 Penmaenmawr 4
Good football and some poor defending contributed to a goal feast at penqwyn hall, Rhuddlan for this season opener.

Rhuddlan started the game strongly and early pressure produced two excellent goals from Mike Roose and in particular Dean Moss after great work from Jamie Foxbyrne and jack Williams down the right, however Penmaenmawr never give in and this was to be no different as goals from Chris Owen and two from Ritchie Roberts put Pen in the driving seat.

Rhuddlan though showed great character in coming back again with an equaliser from Roose then another from Moss swung the game back towards Rhuddlan, Pen grabbed a late leveller and thought they'd secured a point, with Roberts getting his hat-trick however the sting in the tail saw Rhuddlan captain Sean Burrows race through the midfield to latch onto a a ball and slot it into the corner for an 87th minute winner to seal the points. Rhuddlan young keeper Jamie Morgan deserves a special mention for a series of good saves for in his debut.

The new management team at Rhuddlan will be looking to work on defensive issues this result highlighted, however with still more signings to come in and with this being the first time many of the team have played together, hopefully it'll be rectified quickly.

NOMADS BREATH FIRE ON DRAGONS
FC Nomads of Connah's Quay 3 Mostyn Dragons 0

FC Nomads of Connah's Quay continued their fine pre season form with a convincing win over last seasons Clwyd League Division 2 champions. This game was viewed as the one that would show how ready FC Nomads are for the coming season, as we would be taking on the league that Mostyn won last term.

FC Nomads seemed to control the first ten minutes of the game, playing some neat football and having a few chances early on. The hard work was rewarded on 12 minutes when Danny Wynne scored FC Nomads' first goal. Following that goal Mostyn began to get into the game more and they used their physical strength to dominate the midfield. For the remainder of the half the 1-0 lead was retained due to magnificent defensive displays by the centre backs Carl Thomas and Ian Swindell. It was clear that FC Nomads needed to take control of the midfield and counteract the physical aspect of the game that Mostyn were taking.

The second half began with FC Nomads looking much stronger in the middle of the park, in particular John Faulkner gave them much needed strength. Faulkner started to dominate in the middle and FC Nomads were now on top, playing the neat football we had seen during the previous three matches. On 50 minutes Dave Johnson (manager) made several substitutions, one of which was Portuguese striker Joao Rato, within 2 minutes of coming on Rato found the back of the net for his first goal in a FC Nomads shirt, showing skill and composure on the ball. The second half of this game had its fair share of 'meaty' tackles from both sides with the referee having to keep things calm. This may have been classed as a friendly but it was good practice for what lies ahead as the game was very competitive. During the last 10 minutes of the game FC Nomads dominated possession as John Faulkner and Mike Hopkinson were spreading the ball well to the wide players and the strikers, then on 88 minutes Joao Rato gathered the ball 40 yards from the goal, took on two defenders and then rounded the keeper to score a fantastic second goal, Rato yet again showed great composure on the ball for an 18 year old.

A deserved 3-0 win for FC Nomads against last seasons champions, showing that they are ready to take on the league.

Dave Johnson said after the match, "It was a good performance, especially in the second half once we matched them physically." he added "It was a good test for us."

FC Nomads play again on Wednesday 19th August, kick off 19:00 at Wepre Park. The opponents this time are Welsh Alliance Glan Conwy. This huge test concludes the pre season for FC Nomads, they kick off the new season with a derby game away at Connah's Quay Tigers on Tuesday 25th August at 18:30.

Clwyd Premier Division.
Saturday 15th August 2009.

Llansannan 3 - Shotton Steel FC 3

Shotton show their Steel in opening day fight back

The waiting was finally over, in what had seemed an endless closed season. Marc Edwards had been busy over the past few months strengthening his squad ready for the new challenge that lies ahead. A new goalkeeper, Karl Crichton from Flint Town. Forward Marcus Davies from Penyffordd. Winger Tom Stacey from Mold. The return of midfielder Chris Woodward from Gresford Athletic and a last minute signing Dave Bibby also from Flint Town United are all additions to help ensure that The Steelmen are ready for life in the Clwyd top flight.

Shotton started the new season brightly and enjoyed the majority of the early chances. However, on 20 minutes, Llan 'keeper Adrian Howatson launched a long ball over the Steel defence for striker Emyr Owen to eloquently lob Crichton. At this point Shotton seemed to lose their grip on the game and shortly found themselves 2-0 thanks to Emyr Owen's second and had tobattle hard to ensure that they did not drop any deeper prior to the half time whistle.

After a very disappointing first half performance, manager Marc Edwards was determined to get a huge improvement from his young team. Changes were made and a different system employed.

From the 2nd half kick off, Shotton began to show glimpses of what they are capable. New signing Bibby displayed some exquisite skill to get around the Llan defence and produced an inch perfect cross for Shaun Hughes to apply a postage stamp header from 6 yards.

Finally, Shotton began to do the basic things in the correct manner. Moving the ball quickly, they produced attack after attack. It was a shame for the Steel that a rare Llan break led to them going 3-1 up, Emyr Owen claiming the match ball honours.

With it all to do Shotton regrouped and a fantastic and frantic final push followed. Lee Woodward added an excellent finish to some Shaun Hughes skill before Owen Pierce got his 2009 goal scoring account open. The final chance of the game was a powerful shot by captain Zac Bell. 'Keeper Howatson pulled off a first class save and held the ball well as Matty Howard has followed up well and would have surely slotted home a winner should Howatson have slipped up.

Overall, a decent point and possibly a fair result. Llansannan were excellent in the first half and Shotton the superior in the second.

Llansannan play hosts to last season's runners up Abergele on Tuesday, while Shotton make the short trip to Schdyn. With Lewis Weatherley and Marcus Davies expected back Tuesday, it could turn out to be another very special game.

Man of the Match
Llansannan: Emyr Owen
The Steelmen: Zac Bell

FC NOMADS GIVEN FIRST BIG TEST

FC Nomads 2 Hawarden Rangers 2

In a change of venue FC Nomads faced Welsh National Premier League opposition at Wepre Park on Tuesday night. This was going to be the biggest test yet against a side hovering close to promotion to the Cymru Alliance finishing 4th last season.

Fc Nomads started the game brightly playing some neat one touch football leading to them taking the lead during the 31st minute with a goal by Jamie McConnell who scored following a bit of a goalmouth scramble. After the goal Hawarden started to get into the game and equalised on the stroke of half time. Both managers made several changes at half time in this closely fought affair. Hawarden started the second half stronger scoring in the 50th minute, however from the kick off FC Nomads won a free kick on the edge of the area and top scorer Lee Molyneux struck a free kick with such venom that if the keeper had got a hand to it he would have followed the ball into the net. This made the game 2-2. This was a fair result with both sides having their chances and some end to end football which was a treat for FC Nomads biggest attendance yet of 132.

FC Nomads face Mostyn Dragons at Wepre Park this Saturday the 15th August with a 14:30 kick off. Mostyn Dragons won the division that FC Nomads will enter last season with an impressive record only losing twice in 22 games.

FC NOMADS CONTINUE FINE PRE SEASON FORM
FC Nomads 6 Tranmere Rovers IFA 0

FC Nomads scored six goals without reply last night to take thier tally to 14 goals in thier first two friendlies. Lee Molyneux was in fine form again scoring his second hat trick in two games, Gary Jones grabbed himself a brace and Thomas Coghill completed the scoring.

In contrast to last week it was the first half where FC Nomads dominated going into the half time break with a 5-0 lead. Tranmeres 'FC Rearguard' came into the game more in the second half and made life more difficult for FC Nomads.

A good crowd of 58 were in attendance for the first ever home game at Wepre Park, we hope they were entertained enough to continue to support us during the new season.

FC Nomads next friendly is on Tuesday 11th August away at Hawarden Rangers. Visit www.fcnomads.co.uk for further fixture information.