2017/18 Season

Cup - Lucania Cup Winners

Final League Position - 7th

Top Goalscorer - Craig Williams

Player of the Year - Barrie Jones

Players Player - Martin Jones

Manager - Gareth Hurton

	End of Season Stats
27	Games (22 League + 5 Cup)
12	Wins (8 League + 4 Cup)
1	Draw
68	Goals Scored (55 League + 13 Cup)
5	Clean Sheets (2 League + 3 Cup)
35	Players Used

Match 27: Saturday 5th May 2018

PENYGRAIG UTD 4 - 3 STANLEYTOWN

 

Our final game of the season saw a repeat of last week’s fixture as we travelled to Penygraig Utd again. There were 4 changes from last week’s side with Garry Edwards, Barrie Jones, Martin Jones and Tyrone Jones returning to the starting 11.

 

A poor first half saw us gift the home side a 3 goal lead before we got a goal back 5 minutes before the break through Tyrone Jones however minutes later the home side regained their 3 goal advantage to give them a 4 – 1 lead at half time.

 

The second half saw a better performance from us against the 10 men of Penygraig and a goal each from Martin Jones and Craig Williams saw us pull the score back to 4 – 3. Despite our best efforts in the closing stages of the game which saw us miss a penalty and bring top draw saves from the home keeper we were unable to get that 4^th goal. Final Score 4 – 3

 

A disappointing end and a performance that probably summed up the season by gifting the opposition goals and failing to make our chances count as we lost our 9^th game by just the one goal

 

 

Subs

Carl Semmens (Edwards)

Alex Thomas (Earland)

John Williams (Rossiter)

Gareth Hurton

David Isaac

 

 

GOALS

TYRONE JONES

MARTIN JONES

LCRAIG WILLIAMS
 

MAN OF THE MATCH

DANIEL REES

 

 

Match 26: Saturday 28th April 2018

PENYGRAIG UTD 3 - 2 STANLEYTOWN

 

Our penultimate game of the season saw us travel to Penygraig Utd for the first of two back to back fixtures. With players missing again for various reasons there were 5 changes to the side from last week's victory, Ricky Rossiter returned to the back four while John Williams and Kai Hollingsworth both started in the centre of midfield with Shay Rees and Liam Earland on the wings.

An even opening to the game saw both sides play on the front foot with the home side playing good football in their build up play with us more on the direct approach looking dangerous on the quick counter attack which saw us have the better of the opening chances. Our best chance came 20 minutes in when Garry Edwards got his head to a Shay Rees corner only to see his effort hit the underside of the bar and come down on the line and the follow up shot go over the bar. We took lead after 35 minutes when Shay Rees beat the offside trap to go through and with the keeper rushing out to challenge him he lifted the ball over him from 25 yards and saw the ball bounce into the top corner to get his 10th goal of the season. Half Time 0 - 1

The host started the second half the better with us sitting back more as they put the pressure on looking for the equaliser and after the hour they did when a headed clearance from us saw the ball drop to the edge of the area and the follow up shot found the back of the net to draw them level. Inside the next 10 minutes the home side took the lead when a long range low moving shot found the back of the net after being seen late by the Town keeper. We didn't give up and stepped up a gear and started pushing ourselves to get back on level terms and came close when Craig Williams was put through but his powerful shot was well saved by the Penygraig keeper. As we continued to push for an equaliser the home side were looking a threat on the counter attack and just before the 80th minute they got the all important 4th goal of the game when the ball fell kindly to their winger inside the box from our player to leave him one on one and he rounded the Town keeper and put the ball in the back of the net. An action packed final 5 minutes saw us get a goal back through Liam Earland as he broke through into the box and as he got brought down for a certain penalty he got his toe to the ball to push it passed the keeper into the bottom corner. Shortly after the home team keeper pulled off a top draw save from a Shay Rees effort to tip the ball onto the bar and deny us what would have been a deserved equaliser. Final Score 3 - 2

A disappointing result in the end as we probably edged the game on chances but good saves from the home keeper and a lack of composure on our part in front of goal meant we could only find the back of the net on just the two occasions. Next week sees a repeat of today's fixture and we need to finish the season with a win to ensure we stay out of the bottom two of the table

 

 

Subs

Garry Edwards (Thirb)

Christopher Owens (J.Williams)

Michael Williams

Gareth Hurton

David Isaac

 

 

GOALS

SHAY REES

LIAM EARLAND
 

MAN OF THE MATCH

SHAY REES

 

 

Match 25: Saturday 21st April 2018

TREORCHY 1 - 4 STANLEYTOWN

 

After our midweek cup triumph we were back to league action today as we travelled to Treorchy who sat 4 points above us in the table. Our squad was stretched to the limit with 7 of the cup final players missing for various reasons, Jamiel Thirb & Dan Rees returned to the back four, Dale Pugh started up front and Jarrad Davies answered a late SOS call to play his first game of the season.

The home team started the sharpest and attacked us from the off but we held firm at the back to restrict their chances with any shots on target comfortably dealt with by Tom Lewis is the Town goal. Just before the 15th minute we took the lead when a Dan Rees free kick from just inside the Treorchy half was driven into the box and Craig Williams got his head to the ball to net his 20th goal of the season. Not long after we doubled our lead when Williams broke through to go one on one with the keeper and slotted the ball past him to put us two goals up. Credit to the home side as they didn't give up and kept playing the same way and were looking dangerous when breaking and brought a few saves from Lewis and then 10 minutes before the break got a goal back with a well struck low shot from the edge of the area into the bottom corner. In the 40th minute we regained our two goal advantage when Dan Rees was fouled just inside the box and we were awarded a penalty, Williams stepped up and fired home to seal his second hat trick of the season. Half Time 1 - 3

A change at half time saw Kai Hollingsworth, another who answered the late SOS call, replace the injured skipper Nathan Williams to make his first appearance of the season. With other tired legs in the side and no subs remaining it was going to be a tough 45 minutes and the home side dominated the possession in the early stages of the half however unable to break down our stubborn back line and failed to get any meaningful chances at goal. After 70 minutes Davies pulled up injured and unable to run saw a tactical change with him going in goals and Lewis moving up front. Inside the last 15 minutes we sealed the 3 points when Lewis slid the ball through to Williams only for him to be brought down inside the box and we had our second penalty of the game, Williams stepped up and fired home. The final 10 minutes saw the home side continue to push against our very tired side with several of our players struggling to run but to our credit we stayed strong and defended well to keep them out. Final Score 1 - 4

This was a well earned 3 points today and a performance to be proud of and let's just hope that our players can recover in time for Tuesday's game away to Penygraig

 

 

Subs

Kai Hollingsworth (N.Williams)

 

 

GOALS

CRAIG WILLIAMS x4 (2pen)
 

MAN OF THE MATCH

CRAIG WILLIAMS

 

 

Match 24: Wednesday 18th April 2018

STANLEYTOWN 2 - 0 THE BAGLAN

Lucania Cup Final

 

The 2018 Lucania Cup Final saw us take on The Baglan on Dinas Park in our first final for 15 years. Our route to the final saw us beat Tonypandy Albions 5 - 0, Cwm Rhondda 4 - 0 and AFC Wattstown 2 - 1 while The Baglan beat Tonyrefail Welfare 6 - 2 and Penyrenglyn 1 - 0.

It was a scrappy start to the game with neither side taking control and it was the Baglan who got the first shot on target with a low shot across goal being pushed away by Tom Lewis in the Town goal. The half became an  open game with play flowing from end to end but with no real chances for either side, however as time went on we started to push more and more and started to get chances but with very few testing the Baglan keeper. The best effort of the half came from Alex Thomas when a cross from the right found him on the edge of the area and his powerful shot brought a good save from the Baglan keeper as he tipped the shot over. Half Time 0 - 0

We started the second half on the front foot and took control of the game but despite our possession didn't create any clear cut chances as the Baglan looked to catch us on the counter attack, however solid defensive work from our back four meant they were unable to get any chances at goal. Despite us being on top it was the Baglan who came closest to the opening goal in the 70th minute from a deep free kick however a superb headed goal line clearance from skipper Nathan Williams sent the ball over the bar.

Our pressure finally paid off after 75 minutes when Barrie Jones sent a cross into the box from the left for Craig Williams to get his head to the ball and send it into the far corner. 5 minutes from the end we sealed the win when again Barrie Jones from the middle of the park sent Alex Thomas through and from just inside the area he fired low beyond the keeper into the back of the net. Final Score 2 - 0

It wasn't one of the most entertaining finals you'll ever see however all that matters in the end was the final score and it was a deserved victory to see us become the 2017/18 Lucania Cup Winners

Subs

Daniel Rees (Rossiter)

John Williams (Semmens)

Tyrone Jones (C.Williams)

Jamiel Thirb
Kurt Hughes 

GOALS

CRAIG WILLIAMS
ALEX THOMAS

 

 

Match 23: Thursday 5th April 2018

STANLEYTOWN 4 - 0 TONYREFAIL WELFARE

 

After just a day break since our last game we played host to Tonyrefail Welfare this evening, there were 5 changes to the side with Liam Earland, Carl Semmens, Tyrone Jones, Shay Rees and Alex Thomas coming into the first 11.

We got off to a quick start and had a few early chances and within 5 minutes were 1 - 0 up through a Craig Williams strike. We took our foot of the gas a bit then which allowed the visitors time on the ball but rarely troubling our back line. We were looking dangerous on the counter but the offside line and poor finishing meant we struggled to increase our lead. After half hour we did finally get a second goal when Alex Thomas just beat the visitors keeper to a Shay Rees cross to head in. 5 minutes before the break we got a 3rd with a well worked goal as a Dan Rees sent Thomas down the line and he returned the favour to Shay Rees by crossing for Rees to fire home from close range. Half Time 3 - 0

The second half started in the same scrappy way as the first with us dominating the play but the efforts in the final 3rd letting us down as we failed to test the opposition keeper. A few substitutions to freshen things up increased our control on the game over the tiring visitors and after 70 minutes we got a 4th when Craig Williams low shot from the edge of the area beat the keeper to get his 2nd of the game. We kept control for the reminder of the half but chances were very few and far between and any we did create we again failed to test the visitors keeper. Final Score 4 - 0

3 points earned tonight to move us up the table but yet another quick turnaround as we travel to 3rd place Treorchy on Saturday where a win would see us leap frog our hosts in the table.

 

 

Subs

Nathan Williams (B.Jones)

Lee Bolderson (M.Jones)

Kurtis Stoddart (Thomas)

John Williams (Pugh)
Ricky Rossiter (Earland) 

 

 

GOALS

CRAIG WILLIAMS x2
ALEX THOMAS
SHAY REES
 

MAN OF THE MATCH

SHAY REES

 

 

Match 22: Tuesday 3rd April 2018

AFC WATTSTOWN 3 - 1 STANLEYTOWN

 

Our first midweek game of the season saw us make the short trip to league leaders AFC Wattstown. There were 3 changes from our last game with Garry Edwards, Dan Rees and Dale Pugh returning to the starting 11.

It was the home side who started the better with the movement of their midfield causing us problems, although despite the early pressure they were unable to create any clear cut opportunities. We finally settled after 20 minutes and came into the game for the remainder of the half, however chances for both sides were few and far between and neither keeper being tested. Half Time 0 - 0

The hosts upped the tempo again at the start of the second half and within 10 minutes had the best chance of the game when a simple ball over the top sent their winger through one on one but Tom Lewis in the Town goal saved well with his feet. Soon after the pressure from the league leaders paid off when a cross from the right was met by the oncoming midfielder who connected with his hip to send the ball past the Town keeper. Inside the next 10 minutes the hosts doubled their lead when the ball dropped to the edge of the box and a well struck low shot beat Lewis. We didn't let our heads drop and lifted our game and soon got a goal back when Alex Thomas was brought down just inside the area to earn us a penalty, Craig Williams stepped up and calmly slotted in to grab is 16th goal of the season. This gave us a further lift and we started to play on the front foot, but the home side kept looking to catch us on the break, in the final 15 minutes Wattstown were reduce to 10 men when their keeper picked up two yellows in quick succession. We had chances in the last moments of the game to get an equaliser but failed to test the stand in keeper. The last action of the game saw a break away from the home side which lead to a penalty of their own, which sent Lewis the wrong way to give the league leaders the 3 points. Final Score 3 - 1

A quick turnaround now before our next game as we host Tonyrefail Welfare on Thursday evening, 6pm kick off

 

 

Subs

Alex Thomas (Stoddart)

Shay Rees (Rossiter)

Liam Earland (J.Williams)

Tyrone Jones (D.Rees)
Carl Semmens 

GOAL

CRAIG WILLIAMS (pen)
 

MAN OF THE MATCH

GARRY EDWARDS

 

 

Match 21: Saturday 17th March 2018

STANLEYTOWN 1 - 2 TREORCHY

 

Our final home Saturday game of the season saw a repeat of last week's fixture as Treorchy returned to The Rec. We had 3 changes from last week's victory with John Williams, Carl Semmens and Kurtis Stoddart coming into the starting 11.

Yet again we started slowly with the visitors dictating the tempo of the game but failing to create any clear cut chances. 25 minutes in and Treorchy took the lead when we failed to clear a corner and the ball took a few deflections before ending up looping into the top corner. The remainder of the half saw very few chances for either side with neither keeper really being tested and only a couple of half chances at each end. Half Time 0 - 1

We started the second half much better than the first and drew level inside the first minute when a superb pass from Martin Jones sent Kurtis Stoddart through who calmly finished to get his 3rd goal in as many games. This gave us a much needed boost and we got on top for the next 10 minutes but failed to make our pressure count. Chances for both sides were limited in the second half but did see goal line clearances at both ends, firstly Barrie Jones saw his header inadvertently cleared by his own team mate for the Town before a mix up between defence and keeper allowed the visitors a chance but Ricky Rossiter was on hand to clear the ball to safety. Inside the final 15 minutes the away side re-took the lead when their central midfielder was allowed time and space to run with the ball and got through and his shot headed for the bottom corner hit a divot in the ground which sent the ball over the helpless Town keeper as the ball ended up in the top corner. We looked to push in the final minutes for an equaliser but our attacking presence seemed to be missing and failed to create any real chances on goal. Final Score 1 - 2

An all round poor performance from us today and totally different to last week which seems to be the story of our season so far, good committed performances one week when we look as if we could beat anyone to poor half hearted efforts the week after. We got a week off next Saturday before a busy period sees us play 4 games in a week which starts away to Penygraig Utd on Saturday 31st March.

 

 

Subs

Garry Edwards (Bolderson)

Dan Rees (Edwards)

Liam Earland (Stoddart)

Jamiel Thirb (Rossiter) 

GOAL

KURTIS STODDART
 

MAN OF THE MATCH

MARTIN JONES

 

 

Match 20: Saturday 10th March 2018

STANLEYTOWN 5 - 2 TREORCHY

 

After the bad weather last week it meant we had to wait a further 7 days to put right our poor performance in the defeat last time out and needed to as we hosted 3rd place Treorchy. There were two changes from the team a fortnight ago with Lee Bolderson and recent new father Craig Williams returning to the starting 11.

As in the previous game we started slow again and gave Treorchy to much time on the ball and it was the visitors who had the early chances with two shots from outside the area that were saved by Tom Lewis in the Town goal. Within 10 minutes Treorchy did take the lead when a poor clearance only went as far their midfielder who from 25 yards hit an early dipping shot that caught Lewis out as the ball looped over his head. Shortly after Treorchy had a chance to double their lead from the penalty spot after a late challenge just inside the penalty area, however the strikers effort hit the post and the follow up shot blocked and cleared. This finally woke us up and we started to play and went on the front foot and had a few chances of our own bringing good saves out of the visitors keeper. Our attacking pressure paid off after half hour when Martin Jones cut into the box and from just inside the area placed a left footed shot across the keeper into the far bottom corner. Just before the half Alex Thomas went close for the Town as he turned the centre half and his low shot was well saved by the Treorchy keeper to keep the scores level. Half Time 1 - 1

We started the second half much better than the first and the opening period saw both sides evenly matched with the game flowing from end to end but it was us who got the all important 3rd goal of the game when Alex Thomas broke away and fired into the net to give us a 2 - 1 lead. This gave us a further boost and we took control of the game and wasn't long before we increased our lead when Shay Rees broke down the right and squared the ball inside for Lee Bolderson who drilled the ball home. With 20 minutes remaining a lapse in concentration on our part gifted Treorchy a second goal when from our own free kick we played the ball straight to their player and from that they went one on one and rounded Lewis to make it 3 - 2. Despite this goal we didn't sit back and immediately responded when Martin Jones's header from a deep Carl Semmens free kick hit the bar and the ball fell to Shay Rees who from 7 yards smashed the ball in to make it 4 - 2. With 10 minutes remaining we sealed the 3 points when a superb 30 yard pass from Barrie Jones split open the visitors back line to find Kurtis Stoddart who finished to get his second goal in as many games. Final Score 5 - 2

A very good 3 points earned today and we need to keep the attitude and level performance up we showed in the second half in our remaining fixtures, staring next week when we see a repeat of today's game when we host Treorchy again.

 

 

Subs

Carl Semmens (Edwards)

Kurtis Stoddart (Thomas)

Dale Pugh (C.Williams)

John Williams (Rossiter)

Jamiel Thirb (M.Jones) 

GOALS

MARTIN JONES

ALEX THOMAS

LEE BOLDERSON
SHAY REES

KURTIS STODDART
 

MAN OF THE MATCH

SHAY REES

 

 

Match 19: Saturday 24th February 2018

STANLEYTOWN 3 - 5 CWM RHONDDA

 

For the 4th time this season we faced Cwm Rhondda, previous meetings seeing a win a piece and a draw. For different reasons there were 5 changes from last week's 4-1 victory over Tonyrefail Welfare, Tom Lewis returned in goals with Ricky Rossiter returning to his regular place in the back four, also returning to the defence was Garry Edwards and Dan Rees. Carl Semmens started in midfield and also Kurtis Stoddart made is first start of the season since signing earlier this month.

We started slow and it was as if the majority of the side were still in the changing rooms and the away side took full advantage when a simple ball through the middle wasn't cut out and their striker was through one on one and fired in from 15 yards. 15 minutes into the game and we drew level when Stoddart got on the end of a Tyrone Jones low cross to loop the ball into the corner of the net. For a period we started to get on top and had a few chances to take the lead but a lack of composure in front of goal saw us fail to test the opposition keeper. Shortly before the break the visitors scored twice in quick succession when first a free kick was only partly cleared and as the ball went into the air and the Town keeper lost the flight of it and the Cwm player was allowed a free header to put them in front, then minutes later a cross field ball to the back post found an unmarked player who with time was allowed to pick his spot as he fired across goal. The away side almost increased their lead further however the long range effort was tipped onto the post. Half Time 1 - 3

The second half continued in the same fashion as the first with us looking like a totally different side to how we have been playing over the last few weeks and it wasn't long before the visitors extended their lead with the goal of the game from a 18 yard volley into the top corner. With the game looking over we finally turned up in the final 15 minutes and started to play and get on top which saw us claw two goals backs through Shay Rees and Garry Edwards, however as we pushed in the final minutes for an equaliser Cwm caught us on the break and they scored the 8th goal of the game to seal the 3 points. Final Score 3 - 5

Although the score suggests an entertaining game this was not one if you were watching from the side, however credit to Cwm Rhondda as they wanted it more and a big improvement is needed from us in attitude in the next game if we expect to get anything from it when we make the short trip to AFC Wattstown

 

 

Subs

Alex Thomas (T.Jones)

John Williams (Rossiter) 

GOALS

KURTIS STODDART
SHAY REES
GARRY EDWARDS

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

SHAY REES

 

 

Match 18: Saturday 17th February 2018

TONYREFAIL WELFARE 1 - 4 STANLEYTOWN

 

Subs

Kurtis Stoddart
Dan Rees
Liam Earland
Carl Semmens 

GOALS

CRAIG WILLIAMS x2
SHAY REES x2
 

MAN OF THE MATCH

SHAY REES

 

 

Match 17: Saturday 3rd February 2018

STANLEYTOWN 2 - 1 AFC WATTSTOWN

Lucania Cup Semi Final

 

We were in cup action this week as we hosted AFC Wattstown in the semi final of the Lucania Cup, both league meetings this season have ended 3 - 2 so a close game was expected. There were 3 changes for us from the last game with Ricky Rossiter, Barrie Jones and Alex Thomas all returning to the starting 11.

We started the better and took the game to the visitors early on but despite the pressure we were unable to create any clear cut chances. As the half went on Wattstown came into the game and they went closest to opening the scoring when from a corner a glancing header to the back post was cleared off the line by Shay Rees then the follow up shot from just inside the area was saved by Tom Lewis in the Town goal and as the ball dropped back out Nathan Williams was on hand to clear the lose ball just before the oncoming forward. The remainder of the half was an open game with play going from end to end but with neither side troubling the opposition keeper. Half Time 0 - 0

In contrast to the opening of the first half it was Wattstown who started the second half on the front foot with us taking time to get into the game but again as the half went on play started to open up with neither side holding back. Just after the hour mark the deadlock was broken when a long cross field ball found Alex Thomas who from out wide crossed into the box and found Craig Williams whose header from 8 yards found the back of the net. 10 minutes later we doubled our lead when Shay Rees got in behind the visitors full back only to be brought down by the keeper and we were awarded a penalty, up stepped Craig Williams to calmly slot the ball in to get his and The Towns second of the game. With 15 minutes remaining Wattstown got a goal back when a through ball sent their striker through one on one and his shot fired passed Lewis to set up a tense end to this cup tie. As expected the final 10 minutes saw the visitors throw everything at us to get their second goal but we held firm and limited them to only a couple of half chances and as they pushed it created more space for us and Craig Williams had the best of the chances but his effort was well saved by the Wattstown keeper. The last action of the game saw a corner for the away side and with all their players in the box we cleared and Barrie Jones carried the ball three quarters of the pitch but just before he could get his shot away into an empty net the final whistle went. Final Score 2 - 1

A fantastic all round performance from everyone got the result we deserved and booked our place in the cup final on April 18th against The Baglan. This type of performance is what we need for our remaining 9 league games as we look to finish the season on a high, starting next week as we travel to Treorchy

 

 

Subs

Tyrone Jones

Matthew Davies

John Williams 

Jamiel Thirb

GOALS

CRAIG WILLIAMS x2 (1 pen)

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

CRAIG WILLIAMS

 

 

Match 16: Saturday 20th January 2018

PENYGRAIG UTD 3 - 2 STANLEYTOWN

 

This week we played last year's Division One champions Penygraig Utd, which was fixtured to be at their ground but due to the weather saw a late change and the game switched to our field. There were two changes to our side from last week's victory with Liam Earland and Matthew Davies starting in place of the missing Barrie Jones and Tyrone Jones.

We started well and attacked from the first whistle and should have been a few goals in front at the break. A long range free kick from Craig Williams brought a good save down low by the Penygraig keeper, shortly after Martin Jones saw his header at the back post go just wide from a Dan Rees in-swinging free kick. We did finally find the back of the net 15 minutes in when Lee Bolderson flicked the ball through for Shay Rees to go one on one who slotted the ball under the keeper. Our chances continued to come but finishing was letting us down, Craig Williams first hit the bar from inside the area before Shay Rees's volley at the back post went over, Nathan Williams was next to go close but saw his header go wide. 10 minutes before the break we were made to pay for our missed chances when a poor 5 minute spell saw us concede two goals, both of which were own goals. The first came from a corner when Martin Jones attempted headed clearance crept just inside his own post, then minutes later a deflected shot from 12 yards was initially saved by Tom Lewis in the Town goal but he could only push it out onto his own knee which then knocked the ball over his own line. Half Time 2 - 1

Despite the half time team talk we started the second half as we ended the first and gave Penygraig early chances to extend their lead with several one on ones, two of which were saved but Lewis but was unable to stop the third as their striker broke through the middle and fired the ball under him to put Penygraig 3 - 1 up. With 20 minutes to go we started to play as we did in the first 20 and stepped up a gear and went on the front foot but not creating as many clear cut chances in front of goal as we did in the first half, in the 78th minute we did get a goal back when good work by Shay Rees down the right saw him break into the box and from the by line drill the ball across goal and Bolderson was on hand to tap the ball in from 2 yards out. We continued to push in the final 1 10 minutes looking for an equaliser and if it wasn't for a top draw save from the Penygraig keeper the game would have ended all square but his save down low from a Martin Jones powerful strike kept them in front. As we pushed in the last moments of the game Penygraig caught us on the break and a chance to seal victory but the shot to the near post was tipped wide by Lewis. Final Score 3 - 2

Apart from the first 20 minutes this week we didn't have the same level of energy and commitment as we did last week and we were made to pay which shows that in this league we need to have the same levels of commitment week in week out if we are to turn these narrow defeats into victories

 

 

Subs

Ricky Rossiter (D.Rees)

Craig Barnes (Semmens)

John Williams (Edwards)

Jamiel Thirb (M.Davies)

GOALS

SHAY REES

LEE BOLDERSON

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

SHAY REES

 

 

Match 15: Saturday 13th January 2018

STANLEYTOWN 2 - 1 THE BAGLAN

 

A repeat of last week's fixture saw us host The Baglan looking for a much improved performance after the 4 - 3 defeat 7 days ago. There were 4 changes to the side with Garry Edwards and Dan Rees returning to the back four, Shay Rees to the wing and Craig Williams up front.

The early stages saw neither side take control and was a scrappy game going end to end but both sides unable to get any meaningful shots on target. Midway through the half we did open the scoring when Lee Bolderson pressed their back line to win the ball back and then played it inside to Martin Jones who from the edge of the box side footed the ball into the bottom corner just out of the reach of the visitors’ keeper. 10 minutes before the break The Baglan drew level when their winger broke down the left, cut inside and slotted the ball into the far corner to take the sides in all square at half time.

We started slow in the second half and invited pressure onto ourselves but the visitors unable to create any clear cut chances, their closest effort coming from an in-swinging corner that almost went straight in but was tipped over by the Town keeper. The game continued to be a tight affair mainly being played out in the middle of the park again with neither side really testing the opposition keeper; our best chance coming from a Craig Williams header at the back post. As the game was coming to the final minutes it was hard to see where a goal for either side would come from but it was The Baglan who came close to taking all 3 points when they caught us high up the pitch and broke through the middle but Liam Earland tracked their winger well and put enough pressure on him to force him to shoot wide. With the game heading for a draw we had a corner in the 89th minute which was surely going to be our last chance to take all 3 points, and through a bit of luck we did when Lee Bolderson drove the ball into the box and found Martin Jones again who from inside the 6 yard box fired the ball into the back of the net to give us a much needed win. Final Score 2 - 1

This was not one of the most entertaining games you'll ever see but a big 3 points for us against a well organised and hard working team. We now need to build on this and look for another win next week as we travel to last year's Division One champions Penygraig United

 

 

Subs

Matthew Davies (T.Jones)

Liam Earland (Edwards)

John Williams (C.Williams)

Jamiel Thirb

Matthew Broad

GOALS

MARTIN JONES x2

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

SHAY REES

 

 

Match 14: Saturday 6th January 2018

THE BAGLAN 4 - 3 STANLEYTOWN

 

This week we travelled to The Baglan who sat 3 points above us before kick, there were 6 changes to side from last week's defeat with returns to the starting 11 for Jamiel Thirb, Carl Semmens, John Williams, Liam Earland, Matthew Davies and Tyrone Jones.

With the conditions not the best it was the home side who adapted the quickest and took the game to us from the off. Two similar chances fell to the hosts early on when crosses into the box found their striker unmarked but his effort was saved by Tom Lewis in the Town goal. Our best chance of the half fell to Martin Jones when he got his head onto a deep free kick into the box, only to see his effort go just over the bar. We then had a bad 5 minute spell during the final 10 minutes of the half when we conceded two goals, the first was an in-swinging corner into the box which we failed to clear and the ball dropped to the far post with their player on hand to fire in from 6 yards. Shortly after their striker broke through the middle and got to the ball before the on rushing Lewis to lift the ball into the net. It almost got worse when minutes later their winger broke through in similar fashion but this time Lewis managed to get his fingertip to the ball and divert it wide. Half Time 2 - 0

Three changes at half time saw the introduction of Shay Rees, Alex Thomas and Craig Williams as we looked to get back into the game however it was the home side who got the 3rd goal of the game within the first few minutes of the restart when a low cross to the far post found their winger unmarked who calmly slotted the ball back across the goal. The game became a scrappy affair from this point with neither side taking control and chances becoming few and far between. It was The Baglan who got the next goal after 70 minutes when their striker went through one on one and rounded Lewis to slot the ball into the empty net. As the game approached the final 10 minutes seemingly done and dusted we finally woke up and started playing and looked a threat going forward brining one fantastic save from the hosts keeper. Shortly after we did get a goal when the ball found it's was to an unmarked Matthew Davies at the back post who calmly slotted the ball into the far corner. Craig Williams then got the Towns second goal when he found himself in space inside the box, turned and fired into the back of the net. The final minutes saw us to continue to push and saw a couple of penalty appeals turned away before Davies got his second goal of the game with 1 minute left on the clock. We finally ran out of time and unable to get the 4th goal, final score 4 - 3

Despite the late fight back we just weren't good enough for the first 80 minutes and didn't deserve anything from the game but some heart can be taken from those final minutes. We don't have to wait long to put this result right as next week we welcome The Baglan to our place

 

 

Subs

Shay Rees (Bolderson)

Craig Williams (J.Williams)

Alex Thomas (Thirb)

Dan Rees (Earland)

GOALS

MATTHEW DAVIES x2

CRAIG WILLIAMS

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

NATHAN WILLIAMS

 

 

Match 13: Saturday 30th December 2017

PENYRENGLYN 2 - 0 STANLEYTOWN

 

Our final game of 2017 saw us travel to second place Penyrenglyn who had already beaten us twice earlier in the season in closely fought games. With almost a full squad to choose from there were 3 changes from the last game with Lee Bolderson and Ricky Rossiter starting and Shay Rees returning from suspension.

From the start neither side held back which made for an open game with plenty of chances at either end. Alex Thomas was first to go through for the Town when he got onto a long ball over the top but his shot over the on rushing keeper went wide. The home side were next to go close when a ball from midfield sent the striker through one on one but the shot was well saved by Tom Lewis in the Town goal. Shortly after the Penyrenglyn keeper was called into action when he made a good save from a Craig Williams shot from just inside the area. A free kick deep into the Town penalty area saw the next chance when it found a Penyrenglyn player unmarked 6 yards out however his volley went just over the bar. Shay Rees was next to go close for the Town when his run from wide into the box saw him pass several players but his shot at the end narrowly went over. The final chance of the half fell to the hosts when they worked the ball down the right and played into the middle to find their player on the edge of the box whose well struck shot was tipped over by Lewis. Half Time 0 - 0

Penyrenglyn got the breakthrough early in the second half when the ball was played inside and despite the efforts of the Town defence the ball fell kindly to the home player who broke through into the area and from 15 yards found the top corner. This seemed to take the sting out of the game a bit with neither side created any clear cut chances for a long spell. Craig Williams did have a chance for the Town when he got his head onto a cross but was unable to find the target, Martin Jones also had his effort from outside the area deflected wide. As we piled on the pressure in the final minutes looking for the equaliser we got caught on the break which saw their winger in space inside the area who was one on one with Lewis and squared the ball to their striker who from 10 yards rolled the ball into the empty net. Final Score 2 - 0

This was another tough competitive game on a heavy pitch and the first goal was always going to be crucial which unfortunately didn't fall our way. We must move on quickly and look to get back to winning ways and with the squad we have no reason why we can't start to climb the league table if we all put in the effort, we start 2018 with another away trip as we travel to The Baglan next week

 

 

Subs

Carl Semmens (Rossiter)

Tyrone Jones (D.Rees)

Matthew Davies (Edwards)

Jamiel Thirb

Liam Earland

GOAL

 

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

TOM LEWIS

 

 

Match 12: Saturday 16th December 2017

STANLEYTOWN 1 - 2 CWM RHONDDA

 

This week saw a repeat of the fixture from a fortnight ago as we hosted Cwm Rhondda again but this time in the league. There was just the one change from the cup victory with Liam Earland replacing the missing Kurt Hughes.

Despite an almost unchanged team on paper we were a totally different side on the field from the last game and never got going and credit to Cwm Rhondda who took the game to us from the first whistle. Despite the early pressure from the visitors their chances were limited but did take the lead after 20 minutes when a simple ball through the middle run through to their striker who got there just before the Town keeper and put the ball into the net. Although we were not at our best we did still manage to create several chances but unable to test the Cwm keeper. Not long before the break we did have the ball in the net after the visitors keeper kicked the ball at the back of Martin Jones and the ball fell to Matthew Davies who rolled it into the net, however the referee ruled it out and awarded the away side a free kick. Half Time 0 - 1

We didn't start the second half much better than the first despite some strong words at half time and allowed Cwm Rhondda to dictate play and 25 minutes in they doubled their lead when a low cross into the box was met by the oncoming midfielder who from 10 yards powered the ball into the back of the. This, along with a few substitutions seemed to kick us into gear and we did start to play and we finally started to come into the game but our final ball and finishing was letting us down. The away side came close to extending their lead in the final 10 minutes when a shot from just inside the area was tipped onto the post. Shortly after we did get a goal back when a defence splitting pass by Tyrone Jones sent Alex Thomas racing through one on one and he calmly slotted the ball passed the on rushing keeper to set up a tense final 5 minutes. During the final minutes we pushed for the equaliser and had a series of corners and blocked shots and also a penalty appeal turned down for handball. Final Score 1 - 2

Although a disappointing loss it wasn't anything we didn't deserve and need to pick ourselves up and get the right attitude back in time for our next game away to Penyrenglyn in our last game of 2017

 

 

Subs

Ricky Rossiter (Edwards)

Lee Bolderson (Earland)

Tyrone Jones (B.Jones)

Thomas Harries (Thirb)

John Williams (Rees)

GOAL

ALEX THOMAS

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

MATTHEW DAVIES

 

 

Match 11: Saturday 2nd December 2017

STANLEYTOWN 4 - 0 CWM RHONDDA

Lucania Cup Quarter Final

 

A break from league action this week as we hosted Cwm Rhondda in the quarter final of the Lucania Cup. For various reasons the squad was stretched for this game and there were 4 changes from last weeks win which saw returns to the side for Craig Williams, Barrie Jones and Kurt Hughes and a first club start for Jamiel Thirb.

We started the game on the front foot and took the game to the visitors early on and looked a threat on the break with some decent crosses testing the Cwm defence. Despite our early pressure it was the away team who came closest to opening the scoring when a through ball caught our backline square and allowed their striker to go through one on one but thankfully for us he failed to hit the target. Soon after we did break the deadlock when Alex Thomas's pass sent Matthew Davies through one on one with the Cwm keeper and despite him getting a touch on the finish the ball rolled over the line to put us one up. 8 minutes before half time we doubled our lead when a long ball into the box was only partly cleared and fell to the feet of Kurt Hughes who from an angle powered the ball into the net to give us a 2 - 0 lead at the break.

We struggled to get going in the second half and allowed Cwm a lot of possession early on as we sat back waiting for them to score, however despite the pressure they were unable to create any clear cut chances. 20 minutes into the half Ceri Pike replaced Hughes and shortly after he combined with Thomas at a short corner whose low cross to the back post was handled by the Cwm player on the line which saw him see red and a penalty awarded to us, Craig Williams stepped up to fire home to give us a 3 - 0 lead. This lifted us and we started to get back on top and had a few more chances to increase the lead only to be denied by some good saves from the visitors keeper. In the final 10 minutes we were awarded our second penalty when Barrie Jones was brought down inside the box, Craig Williams stepped up again and slotted the ball in the corner to get his 10th goal of the season and seal our place in the semi final. Final Score 4 - 0

A very good all round performance topped off with a clean sheet in what was a well deserved victory in a tough game against a good Cwm side. Back to league action next week when we travel to Tonyrefail Welfare where we look to continue our recent run of good form and work our way up the table.

 

 

Subs

Ceri Pike (Hughes)

Jake Jones (Thomas)

Matthew Broad (Davies)

GOALS

MATTHEW DAVIES

KURT HUGHES

CRAIG WILLIAMS x2 (2 pen)

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

GARRY EDWARDS

 

 

Match 10: Saturday 25th November 2017

STANLEYTOWN 3 - 2 THE BAGLAN

 

This week we hosted The Baglan who sat 3 points above us in the table as we looked to build on last week's victory over the league leaders. There were 3 changes to the side with a Town debut for Johnny Gardner, the return of Carl Semmens and a start for last week's match winner Matthew Davies.

The Baglan started this game the brightest  and attacked us from the first whistle and we seemed to struggle to get into the game in the early stages which didn't make for an entertaining game. The Baglan came the closest to opening the scoring when a shot from the edge of the area hit the post, we then done the same when Alex Thomas's shot from outside the area hit the bottom of the far post. 10 minutes before the break the visitors were awarded a penalty, however Tom Lewis saved well to his left to keep the score at 0 - 0, shortly after we took the lead when Lee Bolderson was first to react to the Baglan's keeper initial save to roll the ball into the far corner. Half Time 1 - 0

The second half started similar to the first with The Baglan attacking from the off and within 10 minutes they got their equaliser when the striker broke through to go one on one and slotted the ball into the far corner. This woke us up a bit and we started to play and attack in a more meaningful manner but it was a piece of individual skill that saw us re-take the lead with what could be a contender for goal of the season when Martin Jones's is strike from just inside the away sides half sent the ball over the keepers head. Just after the 70th minute The Baglan equalised for a second time when they were awarded their second penalty of the game which this time was powered into the back of the net. After this we could have easily slipped into the pattern of games earlier in the season and gone on to lose this game but the change in attitude over the last few weeks saw us attack again and look for a winner and with 10 minutes left we got our 3rd goal when substitute Thomas Harries got on the end of Alex Thomas's low cross to fire home at the back post to put us in front for the 3rd time in the game. The Baglan pushed late on to get an equaliser but we defended well in the closing stages to see the game out and pick up a big 3 points. Final Score 3 - 2

We weren't at our best today and didn't play at the same level of the last few matches but dug deep to earn the win in a game we would have lost a few weeks ago. Next week we take a break from league action as we host Cwm Rhondda in the quarter final of the Lucania Cup

 

 

Subs

Liam Earland (Davies)

Thomas Harries (Gardner)

Kurt Hughes (Semmens)

Jamiel Thirb (Edwards)

John Williams (Rees)

GOALS

LEE BOLDERSON

MARTIN JONES

THOMAS HARRIES

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

MARTIN JONES

 

 

Match 9: Saturday 18th November 2017

STANLEYTOWN 3 - 2 AFC WATTSTOWN

 

Back in action this week looking to build on the 5 - 0 cup win a fortnight ago when we played host to the current unbeaten league leaders AFC Wattstown who narrowly beat us 3 - 2 in the opening game of the season. There were returns to the side for Tom Lewis and Garry Edwards in place of the missing John Williams and Kurt Hughes.

We started in a positive manner and took the game to the visitors and were on top for the opening 15 minutes but unable to capitalise due to several good saves from the Wattstown keeper. We then allowed the visitors to come into the game slightly giving them space to play football but we stood firm and restricted them to only a couple of half chances. Just before the half hour mark we finally took a deserved lead when a Lee Bolderson corner was met by the head of Craig Williams which hit the underside of the crossbar but Shay Rees was on hand to ensure the ball found the back of the net to get his 3rd goal in two games. Shortly after Rees was involved again but unfortunately for the wrong reasons when his reaction to being fouled saw him see red and reduce us to 10 men. This gave Wattstown a lift and they pushed in the final minutes of the half but again we were rarely troubled and went into the break 1 - 0 up.

Coming out for the second half we knew that the league leaders would come at us but also knew that there were more goals there for us. It didn't take long for us to get the second when 5 minutes in Alex Thomas's shot from outside the area found the far corner. This settled us down and we were on top and if it wasn't for the visitor’s keeper again we could have easily been 3 or 4 up. Tired legs started to kick in and this allowed Wattstown more time on the ball and pushed us back but they were unable to create any clear cut chances and just after the 70th minute Martin Jones's defence splitting pass put substitute Matthew Davies through to go one on one with the keeper and he calmly rounded him and slot the ball into the net to give us a 3rd goal and the 3 points. However what should have been a comfortable win almost turned into a disastrous draw when in the final 10 minutes we gifted the visitors’ two goals to make it a nervy end to the game for us but thankfully we held out to gain our 2nd league win of the season. Final Score 3 - 2

A fully deserved 3 points although we did make hard work of it towards the end but playing like we did for the majority of this game then the results will come and we should see ourselves start to move up the table. Next week we welcome The Baglan to Tylorstown Rec who are currently two places and 3 points above us in the table

 

 

Subs

Matthew Davies (Rossiter)

Ceri Pike

Jake Jones

Christopher Owens

Gareth Hurton

GOALS

SHAY REES

ALEX THOMAS

MATTHEW DAVIES

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

MARTIN JONES

 

 

Match 8: Saturday 4th November 2017

TONYPANDY ALBION 0 - 5 STANLEYTOWN

Lucania Cup Round 1

 

Subs

Thomas Harries

Jamiel Thirb

Matthew Davies

Garry Edwards

Michael Williams

GOALS

SHAY REES x2

CRAIG WILLIAMS x2

KURT HUGHES

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

SHAY REES

 

 

Match 7: Saturday 28th October 2017

STANLEYTOWN 2 - 3 PENYRENGLYN

 

After the weather last week and our game being postponed we were back at home this week against Penyrenglyn again who narrowly beat us 2 - 1 a fortnight ago. Ryan Jones returning from suspension was our only change to the starting 11.

Both sides started in an attacking manner which made for an open game and plenty of chances. Alex Thomas went close for The Town but was unable to keep his shot down and the visitors’ best chance came with a one on one but the shot was blazed over the bar. 8 minutes before the break we took the lead when a defence splitting pass by Ricky Rossiter put Shay Rees through down the right and his low cross was converted by Alex Thomas. Just before half time Thomas was denied his 2nd of the game when his close range effort was brilliantly saved by the visitors’ keeper. HT 1 - 0

We came out for the second half knowing we were going to be in for a tough 45 minutes but we didn't sit back and continued to push and look for that second goal. However it was Penyrenglyn who got the next goal 15 minutes into the half when a mistake by the Town keeper let a softly hit free kick under his body and into the net. This gave the visitors a lift and they went on the front foot for the next 5 minutes and had two good chances to take the lead, firstly a strong left footed drive across the goal from just inside the area and then shortly after a low shot from 10 yards but both were well saved by the Town keeper. After this shaky spell we got back into the game and wasn't long before we regained the lead when a short free kick by Lee Bolderson rolled the ball into the path of Rossiter who from 20 yards out found the top corner. We then had two chances to extend our lead when first Craig Williams's shot from 8 yards went just over the bar and then Martin Jones saw his free kick well saved by the Penyrenglyn keeper. Tired legs and a few injures forced us into several substitutions for the final 15 minutes which saw us lose our shape slightly and the visitors capitalised on this and with 10 minutes remaining they got the equaliser when they broke into the box and a scruffy shot across the goal rolled into the far corner. This put them back on the front foot and gave them a lift and with 5 minutes left they got the winner when the broke through the middle and the ball fell kindly to their striker who cut inside and fired the ball into the top of the net. We looked to push in the final minutes but with energy levels running on empty we were unable to create any further chances. Final Score 2 - 3

Another disappointing result especially after leading twice but again it was our own downfall by gifting goals and failing to convert our chances. The much needed win doesn't seem that far away and got to hope it comes next week in the first round of the cup when we travel to Tonypandy Albion.

 

 

Subs

Ricky Rossiter (R.Jones)

Dan Rees (T.Jones)

Matthew Davies (C.Williams)

Kurt Hughes (Edwards)

John Williams (M.Jones)

GOALS

ALEX THOMAS

RICKY ROSSITER

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

SHAY REES

 

 

Match 6: Saturday 14th October 2017

STANLEYTOWN 1 - 2 PENYRENGLYN

 

After a fortnight off following our last game we were back at home against Penyrenglyn looking to build on the strong 2^nd half performance against Cwm Rhondda. There were two changes to personnel with Craig Williams and Martin Jones returning to the starting line up in place of Callum Williams and the suspended Ryan Jones

 

The opening stages of the game both sides were evenly matched with no one taking control and chances very few and far between with neither keeper being called into action. The visitors came the closest with a header from a corner going wide. The Town’s main threat was coming down the wing but the final ball into the box was lacking so unable to put any real pressure on the visitors back line. The first goal of the game came 10 minutes before the break when a poor kick by Tom Lewis fell straight to the Penyrenglyn midfielder who from 40 yards hit a well struck shot back over the out placed keeper and into the net. On the stoke of half time we found ourselves two down when a low driven free kick from the edge of the box was diverted into his own net by Nathan Williams.

 

We came out for the 2^nd half looking to get back into the game but again our play in the final third was letting us down with us unable to create any clear cut chances. We did finally mange to get a goal in the 70^th minute when Martin Jones turned and struck a low powerful left footed strike from 25 yards to beat the keeper. We continued to push in the final stages looking for the equaliser but it wasn’t until the last few minutes that we had our chance when Craig Williams’s shot went just wide of the far post. Final Score 1 - 2

For next weeks match away to The Baglan we need to lift our game from today and improved performances needed all round and that win will come

 

Player Ratings

Tom Lewis 5

Didn’t have to make many saves.  Didn’t have much luck with either goal especially the second after a shot that was going at least 10 yards wide was deflected into the bottom corner.

 

Alex Thomas 5

Stanleytown’s goal every 7 games front-man was moved to right back, lots of pace and forward runs.    

 

Ricky Rossiter 5

Communicates well and tackles even harder than Nathan.  It’s rumoured that he’s lying about his age and his dodgy knees have added more fuel to the flames.

 

Nathan Williams 5

Had more possession today than ever before and looked confident on the ball, started most of the second half attacks, also took his goal well.

 

Garry Edwards 6

Always wanted the ball, and looked one of Stanleytown’s biggest threats when he got it.  Tired towards the end but not surprised with the amount of forward runs he made.

 

Tyrone Jones 6

Couple of half chances from outside of the box that didn’t quite fall kindly enough for him.  So calm on the ball and was spotted all over the pitch trying to receive it – great to see.

 

Barrie Jones 6

Tonnes of energy and says he’ll be fitter soon now he’s back training. Needs to be nicer to his team mates.

 

Lee Bolderson 5

Quiet game, went missing for large parts and was found playing sweeper in the second half.  Only the manager knows if he was asked to play there or not.

 

Shay Rees 6

Stanleytown’s main threat.  Only when he receives the ball do the rest of the team come to life.  Spent too much of the second half defending but can’t fault him for that.

 

Martin Jones 6

Had a tough game up against a strong defender. Very good finish to get us back into the game.

 

Craig Williams 5

Starting to see a partnership forming with Martin.  Won more than his fair share of headers and dropped deep to help the midfield and start attacks.

 

Dan Rees 5

Impressed when he came on, put some great crosses in to the two front men.

 

Kurt Hughes 5

Protected the defence well when he came on.  Broke up play and allowed Stanleytown to keep the pressure on in the last 30 minutes.

 

Gareth Hurton

If he keeps this level of commitment up the manager will have no choice but to give him his chance.

 

Christopher Owens

Don’t know if he’ll be there one week to the next and needs to go training

 

 

Subs

Dan Rees (T.Jones)

Kurt Hughes (Rossiter)

Gareth Hurton

Christopher Owens

GOAL

MARTIN JONES

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

SHAY REES

 

 

Match 5: Saturday 23rd September 2017

CWM RHONDDA 2 - 2 STANLEYTOWN

 

We were back in league action this week away to Cwm Rhondda looking to put the dissapointment of the last two games behind us. There were returns to the side for Tom Lewis, Lee Bolderson and Barrie Jones.

The first half was limited in chances for both sides; Tyrone Jones came close with a free kick for the Town with the Cwm keeper tipping over the bar. The home side’s best chance came from a break down the left but was saved well by Lewis at the near post. Just before the break we were reduced to 10 men when Ryan Jones was shown a second yellow for a challenge on the edge of the area. Half Time 0 - 0

We started the second half on the back foot and just seemed as if we were waiting for the home side to score, which they did eventually when Garry Edwards diverted a low cross into his own net. A lack of concentration then saw the host take a two goal lead within 15 minutes of the restart when a cross from the right to the far post found their striker unmarked and time to drive a low shot into the far corner. With the game seemingly slipping away from us a couple of substitutions then changed the game in our favour. Both Martin Jones and Craig Williams combined straight away for Jones to cross and for Williams to head in to halve the deficit. Shortly after we had a chance to draw level after a handball in the box, unfortunately Williams penalty went wide. With 15 minutes remaining we got a leveller when again Jones and Williams combined for Williams to get his and the Towns second of the game. We were unlucky in the end not to add a further goal and if it wasn't for the fantastic save by the Cwm keeper we would have come away with 3 points. Final Score 2 - 2

A very hard fought second half performance coming from 2 - 0 down with 10 men and probably should have gone on to take all 3 points should give us something to build on for next week at home to The Baglan

 

 

Subs

Craig Williams (C.Williams)

Martin Jones (Rossiter)

John Williams (T.Jones)

Dan Rees

GOALS

CRAIG WILLIAMS x2

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

LEE BOLDERSON

 

 

Match 4: Saturday 16th September 2017

STANLEYTOWN 0 - 5 CWMAFAN FC

South Wales Senior Cup Round 1

 

We had a break from league action this week to welcome Port Talbot league champions in the South Wales Senior Cup first round. There were several changes from last week's game with returns to the side for Tyrone Jones and Alex Thomas and first starts of the season for Callum Williams and Shay Rees

The opening 15 minutes was a tight game with both sides having chances however after this we lost our way and a few mistakes and some very good play from the visitors we found ourselves 0 - 3 at the break.

Some strong words at half time saw us start the second half in better fashion and started to make a game of it but was always going to be an uphill battle. Our lack of numbers started to show after 70 minutes when the away side upped the tempo and started breaking through more and more and we were fortunate that they only added a further two goals. Final Score 0 - 5

Back to league action next week when we travel to Cwm Rhondda looking to get our season back on track after two disappointing weeks

 

 

Subs

Ceri Pike (Edwards)

Tom Lewis (Rossiter)

 

 

Match 3: Saturday 9th September 2017

STANLEYTOWN 0 - 4 TONYPANDY ALBION

 

We returned to action this week after the international break to host early league leaders Tonypandy Albion looking to build on our win the previous week, however with a depleted squad this was always going to be a tough challenge. There were first starts of the season for Dan Rees & Martin Jones and a return to the side for Ryan Jones.

 

The first half was an evenly contested affair with both sides having chances to take the lead however both keepers were rarely troubled. Craig Williams went close on a couple of occasions for the Town and the visitors best chance coming from a cross that was headed just wide of the post. Half Time 0 – 0

 

The second half started as the first finished with the likelihood that the first goal of the game was going to be key. It was the visitors who got the important first goal when 15 minutes into the 2^nd half they were awarded a penalty after scramble in the box lead to their striker being tripped, who then converted the penalty to give them the lead. After this we lost our shape and started chasing the game moving away from the football we had been playing up until the goal. In the 70^th minute Tonypandy doubled their lead when a mistake on the half way line saw the ball run through for their winger who went one on one with Tom Lewis in the Town goal and rounded him to slot the ball into the net. With us pushing forward to try and get back in the game we started leaving space in the back and Pandy were looking to catch us on the counter attack and then in the final 10 minutes saw them score another 2 goals with well struck shots from the edge of the area. Final Score 0 - 4  

 

A disappointed result in the end and a score line that probably flattered the league leaders but we got to put this behind us now and move onto the next game, which is next week in the South Wales Senior Cup at home to the Port Talbot League 16/17 champions Cwmafan FC

 

 

Player Ratings

Tom Lewis 5

Didn't really have much to do, conceded a pen and a 1on1 which couldn't really do much about. Needs to practice his kicking and speak more

 

Ricky Rossiter 5

First half was very good communication but second half lost focus and got beat to many times

 

Nathan Williams 5

Constructed the back very well with his very little talking but it worked in the first half. Second half lost all focus but need to get us back on track as the captain 

 

Garry Edwards 6

Little shaky in the first 10 as he sobered up from his 1 hour sleep that night. After that felt like he was very good and coped with a very strong and physical striker

 

John Williams 3

Think it's fair to say his mind was on his birthday the next day, lets just leave it there. Need get to that ball before the bounce and play easier. 

 

Martin Jones 6

One of his better games in the shirt so far but still know there's more to come when he finds his feet. Needs to work on his finishing. 

 

Lee Bolderson 5

Was one angry man when it came to the end of the game which is good to see as it shows passion. Good play in the first half to get frog in on goal. Need to get back to full fitness and get back on the ball. 

 

Liam Eason 5

Not one of his best games. Overplayed at times through frustration. Few nice runs towards the end but didn't quite make anything happen. Then there was that Dive!!!! 

 

Ryan Jones 6

As always very good on the ball but need to be heard more. Played some nice football with the three in the middle but not enough from all 3. 

 

Dan Rees 6

Some good runs and 1-2's down the wing but last ball was lacking a little.

Need to speak up more. 

 

Craig Williams 5

Got into the right places on times just lacked the final finish which is always needed in a game which you won't get many opportunities. Didn't have much support up top which is going to be needed in future games for sure. 

 

Subs

Callum Williams 4

Didn't do enough when he come on but always hard when trailing. Needed better service off the midfield.

 

Michael Williams 4

When you come on you need to make your mark but was always going to be hard to come on and do something. But need to put a shift in when you come on, not walk. 

 

 

Subs

Callum Williams (N.Williams)

Michael Williams (Rossiter)

 

 

GOALS

 

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

LIAM EASON

 

 

Match 2: Saturday 26th August 2017

STANLEYTOWN 7 - 0 TONYREFAIL WELFARE

 

Our first home game of the season saw us welcome Tonyrefail Welfare with a much needed improvement on last week's performance required. Liam Eason returned to the side after his suspension and John Williams starting in the back four were the two changes from last week's defeat.

 

We started the game with urgency and took the game to the visitors in the early stages with Eason combining well with Nathan Williams down the right hand side on a number of occasions to cut through their defence and create chances for the front pairing of Barrie Jones and Craig Williams. It only seemed a matter of time before the opening goal would come and credit to the Ton keeper pulling off several saves to keep the score level. We did finally break the deadlock when Craig Williams opened the scoring after some good football in the build up, this was quickly followed by a second when Alex Thomas cut in from the left to open his account for the season. With our tails up and playing some good football we kept the tempo high for the remainder of the half and this was rewarded when both Alex and Craig got their second goals of the game to take us into half time 4 - 0 up.

 

We came out for the second half with the same attitude looking to build on the first half score line and it wasn't long before we got the 5th when Craig Williams completed his hat-trick with a fine headed goal. A few substitutions saw a senior debut for Joe Bartlett, and wasn't long before he was involved going on a dangerous run with his first touch and coming close to increasing the lead. This was the story of the second half for us, having plenty of chances but not being able to convert. We did get a 6th with 15 minutes to go when substitute Martin Jones got on the end of a low cross to tap in from 6 yards out. Barrie Jones completed the scoring with 5 minutes left adding to his goal from last week. Final Score 7 - 0

 

A much improved performance and attitude from last week contributed to this well deserved 3 points and we must build on this for our next game in a fortnight against early league Tonypandy Albion  

 

Player Ratings

Tom Lewis 8

- Needs to talk more to the players.

+ Brilliant save to keep a clean sheet.

 

Ricky Rossiter 7

- Needs to believe in himself and get his head up if he makes a mistake.

+ Very good player on the ball and in the air.

 

John Williams 8.5

- Bit too quiet on the field.

+ Mr reliable gives everything to the team.

 

Garry Edwards 8

- Needs to take the game seriously and the club will have a great player.

+ Brings ball out with great ease and outstanding in the air.

 

Nathan Williams 8

- Needs to put his boot trough the ball more.

+ Leads by example on and off field could not ask for a better skipper. Outstanding in the air and great in the 50/50 tackle.

 

Alex Thomas 8

- Another one who's too quiet and needs to get into the game more.

+ Bags of pace who will score goals for you.

 

Nathan Williams 8.5

- Same as most too quiet and needs to smile more.

+ As a manager you need players who can play in different positions. Class going forward and gives everything in a tackle.

 

Lee Bolderson 8

- Needs to get back what he does best going forward (Managers fault for playing him in a holding role).

+ Gives everything to the team great passer of the ball and makes football look easy.

 

Liam Eason 9 (M.O.M)

- Very hard to give a negative so far this season but I got to (needs to get in the box more).

+ Liam got everything class footballer with quick feet passes the ball with ease Class.

 

Craig Williams 8.5

- Needs to stay in the box more.

+ If Carlsberg done heading they ask Frog, class in the air and holds the ball up very well for his team mates.

 

Barrie Jones 8

- Get’s frustrated too much.

+ Every manager needs a work horse in the team and Barrie one of them. Player who gives everything for the team and who will score you goals.

 

Subs

Tyrone Jones 7

- Needs to pass a bit quicker when on the ball.

+ Unlucky not to start Saturday. Asked him to come on to full back and done a great job going forward and great pass for Barrie goal.

 

Martin Jones 7

- Needs to hold the ball up a bit more.

+ Getting better with every game. Good feet and strong in the tackle.

 

Dan Rees 7

- Another quite player and needs to get into the game more.

+ Very good on the ball and one of the best passer's in the team.

 

Kurt Hughes 7

- Needs to read the game more.

+ Another work horse who works hard for the team and can pass good long ball.

 

Joe Bartlett 7.5

- Needs to turn up more

+ If we can get Joe playing weekly what a signing we got. Joe got bags of skills with pace and will score you goals

 

 

Subs

Martin Jones (C.Williams)

Tyrone Jones (Rossiter)

Joe Bartlett (Thomas)

Dan Rees (J.Williams)

Kurt Hughes (Edwards)

 

 

GOALS

CRAIG WILLIAMS x3

ALEX THOMAS x2

MARTIN JONES

BARRIE JONES

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

LIAM EASON

 

 

Match 1: Saturday 19th August 2017

AFC WATTSTOWN 3 - 2 STANLEYTOWN

 

After a positive pre-season spirits and confidence was high for this opening game of the 2017/18 season. The starting 11 included returns to the club for Garry Edwards and Craig Williams and a debut for Ryan Jones in midfield.

 

Despite the pre-match confidence it was Wattstown who took control of the game in the early stages and we couldn’t get going and seemed off the pace struggling to string two passes together. Even though Wattstown were in control of the game we did limit them to only a couple of half chances and we probably had two of the best chances of the half when first Craig Williams seen his free kick just go the wrong side of the post the shortly after went close with a shot from his left foot. It was Wattstown who took the lead after half hour when their striker got the slightest of touches on an in swinging cross and found the bottom corner of the net. We did equalise just before the break when Craig and Nathan Williams combined up front to get the ball through for Barrie Jones to run onto and go one on one with the keeper and calmly slotted the ball into the net. HT 1 - 1

 

The second half didn't get off to the best of starts when within 5 minutes a tangle of legs on the edge of the box resulted in a penalty being awarded to the home side, which was well taken into the bottom corner to give the hosts a 2 - 1 lead. The game became a bit of a scrappy affair after this with neither keeper really being tested and with us pushing for an equaliser it started to create a bit more space for Wattstown going forward. It was the home side who got the 4th goal of the game when in the 80th minute a mistimed tackle down the right of the box led to the second penalty of the game, which was converted into the same corner.  In the final minutes we were awarded a penalty of our own after an off the ball incident was spotted by the referee, Craig Williams stepped up and scored to make the final score 3 - 2.

 

This was not the best start to the season and overall a very disappointing performance which we need to learn from and improve on for next weeks game at home to Tonyrefail Welfare

 

 

Subs

Martin Jones (T.Jones)

Callum Williams (B.Jones)

John Williams (Edwards)

Michael James

Mitchell Tann

 

 

GOALS

BARRIE JONES

CRAIG WILLIAMS (pen)

 

MAN OF THE MATCH

RYAN JONES