Sport
Shining stars of the Wales national team
The Wales national football team is in transition under new head coach Craig Bellamy. With a blend of experienced veterans and rising stars, they aim to make an impact in the UEFA Nations League while pursuing World Cup qualification. Let’s explore the standout players, their form, and how Wales is navigating international competition under Bellamy’s leadership.
How Wales are currently performing in the Nations League
Wales are competing in Group B4 of the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League under new head coach Craig Bellamy. Their start to the campaign has been mixed but promising, with a 0-0 draw against Turkey and a 2-1 victory against Montenegro.
These results have built a solid foundation, though there’s pressure on Wales to maintain their momentum in their upcoming matches against Iceland and Montenegro in October, with football odds suggesting a tight battle for group dominance.
Bellamy has brought fresh tactics and urgency to the squad, but converting chances into goals has been a challenge. With key players like Aaron Ramsey and Brennan Johnson, Wales have the talent to turn things around. Securing victories in the next few fixtures will be crucial if they are to remain competitive in the group.
Craig Bellamy’s impact
Since taking over as head coach in July 2024, Craig Bellamy has made a notable impact on the Wales national team. Renowned for his tenacity during his playing career, Bellamy has brought the same intensity to his coaching role.
His focus on high-pressing, attacking football is evident, with an emphasis on improving Wales’ forward play and overall team cohesion. Bellamy’s experience as a former Welsh international gives him unique insight into the squad’s dynamics.
His ability to nurture younger talents, like Brennan Johnson and Neco Williams, while balancing the influence of veterans such as Aaron Ramsey, is helping to reshape the team’s identity. While early results in the Nations League have been positive, Bellamy’s tactical evolution will be key as the team continues to adapt to his system.
Wales’ shining stars
- Aaron Ramsey: A key leader in the squad, Ramsey brings creativity and control to the midfield. His experience and ability to manage both attack and defence make him indispensable in high-pressure matches.
- Daniel James: James is a crucial winger known for his blistering pace and ability to break down defences. His work rate and growing maturity continue to elevate his impact in attack.
- Brennan Johnson: A standout forward, Johnson’s agility, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability have made him a rising star for Wales, with impressive performances translating from club to country.
- Ethan Ampadu: Versatile and composed, Ampadu’s defensive stability and ability to play across the back and midfield make him a vital part of Wales’ tactical setup.
- Neco Williams: The young full-back combines attacking flair with defensive reliability. His pace and overlapping runs add width and creativity to Wales’ wide play.
- Ben Davies: A consistent presence in defence, Davies provides experience and leadership, contributing both as a central defender and a left-back, ensuring Wales remain organised at the back.
Looking ahead to World Cup qualification prospects
The road to World Cup qualification presents both challenges and promise for Wales. Under Bellamy’s guidance, the team has shown resilience, combining experienced leaders like Ramsey with emerging talents. Consistent performances in the National League are key to improving their qualification odds, as upcoming fixtures will be crucial tests.
While recent form has been encouraging, the team must remain focused to navigate their competitive group. With Ramsey’s leadership and young players stepping up, Wales has the balance and spirit to push for World Cup qualification.
Sport
Devonald’s hat-trick secures St Ishmaels’ dominant win over Herbrandston
Herbrandston 0 – St Ishmaels 6
BRENNAN DEVONALD delivered a masterclass as St Ishmaels thrashed Herbrandston 6-0, with the skipper leading from the front and scoring a stunning hat-trick. The comprehensive victory propels St Ishmaels to eighth in the league table, while Herbrandston remain rooted to the bottom without a single point.
The visitors asserted their dominance from the outset. Devonald opened the scoring in the 9th minute, latching onto a pinpoint assist from Owen Lawrence. He doubled their lead just before halftime in the 40th minute, again set up by Lawrence, giving St Ishmaels a comfortable cushion at the break.
St Ishmaels maintained their momentum in the second half, adding four more goals to cap off a stellar team performance. Adam Kingsbeer’s clever play set up Ieuan Hawkins for the third, before Tom Williams capitalised on another opportunity to make it 4-0. Devonald sealed his hat-trick in the 85th minute with an expertly taken goal, and Joel Mills added the finishing touch in the dying moments, courtesy of an assist from Sol Goodall.
Team line-ups
Herbrandston: Adrian Rees, Oliver Robinson, Ethan Chalker, Scott Findlay, Dean John (Captain), Harley Barrett, Gedion Hockin, Leon Whatling, Scott Gillespie, Cian Davenport. Subs: Leo Duncan, Jacob James, Nico Cockrell.
St Ishmaels: Owen Thomas, Sol Goodall, Owen Lawrence, Finley Armstrong, Brennan Devonald (Captain), Adam Kingsbeer, Ieuan Hawkins, Joel Mills, Tom Williams, Daniel Coe, Nathan Thomas. Subs: Max Howells, Tyler Sheil.
Sport
Dominant wins for Pembrokeshire sides in West Wales Intermediate Cup round 3
Goodwick United 7-0 Carew
Goodwick United put on a commanding performance with a 7-0 triumph over Carew. The home side proved too powerful for their opponents, with Rhys Dalling and Rhys Jones each bagging two goals. Matty Delaney, Will Haworth, and Daniel Bryce also got their names on the scoresheet. As one of Pembrokeshire’s top teams, Goodwick will aim to build on this dominant win as they progress to the next round.
Hakin United 13-0 Clydach Sports
Hakin United were in ruthless form as they dispatched Clydach Sports 13-0. Jack Britton led the charge with an impressive five-goal haul, while Liam Parks netted a hat-trick. Jack Griffiths, Jay Kilby, Kieran King, Justin Harding, and Mason Dolling all contributed to the comprehensive scoreline. Hakin, one of the premier teams in Pembrokeshire, will be keen to continue their pursuit of the cup after this emphatic victory.
Merlins Bridge 7-3 Treboeth United
Merlins Bridge secured a thrilling 7-3 victory over Treboeth United in an exciting encounter. Nathan Evans was the star of the show, scoring a hat-trick, while Tom Jago, Jason Griffiths, Hayden Dimond, and Ashton Plunkett all found the back of the net. Treboeth’s Liam Manning, Cori Jones, and Matthew Colley fought valiantly but could not prevent the home side from taking the win. Merlins Bridge will be pleased with their attacking display and will look to build on this result.
Monkton Swifts 5-4 Clarbeston Road
In a dramatic local derby, Monkton Swifts edged out Clarbeston Road 5-4 in a high-scoring affair. Dylan Davies was the standout performer with four goals, and Liam Butland added another. Clarbeston Road fought hard with goals from Laurie Haworth, Matthew Davies, Greg Brown, and Ben John, but it was the Swifts who held on to secure the victory. Monkton will be happy to progress after such a closely contested match.
Neyland 1-2 Cwm Wanderers
Neyland were narrowly defeated 2-1 by Cwm Wanderers in a closely contested match. Ben Gale scored for Neyland, but goals from Joseff Shaw and Corey Raven-Sayce gave the visitors the edge. Despite a valiant effort from Neyland, Cwm Wanderers held firm to secure the win and advance to the next round.
Plough Colts 0-2 Pennar Robins
Pennar Robins comfortably saw off Plough Colts 2-0, with Kieran Smith and Jamie Wilkes scoring the goals. Pennar demonstrated their class and will look to carry this momentum forward into the next round.
Tenby 2-0 Blaen-y-Maes
Tenby continued their fine form with a 2-0 victory over Blaen-y-Maes. Sam Butler and Scott Ferney were on target for Tenby, who have been one of the most impressive sides this season. This win further cements Tenby’s status as one of the top contenders in the competition.
Analysis:
Pembrokeshire’s leading teams, Goodwick United and Hakin United, demonstrated their superiority with commanding wins, while Tenby showed their credentials with a solid 2-0 victory. With such dominant performances, Goodwick and Hakin are likely to be among the favourites to claim the title, with Tenby also emerging as a serious contender in this year’s West Wales Intermediate Cup.
Sport
Thrills and dominance: Narberth shine in 6-1 victory
Broad Haven 4-4 Solva
In an exhilarating, high-scoring encounter, Broad Haven played out a 4-4 draw with Solva. Marco Valentine netted twice for Broad Haven, with Owen Sheppard and Shane Howells also getting on the scoresheet. Solva responded through Josh Bland, who scored a hat-trick, and Lucas Price, ensuring the points were shared in this thrilling clash.
Camrose 1-3 Fishguard Sports
Fishguard Sports claimed a 3-1 victory over Camrose, with a clinical display of attacking play. Andrew John scored the only goal for Camrose, but Fishguard’s offensive strength proved overwhelming. Anthony Couzens, Luke Thomas, and Ieuan Llewellyn all found the net to guide their side to victory.
Carew II 0-2 Hakin United II
Hakin United II earned a solid 2-0 win over Carew II. Rowan Dixon and Tom Edmonds were the scorers for the visitors, with Carew struggling to break down Hakin’s defense. It was a well-executed performance that saw Hakin advance with all three points.
Johnston P-P Merlins Bridge II
The match between Johnston and Merlins Bridge II was postponed, with no further details available at the time of writing.
Lawrenny 1-6 Narberth
Narberth cruised to a commanding 6-1 victory over Lawrenny. Owen James scored the lone goal for Lawrenny, but Narberth’s attacking prowess was on full display as Steffan Williams scored twice, and Ashley Williams, Chris Brown, Conor Bowen, and Ryan Williams each found the back of the net in a comprehensive win.
Analysis:
The 14th December 2024 fixtures saw a blend of thrilling draws and dominant victories. Broad Haven and Solva shared the spoils in an action-packed 4-4 draw, while Fishguard Sports, Hakin United II, and Narberth all secured convincing wins. Narberth’s 6-1 triumph over Lawrenny was the standout result of the day, highlighting their attacking firepower.
-
Top News4 days ago
Pembrokeshire man jailed after repeatedly punching pregnant wife
-
Top News3 days ago
Police investigate dogs seen persistently chasing sheep on Pembrokeshire airfield
-
News5 days ago
Dyfed-Powys Police launches attempted murder investigation
-
News5 days ago
Heroes of the storm: How Council workers rallied during rare red wind warning
-
Business6 days ago
Ferry traffic surges at Pembroke Dock due to Holyhead closure
-
Farming7 days ago
Call for Pembrokeshire to oppose farming inheritance tax withdrawn
-
Top News4 days ago
Milford man dealt ‘persistent’ blows on girlfriend after urinating in flat
-
News4 days ago
Children seen kicking and ‘egging’ doors near Pembrokeshire train station in early hours