FRESH questions are being raised over the football ownership network behind Haverfordwest County AFC after a Scottish report claimed Hamilton Academical are facing growing anger over unpaid pension contributions.

The Daily Record and Lanarkshire Live have reported that rival SPFL clubs are frustrated by what they see as a lack of action over Hamilton’s alleged pension issues, with claims that the League One side is gaining a sporting advantage while continuing to sign players.

Hamilton Academical and Haverfordwest County are both linked through Morley Sports Management, the group associated with Haverfordwest chairman Rob Edwards (pictured).

The issue has now taken on a direct Pembrokeshire angle because Hamilton travelled to Haverfordwest earlier this month for a pre-season friendly at the Ogi Bridge Meadow. Haverfordwest County described the fixture as a first meeting between two clubs under the Morley Sports Management umbrella, while Hamilton said the trip was an opportunity to strengthen connections on and off the pitch across the MSM team.

Hamilton won the friendly 4-0 on Saturday, July 4.

The Scottish reports claim that current and former Hamilton players have been chasing pension contributions, while rival clubs are concerned that the Accies have continued to recruit players and offer contracts despite unresolved financial questions.

One unnamed SPFL club official quoted by the Daily Record described the situation as an “absolute scandal” and claimed clubs who meet their obligations are being placed at a disadvantage.

There is no suggestion that Haverfordwest County players or staff are affected by the pension allegations. However, the latest claims are likely to increase scrutiny of the wider Morley Sports Management football model at a time when Haverfordwest County are moving towards a hybrid first-team structure, with some young players training on a full-time basis.

The Bluebirds have previously said the hybrid model is intended to provide a pathway for talented Pembrokeshire players and help the club continue its push for success in the Cymru Premier.

Hamilton’s off-field difficulties have been well documented. In February, the SPFL confirmed that the club had received a six-point deduction after admitted breaches relating to unpaid wages and tax obligations. The SPFL said at the time that those breaches related to the period before the current ownership took control of the club.

In May, Hamilton said outstanding historic HMRC liabilities had been settled and that a winding-up petition against the club would be withdrawn. Rob Edwards said at the time that the matter was the club’s “last major hurdle” and that Hamilton could now focus on the future.

The latest pension claims, however, have reignited concerns among Scottish clubs over financial compliance, sporting integrity, and the enforcement of league rules.

The Herald has asked Haverfordwest County AFC, Hamilton Academical, the SPFL, the Football Association of Wales, and The Pensions Regulator for comment.

YOUNG people from across Pembrokeshire have enjoyed two successful Additional Learning Needs multisport events, giving them the chance to try a wide range of activities in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Thirty children from the south of the county attended the first event at Pembroke Leisure Centre on June 16, while a further 19 children from north Pembrokeshire took part in a second event at Fishguard Leisure Centre on June 30.

Both events were supported by main sponsor Valero.

Children were able to try a variety of sports and activities, including rugby, cricket, dance, boccia and boxing, with basketball also included at the Fishguard event.

The sessions were designed to provide inclusive sporting opportunities for young people with additional learning needs, with a focus on participation, enjoyment and building confidence.

Throughout the events, children were encouraged to learn new skills, make friends and experience different activities in a fun and supportive setting.

Organisers said the events were made possible thanks to the support of dedicated coaches, whose enthusiasm and encouragement helped ensure every child felt welcome and able to take part.

Thanks have also been extended to JK Lewis & Son of Crymych for sponsoring bottled water for both events, and to Valero for its valued support.

Elgan Vittle, of Sport Pembrokeshire, said: “Days like these demonstrate the power of sport to break down barriers and create positive experiences for all young people.

“The energy, excitement and enjoyment shown by every participant made the events truly memorable.

“It was fantastic to see so many children from across Pembrokeshire trying new activities, building confidence and having fun.

“We are extremely grateful to the coaches, volunteers and sponsors whose support helped make these opportunities possible.”

Caption: Stephen Thornton, of sponsors Valero, is pictured with coaches and young people at one of the ALN multisport events.

England survive major scare to reach World Cup last 16 after 2-1 comeback win in Atlanta

ENGLAND survived a major World Cup scare as two late Harry Kane goals rescued a 2-1 victory over DR Congo and sent Thomas Tuchel’s side into the last 16.

The Three Lions looked to be heading for one of the shocks of the tournament after Brian Cipenga fired DR Congo into a seventh-minute lead at Atlanta Stadium. England were ragged defensively, slow to settle, and repeatedly frustrated by a disciplined Congolese side who defended with energy and carried a real threat on the break.

But Kane, so often England’s answer on the biggest stage, turned the tie around in the final 15 minutes. The captain headed in from substitute Anthony Gordon’s cross on 75 minutes before driving home a superb winner four minutes from time to spare England from an early knockout exit.

DR Congo, playing with freedom and belief, stunned England almost from the first whistle. Cipenga found space on the left and beat Jordan Pickford at the near post with a powerful right-footed finish, giving the African side a dream start and leaving England chasing the game.

England responded with pressure but little composure. Jude Bellingham forced a fine save from Lionel Mpasi, Marcus Rashford saw an effort cleared off the line by Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Kane was denied as DR Congo’s goalkeeper produced a series of impressive stops.

The warning signs remained at the other end. Yoane Wissa came close to doubling DR Congo’s lead before half-time, steering a dangerous cross against the post as England’s defence again looked vulnerable.

Tuchel turned to his bench after the break, and the introduction of Gordon helped change the rhythm of the match. England began to stretch DR Congo wider, and the equaliser finally arrived when Kane peeled away inside the box and powered a header beyond Mpasi.

With extra-time looming, Kane delivered again. Collecting the ball near the edge of the area, he shifted across the Congolese defence and unleashed a fierce strike to complete the comeback and move England into the next round.

DR Congo were left devastated after a performance full of courage, organisation and attacking ambition. They had pushed one of the tournament favourites to the brink and, for long periods, looked capable of producing a famous upset.

England, however, march on. Tuchel will know his side cannot afford another slow start, particularly with co-hosts Mexico waiting in Mexico City. But on a day when England’s World Cup hopes were seriously tested, Kane once again provided the decisive answer.

England will face Mexico in the round of 16, with the match due to kick off at 1am UK time on Monday, July 6.