HAVERFORDWEST COUNTY lifted the FAW Youth Cup for the first time in their history with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Caernarfon Town at Park Avenue in Aberystwyth.

All three goals came during a thrilling first half, with strong travelling support from both sides helping to create an electric atmosphere.

The Bluebirds started brightly and opened the scoring in the 14th minute. Ashley Watkins delivered a pinpoint free-kick from the right, and 17-year-old Dylan Maguire rose highest to head home his first goal for the club.

Caernarfon hit back just four minutes later. The ball dropped to skipper Osian Evans on the right-hand side of the box, and he produced a stunning half-volley that beat Corey Mathias at the near post.

But Haverfordwest struck again on the stroke of half-time. Sammie Vaughan-Harries, who had been a constant threat throughout the first period, fired home in stoppage time to restore the lead for Ceri Phillips’ side.

Despite a spirited second-half performance from Caernarfon, the Bluebirds dug deep and held firm. They even had chances to extend their lead, with Cameron Cridland and Dan John both going close.

Speaking after the match, coach Ceri Phillips said: “I’m delighted. We had to ride our luck at times, but that’s what you need in big games. Full credit to Caernarfon – they made it tough – but our lads stood up and gave everything. I’m incredibly proud.”

Captain Dan John added: “Everyone gave 100% – we asked for that and the boys delivered. Caernarfon are no pushovers, but we worked harder and stuck together. When you play with lads you’re willing to suffer for, it means so much more. We fought for each other and that made the difference.”

BLUEBIRDS striker and captain Dan John is relishing the chance to lead Haverfordwest County’s Development team in the FAW Youth Cup final this Sunday (April 6), as they take on Caernarfon Town at Park Avenue.

John, who has netted an impressive 39 goals in all competitions this season, says the squad is determined to seize the moment and create history by winning the trophy for the first time.

The final follows a dramatic semi-final win over Newtown, which the Bluebirds edged on penalties.

‘We’re ready for it’

“I know everyone’s really looking forward to it – it’s a massive occasion,” said John. “We’ve got a couple of training sessions to prepare and I know all the boys are excited. Hopefully we’ll be ready for Sunday.”

Leading by example

Having been handed the captain’s armband for the first time this season, John said: “It’s a huge honour to lead this team, especially in a game like this. I always try to lead by example, and I know the lads are all pushing for high standards. It means a lot to be captain of this group.”

Goal machine in top form

Reflecting on his prolific form, John credited those around him. “I’ve had great service from our midfield and defenders. Being around the first team has pushed my standards. I’ve worked with Owain [Jones] in pre-season, and that’s really helped too. Once you get one goal, the confidence grows.”

History in their sights

With last season’s league title already under their belts, John says there’s a hunger to add more silverware.

“Winning the league was massive, but this is something we’ve never done before as a club,” he said. “It would mean so much to win this final – I just love winning, and doing it with Haverfordwest would be amazing.”

Expecting a tough test

Looking ahead to Sunday’s opponents, he added: “Caernarfon look like a hardworking team, so we know it’ll be a battle. But Tony [Pennock] always tells us to focus on what’s in our dressing room – and I know we’ve got quality. It’s all about how we prepare and show up on the day.”

Final word

“For me, it’s a privilege to represent Haverfordwest and Pembrokeshire at this level. Not everyone gets to play in a Youth Cup final – so we’ve got to make the most of it and show how much it means.”

Youth Cup Final
Haverfordwest County vs Caernarfon Town
Sunday, 6 April – Park Avenue

(Pics: Lewis Mitchell/FAW)

Bowen family pride as Sean and James compete at Aintree

TWO Pembrokeshire brothers – Sean and James Bowen – lined up in Saturday’s (Apr 5) Grand National, continuing their family’s deep-rooted legacy in British horse racing.

Sean, 27, and James, 22, are the sons of veteran Letterston trainer Peter Bowen, a well-known figure in Welsh racing circles. Both jockeys have made names for themselves on the national stage, and their participation in the world’s most famous steeplechase marked a proud moment for the local community.

Sean Bowen rode Three Card Brag for Gordon Elliott and finished a respectable 11th. Remarkably, Sean has achieved racing success despite being allergic to horses – a condition that causes sneezing and watery eyes whenever he’s in the saddle for too long. In an interview with The Telegraph, he explained: “It’s just something I’ve had to get on with… If I have a long day in the saddle I’ll feel it.”

Sean’s grit and determination have paid off. He notched his 1,000th career win earlier this year and was crowned 2023-24 Champion Jockey, despite an injury scare in January. He’s no stranger to big days either, having won the Grade 1 Liverpool Hurdle at Aintree in 2019.

His younger brother James Bowen rode Chantry House and came in 16th. James, a rising star in his own right, recently rode two winners at Warwick in a single day and is known for his calm tactical riding style. The brothers have often credited their father Peter for instilling in them a strong work ethic and passion for the sport from a young age.

Saturday’s race was a historic one, as trainer Willie Mullins secured a 1-2-3 finish. The 2025 Grand National winner was Nick Rockett, ridden by Patrick Mullins at odds of 33/1. Defending champion I Am Maximus came second, and Grangeclare West finished third.

The top five finishers were:

1. Nick Rockett (33/1)
2. I Am Maximus (7/1)
3. Grangeclare West (33/1)
4. Iroko (13/2)
5. Meetingofthewaters (20/1)

While victory eluded the Bowen brothers this time, their presence at Aintree reinforces Pembrokeshire’s strong connection to the racing world – and the enduring legacy of the Bowen name in the sport.

Cover image: Sean with his brother, James, who came in 16th on board Chantry House in the National (Credit: PA/David Davies)