Sport
Alan Jones triumphs in Welsh Men’s Open Seniors Championship
PEMBROKESHIRE Sports Development Officer, Alan Jones, showcased his winning abilities by claiming victory in the Welsh Men’s Open Seniors Championship. Despite his usual role of supporting others in sports, Jones proved his own prowess by securing the title at Ashburnham in Burryport, just a few miles away from his home club, South Pembs.
After an impressive opening round of -1, which placed him at the top of the leaderboard, Jones maintained his momentum with a level par second round. This ensured that he entered the final day in the lead, ultimately clinching a two-shot victory over England’s Paul Wharton.
In an interview, the elated 56-year-old sports development officer, who works for Pembrokeshire County Council, expressed his disbelief at the magnitude of his achievement. “It feels incredible to win it,” Jones exclaimed. “I don’t think I can quite believe how big this championship is, looking at the leaderboard and seeing all the players from outside Wales.”
Jones further emphasized the significance of winning the title at Ashburnham, saying, “To win it at Ashburnham makes it extra special. I was born in Carmarthen but lived in Burry Port for a while, and now I reside locally in Pembrokeshire. I have played here many times over the years.”
Reflecting on the challenging conditions during the tournament, Jones discussed his strategy, stating, “In the wind and rain at times, it was a case of avoiding any big scores, keeping the ball in play as best you can, and managing your way around the golf course.” He commended the course’s condition, describing it as “one hell of a challenge” and acknowledging its parched state.
As a testament to his golfing prowess, Jones highlighted his past accomplishments, saying, “This is my biggest win. I am a member at South Pembs and have won the club championship there 28 times. I’ve won the Dyfed County Championship three times and the Dyfed Men’s Over 45’s. I also won the Radyr Salver back in 1993, but everything has been regional until now, so winning a national title is great.”
Jones also mentioned his role as a sports development officer and his efforts to introduce golf to children. “I cover all sports in my job, but because I play golf, I do some sessions here and there in schools to get as many kids as I can to have a go at golf.”
Congratulating Jones on his victory, Wales Golf Competitions Manager Christian Askins remarked, “It is always nice to have a Welsh winner of one of our open events. He makes a contribution to developing future golfers in this area, so it is nice to see him coming through to win the title for himself.” Askins also praised Ashburnham for providing a fantastic test for the players and expressed gratitude to the staff, members, and volunteers for their contributions to the success of the event.
Jones’ golfing achievements are undeniably impressive, with 28 club championship wins at South Pembrokeshire Golf Club, three Dyfed Men’s Championship titles, four Dyfed Men’s Over 35 titles, and a Dyfed Seniors Championship victory. His recent triumph in the Welsh Men’s Open Seniors Championship adds another significant milestone to his illustrious career.
Sport
New Hedges Saundersfoot win cup final in style.
Division Four Cup Final
New Hedges Saundersfoot 7-1 St Ishmaels Reserves
The Division Four Cup Final between New Hedges Saundersfoot and St Ishmaels reserves took place at Monkton Swifts, witnessed by an eager crowd. The game, officiated by Sean O’Connor, with Gareth Elliot and Dean Driscoll as assistant referees, promised an intense battle for the coveted trophy.
From the onset, New Hedges Saundersfoot showcased their dominance. Owen, Miles, Davidson, and Marsh all getting on the score sheet leading to an impressive goal tally.
The Mice never gave up and battled well but they struggled to contain their opponent’s attacking quality. Thomas Williams managed the one and only goal for Tish.
The final score stood at an emphatic 7-1 in favor of New Hedges Saundersfoot, underlining their superiority throughout the match.
New Hedges Saundersfoot emerged as deserved victors, clinching the silverware and adding a significant achievement to their season. Their comprehensive victory in the cup final will undoubtedly be celebrated by players and fans alike. Despite falling short of promotion in their league campaign, this triumph will serve as a testament to their talent and resilience on the field.
In conclusion, the Division Four Cup Final witnessed a commendable display of skill and determination from both teams. Congratulations to New Hedges Saundersfoot for their outstanding performance and well-deserved victory in the final.
News
Tigers second division Cup Champions
In a thrilling Pembrokeshire Division Two Cup final under the floodlights of Bridge Meadow Stadium, fans witnessed an epic battle between Monkton Swifts reserves and Johnston. Despite Monkton Swifts reserves being touted as favorites, Johnston proved their mettle from the outset.
The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Johnston’s center half, Craig Bendall, seized an early opportunity to put his team ahead just ten minutes into the match. However, Monkton Swifts’ prolific Scotsman, Davis, swiftly responded with an equalizer, showcasing the resilience of the favourites.
The momentum shifted again when the dynamic duo of Alfie and Scott Crawford of Johnston orchestrated a beautifully executed goal, putting Johnston back in the lead at 2-1.
As the game progressed, Monkton Swifts brought in reinforcements, including Ben Steele, to regain control. Their efforts paid off when Jordan Kilby leveled the score at 2-2 with just under 20 minutes remaining.
But the Crawfords had other plans. Combining once more, Scott provided the assist for Alfie, who coolly finished to put Johnston ahead once again.
With time running out, Monkton Swifts launched a relentless onslaught in search of an equalizer. However, Johnston’s defense held firm, defying the odds to clinch the Division Two Cup title in a memorable victory.
The match showcased the passion and determination of both teams, with Johnston emerging as deserving champions in a fiercely contested final at Bridge Meadow Stadium.
Sport
Promotion, relegation and everything in between.
As we come to the end of the 2023-2024 season it’s time to look at the winners and losers so to speak as most promotion and relegation battles are now all sewn up.
We begin at the very top where Goodwick United have blown away the first division to become deserved champions elect. At the opposite end of the table Fishguard Sports struggled all season and we comfortably relegated, going down with them are Neyland who’s relegation was confirmed a few weeks ago. Neither team were cut adrift and battled right until the end which is credit to both outfits, sometimes relegation can act as a spring broad and both clubs will be hoping this is the case.
Monkton Swifts reserves were the outstanding team in the second division and were a cut above the rest on their journey to becoming league champions on 56 points with an impressive plus 61 goal difference. As Monkton can’t be promoted due to their first team being in the first division it allowed both Herbrandston and St Ishmaels to be promoted. Herbrandston finished in third on 40 points, whilst the Mice just beat them to second place ending up on 42 points. Both clubs will now use the summer to prepare for the step up that awaits.
At the opposite end of the division, Cosheston never really got going and after their points deduction ended on a lowly 6 points which is never going to be enough to avoid relegation. The second relegation place was much closer with St Clears, Carew reserves and Broad Haven all being in a dog fight for the majority of the season. Broad Haven showed good fight and character which steered them clear of trouble while Carew found form at a key time, which means St Clears will play their football in the third division next season.
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