Sport
Pembrokeshire First Division cricket preview
AS the Pembrokeshire First Division season heats up, this weekend’s fixtures carry immense significance for both ends of the table. With teams battling for survival and others vying for the title, the tension is palpable.
Cresselly vs Narberth
Cresselly will be eager to bounce back after a disappointing defeat to Neyland. Sitting in a comfortable position mid-table, they’ll look to secure a win against Narberth, who are currently anchored at the bottom of the table. For Narberth, this match is crucial. With relegation staring them in the face, they need to dig deep and produce a performance that could keep their survival hopes alive.
Llangwm vs Lawrenny
Llangwm have been quietly edging towards safety, and a victory here could see them all but secure their place in the division for another year. Their opponents, Lawrenny, might have one eye on their upcoming final, but they can’t afford to be complacent. A focused performance is needed to avoid any surprises, even if their minds are partially elsewhere.
Neyland vs Haverfordwest
League leaders Neyland are within touching distance of claiming the title, but they can’t afford to slip up now. Haverfordwest, on the other hand, are improving steadily and are desperate to secure points to guarantee their survival in the division. Expect a fiercely contested match, with Neyland hoping to tighten their grip on the championship while Haverfordwest fight tooth and nail for every run and wicket.
Saundersfoot vs St Ishmaels
Saundersfoot might also be distracted by the looming final, but they cannot afford to take this game lightly. While they’re relatively safe, they still need a few points to ensure their safety. St Ishmaels are in a much more precarious position, needing a win to climb away from the danger zone. This match is pivotal for both teams, with St Ishmaels perhaps feeling the pressure more acutely.
Whitland vs Carew
Whitland, sitting in fifth, may seem safe, but they aren’t completely out of danger just yet. Their strong form in the second half of the season should give them confidence, but they need to stay focused. Carew, currently second in the table, are hot on the heels of Neyland. They’ll be hoping for a slip-up from the leaders while ensuring they take all 20 points from this match. Every point counts as they push for the title, making this a must-win game for them.
This round of matches could prove decisive in the race for the title and the battle against relegation. Expect tension, excitement, and possibly a few surprises as teams fight for crucial points.
News
Milford Youth Matters proud to sponsor Milford Athletic FC U15’s kit
MILFORD Youth Matters is proud to announce its sponsorship of Milford Athletic FC U15’s playing kit for the upcoming season. This initiative marks the latest step in a thriving partnership between the youth-focused organisation and the local football club, reflecting their shared commitment to enriching the lives of young people in the community.
Over the past 18 months, Milford Youth Matters and Milford Athletic have been working closely together to deliver a wide range of events and activities aimed at promoting engagement, personal development, and well-being among local youth. This partnership has become an essential part of the community, with both organisations contributing to the opportunities available for young people in Milford and the surrounding areas.
Milford Youth Matters has long been a driving force behind youth empowerment in Milford. The organisation’s mission is to provide comprehensive support for young people through a variety of programmes, ranging from educational assistance to recreational and sporting activities. It aims to create a nurturing environment where young people can develop the confidence, skills, and social connections they need to thrive.
The sponsorship of Milford Athletic FC U15’s playing kit is a significant symbol of Milford Youth Matters’ broader ethos. The organisation believes that its impact should extend beyond its own direct services, reaching out to support other groups within the community as well.
“We’re delighted to be able to sponsor the team’s kit this season,” a spokesperson for Milford Youth Matters commented. “This partnership reflects our commitment to looking beyond inward investment and finding ways to uplift other local groups and initiatives. By working together, we can make a bigger impact and create more opportunities for young people.”
The relationship between Milford Youth Matters and Milford Athletic FC is a prime example of how local organisations can work together to benefit the wider community. Through this partnership, young footballers are not only given the opportunity to play the sport they love, but also to develop important life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
At its core, Milford Youth Matters is about building stronger, more resilient communities by investing in young people. The organisation’s ongoing collaboration with Milford Athletic FC is a testament to its belief in the power of sport and community engagement as a means to support personal development.
Beyond the sponsorship of the kit, Milford Youth Matters continues to explore new ways to collaborate with other local groups and organisations. Their work is about more than just providing services; it’s about creating a network of support that benefits everyone involved.
The U15 team’s sponsorship is just one aspect of this. As the season progresses, Milford Athletic FC will undoubtedly feel the backing of a community that is deeply invested in their success, both on and off the field.
News
Haverfordwest County AFC Women and Girls celebrate a successful open day
HAVERFORDWEST COUNTY AFC Women and Girls marked a milestone last Saturday (Aug 31), with the launch of their Girls Development Centre at a highly successful open day event. The sun shone brightly on a day packed with excitement, camaraderie, and, most importantly, brilliant football.
Girls’ teams from across age groups took to the pitch in friendly matches, delivering standout performances that thrilled spectators throughout the day. Local boys’ teams also participated, adding to the spirit of community and competition. The club expressed their gratitude to the boys’ teams for their sportsmanship and the entertaining football displayed.
A special mention was given to the following clubs for their contribution to the day’s matches:
- Camrose Football Club and Prendergast Villa AFC for the Under-10 girls’ games
- Clarbeston Road AFC and Narberth AFC for the Under-12 girls’ matches
- Johnston FC for the Under-13 fixture
- Goodwick United FC for the Under-14/16 matches
Spectators were treated to a fantastic display of football from all the teams involved, with the club praising the impeccable behaviour and sportsmanship of everyone who took part. The atmosphere was electric, and the games were a joy to watch, with supporters commenting on the high standard of play across the board.
The success of the event extended beyond the pitch, thanks to the contributions of local businesses. Pembrokeshire & West Wales Bouncy Castles provided inflatables, keeping the younger attendees entertained, while Pure West Radio’s Darren was on hand to provide music throughout the day. In addition, Princes Gate Water generously donated refreshments to keep all the players hydrated, and face painting, ice cream, and hot food added to the festivities, creating a carnival-like atmosphere.
The club also gave heartfelt thanks to their fundraising team for their hard work in organising the event, collecting raffle prizes, and ensuring the day ran smoothly. A separate post will acknowledge the local businesses that contributed raffle prizes, demonstrating the strong community spirit that underpinned the day.
First-team players Alaric Jones and Zac Jones were in attendance, showing their support for the girls in the morning, while several U13 boys academy players, including Zach, Owain, Bobby, and Iestyn, assisted throughout the day.
Coaches Arron Thomas, Rhys Mansell, Imi Scourfield, Leanne Jones, Martyn Lewis, and Gareth Owens were recognised for their dedication and commitment to developing the girls, with the club commenting on the remarkable progress made in such a short time.
Haverfordwest County AFC Women and Girls are looking forward to an exciting future, with this event marking just the beginning of their journey. A special thanks was extended to all involved, with the club noting that the future looks bright for the development of girls’ football in Pembrokeshire.
Sport
Solva fourth in table after beating Broad Haven 6-2
SOLVA bounced back from their midweek defeat to beat Broad Haven 6-2 at Maes Y Mor on Saturday (Sep 7).
Skipper Josh Bland scored a brace, his first a sublime left foot volley from outside the box on 25 minutes, to put his side 3-0 ahead.
Man of the match Kieran Price opened the scoring inside the opening 5 minutes with a direct free kick from the arc of the penalty box, veteran forward Matthew Price setting up Lee Dinmore to double the score line ten minutes later.
Broad Haven regrouped from the Solva onslaught and scored two goals in quick succession on the half hour mark, industrious midfielder Sam Barton crisply striking the first after good work by Mathew Grainger and skipper Ashley Bladen drifted seamlessly into the action from the right wing to score the second.
Chris Basset unluckily put the ball into his own net to put the home side 4-2 ahead, after a rebound off goalkeeper James Llewellyn following pinball in the visitors penalty box five minutes before the half time whistle blown by referee Jonathan Twigg.
The second half saw both teams make changes as the game saw end to end action, Llewellyn and his counter part Nick Mendoza-Connell called open as the last line of defence by their respective teams. Bland scored his second after good work from Finn Isles on 75 minutes before Isles put himself on the scoresheet with an assist from veteran substitute Joe Shaw.
The result puts Solva in fourth position in the table, 3 points off the top spot ahead of their trip to Monkton Lane to take on the Swifts reserves next weekend. Broad Haven find themselves rooted in the relegation zone on one point, where they will be looking for a touch of wizardly magic ahead of their visit to the Sports Village to take on Merlins Bridge Reserves.
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