Sport
Pembrokeshire Cricket: Neyland dominate as relegation battle heats up
THE LATEST round of matches in Pembrokeshire’s First Division saw dominant performances from Neyland and Carew, solidifying their positions at the top of the table, while Haverfordwest faces a growing threat of relegation.
Neyland Maintain stronghold at the top
Neyland continued their relentless march toward the title with a comprehensive 10-wicket victory over Haverfordwest. Haverfordwest, batting first, struggled to 117 for 9 in their 45 overs, with Will Phillips top-scoring with an unbeaten 42. Andrew Miller was the pick of the Neyland bowlers, claiming 3 for 14, supported by Alan Webster, who took 2 for 23.
In response, Neyland’s experienced and quality openers, Paul Murray and Nick Koomen, chased down the target with ease, both scoring half-centuries. Murray finished on 61 not out, while Koomen was unbeaten on 55, as Neyland cruised to 118 without loss, cementing their position at the top of the league.
Carew strengthen second place
Carew demonstrated their intent to challenge for the title with a thumping 207-run victory over Whitland. Batting first, Carew posted a mammoth 262 for 7, thanks to Adam Chandler’s explosive 84 not out and solid contributions from Rhys Davies (42) and James Hinchliffe (34). Whitland’s bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, and in reply, their batting crumbled under pressure.
James Hinchliffe was the star with the ball, taking a brilliant 6 for 19, as Whitland were bundled out for a paltry 55. This win solidifies Carew’s second-place standing, but they still trail Neyland by a significant margin.
Cresselly outclass Narberth
Cresselly kept up their pursuit of the leaders with a comfortable 8-wicket win over Narberth. Narberth, batting first, managed 217 for 8, with Jamie McCormack’s 89 being the standout performance. However, Tom Murphy’s 3 for 49 kept them in check.
Cresselly chased down the target with minimal fuss, thanks to a brilliant century from Morgan Lewis, who scored an unbeaten 115. Neal Williams (40) and Tom Murphy (25 not out) provided ample support as Cresselly reached 218 for 2, securing a crucial victory.
Lawrenny triumph in high-scoring affair against Llangwm
Lawrenny emerged victorious in a high-scoring encounter against Llangwm, winning by 78 runs. Their innings was led by Troy Pursloe’s magnificent 123 and Joe Kidney’s 50. As the Llangwm bowlers failed to gain any really control.
In reply, Llangwm applied themselves well and made 226 for 8, which was a decent innings but well short of their target. Luke Brock stood out with the bat as he made a good 69. Ryan Morton was the pick of the Lawrenny bowlers as he took 3-25.
Saundersfoot edge past St Ishmaels
In a tense, low-scoring game, Saundersfoot edged past St Ishmaels by 4 wickets. St Ishmaels, batting first, were bowled out for 116, with Tom Mansbridge taking 3 for 22 and Mike Bailey 4 for 31. In response, Saundersfoot chased down the target with some difficulty, reaching 117 for 6, thanks mainly to Tom Mansbridge’ 32 which made him a shoe in for man of the match.
These results leave Haverfordwest precariously close to the relegation zone, now looking anxiously over their shoulder at the advancing pack. Meanwhile, St Ishmaels and Narberth, both in the relegation zone, will need to find form quickly if they are to avoid the drop. Neyland’s dominance at the top of the table remains undisputed, with a solid gap over second-placed Carew, as they set their sights on defending their title.
Sport
Sporting future enhanced with Cymru Football Foundation funding
CYMRU Football Foundation’s Fit-For-Future Facilities Programme is supporting the development of a new 3G pitch at Greenhill School, Tenby.
Pembrokeshire Leisure has successfully secured a £407,000 grant to replace the old astro turf pitch with a new 3G facility that will enhance the provision for both the school and community clubs.
Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services said: “This project will play a significant role in ensuring that Pembrokeshire can continue to provide first class facilities across the county.
“The collaboration led by Pembrokeshire County Council’s leisure section and incorporating the Cymru Football Foundation, Sport Wales, Greenhill School and the community clubs will provide us with a fantastic facility for everyone.”
The Cymru Football Foundation, supported by UK Government, is delivering the Football Association of Wales’ commitment to deliver inspirational, Fit-For-Future Facilities to enrich communities across the country.
Find out more by visiting the Foundation’s website (opens in new window).
Pictured: Gary Nicholas (Leisure Services Manager, Pembrokeshire Leisure), Angie Nicholls (Pembrokeshire Schools Football), Cllr Sam Skyrme Blackhall, Steph Amos (Tenby Leisure Centre), David Haynes (Head Teacher – Greenhill Secondary School) and Mark Hughes (Cymru Football Foundation).
Sport
Nomads navigate the Viking’s challenge
NEYLAND avenged their recent 3-0 midweek home defeat to Hakin United Reserves by winning 2-0 at the Observatory ground in a game which was an excellent advert for Pembrokeshire League Division 2 football, on Saturday (Sep 14).
With little wind and a warming sun both teams endeavoured to play football, with chances created throughout in the attacking areas, visiting captain Mike Chandler orchestrating his musicians from central midfield alongside an impressive performance from teenager Dylan James, who took every opportunity to drive forward with ambition combining seamlessly with wideman Mason Morgans-Hurley. It was a hard fought but fair encounter in the centre of the park, Hakins Leon Letherby the fulcrum for the poise and penetration from his side, where the Nomads back four of Jack John, Lewis Page, Sean Hannon and Theo Davies defended as a unit.
Teenagers Corey Riley, Bobby Jenkins, Ethan Dawes, Henry Mayhew and Evan Rutherford probed relentlessly from Letherby’s vision, visiting goalkeeper Oliver Vaughan-Harries a commanding presence between the sticks despite his ‘boy band’ youthful looks.
After a goalless first half Neyland central midfielder Aidan Rees drew a foul twenty five yards from the Hakin goal ten minutes into the second period, the man of the match then delivering a perfect free kick for veteran Hannon to bravely meet the ball with his head to put it firmly beyond the advancing home goalkeeper, Josh Lewis, to break the deadlock.
The Vikings manager Mathew Howell responded immediately as Geroge Wheeler replaced an impressive Jenkins and Tom Edmonds, who arrived from Merlins Bridge this season replaced the skilful Riley on the left wing, epitomising the home sides mantra of trying to win the game, which saw them play a higher line up field. The final ball in transition and the Nomads back five kept the score at 1-0, the young visiting goalkeeper superbly turning a goal bound drive from Letherby around his post on 75 minutes.
The third home substitute with fifteen minutes to play, saw another youngster enter the field of play, Tommy Powells adding ingenuity as his side as he tried to find the elusive equaliser, Howells changing his formation as he withdrew Sam Houston, to having three defenders holding the line.
It evoked a response from Nomads manager Gavin Rowland who used all his experience to move players around positions as they tired, substitute Jo Campondonic had replaced frontman Ben Gale after the youngster led the line with aplomb against a well marshalled defence led by skipper Tom Evans, his fellow full back Lewis Llewellin and commanding centre halves, Garin Gardiner and Houston, before his withdrawal. Campondonic’s introduction to the fray gave the visitors the midfield energy they required, as the game thundered into the final quarter,
As the game anything but ebbed into added time, Referee Jonathan Twigg played an advantage for Neyland down the left wing and the ball was played through by Campondonic for the man of the match Rees to find Lazarus type energy to stay ahead of Gardiner. Rees composed himself to bury the ball with his right foot beyond and advancing Lewis, at the Gelliswick Bay end in the eight minute of added time, before the final whistle was greeted with euphoric cheers from the Nomads black and white army of supporters, a minute later..
Both sides have ten points from their opening five games, three points adrift of leaders Camrose who visit the Observatory Ground next Saturday (Sep 21). Rowlands will hope to have a full complement to players after twenty were unavailable across the Club for the weekend fixtures, as he looks ahead to a home game at the Athletic Ground. to Carew Reserves.
News
Thrilling finale as UK Waterski Championships conclude with a splash
NEYLAND’S normally tranquil waterfront was transformed into a high-octane spectacle yesterday as the UK Waterski Racing Championships roared into town for its final round. The event, held on Saturday, 14th September, saw competitors from across the country converge on the Cleddau for a day filled with adrenaline, excitement, and fiercely contested races.
From the crack of dawn, Neyland buzzed with anticipation as racing enthusiasts and families alike gathered at the waterfront. With the event kicking off at 7:00 am, the early birds were treated to the sight of the UK’s best waterski racing teams preparing for the ultimate showdown. The championships, which spanned the entire season, reached a thrilling climax here, as racers vied for those coveted podium positions.
Despite the high level of competition, the organisers ensured a family-friendly atmosphere. With free entry, it was an ideal day out for all ages. Attendees could take in the spectacle from the shoreline while also enjoying the array of facilities available at Neyland Yacht Club. For early risers, volunteers served breakfast rolls, tea, and coffee, setting the tone for a day of community spirit and sporting prowess.
Safety was paramount throughout the event. Strict guidelines were in place to ensure the wellbeing of all participants and spectators. The pontoon was a hive of activity, with clear instructions on launching and mooring to ensure smooth operations. Children, who are always captivated by the speed and skill of waterski racing, were required to be supervised and wear approved life jackets while on the pontoon.
Pre-race administration and safety briefings were efficiently conducted by the UK Waterski Racing Team, ensuring that the event proceeded without a hitch. The signing-in process took place at the timing office at the top of the slipway, setting the stage for a day of intense competition on the water.
Access to Neyland was well-managed, with clear directions for those travelling with large RVs and towing vehicles. The Camper Park at Brunel Quay Car Park provided ample space for visitors, while a dedicated launch crew facilitated the movement of boats to the yacht club. Refuelling protocols were strictly enforced by the Port Authority to prevent any pollution, reflecting the event’s commitment to environmental safety.
As the sun set and the final race concluded, the atmosphere shifted from competitive tension to celebratory cheer. The prize presentation took place outside the yacht club, where winners were crowned amidst applause and cheers from the gathered crowd. For many, the highlight was the Saturday Social, a much-anticipated end-of-season gathering at Neyland Yacht Club. The Alumchine catered a delightful buffet, offering a chance for competitors and spectators to mingle and reflect on the day’s exhilarating events.
The UK Waterski Racing Championships’ final round at Neyland not only showcased the sport at its finest but also reinforced the community spirit that underpins it. From the meticulous organisation to the high-energy races, the event was a resounding success, leaving spectators and participants eagerly awaiting next season.
Images: Martin Cavaney/Herald
-
Health2 days ago
Man dies following nine-hour wait for ambulance in Pembroke Dock
-
Health1 day ago
Ambulance error admitted in 999 call before Pembrokeshire mother’s death
-
Crime5 days ago
Man arrested following violent Incident in Pembroke Dock
-
Crime6 days ago
Dock police continue search following multiple assaults incident
-
News6 days ago
Pembrokeshire’s new MP votes to cut the Winter Fuel Payment
-
Education5 days ago
Whitland School goes into lockdown following threats to pupils
-
Crime4 days ago
Man with limited mental capacity sees child grooming conviction overturned
-
Crime7 days ago
Police appeal for witnesses following violent incident in Narberth