Sport

Swansea City 1-1 Cardiff City: Robinson rescues Bluebirds as Derby ends in stalemate

Published

3 weeks ago

August 25, 2024

CALLUM ROBINSON came off the bench to score a crucial late equalizer, as Cardiff City battled back to secure their first point of the season in a fiercely contested South Wales derby against arch-rivals Swansea City. The match, which ended 1-1, saw tempers flare in added time, culminating in Cardiff manager Erol Bulut being sent off.

Liam Cullen ignited an already fervent atmosphere at the Swansea.com Stadium with an early goal in the 10th minute. The Swans’ forward pounced on a rebound from close range after Ronald’s powerful volley was parried by Cardiff goalkeeper Ethan Horvath. This strike marked Cullen’s third goal in as many derby appearances, putting the hosts in a commanding position and sending the home crowd into a frenzy.

Cardiff, having endured a dismal start to the season with two heavy defeats and no goals to their name, looked to be heading for yet another derby loss after a lackluster first-half display. The Bluebirds struggled to keep possession and created little of note, with their only notable effort coming from Wilfried Kanga, who curled a 20-yard shot narrowly wide after capitalizing on a Swansea mistake.

However, the second half saw a significant shift in momentum, largely due to Bulut’s tactical changes. The Cardiff manager opted to replace central midfielder Alex Robertson with the more attack-minded Rubin Colwill, a move that injected much-needed creativity and energy into the Bluebirds’ attack. Colwill’s dynamic play immediately posed new problems for Swansea, and it was his driving run from midfield that initiated the move leading to Cardiff’s equalizer.

In the 79th minute, Colwill played the ball out to the right, where fellow substitute Ollie Tanner delivered a low cross into the box. Robinson, making an intelligent run, met the ball first-time and fired it past Vigouroux to bring Cardiff level. The goal not only changed the mood within the stadium but also transformed Cardiff’s performance, as the visitors suddenly looked capable of snatching an improbable victory.

Cardiff continued to press forward in search of a winner, with Manolis Siopis testing the Swansea goalkeeper from the edge of the area. Despite their earlier dominance, the Swans now appeared unsettled and disjointed, struggling to regain the control they had enjoyed for much of the match.

As the match entered stoppage time, the intensity of the rivalry boiled over. Bulut was dismissed after a heated exchange on the touchline, sparked by his refusal to hand the ball back during a Swansea throw-in. The incident led to a melee involving players from both sides, resulting in four yellow cards being issued by referee Oliver Langford.

The draw, Cardiff’s first point of the season, will feel like a small triumph for Bulut’s side, who had lost their opening two games by an aggregate score of 7-0. For Swansea, the result will be seen as an opportunity missed, as they failed to capitalize on their early dominance and secure a second consecutive derby win at home.

This was the first draw between the two sides since 2020, and while it lacked the explosive drama often associated with this fixture, the late equalizer and the fiery conclusion ensured it will be remembered as a fiercely contested battle.

Swansea City: Vigouroux; Key, Cabango, Darling, Tymon; Franco, Grimes (c); Eom, Cooper, Ronald, Cullen.
Cardiff City: Horvath; Ng, Chambers, Daland, O’Dowda; Siopis, Robertson; Meite, Ramsey, Willock; Kanga.

Key Moments:

Goal! Swansea City 1-0 Cardiff City (Cullen 10′) – Cullen taps in after Horvath parries Ronald’s volley.
Goal! Swansea City 1-1 Cardiff City (Robinson 79′) – Robinson equalizes with a first-time finish after Tanner’s cross.
Full-Time: The match ends 1-1, with Cardiff’s Bulut sent off during stoppage time.

As both teams reflect on a hard-fought encounter, this draw represents a significant psychological boost for Cardiff, while Swansea will be left to ponder what might have been in a game that appeared theirs for the taking.

(Cover image credit: Courtesy of swanseacity.com)

Sport

Thrills, spills, and big wins: Pembrokeshire Division Two heats up

Published

24 hours ago

September 12, 2024

Herald Sport

LAST weekend’s action in Pembrokeshire Division Two delivered an exhilarating mix of high-scoring encounters, closely fought draws, and dominant displays, as the league standings begin to take shape.

Merlin’s Bridge Reserves 3-3 Camrose

The highly anticipated local derby between Merlin’s Bridge Reserves and league leaders Camrose did not disappoint, ending in a thrilling 3-3 draw. Camrose, still unbeaten at the top, looked set to secure the win after a brace from James Williams and a strike from Lewis Watts. But Merlin’s Bridge, determined to salvage a point, fought back through captain Morgan Richards. His two-goal performance, capped by a dramatic last-minute equaliser, ensured the Wizards shared the spoils in this action-packed affair.

Fishguard Sports 2-2 Hakin United Reserves

At Tregroes, Fishguard Sports and Hakin United Reserves played out a hard-fought 2-2 stalemate. Both sides remain unbeaten in a game where neither could find the breakthrough to secure all three points. Hakin’s youthful squad showed resilience, earning a commendable point against the more seasoned Fishguard team. Phil Jones’ men now sit fourth in the standings, while Hakin leapfrog to second.

Narberth 9-0 Lawrenny

Narberth delivered the weekend’s most emphatic result, thrashing newly promoted Lawrenny 9-0 at Jesse Road. Jordan Williams and Steff Williams each netted twice, while substitute Jacob Layfield came off the bench to bag a brace of his own. This devastating performance lifts Narberth to third, while Lawrenny, still without a point, languish at the foot of the table, enduring a tough baptism in Division Two.

Neyland 3-1 Johnston

Neyland secured a solid 3-1 home victory over Johnston, with the visitors still struggling to adapt to life in Division Two following their recent relegation. Johnston, with just one win from four matches, found themselves unable to match Neyland’s composure and quality. The result leaves them in the lower half of the table, while Neyland continue to build momentum.

Solva 6-2 Broad Haven

Solva’s impressive start to the season continued with a commanding 6-2 win over Broad Haven. Following their promotion, Solva have emerged as early dark horses, their strong performances keeping them within touching distance of the top spots. For an in-depth report on this feature match, head to our sports section.

Carew Reserves 3-0 Monkton Swifts Reserves

Carew Reserves finally notched their first win of the season with a comfortable 3-0 victory over an out-of-sorts Monkton Swifts Reserves. Last season’s league champions, Monkton, seem a shadow of their former selves, managing just one win from four outings as they continue to struggle to rediscover last year’s form.

With Camrose setting the early pace and several sides showing potential, Pembrokeshire’s Division Two is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive contest this season. Stay tuned for more twists and turns as the battle for promotion heats up.

Sport

Goals galore and dominant displays in Pembrokeshire’s Division One

Published

2 days ago

September 11, 2024

Herald Sport

THE latest round of Pembrokeshire Division One action saw some thrilling performances, with high-scoring victories and crucial wins that are already shaping the season’s outlook. Here’s a breakdown of all the key moments from the weekend’s fixtures.

Hakin United Make a Statement with 8-0 Win Over Clarbeston Road

Hakin United delivered an emphatic message to the rest of the league as they dismantled last year’s Senior Cup winners, Clarbeston Road, with a staggering 8-0 victory at the Obs. The Vikings were in full control from the first whistle, and their offensive firepower was on full display.

Alfie Stotter was the standout performer, grabbing a hat-trick and establishing himself as a key player for Hakin this season. His clinical finishing and sharp movement were too much for the Clarby defense, who struggled to contain the relentless pressure. This dominant win signals Hakin’s clear intent to challenge for the title this year, as they continue to set the pace at the top.

Carew edge past Merlins Bridge for first win

Carew claimed their first victory of the season with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Merlins Bridge. It was a tightly contested affair, with both sides creating chances, but it was Leon Davies who made the difference for the visitors. His goal proved decisive as Carew held on to secure three valuable points, leaving Merlins Bridge frustrated after failing to find an equalizer.

Milford United cruise past Kilgetty

Milford United secured their second win of the campaign, overcoming Kilgetty 2-0 at Marble Hall. It was a solid performance from the home side, with goals from Parr and Sam Davies sealing the win. Milford looked composed throughout and managed the game well, ensuring Kilgetty left without any reward. The result boosts Milford’s position in the table, as they aim to build momentum early in the season.

Monkton Swifts add to St Ishmaels’ woes

Monkton Swifts piled more misery on a struggling St Ishmaels side, cruising to a 4-1 victory. The win leaves St Ishmaels rooted to the bottom of the table, still without a point this season. Monkton were dominant from the outset and showed no mercy as they took control of the game early on. St Ishmaels will need to find answers quickly if they are to avoid a relegation battle.

Goodwick United secure 2-0 win over Pennar Robins

Goodwick United continued their steady start to the season with a solid 2-0 win over Pennar Robins at Bush Camp, which was our feature match this week. Goodwick looked in control for most of the game and managed to break through the Pennar defense with two well-taken goals. Be sure to check out the full match report on our sports page for a detailed look at how the game unfolded.

Tenby maintain perfect start with 5-0 victory over Herbie

Tenby maintained their perfect start to the season with a commanding 5-0 win over Herbie at the Clicketts. Spencer Williams led the charge with a brace, while Hipkiss and Leahy also got on the scoresheet. Tenby were in full flow, showcasing their attacking prowess and leaving Herbie with no answers. The result leaves Herbie at the bottom of the table without a point, while Tenby sit joint top with a perfect record.

Politics

New cricket pitch will be built in St Ishmaels

Published

2 days ago

September 11, 2024

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

PLANS for a new cricket strip at a south Pembrokeshire club which will allow year-round use have been given the go-ahead by the national park.

The application before Pembrokeshire coast National Park, by Wendy Bradshaw sought permission for a non-turf match pitch at the St Ishmaels Sports Club cricket field.

An officer report said: “It is proposed to introduce a permanent artificial cricket strip within the existing outfield. This will enable year-round use of this area.

“This proposed scheme is considered to have a scale, mass, form, and detailed design which is considered to be acceptable in this instance. The scheme will benefit an existing community facility by allowing extended use.”

It adds: “The proposal is located at an existing cricket pitch facility that is grouped with other sporting and recreational facilities within St Ishmaels Sports Club.

“The application site is an established sports facility that has a significant spatial footprint. The small loss of green space will enable enhancement of the facility and the proposal comparatively, is modest in size and scale.

“As a replacement of an existing facility, the proposal is proportionate and modest in scale and size. The proposal reuses existing features of the facility and mimics hours of operation so as not to create any increase in amenity impacts.

“The broader application site will accommodate increased green infrastructure that will provide multiple benefits for users.

“Overall, the development will not create any detrimental impacts on the special qualities of the National Park.”