IN THIS ISSUE RHIFYN YMA BALA TOWN
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FOOTBALL CLUB Maes Tegid, Castle Street, Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7UU Rhif Cyswllt / Contact No.: 07818 404516
www.balatownfc.co.uk CYFARWYDDWYR / DIRECTORS
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Nigel Aykroyd, Ruth Crump, Arwel Roberts, Arwel Jones, Hannah Jones.
SWYDDOGION / OFFICIALS Rheolwr / Manager: Colin Caton Tim Hyfforddi / Coaching Staff: Stephen Fisher & Ryan Valentine Ffisio / Physio: Ffiona Evans Pennaeth yr Academi / Head of Academy: Carwyn Edwards carwyn.edwards@balatownfc.co.uk Cyfarwyddwr Academi / Academy Administrator: Andy Kelly Llywydd / President: Joe Roberts Llywydd Oes / Honorary Life President: Ted Edwards Cadeirydd / Chairman: Arwel Roberts Is-gadeirydd / Vice Chairman: Ken Edwards Prif Weithredwr / Chief Executive: Nigel Aykroyd Ysgrifennydd Cyffredinol, Cyfarwyddwr Cyllidol a Swyddog Trwyddedu / General Secretary, Finance Director & Licensing Officer: Ruth Crump Penaethiaid Diogelwch / Heads of Security: Sion & John Roberts Cyfarwyddwr Masnachol a Cyhoeddwr / Commercial Director & Announcer: Arwel Lloyd Jones Swyddog Diogelu Plant / Child Protection Officer: Dewi Wyn Evans Ffotograffydd y Clwb / Club Photographer: Naomi Jones Swyddog y Wasg a Swyddog y Cefnogwyr / Media Officer and Fans Rep: Hannah Gwenllian hannah.gwenllian@balatownfc.co.uk
#Lakesiders www.balatownfc.co.uk
04 Chief Executive 11 05 Tonight’s Visitors 14 07 Reserves 16 08 Y Clwb Peldroed 18
Pre-season New Lakesiders Mark Pitman NL Paper
Maes Tegid 3G Pitch Hire We are taking bookings for the use of the 3G for full, 2/3’s and 1/3’s hire of the pitch during 2019. The following prices include VAT and are on a per hour basis: Full pitch – £60, 2/3 – £45, 1/3 – £25. Matchday packages are also available, including use of home and away changing rooms and hospitality. To discuss block booking prices, matchday packages, general enquiries or to book the 3G please email community@balatownfc.co.uk
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NODIADAU NIGEL’S NOTES Here we go again, the start of the 2019-20 campaign. It seems an age ago that our last competitive fixture ended in the heartbreak of a penalty shoot out loss which stripped us of our annual European adventure.
signed 6 new players and started a Reserve team. All go to say the least! As per usual the beginning of a new season starts with high hopes and expectations and this one is no different. We have put together an excellent squad despite the European failure and we are all excited to get the ball rolling and test whether expectation and results can now come together.
Tegid and is certainly worth a visit to watch this young team in action at long last in an official FAW fixture.
After tonight's League Cup action we get our season underway next Friday with a visit to newly promoted and old friends at Airbus. This really will be a test and give us a However, has it been a blessing good indication of the in disguise? Certainly not in possibilities for the task ahead. financial terms as the loss of the Please come and support us European prize money has left a The newly formed Reserve team there if at all possible. considerable hole in the Club's has been a revelation up to We offer a very warm welcome coffers which will mean very now. Under the stewardship of to our opponents tonight from careful and frugal accounting Adam Galdo the team has Gresford. They are a very well for the season ahead. But the come together with an fact that the Management and undoubted enthusiasm and it is established and accomplished players have had a summer brilliant to report that nearly 30 team in North Wales and will rest for the first time in 5 years players have already signed on. be in confident mood following their fine win against Colwyn may be the hidden bonus. Friendlies have of course been Bay last Sunday which resulted testing for such a new squad of in this evening's fixture. A tough It certainly has been a close players but results have not test is in prospect and one season with a difference at been disappointing and League which I hope we can all enjoy Maes Tegid. We have had 6 action kicks off tomorrow with a as the season finally kicks off in superb first team friendlies trip to Brymbo. We have their earnest for us at Maes Tegid. against excellent opposition, first home League fixture next have trialled a significant Nigel number of new players, already Wednesday evening at Maes
Smithy Garage of Dyffryn Ardudwy
Bala Town are proud and delighted to announce that Smithy Garage of Dyffryn Ardudwy are continuing their support/sponsorship for the club. We wish to thank them for the vital boost they are giving to this season’s JD Cymru Premier campaign.
BALA TOWN CLUB PARTNERS H. & E. J. Roberts & Sons Smithy Garage, Dyffryn Ardudwy, Gwynedd LL44 2EN
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GRESFORD ATH.
MEET THE VISITORS...
League. This proved to be a difficult season for the Club with them finishing in the bottom four however the following 3 seasons saw them steadily move up the League table. The summer of 2014 saw a new management team and committee Gresford Athletic won the 'West' introduced which brought in a Division of the Wrexham league number of new players in with in the 1946-47 season. The next the emphasis both on and off time the club won a league the pitch being on achieving trophy was in 1962-63 when they The following season a new promotion to the Huws Gray committee formed with the won Division 2 of the Wrexham intention of taking the club back Alliance. league. into the Cymru Alliance. A 24 match unbeaten run saw In 1969 Division Three was split them maintain a control on the This was achieved in season into two sections, A and B with league whilst also seeing a 2000-01 when they were once Gresford reserves winning the successful run in the Welsh Cup, again Champions of the Welsh Section A title. Trophy and League Cup National Premier League and The club remained in the Welsh with the finances in place the competitions and it was National (Wrexham Area) League committee managed to January before they finally lost until the introduction of the a game however the league title upgrade Clappers Lane to Cymru Alliance League in Cymru Alliance standards, in the was not clinched until the final season 1990-91 when they game of the season by which same season they were also became one of the founder time the work had been beaten finalist’s in the Welsh members of the League. They completed behind the scenes Trophy. remained in the Cymru Alliance with promotion having already League for four seasons before Upon the re-structure of football been confirmed. The 2015-16 being relegated back to the in Wales they re-entered the season saw Gresford claim Welsh National League, during Welsh National Premier League their highest ever finish in Tier 2 this four-year period they in season 2010-11 following 9 when they finished the season reached the League Cup final seasons in the Cymru Alliance in 6th place.
The history of the present day Gresford Athletic football club stretches back to 1946 although it is known that the club existed in the 1920's.
losing to a very strong Rhyl side.
They became Champions of the Welsh National Premier League in season 1995-96 but due to financial difficulties could not meet the ground criteria for promotion back to the Cymru Alliance. During that season, Gresford Athletic Colts also won the Division 2 title.
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AIL DIM - RESERVES Late drama see's Town snatch a draw. Two penalties for Bala saw our reserves earn a very respectful draw, against a team who had a mix of first team and reserve players. Both sides started well, with chances coming at both ends, however it was the visitors who had the first clear cut chance on goal just after 8 minutes, as one of their forwards made some space on the edge of the box, although Ifan Jones was there to block the shot. AJ Galdo came close just a few minutes later, as Cai Aykroyd beat his man, down the left hand side and floated a ball into the box, where AJ headed just over. Bala keeper Dom Walker had to be substituted off with an injury just after quarter of an hour gone, in came Dion Jones to replace him.
hand side of the goal, however a heroic save by Dion in goal, who got down well and pushed the ball out to the far left hand side. The half time whistle went with the score still goalless. Both teams had plenty of chances however were unable to find the net. Dion Jones' great save secured a first half clean sheet right at the end of the half, although a lot of work to be done in the second half. A quick start to the second half saw Dolgellau take the lead, as their striker Owain Williams gets an easy tap in right in front of the goal after an easy pass got through the line of defence.
A few chances came and gone for Bala as they approached the last 10 minutes, although we should have been level after Steven Jones got his feet tangled and miss-hit the ball from close range! With 5 minutes to go, Bala weren't ready to take a draw just yet, though the Dolgellau keeper pulled of a remarkable double save to keep Dolgellau in the lead as attempts from Steven Jones and Tom Lloyd were saved.
After all the good work by Bala, and for not throwing in the towel after chance after chance... they were rewarded with another PENALTY! Tom Lloyd was again brought down A few substitutions were made, just inside the box and this time with one of them being Tom he was taking it. He stepped up Captain Ifan Jones was Lloyd for Cai Aykroyd. and smashed it into the bottom replaced by Andrew Verzun following a slight knock. Minutes later, Tom Lloyd makes left hand corner! It was 2-2 with an immediate impact as he gets a minute to go! 5 minutes before the end of the tangled up with the defender A few minutes of added time first half, Dolgellau pilled on the and is brought down for a pressure as they won a free kick penalty! AJ Galdo stepped up to came after the goal, however in Bala's half, but were unable to take it and riffled it into the net! neither team were able to grab a winner. The game ended 2-2 hit the target from close range 1-1! with Bala the much better side as the ball was directed to the in the second half. Every single However it only took Dolgellau 5 front post. player put in a solid minutes to regain the lead, as A minute later Dolgellau had performance and everyone Owain Williams grabs his another great chance, as their was delighted in getting the second, after another through attacker dashed down the left draw, after playing against ball gets passed the defence hand side, cut inside of the box and into the box for another tap some players that were in and curled an effort to the right in. 2-1. Dolgellau's first team. Cai had a couple chances on goal but couldn't find the net, as he curled one just over the bar and the other wide of the post. Promising play by Cai just wasn't clinical enough.
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Y CLWB PELDROED Cymru Premier 2019-20 Team-by-Team Preview: What can fans expect ahead of new season? In what will be the inaugural season of the newly-named JD Cymru Premier, we are set for one of the most competitive top flight campaigns in recent years. We’ve assessed each team’s prospects, their dealings in the transfer market and how supporters can expect them to perform in the upcoming campaign. The New Saints Last season: 1st Predicted finish: 1st
Nomads will head into the 201920 campaign with confidence after their memorable win against Kilmarnock in the Europa League.
Andy Morrison’s side were expected to be the closest challengers to The New Saints Scott Ruscoe’s side were forced before their European heroics, to dig deep in order to win their but the impressive displays 13th top flight title, after being against strong opposition has pushed hard by Connah’s Quay raised the question of ‘can they Nomads and Barry Town United, replicate that kind of form week but their experience and in, week out in the league?’ strength-in-depth eventually The Deeside outfit have told as they finished 12 points established themselves as a clear at the summit. team that are more than The Oswestry-based outfit have capable of producing the goods been relatively quiet in the in one-off encounters, their 2017transfer market so far this 18 Welsh Cup victory and the run summer, bringing in just three to the Scottish Challenge Cup players so far in Keston Davies, final last season proved this, so Adam Hughes and Ryan they will hope for more Harrington. consistency this time round. There is no reason to suggest that they can’t secure a ninthconsecutive domestic crown, and their prospects were further strengthened with the recent announcement that last season’s top scorer and talisman Greg Draper had penned a new deal. Connah’s Quay Nomads Last season: 2nd Predicted finish: 2nd Last season’s runners-up, the
Their only arrival to date has been defender Callum Roberts from Newtown. A quality addition no doubt, the former TNS player is one of the best in his position in the league, however the club’s shortcomings last season could be down to their squad depth; so you feel a couple more signings could help them to bridge the gap. Barry Town United Last season: 3rd Predicted finish: 3rd
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The real success story of last season, the Dragons will be looking to build on their third place finish in what was just their second season back in the top flight. The main challenge for Gavin Chesterfield’s men now will be to prove that their achievements were not an anomaly, and they have certainly signalled their intent in the transfer window. The arrivals of Luke Cummings, Jack Compton and Keyon Reffell have added a considerable amount of quality and experience to the squad, one which should have enough to secure at least a top four finish. Bala Town Last season: 6th Predicted finish: 4th By their standards, the Lakesiders had a season to forget in 2018-19, finishing sixth, their worst performance in the league since 2013-14. Scoring goals wasn’t too much of an issue last season, it was keeping them out which proved to be a problem. Their goals conceded tally of
63 was the third highest in the top flight, behind only Llanelli and Llandudno – who were both relegated.
over 150 games in the Cymru Premier, while Harry has made over 50 appearances at the age of just 20.
the top flight, delighting their passionate fans and proving some doubters wrong to finish fourth.
The signing of Jonny Spittle from Connah’s Quay Nomads will certainly improve them at the back, while Lee Molyneux and Steven Leslie are both highlyexperienced campaigners who will provide good competition in the squad.
Niall Flint, Lewis Short and Jack It goes without saying that their Kelly have arrived to ensure that biggest challenge this season the squad has a fresh feel to it. will be overcoming the fact that they are no longer an Cardiff Metropolitan University unknown quantity. Last season: 7th Predicted finish: 6th A potential positive is the fact that Alan Bickerstaff will be Last season proved to be the taking over as the new First Archers’ best in their 19-year There is no doubt that the Maes Team Manager, as previous history, as they won a maiden Tegid outfit are under pressure boss Sean Eardley moves into to perform after a disappointing Nathaniel MG Cup and the role of Assistant Manager. reached the Europa League showing last time out, and their qualifying rounds for the The new arrivals at the Oval so motivation will be sky high to first time. far consist of right-back Gruff prove any doubters wrong. John Williams, striker Sam The departure of star striker Newtown Jones and defender Mike Adam Roscrow – who netted 14 Last season: 5th Pearson. All three are good goals in 23 appearances last Predicted finish: 5th additions, and should definitely season – will be a miss to the be pushing for a place in the The Robins were one of the Students, but they have been starting eleven. league’s surprise packages last able to secure the return of season, going somewhat under winger Jordan Lam. Airbus UK the radar as they finished a Last season: 1st (Cymru Alliance) Without Roscrow, the comfortable fifth, just missing Predicted finish: 8th responsibility on the shoulders out on fourth to Caernarfon of Eliot and Will Evans will The first of the two promoted Town on goal difference. increase. The pair are both teams, the Wingmakers swept Making five signings so far in the more than capable of stepping all before them to secure their transfer window, the Latham up, while you still have the likes return to the top flight, winning Park side have been keen to of Dan Spencer and Tim 24 of their 30 league games to ensure that they maintain a Parker – who are both wellfinish 18 points clear at the top level of competition in the accustomed to the top flight. of the Cymru Alliance. squad; as they look to replicate Caernarfon Town They’ve made some shrewd their 2018-19 efforts. Last season: 4th signings in the form of George Ian Sheridan and George Harry Predicted finish: 7th Hughes, Jake Phillips, Alex appear to be two solid pieces of The Cofis were mightily Darlington, Andy Owens and business, the former has played impressive in their first season in Jordan Evans. Owens and Darlington are both proven goal-scorers in the top flight, Hughes and Evans have experience with Shrewsbury and Wrexham while Phillips is an exciting young prospect. Their squad looks well balanced, and they will fancy their chances of causing some upsets as they bid to reestablish themselves as a topflight team. Penybont Last season: 1st (Welsh Football League Division One) Predicted finish: 9th Rhys Griffiths’ side went unbeaten in the Welsh Football
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League Division One as they stormed to the title in 2018-19.
is just three as it stands: Tom Reilly has joined including former Blackburn youth product Ramirez Howarth and Charley Edge.
club were due to be relegated in 2017-18, surviving only after Bangor City were demoted; A well-drilled outfit, the Bont and while Neil Smothers should be capable of making helped to make them tougher the step up, holding their own to beat last season, they and giving teams problems with They should have enough to their dangerous frontmen. ensure that they remain clear of won’t be able to rest on their laurels this time around. the drop-zone again this One of the busier clubs in the season, while manager Huw Aberystwyth Town market, they have made six Griffiths will doubtless have Last season: 8th signings so far: Dan Jefferies, Predicted finish: 12th Mikey George, Dan Summerfield, loftier ambitions. Lewis Baldwin, Matthew Harris Carmarthen Town Another established top-flight and Nathan Wood. Last season: 9th outfit, the Seasiders could Predicted finish: 11th The performances of Luke have a fight on their hands to Borrelli and Cullen Kinsella will go a long way deciding how Penybont fare in the Cymru Premier, while Kane Owen will also be vital; commanding his troops from left-back and providing a threat from setpieces.
While the Old Gold have made some positives moves, their defence remains an area which could prove to be their achilles heel. Their goal-scoring abilities are not in doubt, with the likes of Liam Thomas – who netted 24 goals last season – and Luke Bowen, who proved to be a good foil with 11 goals in the league.
Cefn Druids Last season: 10th Predicted finish: 10th The Druids were not able to recreate their 2017-18 heroics – when they won the Europa League play-off – recording a 10th place finish last season. Their total number of incomings
Their attacking options have been strengthened further with the arrival of Josh Bull from Cwmbran Celtic, while midfielder Elliott Scotcher has joined from Haverfordwest County. It cannot be ignored that the
preserve their status in Wales’ top tier. After going on an impressive run in the middle part of last season, looking like they were set to qualify for a European spot, they tailed off disappointingly and somewhat limped over the finishing line. Ben Birch, Alex Boss, Joe Phillips, Luke Boundford, Porya Ahmadi and Malcolm Melvin have all arrived at Park Avenue, and will need to hit the ground running to ensure the Black and Greens get off to a good start.
NODDWYR / SPONSORS Player Sponsorship is on a first come first served basis. First team players £75.00 and at the end of the season, you will receive their shirt (home or away) autographed. Andrew Burns: Emma Whitehouse Nathan Burke: Colin Caton: Stephen Fisher: Danny Gosset: Mike Hayes: Evan Horwood: Henry Jones: Cigydd Bala Butcher – www.balabutcher.co.uk Stuart Jones: Shaun Kelly:
Steve Leslie: Lee Molyneux: Lassana Mendes: Louis Robles: Kieran Smith: Barry Yates Sean Smith: Nigel P Cooke Jonny Spittle: Anthony Stephens: Josh Tibbetts: Ryan Valentine: Chris Venables:
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PRE-SEASON RE-CAP Llanrhaeadr ym Mochnant 2, Bala Town 4 The game started brightly enough in the Tanat valley sunshine and after eight minutes of play, the home side took the lead as Tom Evans headed in from close range when Bala failed to clear. With 20 minutes on the clock, Bala were back level when they took advantage of their pressure and the ball was squared into the area which Venables nestled into the net from around 3 yards out. The lead was shortlived when Llanrhaeadr hit back to make it 2-1 when a lob from the edge of the area hit the post and bounced over the line after 25 minutes. Goals kept coming when two minutes later, Bala brought the game back to 2-2 when Trialist C scored with a fantastic effort into the top corner from 16 yards on 27 minutes and then took the lead on 30 minutes as Trialist E delivered a ball into the area straight into the path of Venables who tapped the ball home. The new Town starting eleven for the second half couldn’t have asked for a better start when they added a fourth only minutes into the second period.
and has an impressive first half performance. Bala’s trialist goalkeeper was called into action early on and made a solid save. Southport took the lead after 20 minutes of play. A break down the right saw a ball delivered into the box which Brad Bauress duly dispatched from around 10 yards which went in off the base of the post. However, the second half was much better by Bala and probably a half of football that should’ve seen them earn something from the game. Substitute Kieran Smith saw his low drive palmed away by the keeper only two minutes into the half before a break through Molyneux was crossed into the area but the defence could clear. Bala should’ve been level five minutes from time when they move of the match when Molyneux’s deceiving cross was pushed away before the rebound was hacked off the line.
Bala Town 1, Accrington Stanley 0 Bala came flying out of the blocks and had a fantastic first half with possibly some of the best football that they have played for quite a few months.
Town’s pressure paid off when Mike Hayes spotted Savin off his line and lobbed him from around 20 yards to give the Lakesiders a thoroughly deserved lead. A rare Stanley chance saw a freekick taken from the halfway line sent over the crossbar towards the end of the half. Jones and Trialist C almost added a second when they forced a mistake in the backline but Hayes couldn’t make a clean connection with the loose ball. The second half saw Stanley come more into the game. Both teams rotated their squads but Bala still impressed with their quick breaks and solid defensive set-up.
It was Hayes who had the first chance of the game as he pulled a shot wide with Town playing with a very high tempo which saw them take full control With ten minutes left to play there were golden chances for of the game. both teams. Academy graduate Bala Town 0, Southport 1 A corner by Jones came back Sion Sullivan set up Trialist E out to him with his powerful low who’s cross found Venables but Defeat for Lakesiders but a shot hitting the base of the post creeped centimeters wide very promising display! and the follow-up cleared by before down the other end, Our opponents started very well the under pressure Stanley. Bala’s trialist keeper made a Henry Jones danced into the box outrunning three players and composed himself to cooly slot the ball into the opposite corner of the net to make it 4-2.
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solid save to keep Town’s clean sheet. An extremely impressive performance by the Lakesiders who looked confident, comfortable and worked incredibly hard against their League One opponents, thoroughly deserving the victory.
Bala Town 2, Crewe Alexandra 5 With players such as Perry Ng and Billy Sass-Davies in the Crewe line-up, it was going to be a difficult evening for Bala and that was proven after two minutes of play when the Railwaymen took the lead when Charlie Kirk scored from a far post tap in. Crewe who were managed on the evening by former Lakesider Kenny Lunt were playing very impressive quick counter attacking football and soon it was 2-0 when the visitors took advantage of Kieran Smith being down injured in the opposite box, broke forward and delivered a ball into Callum Ainley who added their second of the night. On the half hour mark, Ryan Wintle made it 3-0 with a lovely finish into the far side of the net from inside the area. Prior to the interval, Crewe added a fourth when a quick passage of play arrived to Reilly who finished with a class strike. The second half was better by Bala who grew into the game and started to cause some problems for the visitors. A moment of controversy saw Trialist F get the ball in the net for Town but a Crewe centre half able to clear the ball of the line after it had crossed the line and the goal disallowed. However a minute later it was 4-1 when Bala capped a fantastic move when Trialist D saw his strike from 10 yards pushed into the path of Venables who hammered the ball into the net.
Bala were having a solid spell of pressure and coming more and more into the game but were dealt a set back as Crewe scored a 5th with a rocket of a strike from around 12 yards from Ainley.
Trialist C and D combined down the left and picked out Hayes who turned on a sixpence but saw his effort saved and then Hayes lobbing the keeper but it went wide of the post.
A header onwards by Trialist C arrived to Hayes who cooly lobbed the goalkeeper from 16 yards to make the score 2-5 five minutes from time.
5 minutes before the interval, Fleetwood took the lead once more when they capitalised on Stephens’ mistake to break forward and then Saunders fired into the net.
Bala Town 2, Fleetwood Town 3 Town welcomed Fleetwood Town’s U23’s squad to Maes Tegid and even though it was a loss for the Lakesiders, things are looking good ahead of the new season. Bala started the game very brightly and took control of proceedings in the opening stages. With Town seeing plenty of the ball, they could’ve taken the lead when Trialist C saw his shot saved by the keeper from 10 yards. However it was Fleetwood that took the lead against the run of play. A break down the right was crossed into the box and slotted home by Fowler after 24 minutes. The lead was shortlived as on the half hour mark as Trialist C headed in from 6 yards out after a Molyneux cross.
Bala started the second half quite well with two decent opportunities to get back on level terms. Henry Jones’ found Trialist C but he headed over the crossbar prior to Nathan Burke’s low drive from 30 yards fizzed wide of the post. With 65 minutes played, Bala were back level. Pressure had been brewing by the Lakesiders and a deep cross came into the waiting Kieran Smith who leapt up to head the ball into the net to make it 2-2. Stephens’ powerful strike was saved solidly by Cottam with Bala looking to add a third to their tally.
But Town were dealt a blow five minutes from time as Carl Johnson poked the ball into the net after capitalising on a Bala were looking to add to their mistake at the back. tally with Molyneux’s chance Full Rushall report in next issue flashing wide of the upright,
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Gresford Ath. Airbus UK The New Saints Barry Town Utd Connah’s Quay Penybont Newtown Cardiff Met Aberystwyth Cefn Druids Carmarthen Tn Barry Town Utd The New Saints Newtown Aberystwyth Airbus Carmarthen Tn Penybont Connah’s Quay Caernarfon Tn Caernarfon Tn Cardiff Met Cefn Druids
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Comp. KO/Res. Pos. Pts. Starting XI
Subs.
BALA TOWN 2019-20 FIXTURES
MEET THE NEW LAKESIDERS Bala Town are delighted to announce that Jonny Spittle is the Lakesiders’ first summer signing.
more recent appearances for Morecambe, Guiseley and Barrow.
His stand out season came was during the 2008/09 campaign when he notched 9 goals in 31 appearances to help Accrington avoid relegation from League Two. Meanwhile his spell in nonleague saw him help Chorley A central defender, Jonny’s early reach he end of season career started at Wigan Athletic, National League North play-offs. Blackburn Rovers and Rochdale before a switch to the Welsh Midfielder Steve Leslie has Premier League. He has had joined the Club from spells at Airbus, Llandudno and Newtown after featuring for Aberystwyth prior to a move to the Lakesiders throughout the Nomads in January 2018 with their pre-season campaign. 16 starts for the Deeside outfit. The 31 year old was born in We have captured the Glasgow but was brought up in Shrewsbury and still lives there signing of former Football now. He came through the youth League midfielder Lee ranks at Shrewsbury making Molyneux. over 100 appearances for the Left-footer Lee hails from Salop. Merseyside and has numerous caps for England at Under 16, 17 From there, spells at Hereford United, Wrexham and AFC and 18 level to his name. Telford before a move to coach Starting his career at Everton, he football in Australia. On his has plenty of Football League return to the UK he has experience after spells at appeared for Worcester City, Southampton, Plymouth Argyle, Solihull Moors, Sutton Coldfield, Accrington Stanley, Crewe, Corby Town and then Newtown. Rochdale, Tranmere Rovers with 24 year old Spittle was released by Connah’s Quay following the end of the season and has been quickly snapped by the Lakesiders.
move to the US to represent Limestone Saints in the college football where he was named Freshmen of the Year. Louis had a short spell at Bangor City and then moved to Spain to play for Atletico Baleares and then San Roque de Lepe. After a season overseas, Robles switched he League 2 outfit Grimsby Town before a return to San Roque de Lepe.
Spaniard signs for Town Joining the Lakesiders is 26 year old midfielder Lassana Mendes who spent last season at Colwyn Bay.
The Lakesiders have secured their fourth signing Named Supporters and of the summer transfer Managers Player of the Year window. Joining the Lakesiders is 22 year old Louis Robles who is a centre forward that has signed from Spanish side San Roque de Lepe.
whilst at Colwyn Bay, Lassana has recently been on trial at Crewe Alexandra.
Representing Spanish second division clubs Cadiz, CD Roquetas and PV EJido whilst in Spain, Mendes arrived in Starting out at Liverpool aged nine, he spent eight years there England where he has played before a move to Wigan Athletic for both Radcliffe Borough and when he was 16. Two loan spells Stalybridge Celtic before moving to Colwyn Bay in followed at Macclesfield and September 2017. then Gloucester City prior to a
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NODDWYR / SPONSORS Diolch i’n noddwyr teyrngar am eu cefnogaeth y tymor hwn. Thank you to our loyal sponsors for their support this seaon. NODDWYR Y GEM / MATCH SPONSORS Aug. 23rd Aug. 30th Sept. 21st Sept. 27th Oct. 12th Oct. 19th Nov. 1st Nov. 15th Dec. 14th Dec. 30th Jan. 17th
The New Saints Connah’s Quay Cardiff Met Aberystwyth Town Carmarthen Town Barry Town United Newtown Airbus Penybont Caernarfon Town Cefn Druids
John Clwyd R. F. Jones
NODDWYR Y BEL / BALL SPONSORS Aug. 23rd Aug. 30th Sept. 21st Sept. 27th Oct. 12th Oct. 19th Nov. 1st Nov. 15th Dec. 14th Dec. 30th Jan. 17th
The New Saints Connah’s Quay Cardiff Met Aberystwyth Town Carmarthen Town Barry Town United Newtown Airbus Penybont Caernarfon Town Cefn Druids
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MARK PITMAN This coming weekend marks the start of a season of significant change for the domestic game in Wales. The Football Association of Wales’ control of the top-flight now extends to the second tier, and while it may be considered nothing more than an administrative technicality at this formative stage for those on the outside, the increased demands that accompany this change will lead to a number of the top flight. That has been the improvements both on and off situation in Wales in the past, the field. but not in the future. With teams now playing under There have been challenges for the banners of the JD Cymru Premier, JD Cymru North and JD clubs to meet the licensing requirements, but support Cymru South, there will be a uniformity in every respect, with remains available for those with the expansion to lower levels of the ambition to push for a place in the top tier of the domestic the pyramid system to follow. game. Volunteers remain the This weekend, the opening round of the Nathaniel MG Cup most important commodity for takes place across the country, every club, and the increasing while the twelve top-flight teams demands bring only increasing start their own domestic league pressure on an already limited human resource. campaigns in the middle of August. However, the recent increase in 3G surfaces as enabled clubs to But while the changes appear subtle, in reality, things will never became more self-sufficient and run themselves as a separate be quite the same again. The business away from the senior changes immediately bring team. It remains a challenge, regional balance across the country, while in the longer-term, but clubs appear more sustainable now in the top the aim will be to ensure that division than ever before. The there is regular promotion and ‘boom and bust’ culture of relegation to and from the top overspending to try and achieve division. It is an issue that has been a problem for far too long. European football remains purely through the financial Domestic licensing requirements carrot of qualification, but such for clubs competing in the spectacular demises have feeder leagues has played an become increasingly rare. important role in establishing this new administration from a And while The New Saints and solid foundation. There are few Connah’s Quay Nomads make domestic structures in the world national headlines for all the game where the majority of right reasons in Europe this clubs have no ambition to reach summer, so the incentive to
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follow their lead becomes stronger These are the flagship teams setting the standard both domestically and on the continent, and their success should be celebrated throughput the pyramid as they raise the profile of the game in Wales. Domestic football in Wales has had its problems over the years, and there is still much to do. There is no quick-fix, and patience is required as slow but sure progress is made. The critics that shouted the loudest at the formation of the League of Wales back in 1992 are no longer anywhere near as vocal, and the increasing respect from the Welsh football press and media continues to turn public perception. But for the modern game to progress in the modern world it must adopt modern principles when it comes to portraying a professional image. These days, people live their personal and professional lives through either a phone, tablet or laptop. Perfection has become the minimum standard expected from digital services, and the challenge now is for the domestic game to deliver on this front too.
I have been privy to an inside peak into the digital future of the domestic game, and while it remains in a development phase, there is an exciting future regarding what will shortly be delivered. It will be worth the wait for those with a thirst for knowledge, and we will soon welcome a digital presence that will portray our domestic game in the professional light it deserves. Clubs across Wales are embracing the new COMET system for completing a comprehensive range of administrative duties this season, and it is the live data collected directly from the clubs that will form the cornerstone of the new public-facing digital ‘Cymru’ at the heart of Welsh football. Alongside the naming system, a new visual identity has been created for the leagues. A key component of the FAW’s brand identity, the daffodil, has Forty-five clubs from across the previously been used to country will come together as represent the 11 players of the one community, under a new national teams and will now be identity: the Cymru Leagues. incorporated within the Cymru Leagues. ‘Cymru Premier’, the newly named top tier of Welsh football Seven daffodils, each representing one of the seven will form the peak of the new leagues of Welsh domestic pyramid system. ‘Cymru North’ and ‘Cymru South’ replaces the football’s top three tiers, upon completion of the pyramid Huws Gray Alliance and Welsh restructure, come together to League Division 1 respectively, form the striking ball logo. with both leagues coming under the FAW’s jurisdiction for the first time.
The Football Association of Wales has announced a new brand identity and sponsorship deal for the top two tiers of the men’s domestic game.
JD will continue their support of Welsh domestic football by becoming the title sponsor of all three divisions, which will henceforth be known as the JD Cymru Premier, JD Cymru North and JD Cymru South, with JD Cymru Leagues becoming the overarching name for the leagues. The three leagues encompass every corner of Wales, which is why the new bilingual naming system places
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portal. It is a fitting representation of this exciting new era, and while it will require patience to perfect, the long-term benefits will make it all worthwhile. Of course, the real action will take place on the field, and that is what the success of this new era will be judged upon. But as standards improve off the field, a new generation will naturally adopt a respect for the credibility of the pyramid system that has been missing for too long. Watch this space as the domestic game continues to evolve, because things will never quite be the same again. The recent success of our domestic teams has captured the true Welsh spirit of supporters across the country. A radical departure from past identities, the modern logo reflects the modernisation of the new pyramid structure and the future ambitions of Welsh football. JD recognise this and have been a partner of Welsh domestic football since 2015 and the new deal sees the FAW’s partnership with JD cemented for the next seven seasons, with the sponsorship running until the 2025-26 season.
NON LEAGUE PAPER Here we go! Nine months of twists and turns, shocks and surprises and everything in between is about to start all over again! It seems pre-season has raced by during this sweltering summer and we’re now set for the big season opener.
allows for the four champions and four play-off winners at Step 3 to be promoted. This is because from the 2020-21 season, Step 2 will be increasing from 22 clubs to 24, with four teams being relegated from each division. Relegation from Step 3 this season will see two teams go down from each division along with two third bottom clubs with the worst points-per-game ratio.
There is a few changes for the 2019-20 season as part of The FA’s National League System restructuring, working towards a This means, at Step 4, the seven ‘Pure Pyramid’ for the 2020-21 champions and seven play-off season of 1-2-4-8-16-17. winners will all be promoted. There is an eighth Step 4 division One interesting law being being introduced for the 2020-21 introduced across all levels of grassroots football is temporary season and that will be run by the Northern Premier League – dismissals also known as 'sin bins'. Players dissent will result in addressing some of the From 2020-21, Step 5 will increase 10-minute temporary dismissals travelling challenges in the north from 14 divisions to 16 and Step 6 of the country. from the pitch. will reduce from 20 to 17. The The mandatory rule change will There will be 24 clubs promoted United Counties League and Combined Counties Leagues from Step 5 to 4. The 14 be implemented up to Step 5 and Tier 3 and below in women's champions across Step 5 will go have been awarded an up, with second and third place additional Step 5 division each. football. in the North West Counties, The West Midlands Regional and Perhaps the main headline in Northern League and Northern East Midlands Counties are due terms of promotion and Counties East also automatically to lose their Step 6 status. The relegation this season is there promoted. clubs within those divisions will won’t be Super Play-offs at Step remain at Step 6 subject to The remaining 11 second-place 3. Last season the four play-off promotion and relegation on winners faced off in two one-off clubs will then be ranked on completion of the 2019-20 points-per-game and the four finals for a place at Step 2. season. The Hellenic League will highest will be promoted. This year, only the bottom two in have its current two Step 6 the National League North and With the remaining seven divisions reduced to one which second-placed clubs – a oneSouth with be relegated which avoids operating with two season scenario – will play-off divisions that are with the seven bottom-placed undersubscribed. Step 7 is also clubs at Step 4 for a winnerbeing aligned with County FAs to takes-all game. become the “pinnacle of county There will be 76 clubs from Step 6 football”. promoted to Step 5 – two clubs So there you have it! Plenty of from each of the two South West change for this season and Peninsula divisions and the top beyond as the FA works towards four from all other Step 6 a better Non-League structure. divisions. The bottom two clubs in each of the 20 divisions are All the best for the season liable to relegation. ahead and enjoy!
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BALA TOWN RHEOLWR / MANAGER: COLIN CATON
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ASHLEY MORRIS ANDREW BURNS SEAN SMITH STUART JONES JONNY SPITTLE LEE MOLYNEUX NATHAN BURKE MIKE HAYES HENRY JONES KIERAN SMITH EVAN HORWOOD JOSH TIBBETTS STEVE LESLIE RYAN VALENTINE DANIEL GOSSET LOUIS ROBLES SHAUN KELLY LASSANA MENDES ANTHONY STEPHENS CHRIS VENABLES
Y DYFARNWYR / MATCH OFFICIALS Bala Town would like to extend a warm welcome to our match officials this evening: Huw Jones Gareth Jones Connah Sears & Ryan Davies
GRESFORD ATHLETIC MANAGER: STEVE HALLIWELL
BEN JONES REECE AIREY JOE CULSHAW JACK JONES ASHTON WILLIAMS JOE DAVIES JAKE ELLISON HARRI LUCAS-JONES KIERAN EVANS NATHAN WILLIAMS JOSHUA GRIFFITHS JACK CHALONER PAUL WILLIAMS ALEX BUXTON JAKE EYRE MATTHEW WORRALL JORDAN MACCARTER OWEN ROBERTS
GEMAU NESAF / NEXT FIXTURES Airbus v Bala Town Gwener / Friday, 16 Awst / August Hollingsworth Group Stadium 7.45p.m. - JD Cymru Premier
Bala Town v The New Saints Gwener / Friday, 23 Awst / August Maes Tegid 7.45p.m. - JD Cymru Premier
Barry Town United v Bala Town Llun / Monday, 26 Awst / August Jenner Park 2.30p.m. - JD Cymru Premier
Bala Town v Connah’s Quay Gwener / Friday, 30 Awst / August Maes Tegid 7.45p.m. - JD Cymru Premier