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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.
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 13 NL Paper 05 Meet the Visitors 17 Club News 07 Player Q&A 17 Mark Pitman 08 TNS report 20 Team Lineups 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 Another big Friday evening fixture at Maes Tegid and the big games seem to keep on appearing on a weekly basis. This is our 3rd in 8 days and each one has its own significance. We came away from TNS last Friday evening hugely disappointed not to take something from the game and then faced a daunting challenge to travel to Prestatyn on Tuesday for a Nathaniel League Cup Quarter Final. Despite the abysmal start and playing with only 10 men for 80 minutes there was euphoria at
the final whistle when an astonishing second half performance produced the winning result. The confidence that the lads must have gained from this performance will hopefully be reproduced on the pitch this evening and we are desperately keen to reverse the result of our early season encounter with our visitors. Every single match in this League is tough and we look forward to an enthralling encounter again tonight. I must also tonight mention the progress of our fledgling Reserve team this season. They
have performed tremendously well so far and the close knit squad are enjoying this first season. They have 2 consecutive home Saturday fixtures after this weekend with a 2pm kickoff. Please come along to Maes Tegid and give them your support. The Clubs Christmas get together is on Saturday December 14 in the Plas. Save the date please!! All are welcome and tickets are on sale from myself. Huge game! Enjoy!
Bala Town F.C. are looking for volunteers to help on Reserves and Under 19’s matchdays at Maes Tegid. If you can help us by going on the canteen van, on the turnstiles or be able to open or close the 3G our please contact Hannah Gwenllian via: hannah.gwenllian@balatownfc.co.uk
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
http://www.dyffryn.mitsubishi-cars.co.uk
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Nigel
NEWTOWN
MEET THE VISITORS...
Dave Jones - A former Shrewsbury Town youth, Jones made his Robins debut back in 2007 and went on to make over 60 appearances, before moving to neighbours Caersws. He returned to the club in 2014, and has improved year on year. The top class shot stopper was part of the successful European side on 2015, and is going into his 10th season as a Robin.
for his second spell in 2013.
club came to an end in the summer of 2017. The winger, Nick Rushton - The former who can operate down the Wrexham striker is in his middle, then joined Midland second spell with the club Premier League side after permanently re-signing Haughmond and helped them in July 2017. He originally signed to league and cup success. on loan in 2011 from Wrexham, Craig Williams - Club captain scoring 11 goals in 29 Williams is going into his 13th appearances. He had spells with Hednesford and Barrow, season with the Robins, and before leaving the Racecourse 15th in the WPL. He has over to join Connah’s Quay. He was 350 appearances for the club, and has been a pivotal part of re-loaned to Newtown in Kieran Mills-Evans - KME was January 2016, scoring eight the squad in recent years. A a youngster at Chester City goals in 11 starts on the way to local lad and fans favourite, and Shrewsbury Town, before the play-offs. Williams, who also coaches joining the Robins on his the 12 to 19’s age groups in our Joe Kenton - The former release at 18. He has been a Academy. Wolves and Shrewsbury Town mainstay every since, a key winger arrived at Latham Park Alex Fletcher - The former part of the Robins rise in Shrewsbury Town youngster recent years, and has clocked from Tividale in January 2017, turned out for AFC Telford and has made 34 apps, up over 100 starts in a United and Ross County, scoring six goals. Newtown shirt. before joining the Robins from Neil Mitchell - The winger is in Sam Phillips - Phillips arrived Tividale in July 2016. He scored at the club in July 2018 his second spell at Latham four times in 30 appearances, following a short spell with IFK before swapping Mid Wales Park, and is about to go into his eighth campaign with the Osterund in the Swedish for Southport in 2017. second division. He spent ten After a brief spell he signed for club. He began his career at Caersws, joined Newtown and years in the academy at Stafford Rangers, before Wolverhampton Wanderers then went back to the coming back to Newtown in Bluebirds before coming back before his association with the January 2018.
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LATEST FROM MAES TEGID A Fun Run has been organised to support Danny Gosset. The Celtest Foryd 5K Fun Run will take place on Sunday, 24th November in aid of Danny which is set to start at 10.30a.m. with a 1km fun run for children. This will be followed by the 5km run at 11.00a.m., with registration costing £10 for adults and £5 for children. It will be an official race under the 'Run Wales' calendar and entry is open now! For more information or to register for the run visit www.runwales.com/events/ foryd-5k
The Co-op Bala store have been raising money for midfielder Danny Gosset over the last week. All of the staff donated items to make up a luxury hamper with them also taking it turns selling raffle tickets with all funds going towards supporting Danny who is currently undergoing treatment. The draw was taken with Cynthia & Trev winning the hamper and a massive £520 raised for Danny! A huge thank you to Rhian and all the Co-op staff for their wonderful support and of course to everyone who took part in the raffle.
Next week we will be hosting a NEWFA Cup tie at Maes Tegid. Following this week's postponement, we will be welcoming Castell Alun Colts v Bala Town in the Second Round of the NEWFA Challenge Cup.
On Sunday, 17th November, the Lakesiders will travel to The Wern to face on Barmouth & Dyffryn Vets with kickoff at 1.00p.m.
The JD Cymru Premier have confirmed that the Lakesiders will be live on Sgorio.
The game will take place on Wednesday, 6th November with kickoff at 8.00p.m.
Town's home fixture v Airbus on Friday, 15th November will now kickoff at 8.00p.m. with Bala Town's Over 35's will be the game being shown live on S4C and online. in action in November. Following further success with our Monday night sessions, a match has been organised.
Our game at Aberystwyth Town next Friday will also be shown live on S4C.
Bala Town F.C. are looking for parents to help out with the Media of the Academy. If you can help us our please contact our media officer Hannah Gwenllian via: hannah.gwenllian@balatownfc.co.uk
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MEET THE PLAYER: JONNY SPITTLE Full Name: Jonny Spittle Date of Birth: 13/8/94 Position: Defender Team you Support? Liverpool Your biggest influence in football and why? Dad. Always been there from a kid supporting. Which player do you / did you look-up to? Steven Gerrard Best player played against? Pereira (Man Utd) What was your initiation song? Drake - Hold On Fave TV show? Power Ronaldo or Messi? Messi Night in or Night out? Night out Your dream car? Lamborghini
One city you want to visit? Rome
Van Dijk, Ronaldo Your go-to takeaway order? Chicken kebab
Last minute winner or match Celebrity crush? winning tackle? Kylie Jenner Winner You’re in a 5 a side team and Perfect concert line-up? Drake need 4 other players, who is in your team? Which teammate is the Alison, Messi, most intelligent? Shaun Kelly Which teammate is the funniest? Burkey Which teammate is the angriest? Venners Which teammate is the best looking? Myself Which teammate spends the most time in the shower? Lee Moly
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THE NEW SAINTS 1, BALA TOWN 0 Town rue missed penalty as Saints snap the three points. At a rainswept Park Hall, the Lakesiders took on The New Saints in the latest Friday night football. With the Lakesiders without Chris Venables who missed out due to suspension, Bala began the first half well but tended to show a bit too much respect towards our opponents who took a hold of the half early on. Draper and Redmond had opportunities in the first five minutes for the home side as they posed a threat prior to Blaine Hudson rising higher than anyone but placed his header wide of the upright on 13 minutes. Morris was called into action to deny a close range Draper chance before Ebbe’s opportunity was blocked away. Town’s shotstopper made a fantastic block to keep Hudson’s three yard chance out as the Saints lifted the pressure.
Henry Jones’ superb ball into the area was cleared by the TNS centre halves before Burke tried to unleash Robles but the referee colliding with the cross before the interval. From the restart, the home side had a massive opportunity to take the lead when a triple chance involving Brobbel was cleared off the line twice and then Morris palming the ball away from danger.
However, Bala were quick on the counter and were awarded a spot kick with 25 minutes played giving them a fantastic opportunity to take the lead. Unfortunately Robles’ powerful strike was pushed With 56 minutes played, the Saints around the post keeping the were ahead as Brobbel’s cross match at 0-0. picked out Draper with his header A threat on the break, the home soaring into the bottom right side took advantage of the Town hand corner. backline being out of position and were driving forward three against After going behind, the Lakesiders two but Morris blocked Redmond’s came out strong and delivered an chance before Burns put his body impressive second half display that should’ve seen them earn on the line to send the follow-up themselves a points return. out for a corner. Towards the end of the half, Town were coming more into the match and started applying some pressure of their own.
Playing with confidence, Steve Leslie was released into the box but Harrison could collect before Robles drove into the area, was
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fouled by Redmond but saw his claims waved away. Mendes in the heart of the midfield was setting up Smith and Robles but Bala just couldn’t put one of their numerous half chances to bed. Davies was beaten by Kieran Smith but his strike had too much power on the slick surface and went out of play before Henry Jones’ daisycutter from 30 yards out was pulled wide of the far upright. Bala were having a sustained spell of possession and a minute from time had the ball in the net through Kieran Smith but his brilliant strike was ruled out for offside by the linesman late on. Town will feel slightly disappointed not to be taking away a points return after such a promising performance but should be happy with their efforts in such appauling weather conditions.
MEET THE PLAYER: SHAUN KELLY Full Name: Shaun Kelly Date of Birth: 11/12/88 Position: Central Defender Occupation: Student Team you Support? Everton F.C. Your biggest influence in football and why? My Dad. He was a footballer and I aspired to be like him and do him proud. Which player do you / did you look-up to? Paolo Mandini Best player played against? Lamborginhi Urus Fabian Delph One city you want to visit? What was your initiation Vancouver song? Walking in Memphis Last minute winner or match Fave TV show? winning tackle? Tackle Rick & Morty You’re in a 5 a side team Ronaldo or Messi? Messi and need 4 other players, who is in your team? Night in or Night out? Ederson (GK), Cannavaro, Night In Messi, Ronaldo (R9) Your dream car?
Your go-to takeaway order? Indian Celebrity crush? Sienna Miller Perfect concert line-up? Tash Sultana, Jimi Hendrix, Fleetwood Mac, Swedish House Mafia. Which teammate is the most intelligent? Great question! Which teammate is the funniest? Venners Which teammate is the angriest? Burnsey Which teammate is the best looking? Got to be the model, slickback Spittle Which teammate spends the most time in the shower? Probably me. Can’t beat a good shower.
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11
Jan.
Dec.
Nov.
Oct.
Sept
Aug.
9 16 23 26 30 7 14 21 27 4 8 12 19 25 29 1 8 15 30 14 20 26 30 12 17
Date
[WC = Welsh Cup]
LC2 CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP LC3 CP CP CP LC4 CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP
7-0 1-2 3-1 2-2 0-1 1-6 1-0 1-2 2-0 0-3 1-1 2-1 1-1 1-0 1-2 7.45pm 8.00pm 8.00pm 2.30pm 2.30pm 7.45pm 5.15pm 7.45pm 2.30pm 7.45pm
-2 1 1 4 3 5 6 6 5 -3 4 5 --
-3 6 7 7 10 10 10 13 16 -19 20 20 -Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Tibbetts Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns
Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Kelly Kelly Spittle Spittle Kelly Kelly Spittle Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Leslie Kelly Burke Burke Burke
Goalscorers in Red
Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith
LC = League Cup]
Com. KO/Res. Pos / Pts Starting XI
[CP = Cymru Premier
Gresford Ath. Airbus UK The New Saints Barry Town Utd Connah’s Quay Penybont Newtown Cardiff Met Aberystwyth Cefn Druids Bangor City Carmarthen Tn Barry Town Utd The New Saints Prestatyn Town Newtown Aberystwyth Airbus Carmarthen Tn Penybont Connah’s Quay Caernarfon Tn Caernarfon Tn Cardiff Met Cefn Druids
Opposition
Key: [Away Matches in Red]
Molyneux Molyneux Molyneux Molyneux Molyneux H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones Horwood H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones
Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Smith Smith Smith Jones Burke Smith Smith Smith
Robles 3 Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Molyneux K Smith Stephens Stephens Stephens
Venables Venables 2 Venables 2 Venables Venables Venables 2 Venables Venables Venables 2 Venables Stephens Venables Venables Leslie Venables
Jones, Molyneux, Leslie, Horwood, Stephens
Molyneux, Horwood, Spittle, Jones, Stephens
Spittle, Molyneux, Leslie, Horwood
Stephens, Leslie, Molyneux, Jones, Horwood
Burke, Venables, Sullivan, Smith, Stephens
Hayes, Leslie, Molyneux, Horwood, Spittle
Hayes, Leslie, Horwood, Molyneux, Stephens
Hayes, Stephens, Leslie, Horwood, Sullivan
Molyneux, Smith, Horwood, Hayes. Stephens
Horwood, Molyneux, Smith, Stephens
Jones, Smith, Horwood, Hayes, Kelly, Sullivan
Morris, Jones, Smith, Hayes, Horwood
Smith, Horwood, Jones, Hayes, Morris, Sullivan
Horwood, Smith, Hayes, Kelly, Jones
Spittle, Hayes, Jones, Kelly
Subs.
BALA TOWN 2019-20 FIXTURES
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
The New Saints Connah’s Quay Cardiff Met Aberystwyth Town
Oct. 12th Oct. 19th Nov. 1st
Carmarthen Town Barry Town United Newtown
Nov. 15th
Airbus
Dec. 14th Dec. 30th Jan. 17th
Penybont Caernarfon Town Cefn Druids
John Clwyd R. F. Jones Badell Aur Restaurant – 01678 520310 FUW Insurance Services www.fuwinsurance.co.uk Williams Homes – williams-homes.co.uk Ado Vogt & Gee Gi, Liechtenstein Clogau Motors, Bontddu www.clogaumotors.co.uk Cigydd Bala Butcher www.balabutcher.co.uk Plas yn Dre, Bala – www.plasyndre.co.uk
NODDWYR Y BEL / BALL SPONSORS Aug. 23rd Aug. 30th Oct. 12th Oct. 19th Nov. 1st
The New Saints Connah’s Quay Carmarthen Town Barry Town United Newtown
Nov. 15th Dec. 14th Dec. 30th Jan. 17th
Airbus Penybont Caernarfon Town Cefn Druids
Y Cyfnod Cafe & Bistro - www.cyfnod.com
Eric Green Hereford Civil Service F.C. Jonah Armstrong Clogau Motors, Bontddu www.clogaumotors.co.uk Emma Whitehouse Daniel Jones, Llandyrnog
We have an array of corporate opportunities available that will suit all budgets. Our Commercial Director Arwel Lloyd Jones, would be delighted to discuss your requirements. Get in touch with him via armarno9@btinternet.com or 01678 540220 or 07796 692846.
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NON LEAGUE PAPER Last Sunday’s front page of The Non-League Paper was going to be about the first round proper of the FA Cup. About the excitement of the upcoming draw at Maldon & Tiptree as Non-League clubs eagerly awaited those lifechanging ties to come out of the hat – and what a draw it turned out to be. It was going to be about those clubs daring to dream. Isthmian Premier club Carshalton Athletic after they upset National League side Dagenham & Redbridge. Or Nantwich Town, who beat National League North high-fliers King’s Lynn Town. Then there was the story of Kingstonian beating higher league opposition in Dartford. There was also the drama at Potters Bar Town, who scored an equaliser against neighbours Barnet in the 11th minute of stoppage time to set up a replay. And there was the excitement of goalkeeper Alan Julian heading an injury-time equaliser at Sutton United to keep Billericay Town’s FA Cup dream alive.
Borough walked off the pitch following alleged racism towards goalkeeper Valery Douglas Pajetat. Two men, aged 23 and 26, have since been arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated common assault. The incident came in the 65th minute following a Yeovil penalty where he claims he was spat at and verbally abused by fans. The match didn’t restart and was abandoned. Boss Tom Loizou also said defender Coby Rowe was targeted. English football was appalled when the men’s senior team was on the end of horrific abuse and there have been calls for strong action against Bulgaria and their authorities. We are equally appalled at these allegations. FA chairman Greg Clarke spoke in the immediate aftermath of the Bulgaria game. He rightly pointed out that we must also look at the game in this country because there are issues that clearly need addressing.
for their response to the situation and it looks like Yeovil have reacted in a similar way. Boss Darren Sarll says they stand alongside Haringey and the club say they will be cooperating with the investigation.
If proven, the two supporters should never watch a game of football in this country again. Of course, 99.9 per cent of Yeovil fans will be ashamed of what There is no hiding from that fact. has allegedly happened. The conversation must include Hopefully anyone who has seen what we are doing about our or heard anything comes forward to ensure the The front page was supposed to game. It’s four weeks since allegations were made during investigation can be as carry pictures capturing all the the National League game thorough as is needed. emotion of this great competition on another action- between Hartlepool United and As we’ve said before, we all have Dover Athletic. packed day. a responsibility to drive this abhorrent behaviour out of our Instead, for the second time in a Dover players Inih Effiong and Ricky Modeste were subjected game and out of our society. month, it carried a story about to racist abuse and gestures. allegations of racism. Once Pools players heard it and were No footballer, no person, should again, the ugly side of society upset at what they saw coming be attacked just because of has reared its head in Nontheir skin colour. from some of their home fans. League, and English, football. While they considered walking By stopping an FA Cup game in On the back of the shameful off the pitch, in the end the its tracks, the message will be scenes in Bulgaria when game was played to a louder. Racists are not welcome England players were racially conclusion. in our football grounds at any abused and the game was level. Only then can we get back Hartlepool were rightly praised twice suspended, Haringey to talking about the football.
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TEIARS
NANT CONWY TYRES
CARS ATV 4x4 TRUCKS AGRICULTURE Iard y Stesion, Station Road, Llanrwst, Conwy LL26 0EH Tel: 01492 641858
Fax: 01492 641241
PLAYER SPONSORSHIPS
JOSH TIBBETTS
ANDY BURNS
SEAN SMITH
STUART JONES
Chris Robinson
Emma Whitehouse
Nigel P Cooke
Peter Spitzmaul, Hereford
JONNY SPITTLE
LEE MOLYNEUX
NATHAN BURKE
MIKE HAYES
Sponsorship Available
Sponsorship Available
Katie & Matthew Spitzmaul
Sponsorship Available
HENRY JONES
KIERAN SMITH
EVAN HORWOOD
STEVE LESLIE
Cigydd Bala Butcher www.balabutcher.co.uk
Barry Yates
Sponsorship Available
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youtube.com/c/RockinRobbo
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DANNY GOSSET
LOUIS ROBLES
SHAUN KELLY
LASSANA MENDES
Sponsorship Available
Tilly and Iago Galdo
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Lee, George, Chris & Foxy
ANTHONY STEPHENS
CHRIS VENABLES
SION SULLIVAN
TOM STEPHENS
Sponsorship Available
Sion and John Roberts
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ASHLEY MORRIS
COLIN CATON
STEPHEN FISHER
RYAN VALENTINE
Iwan Bishop
Sponsorship Available
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Player Sponsorship is on a first come first served basis. First Team players sponsorship is £75.00 and at the end of the season, you will receive their shirt (home or away) autographed. Details regarding sponsorship for our Reserves and Under 19’s players will be released in due course.
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LATEST FROM MAES TEGID Fixtures announcement for the Reserves Following a cup exit at the start of the October month, at the hands of Connah’s Quay Nomads Reserves, they headed off to Airbus UK to face ‘The Wingmakers’ in which would be the end to their unbeaten start to the league. Our Reserves will end up playing only 2 league matches this past month, with another visit from Connah’s Quay Nomads ahead, which will be tomorrow afternoon (Saturday 26th of October, 2:30p.m.) As they prepare for their final game of October, their next run The Football Association of of fixtures have been announced which takes us up to Wales are currently offering two new refereeing courses that the 16th of November. centres around officiating at The fixtures are as follow: junior football plus the core FAW online refereeing course to Saturday 2nd of November – become a fully qualified match Llay Welfare Colts v Bala Town official. Reserves – 2:30p.m. Saturday 9th of November – Bala Town Reserves v Saltney Town Reserves – 2:30p.m.
The courses are as follows:
Advanced course – £80 (including full kit and accessories (approx. 10 hours Saturday 16th of November – Bala Town Reserves v Cefn Mawr on-line learning time, plus attendance at a one day Rangers Reserves – 2:30p.m. practical session).
Become a Referee!
Without referees, there is no football game. Simple.
candidates to Referee junior football). The course culminates with an outdoor practical session with two Elite referees from tier 1 and 2 of Welsh football with the next planned practical session will be held at Newtown F.C. on Sunday, 24th November, starting at 11.00a.m. The website for the course is www.becomearef.wales
The Lakesiders are currently looking for local referees to officiate Academy fixtures Leaders Award – £20 (approx. 2- and our 6 a Side League so 3 hours on-line learning time please make sure to get and allows successful yourselves signed up!
Bala Town are currently trialling digital match programmes for the 2019/20 season. The programmes are on https://issuu.com/balatownfc you can read them on a desktop and also download the app from the app store to read on a mobile or tablet. To read this season’s matchday programmes please use the link: http://www.balatownfc.co.uk/programmes/
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NODDWYR - SPONSORS Huge thank you to our sponsors for their support this afternoon! Diolch am eich cefnogaeth heddiw.
Match and Ball Sponsor:
Clogau Motors, Bontddu www.clogaumotors.co.uk RESERVES & COLTS LEAGUE TABLE Team
Latest standings (as of 28th October)
1. Connah's Quay 2. Airbus UK 3. Cefn Mawr Rangers 4. Mynydd Isa 5. Brymbo 6. Rhydymwyn 7. Bala Town 8. Cefn Albion 9. Saltney Town 10. Llangollen Town 11. Ruthin Town * 12. Llay Welfare Colts 13. Overton 14. Johnstown YFC 15. Coedpoeth Utd
P
8 10 7 8 8 7 9 8 7 10 9 9 8 7 7
W 8 7 7 6 4 4 3 3 2 2 3 2 1 1 0
18
D 0 1 0 1 3 1 4 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 2
L
0 2 0 1 1 2 2 5 3 7 6 7 6 6 5
F
41 51 18 35 28 25 17 21 15 11 22 14 12 8 8
A
11 11 7 9 11 20 17 21 21 36 31 25 32 54 20
Points
24 22 21 19 15 13 13 9 8 7 6 6 4 3 2
MARK PITMAN Giggs taking the direct route to EURO 2020 Wales recently came through a crucial double-header against Slovakia and Croatia relatively unscathed having gained two credible 1-1 draws. Although Ryan Giggs’ side still sit fourth in Group E, two victories in the final two games next month could well be enough to take Wales back to the finals of the Euros. The competition holds a special place in Welsh football folklore following EURO 2016, and the memories of that summer remain vivid in the minds of players like Gareth Bale, Joe Allen, Aaron Ramsey, and other key personnel.
The towering Wigan Athletic striker still has a lot to prove at international level, but his performances against Slovakia and Croatia confirm that he will remain part of Giggs’ plans for a It seemed as if qualification was long time to come. slipping away from Wales in the At the business end of the summer with back-to-back campaign, it is results that defeats against Croatia and Hungary. However, the side have matter more than regrouped, and the introduction performances, and Giggs has taken a more direct of Kieffer Moore in attack has offered another dimension and route in order to ensure his side remain in contention for a place option to the team. at the finals. Giggs has continued to experiment with his team since his appointment in January 2018, and despite naming an unchanged starting line-up for the first time, he is still far from settled on his preferred team. In addition to Moore, Tom
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Lockyer also started both games. Fielding a hugely inexperienced back four, Giggs took far more risks in his team selection than his central defenders did with the ball, but he will have been pleased with the contribution of Lockyer and Joe Rodon all the same. However, the pair appeared more concerned with not giving the ball away than making any positive move forward when in possession, and at times the team were crying out for a senior figure to take hold of the ball at the back. Captain Ashley Williams was a frustrated figure sat on the bench for the two games, but the results vindicated Giggs’ approach. The introduction of Moore suggested a far more direct style of play, but this was compensated by the return of Jonny Williams, and his creativity offered another option to the side. Wales created enough chances in the opening half against Slovakia to win the game, and had spells against Croatia in
early as possible. However, his tactical approach will again depend on the availability of Aaron Ramsey. The Juventus midfielder again missed the latest round of fixtures through injury, and has yet to feature in the current qualifying campaign. Although the November fixtures may be too soon for David Brooks as he continues his recovery from a long-term injury, having both players back for the play-offs could make a crucial difference for Wales.
Cardiff which on another day could have added to Bale’s solitary goal.
Despite the negativity that has surrounded the campaign, Wales remain in a solid position of what has been a very competitive group, and it is still all to play for with the final placings set to be decided in the next few weeks.
Fixtures against Azerbaijan and Hungary now follow before a potential play-off, and Giggs will There was an interesting side be desperate to put his plans in note to Giggs’ decision to move to a more direct style in that it place for the two fixtures as
coincided with the departure of FAW Technical Director Osian Roberts. Part of the senior team coaching staff, Roberts was a very influential figure before taking up a similar role with the Moroccan FA in the summer. Introducing the ‘Welsh way’ of playing through the pathway system, it would have been against Roberts’ ideals to compromise on this when it came to the senior side. Although Giggs had the final say, Roberts would have been keen to ensure the philosophy didn’t change despite the desperate need for results. Of course, this may have just been a timely coincidence, but Giggs is now showing another side to his managerial ability, and at a key period in the campaign. It could be decisive in terms of qualification, one way or the other.
JD CYMRU TABLE Latest standings (as of 28th October)
Team
1. Barry Town United 2. Connah's Quay 3. The New Saints 4. Caernarfon Town 5. Bala Town 6. Cardiff Met 7. Newtown 8. Cefn Druids 9. Airbus UK 10. Aberystwyth Town 11. Penybont 12. Carmarthen Town
P
11 12 12 12 12 11 12 11 12 12 11 12
W 8 7 8 6 6 4 4 3 3 2 1 0
20
D 3 5 1 3 2 5 3 3 1 4 2 4
L
0 0 3 3 4 2 5 5 8 6 8 8
F
17 20 33 17 22 14 11 15 13 15 16 13
A
7 9 15 15 12 11 13 17 23 31 28 25
Points 27 26 25 21 20 17 15 12 10 10 5 4
PRESTATYN 1, BALA TOWN 2 It was an eventful night for the Lakesiders on Tuesday evening as they took on Prestatyn Town in the Quarter Finals of the Nathaniel MG Cars League Cup. Taking on the current JD Cymru North leaders, Spittle, Venables and Tibbetts came into the Town line-up. The game couldn’t have started any worse for Town who found themselves trailing after only a minute and twenty seconds on the clock. Rob Hughes picked the ball up on the halfway line driving forwards and finding Jack Kenny, his shot was blocked into Stead’s path who placed the ball into the bottom corner. After a ten yard shot by Stephens which was saved by Rushton down the other end, Bala’s evening was dealt another early blow. Nathan Burke was sent for an early shower after a clumsy tackle on the touchline meaning Town had over 80 minutes to play with ten men. Much to their credit, it was quite the performance by the home side who were extremely dangerous on the attack and passing the ball around brilliantly through Kenny, Stead, Maher and Hughes. A half volley by the home side narrowly missed the target before Bala had an excellent opportunity to be on level terms before the break as Venables released Robles put he fired his chance wide of the far post. The second half was much improved from a Bala point of view.
An early threat between Venables and Robles was cleared away by Prestatyn with Bala now looking more confident in their play and showing some much needed character.
Burns was denied as Rushton pushed the ball around the post before Leslie’s low thirty yard strike fizzed out of play before down the other end, Kai Edwards’ header was collected by Tibbetts
The home side continued to pressure however but Bala’s backline were holding strong against the pacy Prestatyn frontline.
A series of corners saw an almighty goalmouth scramble in the box which somehow Prestatyn managed to clear with four minutes of play remaining.
Bala were building momentum and had four consecutive opportunities involving Mendes, Leslie and Venables cleared away by the Seasiders. Sean Smith crossed the ball deep into the area but Robles placed his header over minutes later.
However, Town weren’t done just yet as on the 89th minute, Steve Leslie delivered a pin point ball into the area which arrived to Lassana Mendes who instinctively buried the ball into the back of the net at near post sending the Lakesiders into wild celebrations!
They did have the ball in the net on the 69th minute but the linesman deemed it offside. Pressure was mounting and finally Town’s efforts paid off on the 71st minute.
With four minutes of additional time shown and the Lakesiders now ahead there was no time for sloppyness with Jonny Spittle making an incredible block in the box in the final minute to deny a goalbound Kenny equaliser.
A corner by Leslie picked out Robles who outjumped his marker An incredible evening for the Lakesiders who showed grit, to bullet the ball into the back of determination, plenty of the net to make it 1-1. Game on! character and put in a fantastic Bala were finishing the game team shift in to come back from strongly with fitness starting to 1-0 down to win 2-1 with ten men show as they now looked for the and book themselves a spot in winner. the Semi Final stage.
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JD CYMRU NORTH & SOUTH With only three games of action in Tier 2 this weekend, we roundup all the action from the JD Cymru North and the JD Cymru South. STM Sports 3-4 Briton Ferry Llansawel Briton Ferry Llansawel recovered from 2-0 down after three minutes to pick up a valuable away win against STM Sports on Saturday. Sam Baker’s own goal opened the scoring for the hosts, before Lamin Conteh doubled their lead within a minute. But, Briton Ferry responded on 16 minutes through a Mark Jones penalty. They say lightning doesn’t strike twice, but it struck three times during the match as the former Carmarthen forward netted twice more in the second half, both from the penalty spot to complete his hat-trick. But the comeback was complete on 80 minutes when substitute Tyler Brock came on to net the winner with 10 minutes remaining.
hosts claimed all three points in injury time when Arion Julian Sobers-Assue was on hand to bag the final, but decisive goal of the game at Sketty Park. Rhyl 0-3 Colwyn Bay Colwyn Bay made it five games unbeaten on Saturday as they turned over JD Cymru North opposition Rhyl at Belle Vue. With the game in doubt due to severe weather conditions, much praise must be handed to the groundsman for getting this league fixture the green light.
Swansea University 3-2 Llanelli Town
But, Colwyn Bay soon dissipated any early joy, as Damian Ketley opened the scoring for the visitors after just three minutes.
Swansea University mounted a second half comeback to turn over title challengers Llanelli Town in their JD Cymru South fixture.
Rhyl did put up a spirited display, and with the game only 1-0 at the break, there was cause for optimism of a second half comeback.
However, Sion Edwards netted after 51 minutes to increase the Seagulls’ advantage. Thomas McCready failed from the penalty spot to increase the lead further, but the William Toms reduced the deficit disappointment was soon on 66 minutes, before he added forgotten when Mitchell Bryant a second on 79 minutes. But, the Nathan Logan’s first half double saw the Reds go into the break in the ascendancy, but the Students came back fighting in the second period.
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bagged a late goal to give Craig Hogg’s men all three points. Corwen have appointed Sion Tudor-Jones as their new firstteam manager. Nick Jones has been appointed as his assistant, after accepting the role. Tudor-Jones was the assistant manager at Porthmadog but stood down last month. He will begin his reign with a home fixture at Buckley Town on October, 26. Andy Hill has stood down as manager of Cymru South side Llanelli Town. Hill, 40, leaves Llanelli after three years in charge, overseeing two promotions and a League Cup win. “It’s with a heavy heart that I have stepped down from my role at Llanelli Town with immediate effect,” tweeted Hill. “The group of players at the club are the best about and I can’t fault their commitment and effort. I wish them and everyone at Llanelli all the best for the future.”
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BALA TOWN RHEOLWR / MANAGER: COLIN CATON 1 JOSH TIBBETTS 2 ANDREW BURNS 3 SEAN SMITH 4 STUART JONES 5 ANTHONY STEPHENS 6 JONNY SPITTLE 7 LEE MOLYNEUX 8 NATHAN BURKE 9 MIKE HAYES 10 HENRY JONES 11 KIERAN SMITH 12 EVAN HORWOOD 14 ASHLEY MORRIS 15 STEVE LESLIE 16 RYAN VALENTINE 17 DANIEL GOSSET 18 LOUIS ROBLES 19 SHAUN KELLY 20 LASSANA MENDES 21 TOM STEPHENS 22 SION SULLIVAN 25 CHRIS VENABLES
NEWTOWN 1 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 26
MANAGER: CHRIS HUGHES Dave JONES Sean MACALLISTER Kieran MILLS-EVANS Jay DENNY Neil MITCHELL Nick RUSHTON Ian SHERIDAN George HARRY Joe KENTON Khamrhan STEVENTON Matthew WILLIAMS Jack THORN Sam PHILLIPS Lifumpa MWANDWE Craig WILLIAMS Tom GOODWIN Dave ROSE Niall FLINT Alex FLETCHER Jay BROWNFIELD Sam BARNES
Y DYFARNWYR / MATCH OFFICIALS Bala Town would like to extend a warm welcome to our match officials this afternoon: Bryn Markham-Jones, Ashley Davis, James Sheils & Alex Livesey
NODDWYR / SPONSORS Match and Ball Sponsors: Clogau Motors, Bontddu www.clogaumotors.co.uk 01341 430300
GEMAU NESAF / NEXT FIXTURES Aberystwyth Town v Bala Town Gwener / Friday 8 Tachwedd / November Park Avenue 7.45p.m. - JD Cymru Premier
Bala Town v Airbus UK Gwener / Friday 15 Tachwedd / Nov. Maes Tegid 7.45p.m. - JD Cymru Premier
Carmarthen Town v Bala Town Sadwrn / Sat. 30 Tachwedd / November Richmond Park 2.30p.m. - JD Cymru Premier