-
IN THIS ISSUE RHIFYN YMA BALA TOWN
13
FOOTBALL CLUB Maes Tegid, Castle Street, Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7UU Rhif Cyswllt / Contact No.: 07818 404516
www.balatownfc.co.uk CYFARWYDDWYR / DIRECTORS
21
18
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 05 Meet the Visitors 19 07 Player Q&A 21 08 Flint report 24
NL Paper Reserves Mark Pitman 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 2020. 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
3
NODIADAU NIGEL’S NOTES were ended at the first hurdle in pitches have made me our last competitive fixture. consider whether it’s about time we all had a serious Quite obviously the huge consultation as to why disappointment of the Flint It’s a long time since our last Academy/Junior football defeat still lingers but the team match here and the should be played at this time have a big opportunity tonight disappointment of being of the year. There must be to remedy that performance unable to play this fixture last huge benefits in playing more and continue our fine League weekend adds to the Club’s during non winter months and form to continue the challenge displeasure with the way our a full debate is surely at the top of table. fixtures have fallen. We must necessary to discuss all the also sympathise with our visitors We put on a superb show when implications, advantages and tonight who have had to make disadvantages. Just a thought we traveled south for the the long journey north this to provoke dialogue! reverse fixture against our evening following the visitors and will hope that some Our next home fixture is on abandonment of their Welsh elements of that excellent December 30th v Caernarfon. Cup game and the technical showing will be We will have a Licensed Bar rescheduling last Saturday. repeated this evening. The for the evening for all to carry Difficult for all concerned as we tremendous competitiveness of on with the festive indulgence this JD Cymru League will dash headlong into the festive and we would love to ensure another tough and period. We warmly welcome all welcome as many as possible demanding effort to secure the from Penybont for their first visit for this very important match. to Bala and hope you sincerely rewards. Enjoy tonight and have a very enjoy our hospitality and On another tack the last few Happy Christmas. friendship. weeks of inclement weather, Nigel dark evenings and sodden Our own Welsh Cup ambitions
Nadolig Llawen pawb! Croeso I Faes Tegid am y gem ola adre cyn dolig.
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
4
PENYBONT
MEET THE VISITORS...
Rhys Wilson - Rhys is the clubs undisputed number 1. A former Swansea City and Aberdeen player, he was awarded the Team Captaincy and has stepped up to the plate. He pulled off some magnificent saves through the season and was the best keeper in the Welsh League.
Kieran Howard - Kieran has been looking very good in pre season and likes to dominate the midfield battle area. Always looking to get on the ball to set up the next attack. Keiran always has an eye for a goal and will always get his fair share for the team.
James Saddler - Another quality Liam Walsh - Liam joined us signing last season as 'Sadds' from Carmarthen Town and is became the midfield lynchpin' an all action player. and took the team to another Unfortunately injury ruled him level. A cool and calm charchter, out for the majority of last James has been a very season and he hasn't long influential player. Great come back. It is like a new experience and will make us signing has arrived in pre even stronger in the middle of season. Still a way to go but has the park and looks very classy been looking sharp in training. during pre season. Also played for Wrexham FC. Oli Dalton - Oli joined us from Kane Owen - Kane is one of the Goytre (Gwent) and had a very managers best signings and impressive debut season. His has settled into the club partnership with Sam last year superbly well and seems to be was very hard to break down enjoying himself. A strong and was the corner stone of the defender and an equally great 'invincible' league campaign. He attacker who creates a number will now be looking to form a of chances each game. Always new partnership this season. on form and hopefully looking Adam Carpenter - Chippy is a for more goals from free kicks.
5
classy player and played a lot of the season as a full back last year and made the position his own and went onto have a great season. Chippy also has a habit of scoring screamers in games and always gives his best. Cullen Kinsella - Cullen is a fantastic talent and we are delighted that Cullen has signed for us again this season as he has a big future ahead of him. Scores some fantastic goals and looks stylish in the middle of the park. Cullen is continuing to improve each season and we expect another big season again from him. Kostya Georgievsky - Kostya is another high energy player who scores a lot of goals for the team and surprisingly a lot with his head as he has a magnificent leap. Another player who has flourished under the guidance of Griff and Gilo and will be looking to add to his growing reputation. Curtis Hutson - Curtis had a
superb debut season last year and was probably the most fouled player in the Welsh League! Outstanding balance with the ball at his feet and will look to continue his excellent form from last year. Will be looking to get amongst the goals and will also create a lot of chances for the team. Luke Borrelli - Luke's debut season for the club saw him claim the Top Scorer award jointly with Cullen. A very unselfish player who leaves it all out on the pitch with his outstanding work rate. Always a threat to the opposition and has been a great signing for the club. Daniel Summerfield - Daniel is a new signing for this season as the manager tries to beef up the defense for the new season. Daniel plays as a full back and has been impressive in pre season and we have high hopes for him. Calm on the ball and looks to overlap if it is available. Nathan Wood - Another new signing and one we chased hard to bring in because he was a thorn in our side last season whilst playing for Undy. A very clever player who has shone in pre season and looks like he has always been part of the squad. This could be a great season for Nathan.
Billy Borge - Billy has continued his charge through the Penybont ranks and became a big part of the squad last season. Griff and Gilo have taken it on themselves to beef Billy up ready for the new season. A versatile player who can cover a number of positions which is vital to the squad. Improves every year.
Matthew Harris - Matthew joins us after spending 13 years at Merthyr Town as a big player in their team. Equally at home in defense as well as midfield, Matthew brings calm to the game and is another who has stood out in pre season.
Daniel Griffiths - Daniel has joined us on loan from Cardiff City and looks to have a bright Daniel Jefferies - Daniel is a big future in front of him. He has signing for the club this year as already started to hit the goal he joins us from Dundee. A local trail in pre season and is a great player who has had a great boost to the team. His former career already and he is only 20. clubs include Wrexham and Seems to have already settled Liverpool. into the club and will be looking Owain Warlow - Owain is one of to become the dominant the most stylish players around defender in the team and lead and there is no better sight than the team. him running at the opposition Lewis Baldwin - Lewis joins us and creating havoc. Owain has from Pontypridd Town and was also stepped up this year to part of the all conquering USW become part of the 1st Team team . Lewis is a centre half and coaching staff and has also has the potential to have a been named our Development great career and will look to Team manager for the new improve with Griff and Gilo. Lewis season. also played for Carmerthen Rhys Griffiths - Griff became a Town in the WPL. club legend as he guided us to Jack Davies - Jack has come the WPL for the 1st time in our through our Academy system history. A fantastic centre and has made the backup forward who is now making a keeper role his own and working name for himself as a manager with Rhys Wilson will only who has transformed the club improve him as he grows with into the great model we have the squad. Excellent shot now become. A great guy who stopper and has great seems to have taken the club to distribution. his heart.
Nadolig Llawen – Merry Christmas! Fel Clwb hoffem ddymuno Nadolig Llawen i´n cefnogwyr, chwaraewyr, tim hyfforddi, ein noddwyr, ein timau academi, tim hyfforddi academi a´r rhieni a phawb sydd wedi bod yn rhan o´r Clwb eleni. Rydym yn ddiolchgar iawn i chi gyd am eich cefnogaeth teyrngar dros y flwyddyn diwethaf a drwy hyn helpu i wneud y Clwb yn llwyddiannus. Gobeithio gwelwn i chi gyd yn Yr Oval ar Gwyl San Steffan yn erbyn Caernarfon a wedyn ym Maes Tegid ar Ragfyr 30ain a thrwy gydol 2020 am gobeithio flwyddyn llwyddiannus arall.
Bala Town would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas. As a Club we would like to wish all of our supporters, players, management team, sponsors, academy players, coaches, parents and everyone who has been involved with the Club in someway a very Merry Christmas. We are very grateful to you all for all of your support over the past year and thank you all so much for making our Club a success. We hope to see you all at The Oval on Boxing Day and then at Maes Tegid on December 30th for our matches against Caernarfon and throughout 2020 for hopefully a very successful year yet again.
6
MEET THE PLAYER: CHRIS VENABLES Full Name: Christopher Stewart Venables Date of Birth: 23/07/1985 Position: Midfielder/Attacker Occupation: General Manager Car Dealership X2 Team you Support? Tottenham and Llanidloes Town Your biggest influence in football and why? My Dad, he’s my biggest fan Which player do you / did you look-up to? Rhys Griffiths and Zidane
Your dream car? Best player played against? Vauxhall Corsa Griffin - only £169 per month Paul Pogba What was your initiation song? Dancing in the Moonlight - Toploader Fave TV show? Billions Ronaldo or Messi? Ronaldo Night in or Night out? Night Out
One city you want to visit? Singapore
(ex Llanelli), Ross Stephens and Colin Reynolds (WPL record app holder) Your go-to takeaway order? Madras - Chicken
Last minute winner or match Celebrity crush? winning tackle? Michelle Keegan Last minute winner You’re in a 5 a side team and Perfect concert line-up? Coldplay, Mumford & need 4 other players, Sons and UB40 who is in your team? Danny Gosset, Jason Bowen Which teammate is the most intelligent? Struggle... tough call but Molly Which teammate is the angriest? Burnsy - by a distance Which teammate is the best looking? Stevo - he’s my favourite one Which teammate spends the most time in the shower? Lassa
7
FLINT TOWN UTD 0, BALA TOWN 2 It was an afternoon to forget for the Lakesiders who lost 2-0 against Cymru North outfit Flint Town United on Saturday in Round 3 of the JD Welsh Cup. At an extremely windy Cae y Castell, the first half lacked opportunities by both sides with the strong wind causing havoc and a difficult playing surface also playing it's part. Fifteen minutes passed before the first clear cut effort on goal with Brown heading wide of the far upright for the home side. There was no lack of effort from the Lakesiders who were trying to find their men but with Tibbetts' goalkicks and defensive clearances not travelling more than 30 yards it was a frustrating half for Town who were playing against the conditions. On the 31st minute, the home side went ahead. A break down the left hand side wasn't dealt with by the Town defence which Callum Bratley took full advantage of and tidily put the ball into the back of the net. Town's afternoon was dealt
another blow as midfielder Lassana Mendes was sent off for a late challenge on Brandon Burrows two minutes from halftime. Halftime was a change of shape for the Lakesiders who brought in Kelly for Burns as Bala looked to hit back in the second period.
half beat him to it and forced his own goalkeeper to clear his goalbound own goal! A 25 yard lob by Robles was saved by Jones before a scramble in the area involving Hayes and Jones saw Flint clear away the danger.
The Lakesiders were throwing the kitchen sink at the home side but just couldn't find that They started brightly in the slice of luck to tuck one of their second half and had an excellent spell of pressure. Firstly opportunities away. Louis Robles was toppled over Three minutes before the end, in the six yard box but saw play Tibbetts made an excellent waved on before Henry Jones' reaction save to deny a Flint freekick was saved by the header to force a corner. goalkeeper. However, Bala were about to Bala should've been level be punished as the resulting when Leslie's teasing ball corner was headed in by into the box was directed Andrew Brown to ensure that Niall McGuinness' side were towards an unmarked booking their spot into Round 4. Venables at backpost but the striker missed the Frustrating and disappointing incoming ball by inches. afternoon for the Lakesiders who were undone by their first Town's good spell of half and didn't adapt well pressure continued as enough to the playing Robles and Venables conditions. An improved broke quickly and beat second half but not enough the offside trap, Robles to get themselves back swung the ball in to Venables but the centre into the game.
8
MEET THE PLAYER: STEVE LESLIE Full Name: Steven Leslie Date of Birth: 05/11/87 Position: Midfield Occupation: Sports Coach Team you Support? Celtic Your biggest influence in football and why? Family. Always there to support through the ups and downs. Which player do you / did you look-up to? Henrik Larsson Best player played against? Pogba Fave TV show? Only Fools and Horses Ronaldo or Messi? Ronaldo Night in or Night out? Night out Your dream car? Mustang
One city you want to visit? London
Ronaldo, Messi, Ramos, De Gea.
Last minute winner or match winning tackle? Winning goal
Your go-to takeaway order? Chinese
You’re in a 5 a side team and need 4 other players, who is in your team?
Celebrity crush? Jessica Alba Which teammate is the most intelligent? Kels Which teammate is the funniest? Venners Which teammate is the angriest? Smudge -------Next edition v Caernarfon: Tom Stephens, Anthony Stephens & Henry Jones.
9
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 23 30 7 14 20 26 30 12 17
Date
CP WC CP CP CP CP CP CP
LCSF
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 4-0 0-5 1-0 2-0 0-3 2-0 2.30pm 7.45pm 5.15pm 7.45pm 2.30pm 7.45pm
-2 1 1 4 3 5 6 6 5 -3 4 5 -4 3 4 -3 --
-3 6 7 7 10 10 10 13 16 -19 20 20 -23 26 29 -32 -Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns
Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith
Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Kelly Kelly Spittle Spittle Kelly Kelly Spittle Kelly Spittle Spittle Spittle Spittle Spittle Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Leslie Kelly Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Leslie Burke Burke Molyneux Molyneux Molyneux Molyneux Molyneux H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones Horwood H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones 2 H Jones
Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Smith Smith Smith Jones Burke Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Leslie 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 Robles 3 Mendes Robles 2 Leslie Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Molyneux K Smith Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens
Venables Venables 2 Venables 2 Venables Venables Venables 2 Venables Venables Venables 2 Venables Stephens Venables Venables Leslie Venables Venables Venables 2 Venables Venables Venables Venables
Kelly, Hayes, Molyneux, Jones, Stephens
Leslie, Hayes, Jones, Kelly, Stephens
Molyneux, Hayes, Jones, Morris, Stephens
Hayes, Leslie, Jones, Molyneux, Horwood
Molyneux, Horwood, Hayes, Jones, Morris
Leslie, Molyneux, Jones, Spittle, Hayes, Sulliva
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
Goalscorers in Red
Subs.
LC = League Cup]
LC2 CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP LC3 CP CP CP LC4 CP CP CP
[WC = Welsh 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 Connah’s Quay Carmarthen Tn Flint Town Utd Penybont Connah’s Quay Caernarfon Tn Caernarfon Tn Cardiff Met Cefn Druids
Opposition
Key: [Away Matches in Red]
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
Penybont Caernarfon Town
Jan. 17th
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 I & A & A.W Griffiths, Farming & Agriculture Contractors
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
Airbus Penybont
Dec. 30th
Caernarfon Town
Jan. 17th
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 Eleanor Davies Optometrist, Dolgellau www.edopt.cymru Daniel Jones & I & A & A.W Griffiths Farming & Agriculture Contractors
Our Commercial Director Arwel Lloyd Jones, would be delighted to discuss our sponsorship opportunities with you. Please get in touch with him via armarno9@btinternet.com or 07796 692846.
12
NON LEAGUE PAPER Did you see the video of the Arsenal FC ‘superstars’ captured at Norwich City last Sunday? If not, let me enlighten you. In it was a young mascot, about nine or ten years old, leaning against the wall opposite to Arsenal’s dressing room entrance. There he stood, in awe, as the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Mesut Ozil, Alexandre Lacazette, Callum Chambers and Shkodran Mustafi walked right past him in a line without any recognition or so much as a second glance. Not a smile, gentle ruffle of the hair, fist pump, nothing!
11th tier of English football and, although just 18 miles away as the crow flies, light years away from the bolted confines of the Emirates Stadium.
counteract ours will consist of quips like “but we’re watching world class players and you’ve following the butcher, baker While social media went into and candlestick maker. True, we meltdown, neither the players might well be, but, personally, mentioned nor Arsenal FC – a Mr Ottaway tweeted: “Absolute I’d much rather enjoy watching club so proud of its community disgrace. I am the Chairman of a wholeheartedly-competitive, links – remained tight-lipped, Epping Town FC. You are most pure game of football played in seemingly unaware of the welcome to be our match day the right sprit – and then meet damage that such an mascot at a game of your the players and managers for apathetic act of human choice. Bring you parents, family a Coca-Cola afterwards! And disparity can do – especially and friends with you and be in with no VAR to boot! when you’re being paid a the presence of great handsome £350,000-a-week! footballers who are nice men at It’s why there will always be a the same time. DM me if interest.” place for Non-League football In fairness, it’s not just the and long may it continue. The players at Arsenal, similar Isn’t that what Non-League poor young Norwich fan may complaints have been levied at football is about? Isn’t that the have missed out of his big top-level players, which I why I sole reason why you are reading opportunity to get a glance of loved the twitter response to the this column right now, a ‘superstar’, but he has furore from Chris Ottaway. presumably at your local club inadvertently highlighted the having paid a mere few quid Chris is the chairman of the overriding notion of what newly-reformed Epping Town FC, for the privilege? makes our game great. Good who ply their trade in the Essex on you, young man! Of course, the argument to Olympian Football League – the
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
13
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
ASHLEY MORRIS
STEVE LESLIE
Cigydd Bala Butcher www.balabutcher.co.uk
Barry Yates
Iwan Bishop
Sponsorship Available
youtube.com/c/RockinRobbo
15
DANNY GOSSET
LOUIS ROBLES
SHAUN KELLY
LASSANA MENDES
Sponsorship Available
Tilly and Iago Galdo
Sponsorship Available
Lee, George, Chris & Foxy
ANTHONY STEPHENS
CHRIS VENABLES
SION SULLIVAN
TOM STEPHENS
Sponsorship Available
Sion and John Roberts
Sponsorship Available
Sponsorship Available
FFIONA EVANS
COLIN CATON
STEPHEN FISHER
RYAN VALENTINE
Sponsorship Available
Sponsorship Available
Sponsorship Available
Sponsorship Available
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.
16
LATEST FROM MAES TEGID Bala Town are delighted to reveal that Dan Goldston has been called up to the Welsh Schools FA Training Camp. Goalkeeper Dan who is following in the footsteps of brother Ryan, will be travelling to Cardiff on 18th-19th December to take part in the Welsh Schools FA Under 18’s training camp. In addition to this, Dan has also received a provisional call up to next years 2020 Roma Caput Mundi Tournament in Italy with the squad named on 20th December. Congratulations Dan from us all at Maes Tegid!
Bala Town can confirm that Evan Horwood has left the Club. Evan has relocated back to the north east after spending three years with the Lakesiders. Horwood made 30 (+33) appearances during his time at Maes Tegid and scoring three goals in the process. We’d like to thank Evan for his services and wish him well for the future.
Both Bala and Llanuwchllyn will compete in a fundraising event in aid of
Danny Gosset on the 28th of Both clubs would like to attract a healthy crowd to come and December with kick off at enjoy the game, and to enjoy 2.00p.m. As many of you will know, this past August, Danny was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, which is a type of blood cancer, and has been undergoing treatment in battling against the disease. Therefore both Bala Town Reserves and Llanuwchllyn want to help out as much as possible by bringing the community together, by putting on a show during the festive season and raising as much money as possible, to aid Danny and his family as he battles on through the disease.
the occassion.
On the day, there will be a bucket collection going around the ground, along with raffle prizes to be won after the match. After the match, we’d like everyone to join us in the Plas Coch for refreshments and to hand out raffle winners. If anyone would like to help out on the day, either from helping with raffle prizes or being a volunteer on the day, it would be much appreciated, please contact Joe via joe.taft@ balatownfc.co.uk
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/
17
DIWRNOD SIWMPER NADOLIG PEl-droed Cymru am helpu i ddod a gwen i’r byd gyda siwmper glyd drwy gefnogi ymgyrch elusen. Mae Achub y Plant yn falch iawn o dderbyn cefnogaeth Uwch Gynghrair Pêl-droed Cymru JD, Premier JD Cymru North ac Uwch-Gynghrair Merched JD Cymru North & Orchard i ymgyrch Diwrnod Siwmper Nadolig flynyddol yr elusen a gynhelir eleni ar ddydd Gwener, 13 Rhagfyr. Dros gyfnod yr Ŵyl bydd y clybiau yn annog eu cefnogwyr i ddod i’r gemau yn gwisgo eu siwmperi. Bydd cyfle iddynt wedyn gyfrannu tuag at waith yr elusen drwy roi mewn bwcedi casglu ar leoliad neu gyfrannu £2 drwy decstio TEAMWALES i 70050.
Nadolig Achub y Plant.” Ers i’r Diwrnod gael ei gyflwyno am y tro cyntaf yn 2012 mae’r ymgyrch wedi codi £21miliwn o bunnoedd tuag at waith yr elusen yn adeiladu gwell dyfodol i blant yng Nghymru ac ym mhob cwr o’r byd.
fod yr hyn y maent am fod, ohewrydd y nhw yw ein dyfodol.”
Mae’r elusen yn gobeithio y bydd mwy na 5 miliwn o bobl ar draws y DU yn cymryd rhan eleni, yn cyfrannu £2 at yr elusen Ymhlith rhai o’r gemau ble bydd (£1 mewn ysgolion) ac yn modd gwneud cyfraniad fydd y cofrestru ar rhai a fydd i’w darlledu yn fyw ar christmasjumperday.org. Mae Ychwanegodd Louise Davies, raglen Sgorio ar S4C gan modd hefyd lawrlwytho pecyn gynnwys y gêm rhwng Y Barri v Y Pennaeth Achub y Plant yng codi arian a phosteri yn y Nghymru:“Yn ystod blwyddyn ein Seintiau Newydd ar Ddiwrnod Gymraeg o’r wefan. canmlwyddiant dyma ffordd Siwmper Nadolig ei hun ar 13 Elenio, mae’r elusen hefyd yn Rhagyr, gêm Y Seintiau Newydd wych o gefnogi plant yma ar drothwy ein drws a hefyd annog pobl i fod yn greadigol v Met Caerdydd ar 20fed o dramor. Diolch yn fawr i ac i uwchgylchu hen siwmperi Ragfyr a Caernarfon v Bala ar swyddogion Uwch Gynghrair JD Nadolig. Anogir ysgolion i drefnu Ddydd San Steffan. Cymru premiere officials am ein stondinau cyfnewid siwmperi ac Mae chwaraewr canol cae helpu i roi y pethau sylfaenol mae’n bosib hefyd archebu bag Cymru Natasha Harding wedi rheiny i bob blentyn – gofal ailgylchu ar-lein ar gyfer hen rhyddhau fideo yn annog pobl i iechyd, addysg, ammddifyniad, siwmperi. Ynghyd â’n siopau gefnogi yr achos gan ddweud: bwyd a dŵr glân, er mwyn eu elusen mae Achub y Plant hefyd “Diolch yn fawr am gefnogi galluogi i ffynnu. Gyda’n gilydd yn un o elusennau bŵtic ymgyrch Diwrnod Siwmper gallwn helpu plant i dyfu fyny i swyddogol ASOS Marketplace’s gan werthu amrywiaeth o siwmperi Nadolig ‘vintage’ cyn y diwrnod ei hun. Peidiwch ag anghofio rhannu eich lluniau gan ddefnyddio @savechildrencym @CymruLeagues #DiwrnodSiwmperNadolig (facebook – @savethechildrenwales)
18
BALA TOWN RESERVES Bala Town Reserves 2-5 Saltney Town Reserves Saltney Town Reserves were the visitors to Maes Tegid on Saturday as our Reserves hoped to pick up 3 points after 2 consecutive defeats. Although it took only 5 minutes for the game to see its first goal, and what a goal it was! Saltney took the lead after an audatious attempt by their forward, who took the ball down on the corner of the 18 yard box, and hit a sweet half volley into the left hand corner Dion came running out but of the net. No chance for Dion in couldn't get their first, and the goal, 1-0 Saltney! forward just headed the ball over Dion into the net, to make it Bala would look to level just a couple of minutes later through 2-1 Saltney. a free kick in a dangerous attacking position, however the free kick came to nothing. Yet, it only took a couple more minutes for Bala to level up! It was that man, Tom Lloyd who got the ball on the edge of the box, ball bouncing and on the half volley, smashes it with the outside of his boot and into the left hand side of the goal! Game on, 1-1!
Dion was called into action a few minutes later, but this time pulls of a good save to deny Saltney a third before half time.
Although it wouldn't take long for Saltney to regain their 2 goal advantage, as a Saltney forward takes a scuffed shot from the edge of the box, but it goes over Dion and into the net, 4-2 Saltney with 30 minutes left. Geth Edwards and Andrew Verzun would come on for Gareth Owen and Steve Jones.
The last action of the half came to Joe who hit a free kick from 30 It took Geth a couple of minutes yards out, but the keeper wasn't to get into the action, as he troubled from his effort. smashed a free kick from range, it deflected off a few bodies and The ref blew for halftime with Tom then hit the ball over, Bala very much still in the game unlucky from Bala. and look to improve in the second half. With 15 minutes to go, Saltney It took 20 minutes for the referee snatched their 5th goal of the The second half got underway, to brandish his first yellow, game, after Dion saved the and within a minute of the going to Harri Watkin. original shot well, but the restart, Saltney took advantage rebound came back out to the Both teams started off well of the team turning off, after a Saltney forward who had an and both looking hungry for foul was waved away for Bala, easy tap in to make it 5-2 more goals! Saltney were able to attack and Saltney. get an easy tap in for their 3rd. Tom had a great chance to 3-1 Saltney. Besides a yellow card to Geth in double his tally for the match, the closing stages of the match, but his effort was saved well by 8 minutes into the second half, nothing else happened in the keeper who got down well to Bala would get back into the the last 15, as the ref push the ball out for a corner. game! Cai went in on goal and whistled for full time. cheekily dinks the keeper from Right on the half hour mark, close range, along with a few A disappointing result after Saltney grabbed another goal, scuffles in the aftermath of the getting back into the game the same scorer as the first, goal, but what was important twice, but it wasn't enough for after a mix up between the Bala to get anything out of the defence let the ball over the top, was Bala were back in the game! 3-2 Saltney! game.
19
NODDWYR - SPONSORS Huge thank you to our sponsors for their support this evening! Diolch am eich cefnogaeth heddiw.
Match Sponsor:
Plas yn Dre, Bala www.plasyndre.co.uk Ball Sponsor:
Eleanor Davies Optometrist, Dolgellau - www.edopt.cymru
JD CYMRU TABLE Latest standings (as of 13th December)
Team
1. The New Saints 2. Connah's Quay 3. Bala Town 4. Barry Town United 5. Caernarfon Town 6. Cefn Druids 7. Cardiff Met Uni. 8. Newtown 9. Aberystwyth Town 10. Penybont 11. Airbus UK 12. Carmarthen Town
P
16 16 16 16 15 16 16 16 16 15 16 16
W 11 9 10 9 8 7 5 6 3 2 3 1
20
D 2 7 2 3 3 3 6 3 4 4 1 4
L
3 0 4 4 4 6 5 7 9 9 12 11
F
49 28 35 21 24 24 19 16 21 19 15 17
A
16 11 12 17 20 22 20 21 42 33 43 31
Points 35 34 32 30 27 24 21 21 13 10 10 7
MARK PITMAN Ryan Giggs was appointed Wales manager in January 2018, and upon his unveiling to the media, he explained that he would win over his critics with results. He emulated the achievements of his predecessor Chris Coleman in guiding his country to the finals of the European Championships. The success marked a significant turnaround for Giggs and his squad, as all appeared lost following defeats against Croatia and Hungary in the summer. Coleman hit some very different highs and lows during his tenure, and Giggs already has an appreciation of how quickly things can change in the international game.
pressure of the final few games in their stride, and played with a fearless and attacking approach to reward the faith shown in them by their A run of three wins and two manager. From the start, Giggs draws from the final five games has been committed to giving ensured that Wales would pip opportunities to the next Slovakia to the final automatic generation, and they has repaid qualification place. Giggs cut an him by making this particular emotional figure when the final era of success their own. whistle blew against Hungary in In the penultimate match of the Cardiff last week, and he deserves great credit for how he campaign against Azerbaijan, Aaron Ramsey of Italian giants has developed and nurtured Juventus was named on the this talented squad of young bench, while Lincoln City loanee players. Joe Morrell started in midfield. The arrival of social media has Giggs was heavily criticised made everyone a far more before kick-off, but celebrated qualified manager than those later as Morrell’s inspired doing the job, and Giggs has display played an important regularly faced criticism for the role in the 2-0 victory. brave decisions that have gone Meanwhile, Tom Lockyer has wrong. He confessed on the eve established himself in the of the match against Hungary centre of defence, leaving that he might not get everything heroic captain Ashley Williams right, but he has never without minutes on the field. compromised on his philosophy Giggs had been without and beliefs. Ramsey for the entirety of the His faith in the talented young qualifying campaign until that players that have emerged point, but explained after the through the pathway system match the many different should be celebrated. These are elements that must be taken the players who have taken the into consideration as an
21
international manager. His logic made a mockery of those who dared to question his approach. But Giggs has consistently shown an arrogance in his self-belief that has now delivered for Wales. The EURO 2016 finals will always hold a special place in the hearts of each and every Wales fan, and while a very different team has now emerged, a similar team spirit exists within this young group. Senior players have struggled to make an impression as the manager continues to trust his developing young stars, and they have stepped-up to a level that few thought they could realistically achieve at this stage of their respective careers. Wales reached the semi-finals of EURO 2016, but no other nation used less players during the tournament. Coleman had his trusted team and selected alternatives, and there was no deviating from it. By comparison, Giggs’ recent starting line-ups have become impossible to call, but they have been equally effective.
Injuries aside, there will be some difficult decisions for Giggs to make next summer, and the intermediate pathway system continues to go from strengthto-strength. On the same day that Wales qualified for EURO 2020, the talented U19 team qualified for the UEFA Elite Round, and the U21’s defeat Bosnia and Herzegovina in Wrexham. The pool of players available remains small, but it is talented, and it is filled with quality over quantity. Blending youth and experience with the emphasis on the former has been the catalyst to success for Giggs in this campaign, and he deserves the autonomy of trust in his future work with the national team.
rewarded by his successors.
Speed made significant changes both on and off the field for Wales. From raising However, there is another side to standards to reversing a the emergence of this exciting negative culture, Speed generation, as the opportunities ensured that Wales became for the older players now respected in the modern game. appear to be increasingly His players responded in the limited. While there has been a right way, and the public acceptance from these environmental changes that he players of the situation that implemented never regressed mirrors the optimism of the fans, after his death. He started the there is also a private frustration journey, and the rewards of his that their international careers work are still being reflected in may be over before their time. the young players that have The biggest decision that Giggs emerged through the pathway will make next will be selecting system all these years later. his 23-man squad for the finals. And so the focus turns to the But while Coleman and Giggs future. Having spent his entire have played key roles in this playing career at Manchester journey, it was the late Gary United, Giggs is used to the very Speed that changed the highest standards on and off general direction of the national the field, and having delivered team, and put Wales on the EURO 2020 qualification, he will pathway to future success. It backed by his employers in the was eight years ago today that same way that Coleman was in the football world was left 2016. But while Coleman’s side shocked and saddened by his was built on spirit, courage and untimely death. He was building moments of world-class a bright future for Wales at the brilliance from selected time, but his work has been
individuals, Giggs has created a team filled with quality and youthfulness that will embrace this latest chapter in their careers without fear or regret. Players like Daniel James and David Brooks will thrive on the biggest stage, and their ability will be complimented perfectly by Gareth Bale, Joe Allen, Ramsey and others. This is a very different Wales to the one that reached the semi-finals in 2016, but there are enough similarities to expect more success when the action begins in the summer. Big decisions have taken Wales this far, and bigger decisions will be made both ahead of and during the tournament. For all that he achieved as a player with Manchester United, Giggs finally has a shot of leading his country to glory on the biggest stage, and it is an opportunity well-deserved.
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
22
Bontddu, Dolgellau, Gwynedd, LL40 2UA
01341 422420 parts@cmfactors.co.uk
www.cmfactors.co.uk
North Wales' Premier Used Car, Van & 4x4 Center
Clogau Motors is a small family run business situated between the picturesque town of Dolgellau and the popular sea side resort of Barmouth in North Wales. We take pride in ensuring our vehicles are thoroughly checked over, serviced and cleaned to the best possible standard.
Our aim is to provide good quality cars at the best possible price. Finance Available subject to status Part Exchange welcome Opening Hours: Mon - Fri: 8.30am - 5.30pm Saturdays by appointment Closed Sundays Please call for out of hours appointments
www.clogaumotors.co.uk
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 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
PENYBONT 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 25 26
MANAGER: RHYS GRIFFITHS Rhys WILSON Liam WALSH Kane OWEN Kieran HOWARD James SADDLER Oli DALTON Adam CARPENTER Cullen KINSELLA Kostya GEORGIEVSKY Curtis HUTSON Luke BORRELLI Daniel SUMMERFIELD Nathan WOOD Billy BORGE Daniel JEFFERIES Lewis BALDWIN Jack DAVIES Matthew HARRIS Daniel GRIFFITHS Owain WARLOW Rhys GRIFFITHS
Y DYFARNWYR / MATCH OFFICIALS Bala Town would like to extend a warm welcome to our match officials this evening: Thomas Owen, John Bryant, Connor Thomas & John Jones
NODDWYR / SPONSORS Match Sponsors: Plas yn Dre, Bala – www.plasyndre.co.uk Ball Sponsor: Eleanor Davies Optometrist, Dolgellau – www.edopt.cymru
GEMAU NESAF / NEXT FIXTURES Connah’s Quay v Bala Town Gwener / Fri. 20 Rhagfyr / December Deeside Stadium 7.45p.m. - JD Cymru Premier
Caernarfon Town v Bala Town Iau / Thu. 26 Rhagfyr / December The Oval 5.15p.m. - JD Cymru Premier
Bala Town v Caernarfon Town Llun / Mon. 30 Rhagfyr / December Maes Tegid 7.45p.m. - JD Cymru Premier