Issuu

IN THIS ISSUE RHIFYN YMA BALA TOWN

FOOTBALL CLUB Maes Tegid, Castle Street, Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7UU Rhif Cyswllt / Contact No.: 07818 404516

www.balatownfc.co.uk CYFARWYDDWYR / DIRECTORS

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 17 Y Clwb Peldroed 05 Meet the Visitors 20 NL Paper 08 Caernarfon report 21 Wales Online 15 Reserves 24 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

NODIADAU NIGELâ€™S NOTES determination shown by our team was so needed to come back from a half time deficit to claim all 3 points. I can only hope that our strength in depth, determination and application will stand us in good stead for this most difficult of run ins to the end of the season. As usual I cannot recall being only 6 we warmly welcome our friends points off the top of the table from TNS to Bala this evening with only 9 fixtures remaining and I hope you will continue before and that gap could be halved this evening with the visit to enjoy our warm hospitality and friendship. of the League leaders. These are most certainly exciting Our Reserve team continue to times for our Club but as we impress in their first season and are all aware there is still a have acquitted themselves massive challenge to face superbly both on and off the if we are to once again enjoy pitch. We have a Home fixture European qualification. against Coedpoeth kicking off at 2pm tomorrow (Saturday) Such a challenge was very and would love to see as many apparent last Friday evening as possible here at Maes Tegid when we overcame a strong to support them. They really are Caernarfon team at their own well worth a watch! ground and the spirit and

Welcome back to Maes Tegid for another enthralling encounter in front of the live television Sgorio cameras for a crucial JD Cymru League top of the table clash.

I must also take this opportunity to sincerely thank our match sponsors this evening. A.N. Richards Ltd of Froncysyllte. Our sponsors are the life blood of the Club and words do not do justice to the appreciation we hold for them. I sincerely hope that you can read the advertising flyers that we are distributing around the ground and support them if at all possible in the future. We are most grateful for your continued and valuable support for the Club. Thank you for your attendance this evening. Exciting times for us all. Please get behind Colin and his team as much as possible as we challenge at the very top of Welsh domestic football. Nigel

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.

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 seasonâ€™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

THE NEW SAINTS

MEET THE VISITORS...

JON ROUTLEDGE - Born in Liverpool, the 26-year-old featured for Wigan Athletic against Portsmouth back in 2009, having began his football career at Liverpool’s famous academy. In 2010, he joined Scottish Premier League side Hamilton Academical on loan, before a short spell at Stockport. In July 2015, Routledge signed a one-year contract with Dumbarton before signing for TNS in May 2016.

on either wing or as a number ten behind the striker.

has won six WPL titles and four FAW Welsh Cups.

JOSH HMAMI - Beginning his career as a youngster with Bolton Wanderers’ Academy, A two-year scholarship with Accrington Stanley saw Josh go on to become the captain of the U18’s. He scored the only the only goal of the game, as his side beat Rochdale 1-0 in the FA Youth Cup.

SIMON SPENDER - Simon Spender joined The New Saints from Barrow in 2011 and has established himself as a key figure in the team. The TNS number two has helped The Saints win four WPL titles in a row along with three FAW Welsh Cups and Two League Cups.

AERON EDWARDS - Aeron signed DANNY REDMOND - The 27-year- for TNS in 2009 and has become a mainstay in the side in recent old Liverpudlian began his seasons. Having played for career in the Everton Academy, before moving to Wigan Athletic Buckley Town and Caersws, the energetic midfielder has in 2009. Before leaving the club represented The Saints in in 2014, he played a number of times, including games against European competition against the likes of Legia Warsaw, Slovan AFC Bournemouth and Bratislava, B36 Torshavn, Manchester City. Videoton and FC Midtjylland. RYAN BROBBEL - Ryan Brobbel joined The Saints in January 2016 CHRIS MARRIOTT - Chris Marriott joined TNS in 2009 and and is a Northern Ireland U21 has established himself as the international that came through first choice left back at the club. the Middlesbrough Academy. Having graduated through the He played for York City and Wrexham Academy, the 2013 Hartlepool United before his Manager’s Player of the Year move to the WPL and can play

BLAINE HUDSON - A towering 6’ 4” centre half, he began his career with Norwich City. Following a move to Cambridge United he then switched to the borders, where he first played for Wrexham and then Chester. JOASH NEMBHARD - Twentyyear-old Joash joined The New Saints from Evo-Stik League South side, Staines Town FC. Prior to joining Staines Town in July 2017, he spent time at Hendon FC and Chesham United. KANE LEWIS - Described as versatile, Kane Lewis can play anywhere across the back, with the ability to slot in at either centre-half or right-back, thus

bringing flexibility into the set-up north of the border to Scotland. at Park Hall. The 28-year-old held permanent contracts at both Hibernian and GREG DRAPER - Greg Draper Ross County, combined with joined TNS in 2011 and in his first loan deals at East Fife, Alloa season at the club helped his side to win the WPL by being top Athletic and Brechin City, before another move took him back to scorer. Having made his senior his native Ireland and Dundalk. international debut for New Zealand in 2008 in a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Fiji. Before joining The Saints, Draper played for Canterbury United, Wellington Phoenix, Melbourne Knights and Team Wellington. ADRIAN CIESLEWICZ - Adrian joined The New Saints in 2014. Born in Poland, Adrian was part of Manchester City’s Academy before signing for Wrexham. The wide man is known for his electric pace and has helped TNS win a domestic treble during his first year at the club. JAMIE MULLAN - Jamie Mullan joined TNS in 2013 and has gone on to become a key player for The Saints. The tricky winger spent time with Manchester United as a youngster before playing for the likes of Northwich Victoria, Rochdale, Fleetwood and Alfreton. DEAN EBBE - Born in Dublin, Ebbe is a 23-year-old striker who began his career at Shamrock Rovers. Playing for a number of teams in his native Ireland – Longford Town, Athlone Town, Cabinteely and Bluebell United – the 6′ 2″ striker then moved across the water to Inverness Caledonian Thistle in 2017. KURTIS BYRNE - Dublin-born striker, Kurtis Byrne, began his youth career in England, with Norwich City, before moving

Cammell Laird, Marine and Warrington. In addition, he played in the National League North for Vauxhall Motors.

RYAN HARRINGTON - Born in Wales, twenty-year-old Harrington has represented his country through a number of PAUL HARRISON - Having come age groups up to the U19s. through the Liverpool Academy, Beginning his football career ‘H’ managed to get himself on with Wrexham’s Academy, he the bench for his boyhood club then crossed the border to but never made an appearance Everton. From there it was for the Reds. Since joining The another cross-country move, as Saints, Harrison has been an he signed for Aberdeen. integral part of the side and has LIAM PARRY - Born in Liverpool, picked up Five Championship winning medals along with three Liam joined The New Saints FC’s Academy with the U15 age group Welsh Cups. and has been at the club ever HARRY BOWER - The since, progressing through the Shrewsbury-born forward joined ranks to the point of signing his The New Saints FC’s Academy first professional contract at the U13s at the start of the 2013-14 start of the 2019-20 season. season.Harry has represented LEWIS DUTTON - The young England Colleges during the goalkeeper has been with The 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons, having both captained the side New Saints since the age of 12. He played for Wales’ U18s for two and scored on a number of seasons on the bounce and first occasions. trained with the senior squad at KESTON DAVIES - 22-year-old Park Hall at the age of 16. During Keston signed for the Swansea 2018-19, Dutton spent City Academy at the age of 8. considerable time on the bench, His Swansea City career aged 17, gathering valuable first included playing for the Under- team experience. 23s at the age of 15 and He also captained the Under-19s captaining the Under-19s to two in 2018-19, and led the team to FAW Youth Cups. In addition, he the FAW Youth Cup final, where was an integral part of the they lost out to Swansea City. former’s 2016-17 doubleCJ CRAVEN - Signing his first winning season, where he professional contract at the featured in 39 games. start of the 2019-20 season, the ADAM HUGHES - Having started talented youngster, who can his football career at Prenton play in both defence and Park, where he spent 10 years midfield, made his debut for The until the age of 16, Adam went New Saints against Bangor City on to play for the likes of at the age of 17.

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/

CAERNARFON 1, BALA TOWN 2 Venables shines as who went ahead on Lakesiders comeback to win the 33rd minute. Picking up possession on the at Caernarfon. In gale force winds and driving rain, it was a difficult night for both teams in the first match of the Championship Conference infront of the Sgorio cameras. We had a bright start at The Oval but it was Josh Tibbetts who was called into action first as he denied Sion Bradley with a solid low save from 18 yards out. A couple of minutes later, Town were awarded a penalty when Chris Venables was brought down in the box by Leo Smith. Venables aimed for the top corner but the spot kick was blazed high and wide and the score remained at 0-0. Despite the penalty miss, this didn’t affect the Lakesiders’ performance as they dug deep and had numerous opportunities to open the scoring with Venables heading wide, Mendes struck his effort past the post after a break through the midfield and Shaun Kelly’s bullet header going inches over the bar. However it was the home side

halfway line, Smith’s crossfield ball found Thomas who laid it off to Noah Edwards who drilled the ball into the bottom left hand corner from 17 yards.

Town came close to levelling minutes later when Henry Jones’ goalbound half volley from distance was brilliantly tipped over the crossbar by Ramsay prior to a superb move involving Jones, Mendes and Smith setting up Venables but his flicked header flew narrowly wide before the interval. With Shannon introduced at halftime for Kelly at the back, there was fresh impetus with the Lakesiders early on in the second period as they tested the home side much more. Mendes’ delivery found Venables but he glanced the ball over the bar with the weather conditions turning worse and making it even more difficult to face. The home side had a decent spell of pressure but the Bala back four were dealing with any crosses and breaks which gave Town confidence going forward.

with Burke combining with Mendes winning a throw which was taken quickly by Shannon. The ball was cleared back towards the halfway but headed clear by Stephens to newly introduced substitute Leslie who knocked the ball perfectly onto an unmarked Venables who tidily slid the ball into the back of the net. 1-1! Bala were applying pressure as they hunted for their winner with Leslie setting up Robles but his delivery was cleared before Bradley headed wide from Edwards’ ball down the other end. Ten minutes from time, Bala earned their winner. Shannon and Mendes allowed Robles to break on the right for Mendes to then recollect the ball and whip in a pin point ball to Venables on the six yard line to loop his header into an empty net and sealing the three points.

Good play on the hour resulted in Burns not getting a clean connection A fantastic second half with his cross into the area performance by the Lakesiders which Ramsay was able to with Chris Venables leading the collect. way in scoring two goals after missing a penalty on his After 66 minutes of play, 450th appearance in the JD Bala were level. The move Cymru Premier. began in the centre circle

April

Mar.

Feb.

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 17 20 26 30 11 18 7 14 22 6 14 20 28 10 17 25

Date

[WC = Welsh Cup]

CP WC CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP

LCSF

LC2 CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP CP LC3 CP CP CP LC4 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 4-0 0-5 1-0 2-0 0-3 2-0 4-0 2-1 1-2 3-0 1-0 1-2 1-2 8.00pm 2.30pm 7.45pm 4.30pm 7.45pm 2.30pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 5.15pm

-2 1 1 4 3 5 6 6 5 -3 4 5 -4 3 4 -3 -3 4 3 3 3 3 3

-3 6 7 7 10 10 10 13 16 -19 20 20 -23 26 29 -32 -35 35 38 41 41 41 44 Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Morris Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts Tibbetts 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 Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns Burns

Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Jones Kelly Kelly Spittle Spittle Kelly Kelly Spittle Kelly Spittle Spittle Spittle Spittle Spittle Spittle Spittle Spittle Spittle Spittle Spittle Kelly Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Leslie Kelly Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Leslie Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke Burke

Goalscorers in Red

Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith 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 Connah’s Quay Carmarthen Tn Flint Town Utd Penybont Connah’s Quay Caernarfon Tn Caernarfon Tn Cardiff Met Cefn Druids Caernarfon Tn The New Saints Newtown Connah’s Quay Barry Town Utd Caernarfon Tn The New Saints Newtown Connah’s Quay Barry Town Utd

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 H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones 2 Leslie H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones H Jones

Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Leslie Smith Smith Smith Jones Burke Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Smith Leslie Smith Smith Smith Leslie Leslie 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 Robles 3 Mendes Robles 2 Leslie Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Robles Mendes Hayes 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 Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens Stephens

Venables 2 Venables 2 Venables Venables Venables Venables 2 Venables Venables Venables 2 Venables Stephens Venables Venables Leslie Venables Venables Venables Venables 2 Venables Venables Venables Venables 2 Venables Venables Venables 2 Venables Venables 2 Venables

Leslie, Shannon, Lloyd, Molyneux, Hayes

Hayes, Leslie, Shannon, Jones, Molyneux

Molyneux, Smith, Hayes, Kelly, Shannon

Hayes, Jones, Molyneux, Kelly, Morris, Sullivan

Leslie, Hayes, Morris, Jones, Molyneux, Sulliva

Hayes, H Jones, Morris, S Jones, Molyneux

Leslie, Molyneux, Jones, Robles, Sullivan

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

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 Oct. 12th Oct. 19th Nov. 1st Nov. 15th Dec. 17th Dec. 30th

The New Saints Connah’s Quay Cardiff Met Aberystwyth Town Carmarthen Town Barry Town United Newtown Airbus Penybont Caernarfon Town

Jan. 18th Feb. 17th 6th March 20th Mar. 10th April 25th April

Cefn Druids The New Saints Connah’s Quay Caernarfon Newtown Barry Town United

Aug. 23rd Aug. 30th Oct. 12th Oct. 19th Nov. 1st Nov. 15th Dec. 17th

The New Saints Connah’s Quay Carmarthen Town Barry Town United Newtown Airbus Penybont

Dec. 30th

Caernarfon Town

Jan. 18th Feb. 17th 6th March 20th Mar. 10th April 25th April

Cefn Druids The New Saints Connah’s Quay Caernarfon Newtown Barry Town United

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 and White Horse, Hendrerwydd A N Richards Ltd – www.anrichards.com R F Jones Arfon Roberts and Associates Bryntirion Inn, Llandderfel – www.bryntirioninn.co.uk

NODDWYR Y BEL / BALL SPONSORS 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 I & A & A.W Griffiths Farming & Agriculture Contractors & Clwyd Williams Family Butchers, Llandyrnog - 01824 790300 A N Richards Ltd – www.anrichards.com

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

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

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

FFIONA EVANS

COLIN CATON

STEPHEN FISHER

RYAN VALENTINE

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.

BALA TOWN RESERVES In the 2nd game of the new year, our Reserves travelled to Ruthin Town in the derby. The previous fixture between the two, ended in a 3-1 victory for Bala, under the lights on Friday, 13th of September. This time round, our Reserves travelled away to Ruthin looking to do the double over their local rivals. A very lively start to the game saw Llion come close, however his headed effort rattled the bar. Dom was called into action after 10 minutes to deny Ruthin an opener. It didn’t take long for the first goal to appear. Joe Ephraim made it 1-0 on 12 minutes after Jack Jarvis’ ball was missed by everyone, until it came to Joe, who slotted the ball under the keeper and put Bala in the lead!

of the box where Jack rifled it home for 5! Raining goals at the into the roof of the net! 2-0 Bala! start of the half!

Only 7 minutes later, and Bala had a third! This time from January signing Llion Thomas, who leaped up to meet Cai’s cross, and Sam Vokes Esque, puts the ball into the far corner Despite the poor pitch of the net! 3-0 Bala with over conditions, Bala tried to play the half an hour left to play! ball around and keep the ball as much as possible, which lead to Sam Roberts came on in place some half chances, but couldn’t of Harri Watkin. deliver the final piece. Bala absolutely dominating the Cai came close with a chipped ball, and nearly grabbed a fourth, however Steve’s effort effort, but the keeper saw it go shakes the bar from a brilliant over his bar. cross by Llion. Despite Bala having plenty of good chances to score, the first Only a minute later, and Bala grabbed a their fourth! This time half only saw 1 goal, which was Cai Aykroyd the scorer, after disappointing, as Bala could Llion puts the ball on a plate for have had atleast 3 or 4. Would they end up ruing their chances Cai who placed the ball into the bottom corner! 4-0 Bala! at fulltime… The second half started… and what a start it was! Jack Jarvis doubled Bala’s lead with a cracking goal from the edge of the box, the ball fell to the edge

Again, a minute after the last goal, Steve Jones gets in on the goals! An original shot was saved by the keeper, who spills it right to Steve’s feet who pokes it

After bagging a goal each, Steve Jones and Llion Thomas made way for Darrell Johns and Tom Lloyd. We were to wait until 7 minutes from time for our next goal, as Cai Aykroyd grabbed his double! Darrell whips a great ball into the box, the keeper spills the cross to the feet of Cai who puts the ball in the net and makes it 6-0! Plenty of time for more goals… and that’s what followed! Joe Ephraim also grabs his second as Darrell again whipped a beautiful ball into the box, Tom Lloyd met the header, but his effort was saved, only to put Joe on a plate to put Bala in Seventh Heaven! The final whistle went with Bala 7-0 winners over their local rivals, as the lads put a brilliant performance in on a tricky pitch, but stuck at it and grabbed all 3 points!

NODDWYR - SPONSORS Huge thank you to our sponsors for their support this evening! Diolch am eich cefnogaeth heddiw.

Match and Ball Sponsors:

A N Richards Ltd www.anrichards.com Mascot:

Dafi JD CYMRU PREMIER TABLE Latest standings (as of 13th February)

Team

1. The New Saints 2. Connahâ€™s Quay 3. Bala Town 4. Barry Town United 5. Newtown 6. Caernarfon Town 7. Cardiff Met Uni. 8. Cefn Druids 9. Aberystwyth Town 10. Carmarthen Town 11. Penybont 12. Airbus UK

23 23 23 23 23 23 23 23 23 23 23 23

W 16 14 14 12 10 10 9 10 6 3 3 3

D 2 7 2 4 5 4 7 4 5 6 6 4

5 2 7 7 8 9 7 9 12 14 14 16

66 40 48 32 23 32 29 35 29 26 26 21

23 17 19 26 25 32 26 36 49 46 48 60

Points

50 49 44 40 35 34 34 34 23 15 15 13

Y CLWB PELDROED With Phase Two in the JD Cymru Premier beginning this evening, we take a look at what’s at stake for each side. The New Saints In hot pursuit of their ninth title in succession, for current leaders The New Saints, becoming JD Cymru Premier champions is simply a must. Scott Ruscoe’s men sit at the pinnacle of the JD Cymru Premier table after Phase One, four points above their main title rivals, Connah’s Quay Nomads. Crucially, The New Saints ended Phase One by coming from behind against the Nomads to record a 2-1 victory, courtesy of a Simon Spender winner. The coming weeks could make or break Scott Ruscoe’s side’s grip on the title, with difficult trips to Bala Town and Connah’s Quay Nomads beckoning in February.

their cup success into the JD Cymru Premier title race. The Nomads’ strength in Phase One was their home form, having recorded 27 points from a possible 33, an average of 2.5 points per game at the Deeside Stadium this season.

Andy Morrison’s side’s home form will be crucial in their bid to topple The New Saints, with a key fixture against their title In Phase Two, The New Saints will, rivals at the Deeside Stadium without doubt, play their part in on the 21st of February. a hotly-contested JD Cymru Starting with a difficult trip to Premier title race, and are firm Barry Town’s Jenner Park, we favourites to claim their ninth expect the Nomads to provide title in-a-row. stern competition for The New Connah’s Quay Nomads Saints in Phase Two. If the JD Cymru Premier is to Bala Town have a different winner for the first time since Bangor City won In December, Bala Town were on a five-game winning run, the title in the 2010-2011 season, Connah’s Quay Nomads look the including two emphatic wins over Newtown and most equipped side to knock Aberystwyth, where Bala scored The New Saints off their perch, a total of nine goals; Colin despite currently sitting four Caton’s men were in titlepoints behind their title rivals. winning form. On the back of winning the However, the Lakesiders form Nathaniel MG Cup for the second time in their history, with since that run has been indifferent, with losses to an emphatic 3-0 win over STM Sports, the Nomads look to take Connah’s Quay Nomads, Cardiff

Met and Cefn Druids. Still in search of their first point in 2020, Colin Caton’s side have fallen adrift in the title race and currently trail leaders The New Saints by nine points, meaning their title chances are now out of their hands. The Lakesiders can, however, find comfort in their goalscoring abilities, having scored an average of 2.1 goals per JD Cymru Premier game this season. Bala Town’s attacking prowess is heavily down to the form of striker Chris Venables, who is joint-top with Greg Draper in the JD Cymru Premier top scorers chart, with a tally of 18 goals. In Phase Two, Colin Caton’s side must turn around their recent form if they are to stake a claim in the title race, but a third place finish will secure Europa League football next season in the likely case that either The New Saints or Connah’s Quay Nomads win the Welsh Cup. Barry Town United

Currently in fifth place, just a point behind Bala Town, Barry Town’s prospects in Phase Two are very similar to those of the Lakesiders. Gavin Chesterfield’s side started the season well, most notably defeating the New Saints 1-0 at The Venue, with a goal from Evan Press. However, the Linnets’ title chances were severely damaged by their form in November, losing to Caernarfon Town, Connah’s Quay Nomads, Cefn Druids and Newtown. As the seven-time JD Cymru Premier champions look to close the gap on the top two, Gavin Chesterfield’s men will be buoyed by the signing of former Wales international David Cotterill, whose high profile will be a big boost to the club. In similar vein to Bala Town, a top three finish will be vitally important for Barry Town at the end of Phase Two, as it is likely to secure a Europa League spot for next season. Caernarfon Town Six points behind Barry are Caernarfon Town, who appointed Huw Griffiths as their first team manager last week after he departed Cefn Druids. Sean Eardley will stay on as assistant manager, in what is a new-look management team at The Oval. Still in search for their first win in 2020, the Cofis’ claim for a top three place is now out of their hands. However, Caernarfon could still qualify for a Europa League spot through the playoffs, and would advance to the semi-final if they secure a place in the top five come the end of Phase Two. With Newtown hot on their

heels, the Cofis must avoid dropping to sixth place if they are to avoid a quarter-final play-off fixture against the JD Cymru Premier’s seventh placed side.

Europa League next season, the Robins will be keen to avoid a quarter-final play-off fixture, meaning that they must, first and foremost, leapfrog the Cofis.

In Phase Two, as a place in the top three is now out of their hands, it is likely that Huw Griffiths’ side will have to compete in the play-offs for a Europa League spot.

Cardiff Met University

Newtown

In Phase One, Cardiff Met proved that they are capable of competing with the best, having defeated The New Saints 2-1 at the Venue, with goals from Joel Edwards and Will Evans.

Having secured the final Championship Conference berth with a goalless contest against Airbus UK Broughton at Latham Park on the final day of Phase One, the Robins will now compete with the JD Cymru Premier’s top five.

Missing out on the top six by just a point, Cardiff Met will be in intense competition with Cefn Druids for a place in the play-offs in Phase Two.

Currently in sixth place with 32 points, Chris Hughes’ side are hot on the heels of Caernarfon Town as they look to climb the table.

However, Met’s form against the teams at the lower end of the table has been inconsistent, losing to Carmarthen and Aberystwyth, and drawing to Penybont, all at Cyncoed Campus.

The Robins will take encouragement that they can compete with the JD Cymru Premier’s elite from their very impressive defensive record.

Christian Edwards’ side must make a habit of beating the teams below them if they are to secure a place in the European play-offs.

Chris Hughes’ men have conceded just three goals in the league since November, coming in a 2-0 defeat to The New Saints and a 2-1 victory over Aberystwyth.

In Phase Two, we expect Cardiff Met to be in battle with Cefn Druids for seventh place, which will secure a place in the quarter-finals of the play-offs.

Competing for a place in the

Cefn Druids

There has been big news at Cefn Druids this week as Huw Griffiths’ contract as first-team manager was terminated, allowing him to become the manager of Caernarfon Town.

Rhys Griffiths of Penybont in action against Cardiff Met.

A trip to Airbus UK Broughton is what lies ahead for the Ancients, as the contest between them and Cardiff Met for seventh place begins.

In a vital game at The SDM Glass Stadium tomorrow night, Penybont would extend the gap between them and their opponents Carmarthen Town to six points if they are victorious.

last year combined.

Starting by hosting Cefn Druids, the Wingmakers will be in the hunt to secure their JD Cymru Just two points above the drop- Premier status in Phase Two. zone are Penybont. Carmarthen Town In the permanent absence of Rhys Griffiths’ men started 2020 Griffiths, Stuart Gelling has been well, with a draw to Caernarfon Lowly Carmarthen Town appointed as the club’s sporting Town and a victory over Cefn currently sit at the foot of the director. Druids, but fell to a 1-0 defeat at JD Cymru Premier table. Aberystwyth’s Park Avenue last The change in management The Old Gold have won just time out. could make or break the twice this season, but are just Ancients this season, as they In hot competition with Airbus three points adrift of safety. look to secure Europa League UK Broughton and Carmarthen Kristian O’Leary’s side started football next season. Town, the Bont are in a 2020 on a three-game relegation dog-fight. The Druids missed out on a unbeaten run, picking up seven place in the top six by just a Therefore, results against the points in total in a doublepoint, but will have to put that teams below them will be crucial header against Penybont and disappointment behind them as in their bid to stay in the JD a home fixture against Airbus they go into Phase Two. Cymru Premier. UK Broughton.

Aberystwyth Town Currently eight points behind the Druids are Aberystwyth Town. Matthew Bishop’s side’s chances of finishing in seventh place, which would earn them a spot in the European play-offs, is out of their hands.

Penybont

In Phase Two, we expect the tussle between the JD Cymru Premier’s bottom three to go down to the wire. Airbus UK Broughton Last season’s JD Cymru North Champions have found life in the JD Cymru Premier difficult, and currently sit in the relegation zone.

The Seasiders’ form in 2020 has been positive, with wins over Caernarfon Town and Penybont The Wingmakers’ weakness in respectively. Phase One was their defensive record, conceding 58 goals, an Matthew Bishop was very active average of 2.6 goals per game. in the January transfer market, bringing in midfielders Ilan Hughes, Pavel Vieira and James Rowland, defender David Thompson and front-men Alhagi Touray Sisay and Adam Davies.

However, Steve O’Shaughnessy’s side have made an unbeaten start to 2020, with draws against Carmarthen and Newtown.

The Seasiders will also be buoyed by the news that midfielder Paulo Mendes has pledged his loyalty to the club, by rejecting offers from other JD Their two points Cymru Premier clubs. in January is more than the After a successful transfer points they window, Bishop’s side look to recorded in all close the gap on Cardiff Met of November and Cefn Druids in Phase Two. and December

Carmarthen, therefore, looked as though their form was picking up and that the Old Gold would soon be climbing up the table. This was until their trip to Barry Town last time out, where they were comprehensively beaten 7-1. However, Kristian O’Leary’s side’s chances of playing in the JD Cymru Premier next season are far from over, and would leapfrog Penybont with victory over them tomorrow night. With so much at stake at both ends of the table, Phase Two in the JD Cymru Premier promises to be fiercely competitive.

NON LEAGUE PAPER On his self-enforced night off, Jurgen Klopp could have done much worse than to pay a visit to Crabble, home of Dover Athletic, last Tuesday night. While the esteemed Liverpool chief was watching his side's FA Cup replay with Shrewsbury Town from the comfort of his own home - passing down duties to Under 23s coach Neil Critchley - the players, staff and supporters of Barrow AFC were, quite simply, putting his argument of an over-indulged fixture schedule to shame. After the initial fixture was postponed following the tragic death of an individual on the West Coast Main Line on October 12, Bluebirds fans were up bright and early for their gruelling cross-country trip to the south-east coast – a whopping 768-mile round trip.

work. Now that's dedication for you. Speaking after the Reds' 2-2 draw at the New Meadow, Klopp said that none of his first-team squad would be involved in the Anfield replay as it falls during the Premier League mid-season break.

congestion is nothing new but it does seem to be escalating when it comes to reigniting the flame in the FA Cup.

Suggestions from BBC anchorman Gary Lineker about starting the FA Cup Preliminary rounds at the end of the previous season were misguided to say the least, The decision was estimated to Meeting at the club's Holker made without so much of a cost the League One Shrews Street ground at stupid o'clock thought towards life outside around £500,000 in lost revenue. in the morning, the hardy 23 the Premier League. members of the Bluebirds Granted, Klopp's men have been Supporters Trust were welcomed victims of their own success, With or without the presence of with bacon rolls in the car park – challenging on Premier League, Klopp and his A-listers, a terrific gesture made by the Shrewsbury fans won't ever Champions League and World club's extremely grateful forget the club's first visit to Club Championship fronts, but manager Ian Evatt. there was little sympathy of his Anfield in 134 years.. argument for many Non-League Players, staff and supporters Similarly, the supporters of players, who are forced to arrived back in Barrow-inBarrow, who will always have a juggle an equally gruelling Furness at around 5am leaving tale to tell their grandchildren schedule on the field with work a number of whom just enough one day...The Day We Went To and family commitments, for a time to wolf down their Dover on a Tuesday night. small fraction of the numeration. Cornflakes and early morning Try telling them that football cuppa before going back to True, the debate on fixture has lost its magic.

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

WALES ONLINE There are several names that are yet to be called upon by their country that are nevertheless dreaming of a Euro 2020 call-up The excitement for Euro 2020 is slowly building, and Ryan Giggs will surely already be pondering on who will be getting the nod for his squad this summer. The likes of Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Harry Wilson are surely all shoe-ins to for a place in the squad for the upcoming European Championships, but there is still plenty for the Wales boss to ponder ahead of the tournament. As well as the more established names, there are a number of uncapped players who are bidding to stake a claim in Giggs' plans. Neco Williams - Liverpool The full-back is the name on everyone's lips right now, following a handful of sparkling performances for Liverpool, which have sparked rave reviews on Merseyside.

place on the plane for this summer, and alleged admiring glances from bitter rivals England may well hasten Giggs in acting, although it has to be said that a switch of allegiances looks very unlikely. Perhaps the only nagging doubt is his lack of game-time at senior level. He currently has just four appearances for Liverpool to his name.

Nevertheless, having been a part of the Wales set-up all the way up to under-19 level, you Many fans have called for him to wouldn't bet against him making be Giggs' thinking for the the step up this summer. summer, and it's understood he is in contention for a chance to Christian Doidge - Hibernian shine in the upcoming friendlies Put simply, no Welsh striker can against Austria and the USA at match the Hibs man's the end of March. scintillating form this season. Giggs is believed to be a big The 27-year-old, who spent the admirer, having received several early part of his career in the glowing reports on the 18-yearWelsh domestic pyramid with old, who put in a man-of-theCarmarthen Town, Barry Town match display in the FA Cup win United and Croesyceiliog, has over Shrewsbury Town at the been in incredible form in the weekend and was also a part of Scottish capital. the squad that earned glory at the World Club Championships. He currently has 15 goals in 31 appearances in all Those on Merseyside believe he competitions, a tally higher than has the quality to earn himself a any striker available to Giggs

this summer. Doidge is a name who has been discussed before, given his goalscoring exploits at Forest Green Rovers, where he netted an incredible 59 league goals in 108 appearances. However, his exploits this term have made him increasingly difficult to overlook. Of course, critics may point out that his tally has come in a weaker league, and therefore has to be taken into consideration. But with Wales arguably crying out for options in the out-andout striker role, Giggs could surely do a lot worse than the Newport-born star. Expect a chance to shine during the upcoming friendlies at the very least. Dylan Levitt - Manchester Utd The 19-year-old midfielder is highly rated by those within the Man United set-up, with some comparing him to previous United greats like Paul Scholes. He was handed a call-up to the 26-man training camp in the

Algarve back in May, before later going on to make his debut for the under-21s the following October, earning another callup to the senior squad for the crunch qualification doubleheader with Azerbaijan and Hungary. At club level, the teenager has netted three goals in 11 appearances for the United's under-23s this season, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer handing him a senior debut in the Europa League tie with Astana back in November. Levitt played the full 90 minutes that day, which has undoubtedly seen his stock rise further. However, he has not managed another first-team appearance since. Plenty have tipped him for a bright future for club and country, but given that lack of experience, and indeed the number of more established midfield options at Giggs'

disposal, it's difficult to tell whether he will have done enough to earn a place on the plane.

league games, which will undoubtedly put a big dent in what is already an outside hope of inclusion.

Ben Williams - Barnsley

Ben Cabango - Swansea City

Another one to be called up to last summer's training camp in Portugal, the left-back has seen a fair amount of game-time this season, having made 14 Championship appearances for Barnsley.

Swans boss Steve Cooper is a big fan of the 19-year-old, whose performances have been so assured and so impressive that it's actually easy to forget he's not yet played for his country at senior level.

With Ben Davies still working his way back from injury, there is potentially room for another fullback to enter the frame, although it's clear that he will need to produce something special if he is to force his way into Giggs' thinking this summer. Having been a favourite under previous boss Daniel Stendel, Williams has seemingly struggled to nail down a firstteam place under current manager Gerhard Struber.

The centre-back's rise has seen him become a regular starter for the Swans in recent weeks, although the return of fellow Wales international Joe Rodon is likely to have an impact on his game-time for the rest of the season.

Nevertheless, the standard of this performances have surely been enough to at least get him on the radar of the senior team, with the former TNS loanee previously shining for Indeed, he's seen just 71 minutes his country at under-19 level. of action in Barnsley's last nine

RESERVES & COLTS LEAGUE TABLE Team

Latest standings (as of 13th February)

1. Connah's Quay 2. Airbus UK 3. Cefn Mawr Rangers 4. Mynydd Isa 5. Rhydymwyn 6. Saltney Town 7. Brymbo 8. Bala Town 9. Cefn Albion 10. Coedpoeth Utd 11. Llay Welfare Colts 12. Ruthin Town * 13. Llangollen Town 14. Johnstown YFC *

16 17 15 13 12 14 14 15 14 15 16 16 16 13

W 14 13 9 7 7 7 6 5 5 4 4 5 3 1

D 0 1 2 2 2 2 4 5 2 1 1 0 2 2

2 3 4 4 3 5 4 5 7 10 11 11 11 10

66 73 34 49 42 41 42 34 37 25 28 33 17 13

18 24 30 27 23 32 35 29 39 44 51 53 53 76

Points

42 40 29 23 23 23 22 20 17 13 13 12 11 2

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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 15 STEVE LESLIE 16 RYAN VALENTINE 17 DANIEL GOSSET 18 LOUIS ROBLES 19 SHAUN KELLY 20 LASSANA MENDES 22 SION SULLIVAN 23 OLIVER SHANNON 24 LOUIS KONDJO 25 CHRIS VENABLES 30 HARRI LLOYD

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GEMAU NESAF / NEXT FIXTURES Newtown v Bala Town Sadwrn / Sat. 22 Chwefror / February Latham Park 2.30p.m. - JD Cymru Premier

Bala Town v Connahâ€™s Quay Gwener / Fri. 6 Mawrth / March Maes Tegid 7.45p.m. - JD Cymru Premier