CLUB OFFICIALS Chief Executive: Club President: Honorary Vice-Presidents:
Chairman: Director of Football: 1st Team Coach: Club Secretary/Academy Manager: Academy Director: Development Team Coach: Head of Coaching - Coach Education Head of Coaching - Community 1st Team Captain: Club Captain: Equipment Manager: Programme Editor/Matchday Announcer: Matchday Ambassador: Hon. Treasurer: Marketing and Match day:
Mike Davies Graham Haines Mark Roscrow MBE Sue Roscrow William Lewis Buddug Lewis Josh Barnett Hannah Barnett Gwilym Jenkins Graham Haines Dr. Christian Edwards Ryan Jenkins Rebecca Nuttall Dr. Charlie Corsby Liam Black Anthony Williams Eliot Evans Bradley Woolridge Bradley Woolridge Darren ‘Daz’ Jenkins Matthew James Ian Campbell Simon Evans Rebecca Nuttall
CLUB HONOURS MG Nathaniel Cars Cup Welsh Amateur Cup
Welsh Intermediate Cup Welsh League Cup Welsh League
Winners Runner Up Winners
2019 2018 1968 1969 Runner Up 1967 1970 1974 Winners 1976 Winners 1997 Division 1 Champions 2015/16 Division 2 Champions 2013/14 1975/76 Division 3 Champions 1995/96 2012/13
PAGE 4 Chairman’s Welcome PAGE 6 Today’s Visitors PAGE 10 Newtown Match Report PAGE 11 Newtown Match Action PAGE 12 Matchday 19 Round Up PAGE 14 Cymru Premier Table PAGE 16 Cymru Premier Fixtures PAGE 18 Archers Season 20/21
Newtown Match Report Page 10
PAGE 20 The Archers Squad PAGE 26 Mei 2 You PAGE 28 ArcheRewind PAGE 30 Next Up: Bala Town
Mei 2 You Page 26
Prynhawn Dda / Good Afternoon and welcome to Cardiff Met University, Cyncoed Campus for our fourteenth match of the first phase of the JD Cymru Premier League 2020-21 clash with Bala Town AFC. On behalf of everyone connected with Cardiff Metropolitan University Football Club, we would like to welcome the directors, management and players who have made the journey from Maes Tegid, we hope you enjoy your visit to Cardiff. This afternoon’s game marks the return of one of the Archers’ old boys Will “Bear” Evans who on completing his studies at Cardiff Met returned to his native North Wales and signed for Bala Town FC. Our loss has certainly been Bala’s gain as Will has been in scintillating form since joining the Lakesiders this season. Will played in the 2019 Europa League qualification fixture, against Bala Town FC, which Cardiff Met narrowly won when the game went to penalties. He also played in the team that beat Progrès Niederkorn at Leckwith Stadium and marked the first Europa League appearance from a UK university team. Welcome back Bear you will always be remembered for your significant contribution to Cardiff Met FC; a talented player and an engaging, well-rounded individual off the pitch. The recent announcement from the FAW confirmed the planned return of Tier 2 Cymru South and North fixtures from mid-January in a 15 game season, which will include promotion and relegation as per FAW pyramid regulations. It was also announced the proposed re-start of Tier 3 competition at the end of January, subject to Sport Wales approval and the successful implementation of Tier 2 protocols. Promotion, following FAW Pyramid regulations, which will mean the champions of the four divisions being granted promotion with the runners-up challenging for two promotion places in a regional play-off. Promotion will continue to remain subject to clubs meeting the Licensing criteria. The FAW board also confirmed the start date for the Nathaniel MG Cup. The first round of the competition will be played on the weekend of 11/12th December. The format of the competition will include all Cymru Premier League clubs, along with 32 Cymru South and North clubs and for the first time Cardiff City and Newport County as the two-wildcard entries. The intention is for Tier 2 clubs to trial Return to Play protocols before the commencement of the League competition. This will be an onerous task for Tier 2 clubs and as Cymru Premier League clubs have experienced, one that will require considerable support from the FAW to guarantee that the safest playing environment for players, staff and officials is consistently achieved. The challenges faced by Tiers 2 and 3 clubs can be reduced by following the lessons learned by the Cymru Premier clubs, who have needed to evolve operational procedures to comply with the Government and FAW playing protocols. Sharing good practice, open and transparent communication between clubs, FAW and public health organisations will be essential to ensure fixtures are safely completed and the clubs and the communities they serve can fully benefit from the return to competitive football. Finally, as we look forward to an exciting game against our visitors, we should always remember never to take for granted those who are always there for us; our families, friends, and our loyal supporters who unfortunately can only support us from a distance. The journey continues ……. Cardiff Met FC wish to thank all NHS staff and key workers for their unselfish professionalism and dedication.
Bala’s early history is not well documented but first memories are of a team in the early 1880’s playing games on the Lake foreshore. After Bala formed 2 teams, Bala North End and Bala South End who competed until 1897 when a team called Bala Thursdays was formed and played on Castle Park (the present cricket field). The Bala Press Team was established then in the 1900’s and became one of the best amateur sides in North Wales winning many trophies including the Dolgellau Cup and Cambrian Coast League (no dates are available). The local Bragdy Cup was first played for by local teams in the early 1930’s and this competition is still alive and flourishing today. The first available League status record is of Bala playing in the Welsh National League North Division 2 East in 1921/22 Season – no further league records are to hand. Bala were still playing at Castle Park where one of the most epic games in the Club’s history was played in 1946 against Shrewsbury Town of the English Midland League in the 4th round of the Welsh Senior Cup. Bala held their illustrious opponents to a 1-1 draw. In the early 50’s Bala then moved to the adjacent Maes Tegid where they have been ever since and played in the Welsh National League Wrexham Area from 1950-54. They rejoined the Cambrian Coast League in 1954 and were League Runners-up in 1957/58. They had a treble winning season in 1958/59 winning League, Cup and Mid Wales Cup. They were again runners up in 1960/61 before being Champions again in 1962/63.
The Club then re-entered the Welsh National League Wrexham Area in 1963/64 and were ever present in that League until promotion to the Cymru Alliance in 2004. Bala were Division 2 Champions in 1967/68 and were promoted to Division 1 for the 1968/69 season. They remained in the top division for 20 years until relegated in 1987/88 season. By now Division 1 had been re-named the Premier Division therefore Bala were again in Division 1 after relegation. They won the Division 1 Championship in 1989/90 but after promotion to the Premier League were relegated back after 1990/91 and further dropped to Division 2 in 1992/93 when the Reserves Team folded due to lack of support. They were promoted to Division 1 for 1995/96 Season and won the Division 1 Championship in 1997/98 to be promoted to the Premier Division where they remained until Colin Caton’s arrival at the beginning of the 2003/04 season – a season which culminated in Bala Town being crowned Premier Division Champions in his debut season in charge at the club which signalled promotion to the Cymru Alliance League for 2004/05 season. Bala also won the NEWFA Challenge Cup in 2003-04 with an extra time victory over Buckley Town at Cefn Druids.
In their first season in the Cymru Alliance 2004/05 the club finished in a very creditable 4th place, reached the Quarter Final of the Welsh Senior Cup after epic wins against Ton Pentre and Welshpool, were losing finalists against Buckley Town in the NEWFA Challenge Cup Final held at the Racecourse, Wrexham, and won the Cymru Alliance League Cup against Penrhyncoch. The Youth Team also reached the Semi-Final of the Welsh Youth Cup. A momentous year for the Maes Tegid club under the managerial guidance of Colin Caton. The club finished in 7th position in the Cymru Alliance 2005/06 and lost on penalties in the Final of the League Cup to League Champions Glantraeth. The Reserves however had a momentous double winning season as Champions of Div 2 WNL Wrexham area and also winning the League Cup. Floodlights were installed for the 2006/07 season (upgraded to exceed 500 lux in 2009/10). 2006/07 also saw the impressive development of Maes Tegid facilities with the installation of 300 seats, (a further upgrade to 500+ also occurred last season). The Management team of Colin Caton and Steve Crompton also remained in place and the club had high hopes of further success. As it transpired the club recorded its best ever season thus far in 2006/07 by 3 winning trophies and 2 runners up spots. The NEWFA Challenge Cup was won at the Racecourse Ground Wrexham in an exciting final against Gresford and the Cymru Alliance League Cup was won at Llandudno against Holyhead. The club also finished in second place in the Cymru Alliance League failing by a narrow 2 point margin to gain promotion to the League of Wales. The Reserve team did equally well. They achieved back to back championships by winning the Welsh National League Wrexham Area Division 1 Championship and were also runners up in the League Cup Final losing in extra time to Overton. As earlier mentioned that season also saw further impressive development of Maes Tegid facilities with the installation of floodlights, new seated spectator stands, a behind the goal spectator shelter, entrance turnstiles and hardstanding around the whole pitch perimeter. Following the previous season of great success in 2006/7 it was always going to be difficult to replicate those achievements but 2007/8 proved equally successful both on and off the field. The ”Lakesiders” were defending 2 prestigious cup competitions and remarkably retained both when winning the NEWFA Challenge Cup at the Racecourse, Wrexham with a 2-1 victory over gap Queens Park and repeating the scoreline against the same team at Prestatyn to secure the Cymru Alliance League Cup. These cup successes were complemented with another successive 2nd place in the Cymru Alliance League, missing out on promotion this time to Prestatyn Town. Such a record of silverware was a tremendous achievement for Colin Caton and his team with a club that was relatively small in comparison to opponents faced in the 2nd tier of Welsh Football. The Reserve team also had an excellent season and produced further silverware for the club when they captured the Welsh National League Wrexham Area Division 1 League Cup. They also finished in 3rd place in their league to round off another superb season for Andrew Parry and his youngsters. However, in 2008-09 the club finally achieved promotion to the Welsh Premier League after two 2nd place finishes. They were crowned Huws Gray Cymru Alliance League Champions without kicking a ball as their nearest rivals Holyhead Hotspur lost heavily at home to Flint Town United on the last day of the season and to rub salt in Holyhead’s wounds we beat the same opponents at Llandudno FC to secure the League Cup for an unprecedented fourth time in five seasons. The Reserves were crowned Wrexham Area Reserves Division League Champions and League Cup Winners. Over the following close season further ground improvements were undertaken with the full enclosure of the Town End, the seat and light enhancements, the construction of a Media Centre, the complete overhaul and extension of the dressing rooms, the enclosure of the referee’s room, a medical centre and the provision of a club office which enabled the club to achieve the much coveted Domestic Licence to be able to compete at the top level of Welsh football. This season was a culmination of a record of rise from the lowest depths of the Welsh Pyramid fifteen years earlier to the top league in Wales, with so much silverware won along the way – a tremendous achievement for Colin Caton and the club as a whole.
2009-10, the club’s first season in the Welsh Premier was a big learning curve and in any other season a finishing position of 11th amongst the 18 top clubs in Wales would have been a massive achievement. However the fly in the ointment was the decision by the Welsh Premier League committee to reduce the league to 12 clubs and therefore immediate relegation was seemingly inevitable – however it was deemed the feeder leagues promoted clubs were unable to reach the criteria to receive the Domestic Licence to achieve promotion and Bala Town took their place among the elite ‘Super 12’ for the 2010-11 season. If we thought 2009-10 was a baptism of fire it was nothing compared to 2010-11 and a poor set of early results saw us fighting to remain out of the two relegation spots for most of the season. When the league split into two after the New Year we battled gamely but by the narrowest of margins finished again in 11th place (and once again in a relegation spot) but as fate would have it one of the feeder league winners was again denied a promotion spot and therefore we proudly took our place again with renewed vigour for our third season in the top league tier in Wales. The 2011-12 season, was however much better and saw further progress with the Lakesiders finishing a record 5th place in their 3rd season in the Welsh Premier League. Town didn’t drop out of the top 6 all season and cemented 5th position deservedly. They progressed into the newly formed ‘European Playoffs’ and faced Prestatyn Town in the Semi Finals. A 2-1 home win saw Colin Caton’s men reach the final where they travelled to Llanelli AFC. 90 minutes away from Europe but narrowly missed out on a European place as Andy Legg’s men won 2-1. During this season captain Mark Jones won the Daily Post’s WPL Player of the Year award, was named in the WPL Team of the Year and scooped up the Welsh Premier League’s Player of the Year award which showed Town’s progression yet again. Another record breaking and history making season followed in 2012-13. Colin Caton took charge of this 10th season with the Lakesiders and passed the 400 match in charge milestone in February. The campaign was very mixed as Town slipped into the Playoff Conference early on and were playing catchup for the rest of the first half of the season. After the split the Lakesiders ran away with 7th place and yet again were in the Playoff spots after a 10 match unbeaten and winning run. A 1-0 win against 8th place Connah’s Quay in the Quarter Finals and then a convincing 4-2 away win against Bangor City saw Bala back in the Playoff Final for the second succession and extend their run to 12 games unbeaten. But this time the outcome was different as a John Irving 89th minute winner against Port Talbot Town secured a European place for Bala Town for the first time in their history and finish the season with a record breaking 13 unbeaten matches. The Europa League draw on the 24th June saw us drawn against FC Levadia Tallinn of Estonia. The European adventure into the unknown saw us win the first leg at home by one goal to nil before losing 3-1 away to go out on aggregate by 3 goals to 2. This is hopefully just the start to the next chapter for Bala Town Football Club and we can have further European matches in the forthcoming seasons. After our European adventure it was back to the 2013/14 league campaign but it was a sluggish start which saw the Lakesiders pick up only 7 points from the first 3 months of the season. The results in ‘theWord’ Cup were however solid and saw Bala secure a place in the final and also a progressive improvement in League form towards the Christmas/ New Year period. A loss on penalties in ‘theWord’ Cup saw attention full back on the second half of the league in the bottom six and pushing towards a playoff spot. Town reached the Welsh Cup Semi Final but lost 2-1 against TNS – however with Aberystwyth reaching the final and qualifying for Europe, hopes of the 7th placed finish were still alive. Results and goals were going in Town’s favour but slipping up towards the end of the season and Aberystwyth’s domination meant the 6 point gap saw the campaign ending in 8th spot. However after Town’s slow start they still scored the 3rd highest amount of goals and conceded the 3rd least amount of goals in the league.
2014/15 saw new faces arrive at Maes Tegid with Huw Griffiths joining the Club’s management and Town’s line-up taking on a more youthful look. The season got off to a superb start with Bala firmly placed in the top three by Christmas. A successful cup run in ‘theWord’ Cup saw them finding themselves in the final for the second successive season but sadly fall to a 3-0 defeat to TNS. By the half-season split Bala didn’t drop below 3rd position in the league as the run in to the final matches of the season approached. Going into the final match of the season, Town sat in 2nd – were 3 points ahead of Airbus in 3rd with Bala needing a point or more against TNS. Ahead of a bumper crowd a 1-1 draw saw the Lakesiders seal 2nd spot and qualifying for the Europa League for the 2nd time in their history. After a 3-1 loss away at FC Differdange of Luxembourg, it was all to do in the second leg but goals from Conall Murtagh and Ian Sheridan saw Bala take the lead but their hopes of a second round tie were dashed due to an injury time winner by Differdange. The Club broke their highest points tally (59) in the Welsh Premier and their highest ever position (2nd). All in all, the best season ever for the Club. 2015/16 was another successful campaign for the Lakesiders. A successive second place finish in the Welsh Premier League after only losing 6 WPL fixtures all season saw them secure European qualification on the final day of the season. A draw against Swedish giants AIK followed but two 2-0 losses brought the end to another Europa campaign. Unfortunately, Town had a mixed start to the season due to injuries, suspensions and no home ground due to the 3G pitch installation that opened in September. Knocked out of the Irn Bru Cup and League Cup early on, focus was on the League and Welsh Cup and by the end of the League split in January, Town were flying and secured a spot in the top 6. Bala’s good run continued and they finished 3rd in the WPL, only a point behind 2nd place Connah’s Quay. Meanwhile, a win against Caernarfon in the Welsh Cup Semi Final saw the Lakesiders reach a Welsh Cup Final for the first time in their history. TNS were the opponents and clear favourites but an incredible second half comeback with goals from Jordan Evans and a 86th minute header from Kieran Smith saw Town pick up the prestigious Welsh Cup trophy for the first time in their proud history and automatic qualification into the Europa League for a 4th time. 2017/18 didn’t get off to the best of starts with only 8 points on the board by the start of October. There were early exits from the League and Welsh Cup but Town had an excellent 4 months in the middle of the season which saw them seal a top 6 spot by the split and then go on to end the season in fourth. The following campaign began well but ended in heartbreak as the Lakesiders lost on penalties to Cardiff Met to end their hopes of a Europa League place however the Maes Tegid outfit bounced back and after the 2019/20 campaign was curtailed, Bala took their place in the Europa League. In a one legged tie against Valletta, Town stunned their opponents and recoded a famous victory to set up a second round tie with Belgian giants Standard Liege. Unfortunately for Bala they were defeated in Belgium but despite the loss, could be proud of their efforts which they carried into the League campaign, currently sitting third in the table with European qualification firmly in their sights. Some shrewd signings have bolstered the squad with Will Evans in scintillating recent form and there was more good news for Lakesiders fans last week when the club announced the return of Gary Roberts, the 36 year old returning to the Town having left Wigan Athletic in early November. Roberts has made a total of 550 appearances in the Football League while playing for Accrington Stanley, Ipswich Town, Crewe Alexandra, Huddersfield Town, Swindon Town, Chesterfield, Portsmouth, and most recently Wigan Athletic.
Cardiff Met FC secured their first back-to-back wins of the current campaign as they saw off a spirited Newtown side to win 2-1 at Cyncoed Campus. Christian Edwards’ men built on their 1-0 win away at Flint Town United on the weekend to move level on points with 6th placed Penybont, on what was a chilly evening at the home of the students. It was a frantic start to proceedings with a number of chances in the opening couple of minutes, but it was the home side who took the lead in the 5th minute. A free kick was awarded to Met for a foul on Charlie Corsby – who unfortunately was needed to be replaced through injury – and Eliot Evans stepped up to take it. The midfielder’s right footed effort was curled around the wall and beat Newtown goalkeeper, David Jones low down at his near side. The goalkeeper will hope to have done better but it certainly ignited an entertaining opening period to the encounter. Three minutes later, Newtown were level. Captain Craig Williams delivered a sumptuous outswinging corner and Jack Kelly rose highest to head home a deserved equalizer for the away side. No sooner were the visitors level, they were behind again. Evans’ second of the match was more impressive than the first. A long throw in from Dylan Rees was headed clear by the Newtown defensive line but only as far as Evans 25 yards out. The ball fell kindly to be struck on the volley and his weak-foot effort flew into the bottom corner. The end-to-end nature continued throughout the remainder of the first half as both sides looked to get on the scoresheet once more. Newtown almost equalized in the 32nd minute as a Nick Rushton delivery from the right wing was turned goalward by Met’s Rhydian Morgan but Alex Lang was on hand to gather. As exciting as the first half was, the second half was the complete opposite. Newtown had most of the ball with some neat football on display, but the chances came few and far between for both sides. Newtown had the better of the chances, with Tyrone Ofori’s 49th minute header looking destined for the top corner, only for Long to superbly tip behind for a corner. The match got very heated as the minutes ticked towards full time, with a number of yellow cards brandished, including 3 in 3 minutes from the referee. 10 minutes from time, the visitors came closest to nicking a point but after a goalmouth scramble, the ball was eventually cleared. In amongst the scramble, goalkeeper Alex Lang was struck by a flailing boot and suffered a nasty looking injury that saw him replaced by Met’s Number 1, Will Fuller as the Met withstood late pressure to seal the three points. The win continues the Archer’s recent good form against Newtown ahead of Saturday’s home match against third-placed Bala Town, with the hope of using the gained confidence to earn more points. The defeat leaves Newtown without an away win this season, remaining in 10th place.
Picture credits: Carl Robertson
Nomads Win Flintshire Derby Back-to-Back Wins for Met Caernarfon Town 1-1 Bala Town The points were shared at The Oval, with both sides coming away from it feeling they did enough to win all three points. Mid-tablers Caernarfon Town took the lead after 20 minutes through a Noah Edwards strike, beating traveling goalkeeper Alex Ramsey at his near post. The Cofi’s very nearly doubled the advantage, as Edwards’ free-kick cannoned back off the upright and landed at Sion Bradley’s feet, who’s rebound was superbly saved on the line. Bala themselves had their chances to equalize but missed a number of chances. That was, until former Archer Will Evans was brought down in the box and top goalscorer Chris Venables notched his 14th goal of the season. Both teams had chances in the second half but the match finished level. Cardiff Met FC 2-1 Newtown AFC The Archer’s secured their first back-to-back wins of the current campaign as they saw off a spirited Newtown performance to win 2-1 at Cyncoed Campus. Christian Edwards’ men built on their 1-0 win away to Flint Town United last time out to move level on points with 6th placed Penybont. A frantic opening ten minutes saw Eliot Evans score a smart free-kick that visiting goalkeeper David Jones will be disappointed not to have saved at his near side. Three minutes later it was 1-1 as Jack Kelly rose highest to head home Craig Williams’ outswinging corner. The goalscoring continued in the 10th minute of the match after a Dylan Rees trademark long throw-in was headed clear but only to Evans on the edge of the area. The midfielder notched his second with a fine weak-footed volley into the far bottom corner. Newtown had much of the ball and had a number of chances in the second half but the points were Met’s as their form continues to improve after a tough start to the season. Connah’s Quay Nomads 2-0 Flint Town United Flint Town United became the first club this season to suffer 10 defeats, as they fell to yet another loss away at the JD Cymru Premier defending Champions, Connah’s Quay. Attacker Danny Davies got the ball rolling for the Nomads in a comfortable win, striking in the 12th minute. Though a number of chances were not converted, the scoreline was doubled in the 71st minute as substitute Sameron Dool got his name on to the scoresheet and earn his side all three points, as they continue to apply pressure on The New Saints. Haverfordwest County 2-0 Aberystwyth Town There was plenty to talk about from Tuesday’s match at The Bridge Meadow Stadium, as the match went on long beyond the full time whistle in all the other matches. A first half floodlight failure delayed the match by 20 minutes as electrician was called to fix the issue. Thereafter, fourth official Alex McInch was forced to replace the selected referee, David Morgan, who seemed to sustain an injury in the second period. As for the football, County speed-merchant Jack Wilson raced through the Aber defence and finish calmly from 15 yards while under pressure. Dan Williams – on loan from Cardiff City – got County’s second, with a header from Wilson’s cross. The win was the Bluebirds first at home this season as they move up to fifth in the standings. Cefn Druids 0-4 TNS In a match up between the bottom of the league against the top of the league, star-striker Greg Draper once again stole the show. The club’s record scorer scored yet another hattrick for the club as he took his season total to 13 goals, just one shy of Bala Town’s Chris Venables with 14. Unbeaten leaders TNS were 0-3 up at half time through a Draper penalty and a well struck right footed effort from the edge of the area, before Blaine Hudson scored with the last touch of the half. TNS’ number 9, Draper, completed his hattrick in the 53rd minute as the Saints romped to victory yet again. The New Saints remain six points clear of the defending champions Nomads as the goals keep coming.
MATCHDAY 1 RESULTS Aberystwyth Town 2-3 Cardiff Met
Barry Town 0-3 The New Saints
Caernarfon Town 1-1 Penybont
Connah’s Quay Nomads 1-1 Bala Town
Flint Town United 1-0 Newtown
Haverfordwest County P-P Cefn Druids
MATCHDAY 2 RESULTS Bala Town 4-0 Barry Town
Cardiff Met 0-0 Haverfordwest County
Cefn Druids 1-2 Flint Town United
Newtown 2-3 Caernarfon Town
Penybont 1-1 Aberystwyth Town
The New Saints 1-0 Connah’s Quay Nomads
MATCHDAY 3 RESULTS Aberystwyth Town 3-1 Flint Town United
Bala Town 2-1 Cefn Druids
Barry Town 3-1 Caernarfon Town
Connah’s Quay Nomads 1-0 Penybont
Haverfordwest County 2-2 Newtown
The New Saints 2-0 Cardiff Met
MATCHDAY 4 RESULTS Caernarfon Town 0-4 The New Saints
Cefn Druids 1-1 Cardiff Met
Flint Town United 0-1 Barry Town
Haverfordwest County 1-4 Connah’s Quay Nomads
Newtown 1-1 Aberystwyth Town
Penybont 1-5 Bala Town
MATCHDAY 5 RESULTS Bala Town 1-1 The New Saints
Barry Town 2-1 Haverfordwest County
Caernarfon Town 2-1 Flint Town United
Cardiff Met 0-1 Penybont
Connah’s Quay Nomads 2-0 Aberystwyth Town
Newtown 4-1 Cefn Druids
MATCHDAY 6 RESULTS Aberystwyth Town 1-2 Barry Town
Bala Town 1-2 Haverfordwest County
Cardiff Met 0-3 Caernarfon Town
Cefn Druids 0-5 Connah’s Quay Nomads
Penybont 2-1 Newtown
The New Saints 10-0 Flint Town United
MATCHDAY 7 RESULTS Barry Town 1-0 Cardiff Met
Cefn Druids 0-4 Aberystwyth Town
Connah’s Quay Nomads 3-1 Caernarfon Town
Flint Town United 1-2 Bala Town
Haverfordwest County 0-4 Penybont
The New Saints 2-0 Newtown
MATCHDAY 8 RESULTS Bala Town 5-2 Aberystwyth Town
Caernarfon 1-2 Cefn Druids
Cardiff Met 1-2 Connah’s Quay Nomads
Flint Town United 0-2 Haverfordwest County
Newtown 1-1 Barry Town
Penybont 0-4 The New Saints
MATCHDAY 9 RESULTS Aberystwyth Town 2-2 TNS
Barry Town 0-0 Connah’s Quay Nomads
Cardiff Met 2-1 Flint Town United
Cefn Druids 0-2 Penybont
Haverfordwest County 1-1 Caernarfon Town
Newtown 0-2 Bala Town
MATCHDAY 10 FIXTURES Bala Town v Cardiff Met
Caernarfon Town v Aberystwyth Town
Cefn Druids v Barry Town
Connah’s Quay Nomads v Newtown
Penybont v Flint Town United
The New Saints 3-2 Haverfordwest County
MATCHDAY 11 FIXTURES Aberystwyth Town v Penybont
Barry Town v Bala Town
Cardiff Met v Cefn Druids
Connah’s Quay Nomads v The New Saints
Flint Town United v Caernarfon Town
Newtown v Haverfordwest County
MATCHDAY 12 FIXTURES Aberystwyth Town v Newtown
Caernarfon Town v Barry Town
Cefn Druids v Bala Town
Flint Town United v The New Saints
Haverfordwest County v Cardiff Met
Penybont v Connah’s Quay Nomads
MATCHDAY 13 RESULTS Bala Town 4-1 Penybont
Caernarfon Town 1-2 Connah’s Quay Nomads
Cardiff Metropolitan 1-1 Aberystwyth Town
Cefn Druids P-P Haverfordwest County
Newtown 3-2 Flint Town United
The New Saints 2-1 Barry Town United
MATCHDAY 14 FIXTURES Aberystwyth Town v Bala Town
Barry Town 0-0 Newtown
Cardiff Met 0-1 The New Saints
Connah’s Quay Nomads 2-1 Cefn Druids
Haverfordwest County 0-3 Flint Town United
Penybont v Caernarfon Town
MATCHDAY 15 FIXTURES Bala Town 3-1 Newtown
Caernarfon Town 1-4 Haverfordwest
Connah’s Quay Nomads 3-1 Barry Town
Flint Town 0-1 Cardiff Met
Penybont 1-1 Cefn Druids
The New Saints 4-1 Aberystwyth Town
MATCHDAY 16 FIXTURES Aberystwyth Town v Connah’s Quay Nomads
Barry Town v Flint Town United
Cardiff Met v Bala Town
Cefn Druids v Caernarfon Town
Haverfordwest County v The New Saints
Newtown v Penybont
MATCHDAY 17 FIXTURES Barry Town v Cefn Druids
Caernarfon Town v Newtown
Connah’s Quay Nomads v Cardiff Met
Flint Town United v Aberystwyth Town
Haverfordwest County 1-1 Bala Town
The New Saints v Penybont
MATCHDAY 18 FIXTURES Aberystwyth Town v Haverfordwest County
Bala Town v Caernarfon Town
Flint Town United v Connah’s Quay Nomads
Newtown v Cardiff Met
Penybont v Barry Town
The New Saints v Cefn Druids
MATCHDAY 19 FIXTURES Barry Town v Penybont
Caernarfon Town 1-1 Bala Town
Cardiff Met 2-1 Newtown
Cefn Druids 0-4 The New Saints
Connah’s Quay Nomads 2-0 Flint Town United
Haverfordwest County 2-0 Aberystwyth Town
MATCHDAY 20 FIXTURES Aberystwyth Town v Caernarfon Town
Bala Town v Connah’s Quay Nomads
Flint Town United v Cefn Druids
Haverfordwest County v Barry Town
Newtown v The New Saints
Penybont v Cardiff Met
MATCHDAY 21 FIXTURES Barry Town v Aberystwyth Town
Caernarfon Town v Cardiff Met
Cefn Druids v Newtown
Connah’s Quay Nomads v Haverfordwest County
Flint Town United v Penybont
The New Saints v Bala Town
MATCHDAY 22 FIXTURES Aberystwyth Town v Cefn Druids
Bala Town v Flint Town United
Cardiff Met v Barry Town
Newtown v Connah’s Quay Nomads
Penybont v Haverfordwest County
The New Saints v Caernarfon Town
DATE
COMP
OPPONENT
F-A
11/09/20
CP
Aberystwyth Town
3-2
15/09/20
CP
HAVERFORDWEST COUNTY
20/09/20
CP
26/09/20
GOALS
Evans
Lang
Rees
McCarthy
Woolridge
E.Evans
0-0
Lang
Rees
McCarthy
Woolridge
E.Evans
The New Saints
0-2
Lang
McCarthy
Woolridge
Williams
E.Evans
CP
Cefn Druids
1-1
Lang
Rees
McCarthy
Williams
E.Evans
30/09/20
CP
PENYBONT
0-1
Lang
Rees
McCarthy
E.Evans
Baker
03/10/20
CP
CAERNARFON TOWN
0-3
Fuller
McCarthy
E.Evans
Warwick
Corsby
06/10/20
CP
Barry Town United
0-1
Fuller
McCarthy
E.Evans
Warwick
Corsby
10/10/20
CP
CONNAH’S QUAY NOMADS
1-2
Rees
Fuller
Rees
McCarthy
Woolridge
Warwick
17/10/20
CP
FLINT TOWN UNITED
2-1
Rees Hulbert
Lang
Rees
McCarthy
Woolridge
Warwick
24/10/20
CP
Bala Town
P-P
31/10/20
CP
CEFN DRUIDS
P-P
07/11/20
CP
Haverfordwest County
P-P
13/11/20
CP
ABERYSTWYTH TOWN
1-1
Gleed
Lang
Rees
McCarthy
Woolridge
E.Evans
21/11/20
CP
THE NEW SAINTS
0-1
Lang
Rees
McCarthy
E.Evans
Corsby
28/11/20
CP
Flint Town United
1-0
Hulbert
Lang
Rees
McCarthy
Woolridge
Lewis
01/12/20
CP
NEWTOWN
2-1
E.Evans 2
Lang
Rees
McCarthy
Woolridge
Lewis
05/12/20
CP
BALA TOWN
19/12/20
CP
Connah’s Quay Nomads
26/12/20
CP
Newtown
01/01/21
CP
Penybont
09/01/21
CP
Caernarfon Town
15/01/21
CP
BARRY TOWN UNITED
Hulbert (2)
Warman
Baker
Warwick
Corsby
Hulbert
Morgan
Warman
Fuller
Williams
Chubb
Horwood
Gleed
N/A
Baker
Warwick
Corsby
Hulbert
Morgan
Warman
Fuller
Williams
Chubb
Horwood
Gleed
N/A
Baker
Corsby
Morgan
Warman
Chubb
Black
Fuller
Proctor
Davies
Horwood
Pashen
N/A
Baker
Corsby
J.Evans
Morgan
Warman
Chubb
Manson
Owen
J.Davies
Black
C.Davies
N/A
Corsby
J.Evans
J.Davies
Morgan
Warman
C.Davies
Fuller
Williams
Owen
Black
Gleed
N/A
J.Evans
J.Davies
Morgan
Warman
Black
C.Davies
Lang
Williams
Proctor
Chubb
Horwood
Roberts
Hulbert
J.Evans
J.Davies
Morgan
Warman
C.Davies
Lang
Williams
Proctor
Horwood
Pashen
Roberts
Corsby
Hulbert
J.Evans
Morgan
Warman
Black
Lang
Proctor
Horwood
Pashen
Roberts
Wright
Corsby
Hulbert
J.Evans
Morgan
Warman
Black
Fuller
Proctor
J.Davies
Horwood
Pashen
Roberts
Warwick
Corsby
Hulbert
J.Evans
Warman
Black
Fuller
Gleed
Pashen
C.Davies
Roberts
Wright
Hulbert
J.Evans
J.Davies
Morgan
Warman
Black
Fuller
Owen
Chubb
Pashen
Roberts
C.Davies
E.Evans
Hulbert
J.Davies
Morgan
Warman
Black
Fuller
Warwick
Owen
Chubb
C.Davies
Roberts
E.Evans
Corsby
Hulbert
Morgan
Warman
Black
Fuller
Warwick
Owen
J’Dvaies
Chubb
Roberts
Will Fuller
Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Will Fuller has been at the club since 2011, helping the club to progress from Welsh Division 3 to the Europa League over the last 8 seasons. Born in Ipswich and released by the club aged 16, Will joined Salisbury City for a two year youth scholarship before moving to Cardiff to continue his academics. Studying an undergraduate degree in Sport & Exercise Science and then a Masters in Applied Sports Psychology, Will was also voted in as the Students’ Union Vice-President and then President.
Dylan Rees
Defender
Dylan spent two years as a professional at the Bluebirds after 8 years in their academy. Upon his release in 2017, he signed for Karlstad BK in the Swedish Second Division. The summer of 2017 saw him return to Wales and begin his studies at Cardiff Metropolitan. Dylan has been capped at Wales ‘C’ level and is one of the best defenders in the Cymru Premier winning the Club Player of the Year award in 2019. Dylan is currently studying for a PGCE here at Cardiff Met.
Kyle McCarthy
Defender
Kyle spent his junior football days at Cardiff City FC Academy until he was released prior to a scholarship and sought youth team football and further education at Hereford United FC. Having completed both undergraduate and postgraduate courses at Cyncoed, Kyle is currently employed as a Sport Development Officer on behalf of Cardiff Metropolitan University (Sport Cardiff). During an 8 year period of representing the university, McCarthy has won promotion at every level of the Welsh pyramid, a league cup and more recently, European qualification.
Brad Woolridge
Defender
Brad is a current PhD student at the University and also club captain. His playing career began at 16, playing senior football for Heath Hayes FC in the Midland Alliance, where he played for 2 years prior to moving down to Cardiff to study for a sport science undergraduate degree in 2011. Brad worked hi way up through the Met system and became a member of the first team squad in 2014 assuming the captaincy a year later which he still holds today. Brad has played a pivotal role in the recent success at the club and is a wonderful example to both his team mates and the younger players within the Archers set-up.
Emlyn Lewis
Defender
Hailing from a rural community in West Wales, Emlyn spent most of his early days in swimming pools, competing at a national level, before committing to football at the age of 16, making his debut for Penrhyncoch FC in the Cymru Alliance. At the age of 18, Emlyn moved to the capital and 5 years on he’s still here having completed an Undergraduate Degree and a Masters Degree in Sport Coaching. Emlyn lists the highlights of his career as winning back to back BUCS Cup Championships, winning the National League Cup whilst also achieving European Qualification in addition ton representing the Wales C team vs England C in March 2019.
Guto Williams
Midfielder
Guto started playing football at the age of 5 and made his WPL debut for Bangor City at the age of 17, before going on to have a trial at Liverpool where he was coached by his idol Steven Gerrard. In addition, Guto captained Wales Academies Under 18’s to victory vs Ireland and also captained Wales Schools in the Centenary Shield. After completing his A-Levels Guto moved to Cardiff Met and begins his third season at the club having been part of the MG Cup winning side as well as helping the club achieve European qualification.
Eliot Evans
Midfield
Having failed to gain a YTS contract after a spell at Bristol City FC academy, at Eliot decided to pursue a degree in Sport and Exercise Science at Cardiff Met beginning his Archers career in Tier 4 of Welsh football. After two seasons at Monouth Town, were he won the Welsh League, Eliot rejoined the club in 2015 and his second period at the club has seen promotion to the Welsh Premier League, winning the Welsh League Cup, qualification into the Europa League as well as international call-ups with the Wales C squad. He graduated in 2018 with a Master’s degree in Sport Management. As well as his academic and sporting achievements he has been employed as an Associate Tutor, coach mentor and academy coach at Cardiff Met.
Chris Baker
Midfield
‘Bakes’ began his football career within Swansea City’s youth academy and after being released by Swansea, Chris returned to education and was part of the Gower College Welsh and British Cup winning squads moving to the capital to study for his undergraduate degree. Chris is a current PhD student going into his seventh season at the club and during that time has been part of the team that won promotion, a league cup, the BUCS championship and European qualification. An all action midfielder who sometimes doesn't get the credit he deserves, Chris scored Cardiff Met’s first ever goal in front of the Sgorio cameras against Aberystwyth.
Harry Warwick
Forward
Harry joins us on loan from Bristol Rovers where he has recently signed a professional contract. He has been on loan to a number of clubs within the English system and has impressed in his early games for the Archers, scoring twice in pre-season. Despite playing as a number 9, Harry has great pace and an eye for goal and certainly looks to be an excellent addition to the squad.
Charlie Corsby
Midfield
Charlie is currently a Lecturer in Sports Coaching at the Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences. Originally from Bournemouth, Charlie began a semiprofessional playing career at Brockenhurst FC and having moved to Cardiff to study BSc Sports Coaching, Charlie continued his playing career at Cardiff Met FC (formerly UWIC). Moving into his tenth year at the club, Charlie has been involved in the team’s success winning Welsh Division Three, Welsh Division Two, Welsh Division One and, more recently, the Nathaniel MG Cup. Charlie is also the Academy Director at Cardiff Met FC and holds a UEFA A & Elite Youth Licence.
Harry Owen
Midfield
Harry grew up in Gloucestershire and played local club football before spending time at a variety of different professional outfits, Harry pursued further education at Cirencester College where he was involved in playing for Cirencester Town, in addition to representing Gloucestershire County, England Colleges and England Schoolboys. Harry chose to continue his education at Cardiff Met, whilst enabling him to play at the highest level of Welsh football. Having been sidelined through injury for long periods, Harry’s return will be a great boost for the team following the departure of Jordan Lam.
Ollie Hulbert
Forward
Another loanee from Bristol Rovers, Ollie made an instant impact on his debut in the Cymru Premier with two goals against Aberystwyth at Park Avenue to help the Archers to a 3-2 victory. Ollie has also signed a professional contract at the Memorial Ground and speaking about the youngster agreeing his first professional deal, Manager Ben Garner said, "Ollie is a player that has come all the way through the Academy system from a young age. He is highly regarded by the Academy staff and has shown his potential when training with the first-team squad."
Kieron Proctor
Midfielder/Forward
Kieron began his football career with local club Ely Rangers before joining Cardiff City. Serious injury hampered his time with the Bluebirds and Kieron was released having spells with Taff’s Well in addition to playing in Australia. A skilful number 10, Kieron certainly has the ability to have a big impact here at Cyncoed.
Joe Evans
Defender
Former player at Cambrian & Clydach Vale FC, who had an impressive first season with Cardiff Met. Joe is studying a Masters Degree in Sports Leadership & Management at Cyncoed and has had the honour of representing Wales at both University and College level. Joe can play anywhere in the back four and his versatility was evident last season with a consistent first campaign with the Archers.
CJ Craven
Midfielder
CJ joins us from TNS and looks to have an excellent technique as well as an eye for a pass. We wish him well in his time here and look forward to seeing more of him as the season progresses.
Jac Davies
Defender
Jac joins the Archers after previously spending time at Cardiff City Academy. Comfortable on the ball and rarely gives possession away, we welcome Jac and wish him well during his time here.
Rhydian Morgan
Defender
A sporting all-rounder, Rhydian excelled at both cricket and tennis before turning his attention to football and a degree at Cardiff Met. Rhydian signing for Welsh Premier League academy side Llandudno Academy through the age groups before signing a 1st team contract at the age of 17. This led to yet another International call up, being selected for Welsh Schools. Now in his third year at the club, ’Rodney’ won the BUCS National Championship in his 1st year alongside winning the Nathaniel MG Cup and playing in both European Play-Off finals.
Liam Warman
Midfielder/Forward
Liam began his football journey at the Cardiff City Academy which he joined at the age of 10. After spending 6 years with the Bluebirds, he moved to Newport County as a scholar, staying with the club for two years in which time the team went undefeated in the Merit Youth League whilst winning the title. Now in his second year at Cyncoed, Liam is a pacy winger who has developed during his time at the club and has forced his way into the first team after some impressive pre-season performances.
Matt Chubb
Defencder
Matt’s early football career was spent with his local team Braunton FC but at 16 he decided to primarily focus on competing in athletics. After two years of focusing on athletics, his arrival at University led to an increased desire to focus on football. He began his Cardiff Met journey in the fourth team and has progressed year on year to take his place in the first team squad. He is a current MSc student in Strength and Conditioning after completing his Sport and Exercise Science undergraduate degree.
Harri Horwood
Midfielder
Harri spent his early years playing for Wrexham youth team, playing in the Welsh Super Cup on a number of occasions against teams from all around the world. After being released, Harri joined Aberystwyth Town academy where he progressed through all age groups, eventually making his debut for their first team in the Welsh Premier League. Harri has been capped by Wales eleven times through the schoolboys and academies set ups. He is currently studying Sport, Physical Education and Health and in the future hopes to become a P.E. Teacher.
Liam Black
Defender
After moving to Cardiff in 2012 to study at Uni, he joined Cardiff Met FC who were competing in the 4th Tier of Welsh domestic football and the 3rd Tier of university football at the time. Liam’s time at Cyncoed has coincided with a glittering period in the history of the club, winning various promotions, 2 BUCs championships, 1 league cup and a Europa League qualification. Liam currently works as an Associate Tutor. Cardiff Met has also supported Liam on his coaching journey having worked within the reserve team as well as completing his UEFA A licence. Liam is the Head Coach of the U-19s.
Ashton Gleed
Attacker
Ashton is originally from Swindon and in entering his third year at Cardiff Met. He has previously captained his County from u15-u18. After playing youth football he moved around various college set ups before leaving to play and coach in New Zealand in his gap year, before settling into university life. Last year he played a combination of football at home within a dual sign before obtaining international clearance to play for Cardiff Met.
Sam Pashen
Midfielder
Born in Dorchester, In his early years Sam played for Dorchester Town FC with selection for the Dorset County side and a spell at AFC Bournemouth Youth Academy following. After completing his A Levels Sam decided that Cardiff Met was the ideal place to grow both footballing and academic careers. Now in the 3rd year of a Sports and Exercise Science degree beginning to focus on my dissertation and future academia in the direction of a Masters in Strength and Conditioning. Outside of football, one of his proudest achievements was completing a 120-mile trek on his gap year, to Mount Everest Base Camp, raising money for charity.
Alex Lang
Goalkeeper
The 2018/19 season was his first as part of the Cardiff Met FC team, and also his first time in full time education since the age of 15 after playing for Swansea City from the age of 11 until 18. After leaving Swansea, Alex decided to restart his education at Cardiff Met studying Sport and Physical Education, having a particular interest in goalkeeper coaching. An excellent shot stopper, Lang has proved himself to be an able deputy for Will Fuller and has certainly given the management plenty to think about for the forthcoming season.
Craig Davies
Midfielder
19 year old Craig is originally from a small village in West Wales called Synod Inn. Craig joined the Archers recently having spent 7 years at Swansea City FC from U12’s to the U23’s. After moving from home to live in Swansea at 14, he signed a 2 year scholarship shortly after. During this time he was able to gain valuable experiences playing against other top Category 1 clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal on a regular basis. “I am looking forward to using my positive experiences and attributes to help Cardiff Met this season.”
Brandon Roberts Midfielder Born in Abergavenny, and currently studying A Levels at Llanishen High School, Brandon has risen through the Cardiff Met Uni FC Academy ranks making his senior debut against Connah’s Quay earlier this season. He has also played for Cardiff Schools at County level where he represented them in both the Welsh and English School Cups. Brandon is a versatile player comfortable on either wing, in the traditional role or as wing back. On occasion he has also played upfront. Before joining Cardiff Met, he competed for Cardiff Archers Elite Athletics squad in endurance events.
Mathew Jones
Midfielder
Mathew has spent time at Wrexham and originally signed for Flint before deciding to further his education and sign for Cardiff Met without playing a game at Cae-y-Castell. We look forward to seeing him in action and welcome him to Cyncoed.
Max Manson
Goalkeeper
A native of Newport South Wales he signed for his hometown club Newport County when he was 15. After his second ACL reconstruction surgery he studied a Level 3 Diploma in sport at County in the Community college programme. He is now into my third year of studying at Cardiff Met with future desires of doing a postgraduate PGCE to become a primary education teacher.
supporters celebrated the victory at Will's family pub, The Green Inn in Llangedwyn until the early hours of the morning.
It will be a strange experience for everyone from the Cardiff Met family to witness Will Bear Evans playing against the home team this afternoon. I am sure everyone within the Welsh football scene still associates Will Evans with Cardiff Met despite the notable success he has enjoyed since moving to play for Bala this year. Will has contributed significantly to the success of the university team over the years and played an important role in the club's successes via numerous promotions to the Welsh Premier League. When I started watching Met, Will stood out, not only because of his bright blonde hair but mainly because he wore the most colourful and striking boots. It appeared he wore a new pair of various colours every month, not to mention the memorable pink pair of boots that were simply awful. One of my earliest recollections of him was his brilliant volley at Richmond Park in April 2017 when Carmarthen were soundly beaten 0-4. I always felt Will would one day develop as a centre forward and it was no surprise to me when he became the main central striker following Adam Roscrow's departure to AFC Wimbledon. Will was very successful in his new role and was rightly included in the Wales C squad earlier this year before Covid and the Lockdown unfortunately ended the season. During the presentation evening at the end of last season, Will won a number of awards including the Coaches’ Player of the Year, shared jointly with Emlyn. It was quite a night and we were shown a video of his goals over the years including some missed chances (a video edited by Emlyn by the way!) Inevitably Will’s missed penalty kick against Bala during the crucial 'Europa' cupfinal in May 2019 ended the show-reel. Thankfully Met managed to win the tie and a delighted contingent of Met players, staff, families, friends and
Will is fondly missed at Cardiff Met but not only for his talents (and goals!) on the field. Will is a real character who is always positive and an infectious happy go lucky character. Will always gave up his time to talk to me and the other children who attend the games. On one occasion I was amazed when I received his number 18 shirt as a parcel through my letter box. He was also very popular with the young teams he coached and praised by all. The children's mothers were especially fond of him but I am unsure why that is particularly. Will also always gave everything for the team, although almost every game he suffered an injury of some sort, alongside falling out with the ref. However, he would never come off the pitch during a game due to injury – apart from one famous occasion. Who can forget when he seriously hurt his leg against Caernarvon?! He received a great deal of sympathy and concern at the time including wishes for a speedy recovery from many all over Wales who were worried about him. To the astonishment of his fellow players he miraculously recovered and returned to the team within a week with his fellow players questioning what all the fuss was about. Will's crucial contribution in last year's home game against Bala will never be forgotten. During the dying embers of the goal-less game and with the wind whirling around Cyncoed, Will shot high from the touchline towards the goal. Somehow the goalkeeper was unable to anticipate the bounce due to the strong wind, and the ball looped over his head agonizingly into the net. Everyone was ecstatic with the late winner and nobody more so than me, because it was my birthday! Thanks Will! Since moving to Bala, Will has proved to be a huge asset for the Maes Tegid outfit. Earlier this season Will has enjoyed another taste of European football and played against the famous Belgian side, Standard Liege. He is now among the league's top scorers although some Met fans will question why he couldn't score as many goals for Met when he wasn't getting paid?! With Christmas approaching I hope Santa will bring the following gifts to Will: a pair of scissors to rid himself of his ridiculous Alice hair band; I also hope he receives dancing lessons to celebrate his goals more appropriately rather than making some bizarre hand gestures towards his most recent girlfriends as we have seen of late. Following Met's recent wins and Bala's impressive results since the beginning of the season, I'm sure today’s match will be quite a spectacle. Mwynhewch y gêm!
teulu Will, The Green dathlu tan hwyr y bore.
Mi fydd yn brofiad rhyfedd i bawb o deulu Met Caerdydd i weld Will Bear Evans yn chwarae yn erbyn y tîm cartref prynhawn yma. Rwy’n siŵr fydd pawb sy’n gwylio’r gêm bêl-droed yng Nghymru dal yn cysylltu Will Evans gyda Met Caerdydd er ei lwyddiant ysgubol ers symud i chwarae dros Y Bala eleni. Mae Wil wedi cyfrannu’n sylweddol at lwyddiant y myfyrwyr dros y blynyddoedd ac wedi chwarae rhan bwysig yn llwyddiant y clwb wrth godi a dyrchafu i fyny trwy’r adrannau at frig system pyramid Uwch Gynghrair Cymru. Pan ddechreuais wylio Met yr oedd Will yn sefyll allan, nid oherwydd ei wallt gwyn llachar ond oherwydd yr oedd wastad yn gwisgo’r bŵts mwyaf lliwgar a thrawiadol. Yr oedd yn ymddangos ei fod yn cael bŵts newydd bob mis, heb sôn am y pâr pinc cofiadwy am resymau ofnadwy. Un o’r goliau cynnar wna i byth anghofio oedd ei foli wych ym Mharc Richmond yn Ebrill 2017 pan roddwyd cweir i Gaerfyrddin o bedair gôl i ddim. Yr oeddwn wastad wedi meddwl mai ymosodwr rhif 9 fyddai Will un diwrnod ac nid oedd yn syndod pan symudodd i chwarae fel rhif 9 Met, yn dilyn ymadawiad Adam Roscrow i AFC Wimbledon. Yr oedd Will yn llwyddiannus iawn yn ei rôl newydd ac yn llwyr haeddiannol wedi ei gynnwys yng ngharfan Cymru C yn gynharach eleni cyn i Covid a’r Cyfnod Clo ddiweddu’r tymor yn anffodus. Yn ystod y noson wobrwyo ar ddiwedd y tymor llynedd, enillodd Will nifer o wobrau gan gynnwys gwobr Chwaraewr yr Hyfforddwyr yn gydradd gydag Emlyn. Yr oedd hi’n dipyn o noson ac mi ddangoswyd fideo o’i goliau dros y blynyddoedd gan gynnwys hefyd ambell gyfle a fethwyd (fideo a drefnwyd gan Emlyn gyda llaw!)ac yn amlwg rhaid oedd cynnwys y gic gosb sâl yn erbyn Y Bala adeg y gêm ‘Europa’ hollbwysig ym Mai 2019. Diolch i’r drefn llwyddodd Met i ennill ac aeth pawb draw i dafarn
Inn
yn
Llangedwyn
er
mwyn
Fel pawb arall yn Met yr wyf yn gweld eisiau Will yn fawr ac nid oherwydd ei ddoniau (a’i goliau!) ar y cae yn unig. Mae Will yn berson llawen iawn sydd wastad yn hapus, yn wên o glust i glust ac yn glên gyda phawb. Yr oedd Will bob amser yn rhoi o’i amser er mwyn siarad gyda fi a’r holl blant eraill sydd yn dod i’r gemau. Ar un achlysur cefais syrpreis pan dderbyniais ei grys rhif 18 trwy’r post fel anrheg. Yr oedd hefyd yn boblogaidd iawn gyda’r timau ifanc yr oedd yn eu cefnogi a phob un wastad yn ei ganmol. Yr oedd mamau'r plant yn enwedig, yn hoff iawn ohono ond sa i’n gwybod yn union pam. Yr oedd Will hefyd wastad yn rhoi popeth dros y tîm a bron pob gêm fyddai Will yn dioddef anaf o ryw fath ac hefyd ffrae gyda’r dyfarnwr. Er hyn yr oedd byth yn dod bant o’r cae yn ystod gwrs gêm - arwahân i un achlysur enwog. Pwy all anghofio pan frifodd ei goes yn ddifrifol yn erbyn Caernarfon?! Derbyniodd lawer o gydymdeimlad a chonsyrn mawr ar y pryd gan gynnwys dymuniadau am wellhad buan gan nifer ar draws Cymru oedd yn gofidio amdano. Er hyn dychwelodd i’r tîm o fewn wythnos gyda’i gyd-chwaraewyr yn cwestiynu am beth oedd yr holl ffws! Mi fydd cyfraniad tyngedfennol Will yn y gêm gartref llynedd yn erbyn Y Bala byth yn mynd yn angof. Mewn amodau gaeafol a’r gwynt yn chwyrlio, ym munudau ola’r gêm ddi-sgôr, saethodd Will yn uchel o’r ystlys tua’r gôl. Rhywsut methodd y gôl-geidwad ddarllen yr ergyd oherwydd y gwynt cryf, a chododd y bêl dros ei ben i’r rhwyd. Mi oedd pawb wrth eu boddau a neb llai na fi oherwydd diwrnod fy mhen-blwydd ydoedd! Diolch Will! Ers symud i’r Bala mae Will wedi profi’n gaffaeliad arbennig i’r gwŷr o Faes Tegid. Yn gynharach eleni mae Will wedi serennu ac wedi cael blas arall o bêldroed Ewropeaidd a chystadlu yn erbyn y tîm enwog o Wlad Belg, Standard Liege. Mae bellach ymhlith prif sgorwyr y gynghrair er bydd rhai cefnogwyr Met yn cwestiynu pam nad oedd yn gallu sgorio cystal i Met pan nad oedd yn cael ei dalu?! Gyda’r Nadolig yn nesáu gobeithiaf y bydd Siôn Corn yn dod â’r anrhegion canlynol i Will Evans - siswrn er mwyn cael gwared â’r band gwallt Alice hurt sydd ganddo ar hyn o bryd. Hefyd gobeithiaf y bydd yn derbyn gwersi dawnsio er mwyn dathlu ei goliau yn fwy addas yn hytrach na gwneud ystumiau rhyfedd gyda’i ddwylo tuag at ei gariadon mwyaf diweddar. Yn dilyn buddugoliaethau Met yn yr wythnos a chanlyniadau gwych Bala ers mis Awst, rwy’n siŵr y bydd yn dipyn o gêm prynhawn yma. Mwynhewch y gêm!
That Day in May……. Bala Town 1-1 Cardiff Met (Cardiff Met win 3-1 on Penalties) The Archers went into their third successive Europa League play-off final hoping to qualify after losses to Bangor City (2017) and Cefn Druids (2018) in their previous two finals. What the game lacked in quality at times, it certainly made up for in excitement and the Archers could have been ahead in the 12th minute, Roscrow heading against the post when it seemed easier to score. It looked like the visitors would rue that missed chance as Bala took the lead just seven minutes later, Henry Jones turning the ball home past the advancing Fuller from a Kieran Smith header. The hosts were unable to hold onto their lead and just minutes later, Met were level. An excellent run from Will Evans saw the midfielder’s cross parried into the path of Eliot Evans by home custodian Jones, the Met number seven making no mistake with the finish drilling his left foot shot home from 12 yards. The second half was a more scrappy affair with much of the game being played in midfield, neither side able to create much in the way of clear cut chances however with extra time looming, Fuller was called into action to save a long range drive from Smith before Met could have won the game late on, Chris Baker the second Met player to head against the woodwork. The hosts began extra time strongly but the Met defence held firm repelling the home attack time after time until Bala hit the woodwork twice in the space of a few seconds, The Archers defence eventually clearing the ball to safety to ensure the score remained level at the end of extra-time. The lottery of penalties was to decide which club was to take their place in the Europa League and it was a terrible start for the Archers, McCarthy’s tame effort easily saved by Keighan Jones. Not to be outdone, Will Fuller matched Jones and saved Bala’s first penalty before Dylan Rees converted to give the Archers the lead. Venables blasted Bala’s second kick high over the bar but Will Evans was unable to capitalise and once again Jones was able to save from the midfielder. Fuller again came to the rescue for the Archers, saving from Mike Hayes before Emlyn Lewis converted for the visitors. Stephens scored for Bala but it was Met who won it courtesy of Eliot Evans who scored to complete a wonderful day for the visiting players and supporters.
In a bizarre quirk of fixture fate, Bala Town are the next opponents for Christian Edwards’ men, with the in-form Lakesiders hosting the Archers at Maes Tegid. Bala Town currently sit third in the JD Cymru Premier with 28pts from their opening 13 matches, and sit four points behind defending Champions Connah’s Quay in second. The Archers will go into Saturday’s match following a win away at Flint Town United and followed that result up with a 2-1 victory over Newtown which moved the students up to seventh in the table ahead of tonight’s match against Newtown, and will hope a good result tonight will give them confidence against an in-form Bala Town. The away side are currently on a nine match unbeaten run and will provide tough opposition for the students who will take many positives from recent performances. Met’s last home match – a pulsating 2-1 win over Newtown - will give Met the confidence that was maybe missing in the early part of the campaign. JD Cymru Premier top goalscorer Chris Venables will hope to maintain his rich vein of form in front of goal, with the Shrewsburyborn striker on 13 goals coming into the match level with TNS’ Greg Draper (13) with Bala teammate William Evans (9) leading the chasing pack in the race for the Golden Boot. Last season’s fixtures were both close affairs, with Cardiff Met FC doing the double over their northern opponents. A 1-2 away win at Maes Tegid was followed up with a narrow 1-0 victory at Cyncoed Campus as Christian Edwards’ men did the double last season.
Bala Town have not won against the student side since November 2018, and are on a run of only 1 victory against Met in 7 matches, in all competitions, dating back to February 2018. A win for Met will strengthen their position and their ambitions of finishing in the top six ahead of a potential splitting of the division in January, while Bala Town will hope to maintain pressure on leaders TNS and defending champions Connah’s Quay above them.
ARCHERS
LAKESIDERS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 30 31
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 14 15 17 18 19 20 25 29 30
Will Fuller Dylan Rees Kyle McCarthy Brad Woolridge (c) Emlyn Lewis Guto Williams Eliot Evans Chris Baker Harry Warwick Charlie Corsby Harry Owen Ollie Hulbert Kieron Proctor Joe Evans CJ Craven Jac Davies Rhydian Morgan Liam Warman Matt Chubb Harri Horwood Liam Black Ashton Gleed Sam Pashen Alex Lang Craig Davies Brandon Roberts Mathew Jones Max Manson Tom Wright
Alex Ramsay Andrew Burns Sean Smith Nathan Peate Anthony Stephens Jonny Spittle Lee Molyneux Will Evans Raul Correia Henry Jones Kieran Smith Steve Leslie Antony Kay Danny Gossett Llyr Morris Shaun Kelly Lassana Mendes Chris Venables Oliver Shannon Harri Lloyd
Referee: Ryan Kenny Assistant Referee: Ben Williams Assistant Referee: Lewis Edwards 4th Official: Ashley Davies