Manager - James O'Neill(right)
Asst Manager - Dave O'Gorman(left)
Statistics 2006/2007 New - Thanks to Stato
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Asst Manager - Dave O'Gorman(left) |
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Statistics 2006/2007 New - Thanks to Stato |
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If you have 'Word' click Here for Current Reserve Squad. |
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Match Reports Saturday 9th February 2008 - Dinas Powys FC 3 Cambrian and Clydach 1 Dinky boys keep Mo-mentum up at top of the table Defending champions Dinas Powys kept the pressure up at the top of the table with a professional demolition job on a Cambrian and Clydach side who had plenty of heart but just lacked the sheer quality shown in the new youthful Dinas side. A fantastic team was assembled by Jim and Dog, that included several changes from the marvelous away win at Afan Lido the previous week. Bobby Sadler returned from his unavailability the previous week and slotted in at left back. ‘Chunk’ Dando moved back to his favoured centre back role and in came the highly experienced Big Dan Kinsey as Mark Jones rotated his quality squad in the first team. Danny was extremely unlucky to have been demoted but to his credit showed a fantastic attitude and was great to have in the dressing room,. Big D lived up to his name and was a colossus alongside gladiator Dando in the heart of defence. Mo Maddar after his impressive half against Lido made his first start in his second spell as a Dinas player and was deployed on the left of midfield. First team regular Dwaine Strong was also a surprise inclusion in the seconds and partnered the consistent and goal-hungry Hammy up-front. Mad Monk Skinner returned in goal after injury, welcome home Skin. The team looked class but it was important to keep the work ethic and not be complacent against a team who will battle you for the full ninety minutes.
With Shelton and Mo both out wide the gameplan was to win the battle and get the ball wide so we could use the electric pace and skill of the two youngsters in the opposition half where they can commit defenders and get som balls in to the dangerous duo flooding the box. The lads looked hungry for goals as the referee blew for the clash to begin at fortress Murchfield. Soon enough the first goal arrived and from an unlikely source, a corner taken by Suggy was mis-kicked by Chunk at the near post for Lloyd ‘Blinky’ Davies to hammer home on the volley, a sweet finish and a great start. Blinky and Suggy took control of the game right from the start and won the battle and earned the right to play. This combination in central midfield is so important to the rest of the team as they work so hard in the engine room and are such consistent performers. With the two wide boys switching at will to confuse the bemuzed Cambrian side the class in the midfield was a joy to watch. Mo Maddar getting involved early on with some neat touches and close inter-play, keeping the ball but being positive in every aspect of play. Hammy was working his socks off and some deft touches from Dwaine releasing Shelton bombing on out wide. Soon enough Dinas doubled their lead and it was no surprise that Mo notched his first goal on his first start this season. A deflected free kick from the pacy winger eluded the valley keeper and into the net. The rest of the first half Dinas threatened but could not kill off the game. Hammy went clean through only to be taken out by the keeper clearly inside the box, a yellow was the least the ref should have offered but somehow he gave a free kick on the edge. Everyone was puzzled ?? Half Time 2-0.
The half time team talk was centred around the third goal and who would get it. Should Dinas score the third it was game over but if Cambrian were able to score they would be back in it and it would be game on. You always know against Valley sides they have plenty of heart and will always give 100%. It was important to keep up the tempo and get that elusive third, shut-up-shop and job done. Some wise words of advice were given by Big D who was able to offer his experience to a largely youthful set of lads. The second half began and the game ebbed and flowed for fifteen minutes before a free kick from Shelton was deflected to Mo who finished sweetly to get his brace and Dinas third. Game over really and the second half became a drab affair. Matthew Williams came on and posed problems up front almost scoring but for a fine stop by the visiting keeper. Hamonet came on in the middle and Mong had a good thirty five minutes as Chunk had a rest. Mong again gave an assured performance, he never lets you down and you know what you get, solidity and no mistakes. Baring again worked hard out right covering the whole flank and working well with whoever was out wide for him. Shelton should have had a penalty which again the ref chose to ignore. Dwaine had another good penalty shout turned down. The last twenty was a little disjointed and in the final minutes Cambrian ruined a clean sheet for poor old Skinner who had an easy day at the office. A deflected own goal off the unlucky Big D who had been faultless all day. Never mind the points were won and the boys keep going on.
All in all another good win, however it should have been more. Well done lads, ninth win on the bounce and like a torpedo, “Anything gets in our way…….booooooom”! Keep up the good work. Next game is 23rd February away at Cardiff Corries, “Super Dinky” !
Team: Skinner, Baring, Sadler, Big D, Chunk, Blinky, Suggy, Shelton, Mo, Hammy, Dwaine Subs: Williams, French Tom, Mong, Power MOM: Mo
Saturday 2nd February 2008 - Afan Lido 3 Dinas Powys 4 Dinas inflict Payne on youthful Lido The Marston’s Stadium, Port Talbot was the venue for this Welsh League Reserve Central division clash of two of the form sides in the division, on a cold windy Feburary day. The excellent facilities were enjoyed prior to kick off as the lads inspected the pitch before the battle. The Dinas lads came into the game on the back of seven consecutive league wins, brimming with confidence after the 7-0 hammering of AFC Llwydcoed the previous week. Another shrewd transfer window signing in young Marcus Maddar was on display and added to the squad as a substitute this week. Again a quality side was assembled and the lads meant business as they knew this was going to be a tough encounter under the windswept conditions. Suzie Dando went to left back, which enabled the ever reliable ‘Mong’ Davies to come in to his accustomed centre back role to partner ‘Tuffers’ Allen at the centre of defence. French Tom came in on the left and Dog partnered the lethal Hammy up top. Our regular keeper Skinner was injured so in came Will ‘the Italian Stallion’ Ponissi.
The game kicked off to a quick pace and both sides got involved early on. Shelton Payne playing on the right of midfield in the regular 4-4-2 was looking dangerous as he took advantage of the space as the home side started with a 3-5-2 formation, his pace was going to be a big asset. French Tom on the other side was also finding space and linked well with the front two and his defensive left side partner Suzie Dando. Suzie put in some thumping tackles and made his presence known on many occasions throughout this game. As the teams began it was obvious to see Lido had a number of young academy boys playing who were youthful and hungry for success. Dinas are a mix of youth and experience and you could see early on that this could be key as a number of players began to use their physicality to win the battle. It was a good weapon to use though to be fair it was all done in the manner of sportsmen and not in a dirty way. This Dinas side are full of competitors and will get the upper hand in any way they can. The Lido lads to their credit battled hard and matched Dinas tit for tat. Some great driven free kicks into the Dinas area caused problems due to the quality of ball and eventually resulted in a goal after an unmarked Lido player threaded the ball into the net past Dinas keeper Will Ponissi. Was not great defending and exactly the start we wanted to avoid. Straight from the kick off French Tom got wide of the right back and drove in an inch perfect cross for Dog to guide into the net near post with his head, which left the keeper helpless 1-1. Just what was required and a great response. Another five minutes past and Dando somehow eluded a few tackles squared to Hammy who did the rest and slotted from an acute angle. The Dinas lads saw out the remaining minutes and go into the dressing room with a slender 2-1 advantage.
Power Taylor replaced Dog and Mo replaced Tom on the left for the second half and the game began. Skipper Lloyd ‘Blinky’ Davies and Suggy in the middle lost grip of the game after controlling the first half, as Lido pressed. The Dinas backline looked solid enough with Mong and Tuffers bossing the aerial exchanges. Baring again giving an insured and tenacious performance from right back, covering up to allow Shelton to get forward and attack at will. The game become rather scrappy as the sea breeze began to pick up and neither side looked like scoring. Lido kept plugging away and eventually with twenty minutes left got a lucky deflection off the hapless Mong which cruelly sent the Italian keeper the wrong way and dropped in the net. What bad luck. This was now going to be a test of character, attitude and mental strength. Mo madder began to get into the game and showed glimpses of what he is capable of. A great run and beautifully timed ball into his mate Shelton, who did the rest and swept away a great finish into the bottom corner, classy ! It was no more than Dinas deserved as both Mo and Power came close with thunderous strikes. With ten to go the warhorse Dando was replaced by Sean ‘the Pest’ Taylor and took his armour off, a deserved rest! Shelton doubled his tally soon after with a marvelous piece of skill as he rounded the keeper and coolly slotted to leave the keeper dazed as to where the ball actually was! The game was won at 4-2 but the young Lido kept going and eventually nicked one at the death to finish the game 4-3.
This was a great win away from home in difficult conditions and gave the managers Jim and Dog great pleasure. Afan Lido is never an easy place to pick up points but again the lads came up trumps. All we can ask is 100% effort and that’s what we get at the moment from every player who wears the badge. Well done lads, keep up the winning mentality this week 9th Feb at home to Cambrian and Clydach. Never take the Dinas !
Team: Will, Sam B, Dando, Mong, Tuffers, French Tom, Shelton, Suggy, Blinky, Hammy, Dog Subs: Mo, Pest, Power MoM: Shelton Payne
Saturday 26th Jan 2008 - Dinas Powys FC 7 AFC Llwydcoed 0 Ham & Co makes mince meat of valley boys A debut hat-trick by new signing David ‘Hammy’ Ham was the highlight on a great afternoon at the Murchfield ‘Stadium of Light’. The sun shone and so did the players in an all round team performance that had managerial duo James’Jim’ O’Neill and David ‘Dog’ O’Gorman purring like cheshire cats ! A fine brace from the lightening Shelton Payne and a deft Kurt Bettles touch rounded off Ian Southwell’s opening strike and completed the rout.
The January transfer window, players availability and first team manager Mark Jones taking only three subs has resulted in a glut of quality players being available in the reserve team this week and Jim and Dog assembled an impressive looking squad. New signings David Ham, Matt Williams and Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor joined the squad while a few regulars were dropped to our Vale Premier team to get match fitness and prove they are better than what we have got. The door is always open though if players train and put in performances. With former Powys boy and first team hopeful Mo Madder now signing we have a squad of players who can push our first team counterparts. This is a huge credit to the quality of personnel employed here as our first team squad are riding high in the top echelons of Welsh League Division one and the possibility of League of Wales football on the horizon. The Dinky boys prior to this game had won the last six on the bounce and a foray into the transfer market during this window was a bold move, but it is believed quality has been signed and it shakes things up in the squad at a crucial point in the season. The league title is now the holy grail.
The day began with an early meet and an organised Dinas warmed up, concentration and complacency were going to be the key to gaining three points today. The dressing room was a little different but every player inherited the same attitude and the Dinas Powys ethic, this showed on the pitch as Ian ‘Suggy’ Southwell appeared in the right place at the right time to coolly slot home from five yards. It was exactly what the boys needed and took the pressure off, it allowed the whole team to get into a rhythm of play. A quality break by the ever dangerous Payne and lovely finish led to him opening his account and Dinas’s second. Hammy opened his own Dinas account in another enterprising piece of play involving Rusty and Deano for the third. The fourth on the stroke of half time came from an unlikely source. A flighted cross from the left from Sadler and in ghosted the ever so slight club captain Kurt Bettles who shouted ‘megs’ and put the ball between the legs of the despairing visting keeper. The words ‘Spawn’ come to mind but honest Kurt maintains he meant to do this, the jury is still out ! Half time 4-0.
The subs had been told to warm up prior to half time and as the game was won and with new personnel needing their chance to shine in the Dinas sun, a triple substitution was made by the managers. Off came Suzie Dando who had another solid game and managed a few customary crunching tackles involving man and ball, he was replaced by Sean ‘Pest’ Taylor. Another change up-top was the return of the ‘Power’ Taylor up top who replaced the hard working Rusty, and completing the changes was another debutant Matt Williams on for Rob Sadler. Rob had another quality game at left back and was unlucky to be brought off, but to his credit he knew everyone needed a game. Deano moved to left back with Matt Williams going to left midfield. The team talk was centered around keeping the tempo up and working for 90 mins, the lads did not disappoint. Straight out of the blocks and the power was looking dangerous up top as his willingness to work hard was there to see. A snap shot by power was well saved by the keeper but in zoomed the lethal Payne with a classy finish. On they went and another poachers goal from Hammy doubled his tally for the day. Williams suffered an ankle injury which was a shame as he had just got going. Off he came to leave 10 man Dinas see out the last 15 mins. The game was won but the appetite was still there and it was a credit to every player that the 10 men were on top of the 11 visiting players. Dinas saved the best to last as a defence splitting pass by Suggy was a joy to watch and if that wasn’t enough, Hammy who was one on one with the keeper drew him, dummied him the wrong way and side-footed home into an empty net for a debut hat-trick. Suggy and Deco Davies got through so much work in the middle and won the battle which allowed the whole team to play and express our talent. Sam Baring at right back was back to his best and is now producing the championship winning form of last year, keep it up Vidic !
This weeks performance was a joy to watch and completes seven wins on the bounce. We must however not be complacent and keep up the hard work at training and keep the same level of determination in matches. Players are playing for places and we now have back up in every position. A tough away trip next week 2nd Feb to Afan Lido awaits. Keep up the good work lads.
Team: Skinner, Sam B, Dando, Kurt, Sadler, Deano, Suggy, Deco, Payne, Ham, Rusty Subs: Williams, Power, Pest MOM: Ham
Saturday 12th January 2008 - AFC Llwydcoed 0 Dinas Powys 1 Super sub Rusty rots valley hearts Super Dinas Powys went six wins on-the-bounce as Llwydcoed hearts were broken at the Welfare ground on a wet January afternoon. An inch perfect cross from the left from Dog after a fantastically weighted ball down the left from man of the match and 1st team prospect Dean Teague left Rusty Russell with only the keeper to beat, but the youngsters energy and coolness in the box left the outstanding keeper picking the ball out of the net as not only finished but hit the top corner with the finish of a Premiership striker. The celebrations ensued in the corner as Rusty was mobbed by ecstatic but relieved Powys players. Again the team spirit and will to win stole another three valuable points in the quest to defend the title.
The day began with an early meet at the Murch to see all the first team management working hard on getting the Murch field ready for the visit of Goytre. Jim and Dog had done their homework and knew this was not a local fixture so planned ahead for an early meet. Four changes from the previous game saw the return of Huw Neil on the right and as the industrious Savvy was unavailable due to University work (lastminute.com ?) super Tony Southard was given a run up-top after his hat-trick heroics of Pontyclun the previous game. Suzie Dando went to centre half and in came youth player Dean Teague for his first start Manager James O’Neill dropped to the bench and back came fit again French Tom on the bench for his first game since the run began with a win against league leaders Bryntirion. Rusty completed the bench, it looked a good bench – solid oak!
The first half began on a pitch that was in perfect playing order, our compliments to the groundsman as with all the rain we have had, it was a fantastic surface to play on. The game kicked off to a frantic pace and the Dinas lads took time to adjust to a small pitch where the valley lads worked hard to close down players and allow no time to settle into a rhythm of play. The pitch did not suit the Dinas Powys style of play which is to get the ball down on the deck, keep ball and use the width. Good teams and good players can adjust themselves and it took Dinas most of the first half to begin playing in their attractive style. Midway through the first half Deco Davies played a lovely through ball to Dog who drew the keeper to shoot from the edge of the area and was unlucky to see the ball rebound off the far post and was cleared by the home defence. Apart from this chance there was little to write home about. Skinner had to be alert to save once but this was the only shot he had to save in an uneventful day for the mad monk. Deco and Suggy worked hard in central midfield and found the outlet was down the left as the ever consistent Sadler and the technically gifted Deano began to combine. Llwydcoed played a 3-5-2 formation which was operating in a defensively minded 5-3-2 formation for most of the half as they soaked up the pressure. Half Time 0-0.
The half time team talk took place outside the dressing room as the cramped space could not accommodate the whole side ! The words of ‘Spirit’ and ‘It’s there IF YOU WANT IT’ were echoed and it was clear to see that the Dinas lads had the ability to win this game, but possession had to be kept and patience to break the valley wall down was what was required. To their credit the Dinas lads went out and again worked tirelessly for the whole 90 mins. Deano was looking dangerous and combined well with Sadler and the front two. Dando and Pest looked solid with Baring beginning to make his notorious maraudering runs down the right flank. Dando in particular looking strong and making some crunching tackles. He’s been a super addition to what was already a solid defensive unit and provides that guile and experience required. A pin-point corner from Deano and a glancing Dog header was cleared off the line, how unlucky, but good defending. Another shot hit the bar. It seemed like we would never score despite being camped in the home sides half. Manager Jim rang the changes and super sub Rusty came on to inject fresh legs and French Tom came on the right for Huw. More pressure was applied. Another corner from French Tom was crashed against the post by Dando, it was going to be one of them days ! With five minutes left up popped the hard working Rusty and the rest is history. All players should be commended on their efforts.
A pat on the backs to all players from the managers Jim and Dog but we must keep our feet on the ground and keep working hard if we have any chance of retaining our title. Special thanks must be given to a new member of the management team Jane who without her help we would never have found the place. Keep up the good work Jane! (Jane is the voice of a TomTom that French Tom bought his girlfriend for Xmas…..merci Tom ps she speaks English!)
The transfer window has opened up a few new and excellent quality players are to sign and places are now up for grabs. Players are expected to train and you miss a match and somebody else will be there to stake a claim for your place. It’s all good and healthy competition as we must put pressure on the 1st teamers. Lets keep it going and go seven wins on the bounce at home this time to Llwydcoed on Saturday 26th Jan 2008. Any home support will be greatly appreciated.
Team: Skinner, Baring, Sadler, Pest, Dando, Suggy, Deco, Huw, Deano, Tony, Dog Subs French Tom, Rusty, Jim.
MoM Dean Teague (Deano)
Pontyclun match report to follow.
Saturday 24th November 2007 - Dinas Powys 3 Porthcawl Town 1 Seasiders gunned down by wide boys as Dinky march on, on, on !! A fourth league win on the bounce moved Dinas Powys up to third in the table as lowly Porthcawl were the latest to slip-up at fortress Murchfield. It was a horrible day as the rain fell onto the glorious surface in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan. The lads assembled brimming with confidence after three previous straight wins and the air of confidence could be felt in the Dinky changing room as manager James O’Neill organised the troops prior to the kick off. Nice to see some pretty cheerleaders looking glamorous cheering the lads on, much appreciated, welcome next time !!
Another game and another changed line up as a succession of injuries has hit the squad in recent weeks. French Tom, Mong, Savvy are in the treatment room and with ‘banker’ Dicky Davies on work duty, the squad was thread bare. Manager James O’Neill donned the No10 shirt and took his place up top to form a “youthful” partnership with the ever youthful Dog!! Regular Keeper and star performer Skinner was unavailable so the ever eager Rusty took the ‘mad monks’ place in the sticks. Chris Dando was able to play his favored centre back role alongside the pacy Pest.
The first half began and it was obvious to all that the conditions would be a real leveler as both sides struggled to keep possession. The frantic pace could never be sustained as the engine room of Suggy and Deco Davies tried to get a grip on Porth’s central three and both did very well. Most of the first half was a scrappy affair, and a scramble in the opposition half broke up as Sam Baring, the surging full back broke free but the Porthcawl keeper did well to save at his feet. Porthcawl took the lead against the run of play as a mix up in defence allowed their forward to coolly finish past the unhappy Rusty. Close on half time O’Neill gathered the ball and spread to the pacy ‘Young Guns’ who raced onto the ball with intent and his driving run and excellent driving cross found his unmarked opposite winger Huw who bundled in. Was just what was needed and really what was deserved from an unglamorous but gritty first half display. Half time ended square at 1-1.
Managerial duo Jim and Dog rallied the lads at half time as it was obvious if Dinas dug deep and showed the team spirit of previous week’s maximum points was on offer. The midfield battle commenced as Deco and Suggy battled and got the ball to Jim and Dog who held and kept the ball as often as possible in the greasy conditions. It was obvious that the ball had to be put in the channels where the pace of Huw and ‘Young Guns’ Dalton would unlock the slow Porthcawl backline, who were playing the offside trap. Sam Baring swapped with Rusty in the sticks for the second half who despite warning forgot to tell the ref, which resulted in a name in the ref’s book for each, nine pound each please lads, clowns!! Further bookings were given to Pest and Dando and Dog earned himself a deserved caution after frustration set-in. The ref for some unknown reason never booked a Porthcawl player despite continuous offending !?! Last fifteen minutes and Dinas were keeping the ball better as full backs Rusty and Bobby Sadler got into forward positions. Another great run by the excellent Huw Neill on the right and a power cross saw the hard working Suggy get on the end and bundle in to the net, GOAL !! It was no more than the lads deserved. Porthcawl pushed as on came youth player Owen ‘Percy’ Pursall to inject some fresh young legs. Porthcawl pushed and were hit on the break as a pin point cross field pass by the ‘Pest’ saw danger man ‘Young Guns’ clean through, cool as a cucumber the young lad dispatched past the despairing keeper, awesome ! Game over, job done, not pretty but maximum points gained. Team spirit and that ‘will to win’, is a fantastic thing to have in a team and these group of players have that. Keep up the good work gents away at Afan Lido this Saturday 1st December, 2pm KO. Thanks must be given to Darren George who helped with affairs Sat, cheers Alf !!
Team: Rusty, Baring, Sadler, Dando, Pest, Huw, Young Guns, Suggy, Deco, Jim, Dog. Sub: Percy MOM: Young Guns
Friday 16th November 2007 - Cambrian and Clydach 0 Dinas Powys FC 1. Injury Time Thrills for Dogged Dinas A cold Friday evening in mid November and in-form Dinas Powys made the long trek up the Valleys to take on the Valley boys of Cambrian and Clydach whom have only been defeated once this season in five outings. The game was scheduled for a 7pm kick-off under floodlights as the weekend was without fixtures due to the international break. This was always going to be a difficult fixture as with no first team games the following day a number of first team regulars were likely to be on show. Dinas included club captain and fit again Kurt Bettles at the heart of defence and boy was his experience and guile required to keep the Valley boys out. Manager James O’Neill had to include himself in a left midfield role, as some of the lads turned up late due to work commitments. The ever keen student Sam Baring had to start in goal until our regular keeper Skinner arrived. The pitch had a lot of surface water and was quite bumpy underneath, it was clear the ball would skid off the surface so the ball had to be kept short and into feet. There was a fair crowd there mostly to cheer on the locals, however the injured Chris ‘Suzie’ Dando made the trip to cheer on the lads, nice to see!!
The game kicked off and became rather niggly as Dog was being kicked and pulled from all angles by the keen and experienced Cambrian outfit whom controlled the early exchanges. Was a welcome relief when Skinner turned up and a proper formation was introduced again. The lads began to get in the game but this was always going to be a tight game with an odd goal going to win it. The referee did very well in stamping out any early niggles when he showed the cards around, Kurt Bettles and his partner Pest Taylor being two of the unlucky ones. Huw Neil became more prominent as the half wore on and probably had his best game for Dinas. He worked hard down the right, working with Sam Baring very well and also linking well with Savvy up top. No real chances from either side in the first half as Suggy and Deco Davies tried to get on top. Cambrian were playing a 3-5-2 formation against our 4-4-2 and it was a battle of chess that produced a stalemate at the end of 45mins. HT 0-0.
Savvy carrying an injury had to be withdrawn at half time and on-came the recalled Rusty Russell to help fit again Dog up-top. To his credit Rusty worked his socks off and offered a lot for the time he was on, great to see hardworking players which epitomises the team spirit in the reserves at the moment. David Davies who had been ill during the day was withdrawn at half time for the consistent Bobby Sadler who had been caught up in traffic and unable to make kick off. Bobby came in at left back after Dicky Davies had done an able job, playing in his third different position in 3 games. Bobby as usual got well involved in proceedings and linked well with Jim down the left. Jim was having a personal battle with a few Valley boys which ended in a yellow card, tut tut Mr manager !! Kurt Bettles was simply outstanding throughout and surely should be back in the first side on current form. He was a commanding figure in keeping out Cambrian who pumped balls forward only to be headed clear every time as “Kurt’s Ball” was echoed around the vallies so many times, I lost count !! A great player an inspiration to have in your side on nights like this. Cambrian had a few chances late on as Sean Taylor used his lightening pace to clear danger working with another solid performance from the mad monk in goal. It looked like a 0-0 as injury time loomed and heavy legs were felt on the pitch. One last effort. Dinas were awarded a free kick on the edge of the area. Up went the aerial presence of Stingies Bettles at the far post as Jim O’Neill took control. A beautiful floated ball to Kurt who powered the header goalwards, the keeper somehow palmed it away straight into the path of Dog who lashed it in from two yards, cue the rush to the corner as the lads had a ‘pile-on’ !! The Cambrian boys looked dejected as the mist came in and hearts were broken. 93rd minute winner. There was little time left and the ref blew as the bravehearts defended one last Valley attack.
Managers Jim and Dog were proud of the lads who won their third game on the trot, great effort lads, let’s keep it going and try to retain our title. Next game is at home to Porthcawl on Sat 24th November, Kick Off 2pm, all welcome to come and watch. ‘Never take the Dinas’.
Team: Skinner, Sam B, Dicky Davies, Pest, Bettles, Huw, Jim O’Neill, Suggy, Deco, Savvy, Dog Subs: Rusty, Sadler MOM: Kurt Bettles
Saturday 10th November 2007 - Dinas Powys FC 3 Goytre 1 Forwards Fire as Goytre Skinned On the back of a fantastic 1-0 home win over high flying Bryntirion the previous week, much of the same was required at the glorious Murchfield for a re-arranged game of both of last seasons Welsh League Reserve Division winners. Goytre Utd won the reserve division west last season, with our lads taking the much coveted silverware from the East divison. It was all set up for the clash of the titans, a real play off of East v West !!
Both sides have had mixed bag of results this season and both sitting in mid-table but it’s still early days. Dinas Powys managers Jim and Dog had selected a strong squad with injury victim and skipper ‘Deco’ Davies on the bench due to an on-going ankle problem, not helped by ‘the Pest’ in training Wednesday! In came David ‘Dicky’ Davies who had excelled against Llantwitt Fardre and also Chris ‘Suzie’ Dando for his Welsh League debut. Savvy was deployed this week up-front after his heroics the previous week. Baring was in at right back after his marauding display as super-sub in the fantastic Bryntirion team display. Game on !
The word in training from 1st team coach Sgt Trevor Taylor was ‘keep the ball‘ and ‘move it quicker’. This was echoed in the pre-match dressing room team talk and the word of the day was ‘Let’s Zip it’. The lads did just that as they came out of the blocks racing. Within 5 mins Dinas took the lead after a great over the top ball to Savvy and a composed finish over the on-rushing keeper !! Great start and great finish. The tempo of the first half never stopped as Dando and Young Guns on the left looked very dangerous linking well and causing havoc. Captain for the day Mong controlled the back and again gave a sound display along with Pest and Dando on the left and Baring surging down the right. Huw Neill linked well on the right with the dynamic centre duo of Suggy and the versatile Dicky Davies !! The forward pairing of Savvy and Dog completed the 4-4-2 and both were coming short for ball to feet and keeping it to keep the pressure off the back four like “Fowler and Hasselbaink”. The ball was kept effectively and was not given away cheaply, fantastic to see. The Dinas lads briefly dropped the tempo and allowed Goytre to gain some possession as half time loomed. The boys to their credit worked hard and were rewarded when another pacy run and fantastic cross by the hard-working Young Guns dropped over the keeper on to Dog’s sheriff’s badge and into the empty net. Young Guns, giving his best 90 of the season so far almost got in on a deflection to make it 3-0 and was unlucky not to do so. Great end to the half and nobody could deny a 2-0 lead as the ref called an end to the first half proceedings.
Dando had to retire at half-time following a hamstring injury and on came manager and Dinas Powys stalwart James O’Neill to fill in at left back. The second half began as the first as Dinas controlled the game mainly from the outstanding central midfield display from Suggy and his battling partner Dicky Davies. Both players got through a huge amount of work over the 90 mins and deserved war medals for their trench work for the Dinas cause! For much of the second half the ‘tempo’ and ‘Zip’ of the first half was not there and the lads found it hard to raise their game and get the killer third goal. Deco got on late in the half for mong and had to fill in at centre back, more like Carlton Palmer than Deco !! Out of the blue Deco was involved in a goalmouth scramble as a corner landed on the deck, a Goytre player ended on the floor and the ref blew….Penalty !! It was a shocker and the lads shook their head and kept their mouths shut as the ref had his hand ready in the top pocket. The Goytre number 9 finished cooly and with 10 mins left it was game-on again. A string of superb saves from in-form keeper Skinner kept Dinas in the game, one before the penalty and an unbelievable double save that he somehow kept out, God only knows how? Great agility from the lad who is proving all his critics wrong this year, keep it up Skin! The battle continued and a link up again from Young Guns and Dog, with the latter drawing the keeper and squaring for the well positioned Savvy to drill home and kill the game. Another goal at the death should have been scored as Savvy was free with Dog to his left but young Savvy seen his hat-trick go up in smoke as he drilled wide…..an echo of ‘Selfish Salvidge’ was heard on the left where Dog was breathing fire ! Savvy hung his head but can be pleased with his performance, as can every other player as it was a great team display.
A great battling performance from all the squad and another important victory. Let’s keep this run going lads. Next game is away to Cambrian and Clydach this Friday under floodlights at King George V New Field KO 7pm. Keep up the good work boys !!
Team: Skinner, Baring, Dando, Pest, Mong, Huw, Suggy, Dicky, Young Guns, Savvy, Dog Subs Jim, Deco MOM Suggy.
Saturday 3rd November 2007 - Dinas Powys FC 1 Bryntirion Athletic 0 Dangerous Deco decks Derick’s unbeaten Bryntiron A beautiful early November afternoon at the Murchfield saw the return leg of champions Dinas Powys, against current table toppers Bryntirion Athletic whom had a 100% record so far. The sides met at Bryntirion Park in recent weeks where the Dinas lads were beaten convincingly 3-0 and if the truth be told it could have been more. The lads gathered for what was going to be a hard 90 mins in store knowing revenge is always sweet. The corresponding fixture last season saw Dinas crowned league champions so a performance of that magnitude was needed to avenge a much improved Bryntirion Athletic who played some neat football in the away fixture and showed an appetite for the game with entertaining football.
The Dinas side was again different as you expect with the reserve side. Picking an unchanged side would be nice at times but we work with what we’ve got. In came Young Guns up top with fit again war horse Dog as a holder. Huw Neil was included on right midfield after working hard in training and back after his Paris trip was last season’s player of the year Sam Baring who had to be content with a place on the bench. Youth team prospect and British boxing champion Kieron Harding was also back in the squad for the first time this season, nice to see some youth getting in the squad. The versatile Savvy dropped into right back, I’m sure he’s played every position this season already, except in goal where he is an able deputy there as well if ever called upon!!
The first half was a pretty tight affair where there were little chances for both sides. The battle was in the centre midfield where captain Lloyd ‘Deco’ Davies and his partner Ian ‘Suggy’ Southwell, who gets better by the game, began to win the battle by the time the ref blew for half time. The tall centre back pairing of Bryntirion mopped every high ball up easily and it was clear for all to see that the ball was going to have to be kept on the deck, where Dinas can play passing football and create far more chances and most importantly keep the ball. The two lively Bryntirion forwards were kept very quiet by the excellent and dependable Mong who never put a foot wrong and ‘Pest’ Taylor in the centre of defence ably assisted by full backs Bobby Sadler and Savvy. Deco Davies put an inch perfect ball through for Huw late in the second half that really the pacy winger should have buried, however the shot went wide and 0-0 it was at half time. Apart from that and a decent penalty shout by Dog, as he was pushed in the back when through in the box there was little to write home about.
Manager James O’Neill rallied the lads in the dressing room at half time as it was obvious 3 points could be taken as Dinas began to get on top in the final exchanges of the first half. It was crucial however that no lapses in concentration could be afforded.
Again the second half the midfield got on top without creating any clear cut chances. Jim rang the changes and on came ‘Iron Kieron Harding to give some strength and drive to the midfield. Kieron certainly worked his socks off and offered himself at all times, was great to have him back. The battle commenced and with Dinas keeping ball well but the final pass eluding the forwards and 15 mins left on the clock Jim brought off a tired French Tom after a battling performance and introduced the charging Baring at right back. Young guns moved to his preferred left wing role and Savvy gave Dog a hand up front. This managerial move proved to be a masterstroke as soon enough Savvy was causing problems and Baring marauding down the wing like the Sam of last year, great to watch! Savvy almost finished a solo effort as the rebound fell to Dog the keeper somehow got down to keep the tie goalless. Last five and a superb run by student Baring down the right, a great cut back into the path of captain fantastic Deco Davies, a lovely neat tuck into the corner of the net……….cue the Heskey DJ celebrations as the lads tried to catch him !! The lads consolidated for the last 5 and a much deserved clean sheet for the excellent Skinner and his back four. Skinner really has looked confident this year and playing very well.
Managers James ‘Mr Spawn’ O’Neill and Dog were proud of the lads commitment and work-rate and hope for much of the same at home to Goytre this Saturday 10th November. Well done lads, keep up the good work ‘U’ll never take the Dinas’!
Team: Skinner, Savvy, Sadler, Mong, Pest, Huw, Suggy, Deco, French Tom, Young Guns, Dog. Subs Kieron, Baring, O’Neill
MOM: Savvy/Mong
Saturday 20th October 2007 - Llantwit Fardre 1 Dinas Powys 1 Young Guns blazes in to share spoils A cold but bright day at Tonteg Park was the setting for a titanic tussle of last season’s top two. Champions Dinas Powys going into the game losing the last three games and including a highly disappointing cup exit to an average Caerleon team, the previous week. Mangers Dog and Jim rallied the troops after a series of poor displays especially on the attacking front. The chances have been there, though just not taken and lapses in concentration have cost Dinas dear. High flying Llantwit Fardre however have started well again, with a hard working well organised and youthful side that play a nice passing style of football. Fardre won 1-0 at the Murchfield only weeks before though Dinas should have seen the game off inside the first 45mins. The Dinas lads were out for revenge.
The teams lined up and both teams looked very different from the 22 who lined up at the 1-0 reverse at the Murchfield last time. Dinas welcomed new signing Phil “Tuffers” Allen into the line up along with club captain and Dinas legend Kurt “Stingies” Bettles, and pacy forward Calvin McClaggon. The match kicked off with Dinas maintaining a lot of the possession and starting brightly without threatening. Midway through the first half Dinas were camped in the Llantwit half and a series of set piece plays orchestrated from French import Tom Hamonet. A pin-point corner pinged in by the flamboyant Frenchman and flicked on by Lloyd Davies at the near post almost paid dividends but there was nobody on the end. Another free kick from the right was met by Bettles whose header spun wide of the mark with the goal gaping. Midway through the first half Llantwit got into the game with some fine play without really threatening the mad monk, Alex Skinner in the Dinas goal. Against the run of play Llantwit Fardre took a shock lead, but what a goal. A Llantwit midfielder picked up the ball from fully 25 yards out and hit a bullet that nestled in the top corner while still rising. To be fair to Skinner he had no chance. What bad luck, but what a great strike. Llantwit celebrated and Dinas looked rocked. It was not was deserved as the first half performance was solid enough. The rest of the half was pretty uneventful as the battle commenced as both sides worked hard and placed some good entertaining football without troubling two very sound defensive units. Pasty was replaced with Ian Southwell as he felt the effects of a virus and “Suggy” put in a battling performance throughout. Half time whistle was blown and Dinas went in 1-0 down.
Half time Dinas regrouped, and went out the second half with intent. Soon after Dog and Jim decided on some changes and on came the youthful prospect Oli “Young Guns” Dalton for Hamonet to add some pace and width. Straight away Dalton was causing problems with his pace and link up play and provided a number of crosses for forward duo McClaggon and Southard to get to grips with. The first 15 of the second half were fairly even and then on came new signing David Davies for Southall to add a holding forward up top. Straight away this proved affective as Davies linked up with McClaggon whose shot come cross seen young guns blazing in at the far post to nudge home from inside a yard. It was no more than Dinas deserved. The rest of the half saw Dinas with more and more of the ball though it was difficult to break down the well organised and skillful Llantwit unit who played well as a team. Tuffers got more involved as the game went on and oozed class. Bettles at the back was a wall of strength, teaching his sidekick Sean”Pest” Taylor the art of defending. The Pest had a late run down the left wing using his awesome pace to useful effect and putting McClaggon through, he was brought down though the ref played on when a penalty could easily have been called. Bobby Sadler gave an assured display on the left linking well and captain “Deco” Davies in the middle worked hard as he always does.
After the game the lads went back to the Fardre club house for food and a beer where the usual Fardre hospitality was well received, many thanks.
Not the three points demanded but it stops the rot and was useful against one of the best sides in the division. Some good football was played but as with recent games the luck was just not there. Over a whole season you make your own luck so we must keep working hard and the results will come. Well done lads. Next game is home to Bryntirion 3/11/2007.
Team: Skinner, Tuffers, Pest, Stingies, Sadler, Savvy, Hamonet, Deco, Pasty, McClaggon, Southard. Subs: Young Guns, Davies, Suggy. Mom: Tuffers
Saturday 1st September 2007 - Dinas Powys 7 Pontyclun 0 Ponty-Cleaned out by Dangerous Dinas !! A hot and humid day at fortress Murchfield greeted the lads on the opening day of the season. A 5-0 mid-week drubbing of Newport YMCA boosted the confidence of the team prior to kick off, and spirits were high. A new-look team took to the field in the new kit and started brightly. An early goal was just what managers O’Neill and Dog wanted and a swerving free kick by playmaker Tom Hamonet and well directed header from Lloyd “Deco” Davies opened the account, Lloydo celebrated in true Heskey style! The rest of the first half saw Dinas winning the midfield battle with Robbie Sadler playing well in his new midfield holding position. As it looked to go into the dressing room with Dinas with a slender lead up popped pacy wing back Oli “Young Guns” Dalton with a driving run and pin point cross for the ever poaching striker Jock to nudge home from 5 yards. What a time to score, purfect.
The lads went out for the second half with the intention of building on the first half display and started as they finished the first. Some excellent inter-play resulted in a corner knocked in by the dangerous Hamonet and headed by Dalton to the on-rushing Rusty who ‘unleashed the dragon’ from fully 20 yards and almost broke the net, cue the celebrations! A contender for goal of the season already! A great finish and marvelous performance from the young wing back who worked tirelessly for a full 90 mins. A great run from Lloyd and pin point cross seen Dalton hit the woodwork from 5 yards, how did he miss? A nudge in the back was claimed by the “baby faced assassin” but it didn’t add to the 3-0 scoreline. A great move mid-way through the second half involving the industrious Hamonet provided Rusty with space to cross from wide right and a perfect cross found Jock in on the end yet again for his second, a glancing near post header. Man of the match Jock worked extremely hard up-front with his co-striker Jimmy Bullard who sported a dodgy barnet coupled with Kylie hot pants! Bullard made way for Karl up-top and Sadler was given a deserved rest to allow manager James O’Neill his first league appearance for two years following knee surgery, welcome back Jimbo! Savvy who gave a peerless display as ever, was moved from sweeper to central midfield to enable Jim to sweep alongside the wall of Mong and Sean “Pest” Taylor, who both gave excellent displays. Another two goals followed from the goal machine Jocko who is looking better with each game, a real old fashioned poacher !! A driving run from his own half by Savvy topped things off with a beautiful finish that even his dad Clive applauded! The ref blew and Jim and Dog were purring after a faultless display. A clean sheet for Skinner as well who had an easy day at the office. Well done lads !!
Team Skinner, Rusty, Young Guns, Sadler, Taylor, Mong, Savvy, Hamonet, Sadler, Deco, Bullard, Jock
MOM: Jock. |
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