The New Saints Narrow Lead on Penybont Following Briton Ferry Win

Ryan Brobbel’s goal against Briton Ferry marked his inaugural league score of the season for The New Saints. On Saturday, December 21, Aberystwyth Town defeated Caernarfon Town 3-1. This victory, their fourth of the season, brought Aberystwyth within four points of 10th position. Niall Flint scored his fourth league goal of the campaign, with three of these goals coming against the Canaries, just before half-time to give the home team the lead at Park Avenue. Jonathan Evans extended the home side’s advantage, and although Louis Lloyd offered the visitors late optimism, Evans secured his second goal to ensure the hosts’ win. Aberystwyth remains at the bottom of the league, while Caernarfon holds sixth place. Bala Town achieved a 3-1 crucial victory against Barry Town United, elevating them to fifth place. Eddie Clarke registered his first goal of the season, putting the Lakesiders in front eight minutes prior to half-time. Joe Malkin increased the lead to 2-0 in the 70th minute, followed by Hussein Mehasseb adding Bala’s third goal late in the game. Ieuan Owen scored a consolation goal for the visiting team during added time, but this loss caused Barry to drop to seventh, placing them outside the top six due to goal difference. On Sunday, December 22, The New Saints secured a 5-2 win over Briton Ferry Llansawel, reducing the deficit to Cymru Premier leaders Penybont to a single point. Ryan Brobbel scored the opening goal for the Saints at Park Hall only seven minutes into the match, though Caleb Demery leveled the score for the visitors in the 14th minute. Aramide Oteh then converted from close range to re-establish the home team’s lead, followed by goals from Jordan Williams and Adam Wilson on either side of half-time, which firmly put Craig Harrison’s squad in control. Substitute Corey Hurford managed to score a goal back for the away team in the 72nd minute, but Williams completed his double late in the game, securing the 13th league victory of the season for the reigning champions, who maintain their second-place standing. Briton Ferry remains in 11th position with 14 points from their 18 matches.