Two second half strikes from midfielder Geraint Passmore secured a win for Aberystwyth in their first home game of 2008, leaving Caersws perilously close to the relegation zone.
Passmore headed Aber level two minutes into the second half, before the UWA student scrambled home the winner half an hour from time, after Aneurin Thomas saw a header rebound off the post. Despite poor conditions Aber played some neat, entertaining football. Luke Sherbon and Robert Evans provided creativity in midfield, while captain Bari Morgan worked tirelessly. Andy Evans was lively in attack, the striker gave Caersws plenty to think about, but was unable to add to his brace in the previous game against Cefn Druids.
The visitors had slightly more chances in an even first half and took a deserved lead 26 minutes in. Former Villa trainee Graham Evans calmly slotted home a penalty after Sion James was adjudged to have fouled Andy Davies inside the area. Jamie Hayes almost doubled the lead four minutes later, his long range drive saved well by Aber keeper Dave Jones. Andy Evans came closest for the home side, rattling the crossbar on the stroke of half time. Aber performed better following the interval, Thomas heading narrowly wide 10 minutes after Passmore's leveller. The visitors pushed forward looking for the equaliser late on, however the Aber defence, marshalled by the excellent Christian Edwards, held firm. In fact it was the home side that came closest in the closing stages, Geoff Kellaway forcing a good save from Bluebird’s keeper Andy Mulliner. Manager Brian Coyne will be please with his side’s fitness and commitment as they prepare for a difficult set of fixtures. Aber face forthcoming league and cup doubles against high flyers Bangor City and Llanelli. Although Porthmadog and Llangefni look favourites for the drop this result leaves Caersws anxiously looking over their shoulders. Although the visitors battled hard throughout, their inability to create significant goal scoring opportunities during the latter part of the game will no doubt worry manager Mike Barton.
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