Match Preview: ATFC vs Barry Town

Aberystwyth Town vs Barry Town United
Saturday 14th August – 2.30pm KO
JD Cymru Premier
 
The moment has finally arrived when JD Cymru Premier football returns to Ceredigion infront of a crowd at Aberystwyth University Park Avenue! Barry Town United will be the visitors for the Seasiders first league game in front of fans in 17 months.
 
Of course, fans were already welcomed back into the famous old Park Avenue ground last week when Penybont visited for a Nathaniel MG Cup tie – and those who were present were treated to a dramatic penalty shootout win when fittingly it was local lad Alex Pennock who was the hero during the spot kicks.
 
It is a more settled Aberystwyth Town side that begins the season than in recent years, with Antonio Corbisiero retaining the majority of last seasons squad whilst adding four new faces in Sam Phillips, Alex Darlington, Owen Orford and Gregor Zabret – who arrived this week having spent six and half years at Swansea City.
 
Barry Town United also have four new faces in Marcus Day, Aron Davies, Kelland Absalom and Brandon Griffiths, and similar to ATFC they have retained the majority of last season’s squad, including the prolific Kayne McLaggon, the impressive Theo Wharton and former Seasider Mike Lewis – who begins his 6th successive campaign with the club.
 
Gavin Chesterfield’s side finished in 5th position last season, but suffered heartbreak in the European Playoffs against Caernarfon Town, as Jake Bickerstaff’s 95th minute goal confirmed a 3-1 win for the North Walians, who progressed to the Final.
 
They started their season win a 5-0 win over Llanelli Town last week in the Nathaniel MG cup. Marcus Day (2), Luke Cooper, Kayne McLaggon & Theo Wharton were the men on target infront of over 500 spectators at Jenner Park.
 
The corresponding fixture last year was an eventful one, with Aber taking the lead early in the second half through Steff Davies, before Barry were reduced to ten men on the hour through the sending off of Clayton Green. Despite their numerical advantage, the visitors came back to earn a 2-1 victory thanks to goals from Kayne McLaggon and Jordan Cotterill. They would also win the return fixture at Jenner Park – Nat Jarvis’ late winner sealing a 1-0 win just after play restarted in March.
 
Kick-off is at 2.30pm, although we would encourage supporters to arrive for 2.15pm at the latest, to fill out the required Covid Medical Questionnaire. To save yourself time, you are able to print and complete the form ahead of time to simply hand in at the gate – available HERE. Tickets are priced at £7 for Adults / £4 for Concessions / Under 16’s free. JD Cymru Premier football is finally back!!