REPORT: CWMBRAN CELTIC 3 - 1 ATFC

Aber Town suffered a bitterly disappointing 3–1 defeat away to relegated Cwmbran Celtic FC on Saturday afternoon, as goals from Sam Powell (13 mins), Alex McDowell (48 mins) and Isaac Powell (80 mins) did the damage. Tom Mason’s 89th-minute response for Town did cut the deficit, but Celtic saw out the match for a deserved first victory of the season on Matchday 29.

A difficult surface made for a messy start, but Jac Evans’ early lob bounced just over the bar for the hosts. At the other end, Owain Evans’ header was cleared for a corner, as was Johnny Evans’ effort minutes later. Then a huge clearance from Powell inside his own half somehow made its way through Aber’s back line and into the net, giving the hosts a surprise lead.

Evans and Rackeem Reid were denied in turn by a resolute home defence, Leo Thompson side-footed over, and Reid’s effort was saved by Lewis Watkins in goal. Sam Paddock headed over, then set up Evans who arrived just a moment too late, before Evans volleyed just wide — but overall it was a low-key first-half display from Town. Jones had to deny Andrew Larcombe and Tom Dean at the other end, and Celtic also missed a two-on-one chance, meaning the hosts were probably good value for their half-time lead after a committed performance.

Travelling supporters were hoping for a response after the break, but Larcombe spooned over a great chance before McDowell broke through and slotted his shot under Jones to double the lead. A series of stoppages followed and Larcombe blasted another effort over, before Powell sent a free-kick over the bar. Substitute Tom Mason saw a header saved as the match entered its final stages, but Dean missed another chance for Celtic before Powell found the far corner to seal the result.

Aber did finally respond when Reid found Piers Juliff down the left, and he set up Mason to finish under the keeper to reduce the arrears. Juliff then saw a shot blocked and Ernie Andrews had the ball in the net in injury time only to be flagged offside, before Ben Davies’ late effort was gathered by Watkins.

Cwmbran Celtic were good value for the win with a dogged, battling performance, and Craig Williams’ men will need to improve next week away to Ynyshir Albions FC if they are to finish the season with a morale-boosting victory. Better days lie ahead.