PREVIEW: AFAN LIDO (A)

After a two-week break from action, Aberystwyth Town return this Saturday with a trip to the south coast to face Afan Lido.

Aber have made a solid, if unspectacular, start to the season and currently sit seventh in the league table. Lido lie six places lower, with six points from two wins in their seven matches so far, compared to Aber’s total of eleven.

The break has given manager Callum McKenzie valuable time to integrate his latest signings into the squad. Zach McKenzie has impressed in his two appearances so far, while Rackeem Reid made a strong start to life in Black & Green against Cwmbran Celtic a fortnight ago.

One man who needed no introduction on his return was Jonathan Evans, and the Black & Green legend marked his comeback at Park Avenue in style, scoring twice in the victory over Celtic.

This used to be a regular fixture during the early years of the Cymru Premier, but the two clubs have not met since 2014—when a Chris Venables-inspired ATFC recorded a 7-1 win in Ceredigion.

The 2025 Afan Lido side are led by Garry Taylor, appointed in October 2024. Their squad features experienced Cymru Leagues campaigners such as Liam McCreesh and Lee Surman, the latter having spent a season in Black & Green under Ian Hughes in 2015/16.

Unlike Aber, Lido were in action last weekend, defeating Ardal South West outfit Evans & Williams FC 3-2 in the first round of the JD Welsh Cup. Their most recent league outing was a 3-1 defeat to Cardiff Draconians on 16th September.

Saturday’s clash will be Lido’s first league game back at the Marston Stadium following a brief relocation to Goytre United’s Glenhafod Park while changing room renovations were carried out.

The Marston Stadium is located on Princess Margaret Way, Aberavon (postcode SA12 6QW). Entry is £6 for adults, while concessions and under-16s are priced at £3. Both cash and card payments are accepted at the turnstiles. See you there, Green Army!