PREVIEW: YNYSHIR ALBIONS (H)

Following a week without competitive action, Aberystwyth Town take on Ynyshir Albions this weekend at Aberystwyth University Park Avenue, in what will be manager Callum McKenzie’s final match before he departs for a full-time role at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

During his short but impactful time at Aberystwyth University Park Avenue, Callum has transformed the club from one at its lowest point for many a decade—hurting from a first-ever relegation from the JD Cymru Premier—into one that is genuinely excited about the future and the prospect of potentially returning to the top tier. With a young, hungry and ambitious team sitting just five points off a promotion place with two games in hand, the mood around the club is one of real optimism.

He will depart after this game with the very best wishes of everyone at ATFC.

Saturday’s match was originally due to be played at the start of October but was called off due to high winds at the time. A gap in the usual league schedule for the Welsh Cup has now allowed this fixture to be rearranged, making it the only league match taking place this weekend.

Aber’s opposition, Ynyshir Albions, are competing in only their second ever season at this level. They previously spent one season in the division in 2022/23 and returned after winning the Ardal Leagues play-offs in May, following an incredible run of 10 wins in 11 games which secured their place.

Still a relatively young club, having been formed in 1992, they are based in the village of Ynyshir in the Rhondda Valley.

It hasn’t been the easiest of starts to life back in the JD Cymru South for The Buns, and they currently sit 15th in the league with six points to their name. They did spring a surprise back in August, however, beating Pontypridd United away from home to record their sole victory to date.

They come into this match off the back of a 3–0 defeat to Treowen Stars last weekend, whilst Aber’s squad should be fresh following an enforced free week due to last weekend’s match against Caerau Ely being called off because of severe weather conditions.

Tickets for the match are priced at £7 for adults and £5 for concessions. Primary school children and junior league players are admitted free of charge. This season, ATFC are also offering a £2 discount on adult digital tickets purchased in advance.

Join us at Park Avenue as the lads look to send the gaffer on his way with another victory!