REPORT: ATFC 0-1 CAERAU ELY

In a wind-affected game at Aberystwyth University Park Avenue, Caerau Ely were the victors scoring from their only attempt on target as George Sheppard’s 66th-minute corner found its way in at the near post. In a game of few chances, Dillon Browne, Tom Evans and James Smallwood went close for the hosts, but Caerau were celebrating at full-time.

Craig Williams’ men played with the wind in the first half, but chances were at a premium. George Sheppard’s lobbed effort from distance fell just wide for the visitors, then at the other end Browne nodded against the post from Leo Thompson’s cross. Thompson chipped over from Tom Evans’ throw, Richie Ricketts curled over, and Thompson curled an effort just wide. Tom Evans flicked a header just past the post from another Thompson delivery, with Aber cursing their luck. Ricketts saw another shot blocked, and Aber went in ahead on points at the break, but the score remained goalless.

Playing against the wind, the hosts continued to create chances. Dan Owen fed Ben Davies, but keeper Harry Irving got out well to block the shot. Tomos Evans surged down the right, but his goal-bound effort was cleared off the line, and Ben Davies’ dangerous cross was gathered by Irving, who was certainly earning his keep.

One goal was always going to be crucial, and when Sheppard’s corner dropped in at the near post three-quarters of the way through the game, Ely were in a great position. Harry Cottam produced a vital clearance to prevent a second goal, and Lewis Harling had a shot blocked. A frustrating denouement ensued, with Town struggling to get out. Dan Owen did volley a chance wide from Evans’ cross, then in injury time Smallwood brought out a great save from Irving with a low effort, and the keeper denied Owen again late on to secure the clean sheet.

In difficult conditions, both sides struggled to create clear-cut chances, and a goalless draw might have been a fairer outcome overall. However, Ely got their goal and defended well to secure the victory. The Black and Greens now stand in third place in the Novira Cymru South, two points off leaders Pure Swansea, and attention turns towards the Welsh Cup next Saturday afternoon as Prestatyn Town visit Park Avenue for a 2pm kick-off.

We are up for the Cup!