REPORT: GUILSFIELD 1 - 1 ATFC

A late equaliser by Adam Knott nine minutes from time denied Aber Town an away win in their third pre season friendly of 2025, away to Guilsfield of the Cymru North. Desean Martin had given the visitors a 29th minute lead, which was a just reward for an impressive start, but the hosts came back into the game and a draw was probably a fair outcome over the 90 minutes.

On a glorious sunny evening in Powys the Black and Greens started well, with Calvin Smith making a super run down the left and cutting an effort just inches wide of the far post. Smith then set up Dylan Downs at the back post, but his effort was saved by Luke Evans in the Guilsfield goal. Rhys Tilsley tapped a great chance for the hosts just past the post, and Tomos Evans pulled off a great stop to deny Sean Griffith. Back at the other end a Ben Davies effort deflected for a corner, then Garin Evans saw an effort blocked with Downs firing wide. Then came a crucial moment as the outstanding Smith danced through the home defence and slid Martin in, and the wily midfielder touched the ball past Evans into the far corner for a lovely goal. Ben Guest, impressive in central midfield, sent in a free kick which was held by Evans, Smith crossed again for Garin Evans to head over, then Tomos Evans once again pulled out a great stop to deny Iwan Matthews, and Aber went in ahead at the break.

Callum McKenzie made three substitutions at half time and all action sub Star Mayemba was soon involved, cutting inside and bringing a save from Evans. With the sun setting Guilsfield were enjoying more of the ball and pressing the game into Aber’s half, but the visiting back line remained solid, with Tomos Evans redoutable in goal, and he denied Matthews with another exceptional save, however with just ten minutes to go Jake Cook’s corner was headed home by Knott. Tomos Evans twice denied James Smallwood late on as the hosts pressed for a winner, but an excellent competitive game ended all square.

Once again the Black and Greens showed flashes of excellence last night, but visiting keeper Tomos Evans also pulled out some great saves to keep the hosts out, and Callum McKenzie will be working hard to bring everything together in time for the big kick off on 26th July. Next stop for Aber is Maes Tegid, Bala, for a pre season friendly next Tuesday evening (KO 7.45pm). We go again!