Wingmakers stay on course for double
WHILE the goals flowed at Holyhead (see main report, this page), the other semi-final was a far more cagey affair as Porthmadog’s hopes of a final berth were dashed with a narrow 1-0 semi-final exit to Airbus, writes John Bridgwater.
As in previous meetings, there was little between the sides, with Ryan Edwards’ sixth minute goal following sloppy home defending enough to see the Wingmakers through. Port struggled to find a way through a well-marshalled defence with clear chances in short supply, while victory keeps Airbus on course for a league and cup double.
In the league, Rhyl, who had a chance to go second in the table, saw their winning run halted when finishing 1-1 with Gresford Athletic at Clappers Lane.
After a goalless first half, a fine strike from Sam Pilkington gave Gresford a 72nd minute lead just moments after they had Tom Freeman dismissed for his second yellow card. Sam Molyneux then equalised for Rhyl with a good finish from close range nine minutes from time: that was how it remained.
Despite twice hitting back, Prestatyn Town went down 4-2 at Ruthin Town in the battle of two mid-table sides. Ruthin led twice through Tom Williams and Llyr Morris, only for Alex Jones and Ben Maher to level. Williams then restored Ruthin’s lead and Ilan Hughes got a fourth from the spot to settle the outcome.
Llanrhaeadr boosted their survival prospects after securing a battling 1-0 win over fellow strugglers Denbigh Town at Treflan. After five straight defeats, it was a timely success for the villagers as Iwan Matthews’ strike midway through the second half proved decisive. Victory lifted the Mid Wales men above visitors Denbigh.
A late free kick from Jonathan Evans secured a precious 1-1 draw for lowly Penrhyncoch at Guilsfield who had led through an Adam Jenkins penalty. Evans almost won it for the Roosters when striking the woodwork in the closing moments.
Meanwhile, Ryan Taylor’s last minute strike saw Bodedern Athletic book their place in the semi-final of the FAW Trophy with a 1-0 win at Llangefni Town. Cefn Albion are through to the last four after winning 5-3 at Corwen, Connor Kendrick firing a hat-trick along with Jordan Jones and Zac Davies.
Plas Madoc’s run ended when they were beaten 4-2 at home to Pontardawe Town in a cracking encounter. In the other quarterfinal, Penydarren Boys and Girls Club went out 2-1 at home to STM Sports.