Coaching vacancy at Llan with new signings expected
FOOTBALL
LLANGYNWYD Rangers are looking to appoint a Reserve team coach, writes Tony Poole.
During the close season, first-team coach Niki Puleio stood down owing to work commitments and a vacancy has arisen at the Llan Siro.
It’s led to Mark Jenkins assuming full control of the Llan helm as they head for a second term in Highadmit South Wales Alliance Premier Division.
There is general disappointment, however, that the South Wales FA hasn’t set up an Alliance Reserve Division.
It was mooted last winter that a Reserve Division might operate this season, as Llan find it difficult to satisfy fringe players with Bridgend and District League fixtures.
Pre-season training is under way at the Llan Siro and new players are welcome to attend the sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, commencing at 6.15pm.
While Llan are expected to make some new signings, they are boosted by the return of two big players from injury problems – Maesteg Celtic cricket star Phil Poole and Paul Jones.
Once again the Llan Siro boys have entered both the Welsh Cup and Welsh Trophy competitions.
Last winter, Llan enjoyed fine runs in both tournaments, beating Trefelin 4-2 at home in the Welsh Cup before bowing out 2-0 at Treharris Athletic Western.
In the Trophy, they carded wins over Maerdy, Pentwynmawr, North End and Canton Liberal to set up a quarter-final showdown with Pontymister.
But with pitch problems at the Llan Siro, the tie was taken to Bridgend super club Pe- nybont and the Mister men carded a slender 2-1 win.
Llan commence preseason fixtures on Friday with an interesting home fixture against Irish opponents.
They welcome to the Llan Siro touring side Loughrea Rams, who play in the Premier Division of the Galway District League.