Porthcawl’s classy show

GIANT’S GRAVE ........1 FC PORTHCAWL ........4

THIS has to be marked down as the best win that FC Porthcawl have registered during their brief flirtation with the local scene, writes Tony Poole.

Not too many sides go into the lion’s den in the Neath suburbs and emerge with pride intact let alone a victory.

But the Green Machine managed the feat against the reigning Neath League champions - and it was achieved in style.

Once again, Porthcawl chief Jon McCarthy had a full squad of 20 players to lean on, and they hit the ground running in dynamic 3-4-3 formation.

Early control led to James Harris and Joe McCarthy both going close ahead of a corner that produced a lead goal. Joe McCarthy floated it into the penalty area, and Brown headed down for Evan Jones to score.

The Neath side gradually got their act together, and crafted a quality equaliser.

McCarthy rang the changes at half time and sent on debutant Matt Laverty. And it wasn’t long before Elliot Miles won a free kick that Joe McCarthy rifled home to maintain a goal a game sequence.

Some fine goalkeeping from Brad Robinson allied to key defending from Adam Jones protected the 2-1 advantage. But during the closing stages, the Green Machine lasted the pace with two more goals.

Andrew Bowden had combined well with Steffan Cornock. And when he gained possession, a delightful curling shot beat the goalkeeper all ends up.

But Bowden’s second goal was even better; a 30-metre screamer bulged the net to signal the most significant result for the fledgling Porthcawl club.

And ahead of their inaugural season in the Port Talbot & District League, FC Porthcawl has received a further boost with the arrival of Robbie Ivin.