NATHANIEL CARS WELSH LEAGUE DIVISION 3

CAERAU ......................... 4 CAERLEON .................... 2

TABLE-TOPPING Caerau came from 2-1 down with just 10 men to outperform Caerleon, writes Tony Poole.

A magnificent seventh straight Riverboat win was achieved after Christian Lewis was sent off early in the second half.

But it was ultimately a case of all’s well that ends well with Caerau now holding a five-point advantage over the chasing pack of STM Sports, Ely Rangers and Llantwit Major.

FAW president David Griffiths and Goytre Utd scout Paul Wiseman were spotted in a packed crowd and the first half ended 1-1.

Visiting goalkeeper Dick Lancaster bombed Caerau attempts to take the lead until the 20th minute.

Though Ryan Morgan almost headed in on the end of a Rhys Dyke corner, Chay Davies picked up the pieces to score.

But a minute into stoppage time, an arcing shot led to Matt Rees helping it into the net.

And things got much worse for Caerau on the restart when Caerleon went 2-1 up – and Lewis headed for an early shower.

But the 10 men made it 2-2 on the hour when Tom Walters headed in a Dyke free kick for seven goals this season.

And after Walters clipped the crossbar and Rees pulled off a good save, Caerau retook the lead in the 70th minute after Shaun James was dragged down in the box.

Chay Davies obliged from the penalty spot and going into the closing exchanges, Dylan Llewellyn exploited a tiring defence.

And it was the ex-Llan Ranger who made things safe when his 85th-minute shot was helped over the goal line by hat-trick hero Chay Davies to make it 11 goals for the campaign.

Late on Walters and substitute Jack Page went close and ultimately fitness, determination and character won the day.

Caerau are next in action a week tonight (Wednesday) at home to newcomers Trefelin in a rearranged league fixture.