Hakin make home advantage count again as Cwm suffer quick exit

CWMAMMAN United made an early exit from the Welsh Cup as they lost 3-0 at Hakin United.

Cwmamman’s new-look squad would have been hoping for an easier introduction to the new season than a Welsh Cup trip to the perennial Pembrokeshire League champions.

Ten of Cwm’s matchday squad were making their club debuts. Hakin, meanwhile, are unbeaten at home in the league for four years and their consistency, familiarity and team awareness won the day.

It was a competitive first half with Kai Rees called upon to make a couple of good saves for the Blues. Hakin maintained the pressure on the Cwm defence with long throws and regular long through balls and Cory Saunders and Nathan Davies put in excellent defensive displays.

Cwm’s best chance in the opening period came when Alex Giardelli fired a free-kick from just outside the box over the bar.

With Ross Morgan leading the way in midfield, Cwm frustrated Hakin’s attacks and reached the break level.

Cwm began the second half looking to increase their own pressure, but they suffered a setback when the injured Leon Croucher had to be replaced through injury.

And Hakin took immediate advantage as they scored quick goals through Shane Walsh and Jack Britton in the 47th and 50th minutes.

Cwm were now chasing the game and Kyle Ashford was presented with an excellent chance, which he could not quite convert.

Both sides rung the changes and Hakin sealed their passage into the next round when powerful centreforward Ashley Bevan made it 3-0 in the 70th minute.

The last 20 minutes saw Cwm probing as they looked for a way back into the contest, but the Hakin defence stayed on top to see them though.

Cwm start their Ardal League South West campaign on Friday with a trip to Penydarren BGC.