BARRY VETERANS OVER-50S ....................... 2 MERTHYR TYDFIL VETERANS .................... 1

MERTHYR travelled to Sully to meet last season’s champions Barry in the opening game of the Wales Veterans League Over-50s. The Merthyr squad included six new signings but were without a recognised goalkeeper. Outfield player and Merthyr stalwart Terry Collins deputised in goal. Merthyr kicked off in a strong wind with the seaside ground exposed to the elements. They were quickly into their stride and much sharper than Barry in the opening exchanges. But the wind made good football almost impossible, Merthyr trying to play ball to feet and Barry finding their passes being carried by the wind. Under the circumstances, it was difficult to create chances. Midway through the first half it was a set-piece which broke the deadlock. A harsh free-kick given against Chris Cleaver 25 yards from goal gave Steve Hill the chance to drive through the wall and past an unsighted Collins. Shortly afterwards, a free-kick from a similar position saw Hill crash the ball against the bar. Merthyr started the second half pressing for an equaliser. A free-kick from outside the penalty area saw Carl Lewis fire just over the bar. Ian Williams then narrowly failed to get his head to Howie Beynon’s whipped-in cross with an open goal beckoning. Barry defended resolutely and stunned Merthyr in a rare breakaway. A corner from the left drifted over the defence and was scrambled over the line by Jeff White at the far post. Merthyr piled on the pressure, forcing four corners in as many minutes. Beynon’s precision crosses were brilliantly dealt with by the Barry keeper. A goal had to come, and a left-foot inswinging cross from Anthony O’Sullivan was met by the head of Keith Williams at the far post for a fine finish. Merthyr had deserved at least a draw but Barry’s defence was solid. Merthyr captain Cleaver was outstanding and there were impressive performances from fullback O’Sullivan and Paul Jones in midfield. Merthyr were pleased overall and hope for a successful campaign.