CWM BOSS ADDS NINE TO SQUAD
CWMAMMAN United have made a host of signings as they build up to the new season.
New manager Ryan Stephens is keen to add depth to his squad as Cwmamman prepare for life in the new FAW Championship South. And he has added five new faces, as well as a quartet of talented youngsters who could provide the backbone of the side in years to come.
Stephens believes his signings will add quality to the talent he already has at his disposal at Grenig Park.
Young goalkeeper James Kirkwood has made the switch from Welsh League side Garden Village. He has also had experience with Carmarthen Town and Ammanford.
He said: “I am looking forward to this new chapter at Cwmamman. I am excited to see what we can achieve this season, there are some very good players at the club.”
Meanwhile, the Blues have resigned Sam Harrison, who was with the club when they gained promotion to division one of the Welsh League.
Work commitments kept him sidelined last season and he featured for Ynystawe Athletic in the Swansea Senior League, but Cwm have won the race for his signature this term as they fought off competition from a number of Championship clubs.
Harrison said: “I’m very happy to be back joining such a great club and group of players and looking forward to helping push Cwmamman forward.”
Stephens has also secured the signature of Rob Jones, who previously played for Pontardawe Town and Melbourne side Yaraville Glory. He has also been a regular in the West Wales representative side.
Highly-rated defender Nathan Davies, who has captained the Carmarthenshire League Select side, joins from Bwlch Rangers, while attacking midfielder Rob Morgans has signed up. He has previously played for both Haverfordwest County and leading Pembrokeshire League side Goodwick.
The youngsters to join Cwmamman are Oliver Diamond, Korey Palmer, Stevie Evans and Joe Lewis.
Stephens said: “I am excited for the upcoming season with these new signings.
“We are really pleased to have these boys on board as we are not only strengthening our first-team squad with some really talented players, but we are also building for the future.”
Cwmamman were the surprise package of last season, upsetting many of their more fancied rivals as they claimed a top-six finish in division one of the Welsh League.
And they continued their pre-season preparations with a 6-1 victory at Swansea Senior League side CRC Rangers.
CRC provided organised and skilful opposition and it was an excellent opportunity for Stephens to have a look at his new signings.
Cwm took an early lead through Steve Evans in the eighth minute, but the visitors were stunned soon after when a speculative shot found the top corner for an equaliser.
It did not remain level for long, though, with Ryan Thomas carrying on from where he left off last season with a smart goal.
Cwm began to take control and further goals from Nathan Davies, Chris Allen and another two for Thomas saw them run out comfortable winners.
Cwmamman entertain Ton Pentre on Saturday at Grenig Park.