LIONS READY TO ROAR AGAIN
PAUL FAIRCLOUGH’S England C will again lock horns with Cymru C at Llanelli Town’s Stebonheath Park in March.
Non-League’s Three Lions claimed a 1-0 victory in last season’s annual fixture thanks to Ryan De Havilland’s solitary strike.
It will be the fifth time the sides have met since Wales adopted the C moniker.
Mark Jones’ side won in 2022 following a 2-2 draw at Salford in 2019 and England’s 3-2 win back in 2018.
And Fairclough says they can’t wait to tackle their rivals – drawn from the JD Cymru Leagues – on March 19.
“I look forward with great anticipation to the annual fixture with our friends across the border,” said England C manager Paul Fairclough, who will select his squad from players who represent clubs in the National League and below.
“The games continue to be highly competitive offering fans a feast of entertainment from two groups of talented players.”
Jones added: “I’m delighted that we have agreed another fixture with England C and I expect a well-contested match as it always is.
“Cymru C is always a fantastic showcase of the talent we have in the JD Cymru Leagues and it has proven in recent years that it can be a platform for players to go on and earn careers in the professional game.
“I am looking forward to the game being played at Stebonheath. Llanelli are a historic club and we hope the town and beyond will get behind us in March.”
Matchwinner De Havilland moved from Barnet to Peterborough in the summer, while goalkeeper Sam Howes, defenders Jesse Debrah and Vincent Harper and striker Emile Acquah from last year’s team all now play in the EFL.