Storm Amy had not spoiled this W J Owen Cup tie against fellow league side Heolgerrig Red Lion with the pitch in excellent condition, although the strong winds had not significantly died down, as Town ran out 4-1 winners. Aber defended the Town end and within 2 minutes went 1-0 up when a Jack Salmon left side corner was headed home by Player of the Match Kellan Webb at the far post despite a defender's attempt to clear. 18 minutes saw home 'keeper Dan Field clear an away attack for a corner and had to do likewise from a free kick. The guests were enjoying their share of the play but a 20th minute move from Southern Rowlands and Salmon down the left saw Macauley Morgan played in to dink over the onrushing No. 1 for a 2-0 lead. A 33rd minute corner from Salmon was just cleared but the visitors glanced a close range chance wide before, right on half-time, an away left corner was scrambled in for a 2-1 score at the break. Just 4 minutes into the second half Morgan was through but his effort came back off the post. Aber's Rufaro Gunundu and Will De Sousa replaced Elliott Hewings and Liam John. 73 minutes saw Field tip over a close range away effort, Iestyn Donovan replacing Salmon with 10 to play. Webb and co-central defender Kieran Rodway had dealt with the visitors sporadic attacks before the 87th minute saw a long Field free kick find De Sousa and his pinpoint cross from the left was knocked home by Morgan for his second and a decisive 3-1 score-line. Dan Collins replaced Cam Sage before, deep into added time, a tricky Mason Howells run found Morgan who crossed from the right for De Sousa to net from close in. A much improved performance to please all concerned with Aberdare and gives another home cup fixture with Bettws later in the month. Meanwhile, Saturday 11th October sees a trip to play Splott F.C. who are the current league leaders. Kick off for this important fixture is 2.15 Team: Dan Field, Hadley Taylor, Elliott Hewings (Rufaro Gunundu), Kieran Rodway, Kellan Webb, Jack Salmon (Iestyn Donovan), Cameran Sage (Dan Collins), Southern Rowlands, Macauley Morgan, Mason Howells, Liam John (Will de Sousa) Subs not used: - Player of the Match: Kellan Webb

Report by Ray Pearce Published 4 October 2025