A dry and still afternoon saw Aberdare travel to the Cardiff University complex to take on league leaders Splott FC but, after a promising start, fell to a 2-5 loss. A 3rd minute home chance went past the far post before Aber's Macauley Morgan was through but thwarted by the home 'keeper. However, the visitors took the lead on 21 minutes when a Jack Salmon free kick was not cleared, Mason Howells did well to retrive and get the ball back to Salmon who lofted to the far post and Macauley Morgan cut inside to curl into the top corner of the far post. It was almost 2 on 27 minutes as Southern Rowlands attempt from the left went past the far post. The half hour saw Kieran Rodway temporarily leave the field with the hosts netting a 25 yard free kick. Aberdare almost regained the lead on 37 minutes when a corner was cleared to Cameron Walker, his volley being headed off the line. Within 2 minutes Splott attacked down their left and a cross was easily knocked home for a 2-1 lead at the break. Will De Sousa replaced Walker at the start of the second period but the hosts went 3-1 up almost immediately when another through pass saw the ball rolled home. 55 minutes saw De Sousa set up Player of the Match Salmon for a cool finish to make it 2-3. Aber attacks were thwarted by offside decisions but bad defending saw Splott make it 4-2 on 62 minutes with another easy finish. Despite emptying the bench, the guests were unable to create a great deal until the 84th minute saw a chance to reduce the deficit to 1 when De Sousa went round the Splott No.1 but could only find the side netting. Sadly for Aber more slick passing on the counter attack saw a comfortable 85th minute 5-2 victory for the home side. A disappointing afternoon for all concerned with Aber but Saturday 18th October sees an opportunity to bounce back with a league fixture when hosting Nelson with a 2.30 start. Team: Dylan Pearce, Liam John (Hadley Taylor), Southern Rowlands (Elliott Hewings), Kieran Rodway, Kellan Webb, Jack Salmon, Cameran Sage, Cai McKenzie (Callum Tandy), Mac Morgan, Mason Howells (Rufaro Gunundu), Cam Walker (Will de Sousa) Subs not used: - Player of the Match: Jack Salmon

Report by Ray Pearce Published 11 October 2025