Match report by Ray Pearce Picture by Beth Kelly After the previous week's disappointing performance, Aberdare expected a tough encounter when hosting Clwb Cymric in what was our first home league game since 25th November! The pitch had survived the recent rain as Aber attacked the Town end, Leon Jacka's second minute free kick not being taken advantage of. Evan Olson was soon close with an attempt that bobbled wide and the away side evading a call for offside to hit the post on 25 minutes. A corner from the visitors' left on the half-hour swung right into the far post, Jones being credited with the goal. The home team replied with a diving header from Owen Jones which went close and then Aber were back on level terms as Jacka's right side corner on 40 minutes curled into the net despite desperate away attempts to clear. The first minute of the second half saw Olson's shot diverted inches wide and away for a corner. 54 minutes had elapsed when Kellan Webb hit a screamer into the opposing net from 25 yards to give Aber a 2-1 advantage. Unfortunately, the lead was canceled out on the hour as a Price free kick from 45 yards on Clwb's left touch line went in with no one taking responsibility for a clearance. The game became feisty for a while with some dubious challenges, Aber's Will Eastwood coming on as a 75th minute substitute having an effort blocked for a corner. Although Aber tried to take the game to their visitors, it was the away side who broke through on 3 occasions. Dan Field and his defence did well to save and block Clwb's attempts, the final minute clearance off the line by Aaron Rowling being the highlight. So it ended 2-2 and a fine match for the observer with Aber showing commendable spirit to share the honours.

Published Saturday 10th February 2024

CERTRUS CONSTRUCTION PLAYER OF THE MATCH -

LINE-UP >> D Field J Jones K Webb (C McHale) O Jones A Adshead A Rowling L Jacka J Davies (J Bethell) S Welch D Collins E Olson (W Eastwood) Subs not used… D Pearce S Weaver