Aberyswyth edged out Airbus in the first match of Phase Two in the Welsh Premier League, captain Luke Sherborn scored the only goal.
The first 5 minutes were lively as both teams attacked each others goals, but nothing came of it. Both Aber and Airbus had free kicks in the space of a 2 minute spell but neither free-kick really troubled the goalkeepers.
20 minutes in and Deadline Day signing Dafydd Jones had a chance to put Aberystwyth 1-0 up but Airbus’ goalkeeper made an incredible save to deny the former Newport winger a goal. In the 35th minute Airbus’ Tom Mathews comes of for Liam O’Neill due to an injuy that O’Neill had picked up. Towards the end of the first half Airbus had a close range free kick but it wasn’t hit strongly enough and bounced back off the Aberyswyth wall.
The first half ended level between the two sides with the half opening with both teams going for it but neither side found an opening.
7 minutes into the second half, Airbus fans hearts stopped as Aberystwyth were given a penalty. Luckily for them, Town captain Luke Sherbon hit the cross-bar and it remained 0-0. But unfortunately 3 minutes later, Sherbon redeemed himself by giving Aber Town the 1-0 lead that won them the game.
As the second half began, Aberyswyth were given a real opportunity to open the scoring as they were awarded a penalty. Aberyswyth captain Luke Sherbon stepped up but his penalty hit the cross-bar and the score remained level. Just minutes later though, Sherborn would make ammends as he would open the scoring through with a brilliant turn, firing past Pearson.
With 20 minutes to go, Airbus would almost equalise but the Aber defence put in a resillient performance, denying the Airbus forwards.
Enigmatic midfielder Geoff Kellaway made a welcome return from injury with ten minutes remaining as he replaced Luke Borelli, before Malcom Melvin’s debut came to an end as midfielder Kurtis March came on.
With 4 minutes of time added on, the Aber faithful sung their side to victory as Matthew Bishop’s men held out. The win now puts Aber top of the conference.
IMAGE FROM ABERYSWYTH TOWN
Callum Howen
I realise that I talk about the penalty twice. Unfortunately I didn’t notice whilst I was writing up. I will try to get the article edited ASAP.