The key elements learnt as Barry Town United and Aberystwyth Town draw at Jenner Park

Barry Town United were pegged back in controversial style at Jenner Park as Jordan Spittle’s second-half equaliser earned the Seasiders a point.

The hosts started rapidly and took the lead through new man Ryan Newman after Kayne McLaggon’s shot was well blocked by Chris Mullock in Aberystwyth goals.

However, Aberystwyth’s second-half pressure finally paid off as Jordan Spittle converted from a corner albeit in controversial circumstances to whether the ball did actually cross the line.

So, what were the key elements learnt as Barry Town United made their return to the Welsh Premier League?

Barry show resilience in first game back in the big time

After taking the lead, Barry had to withhold long-term pressure from the visitors, and for the majority of the game they did exceptionally well at keeping the Seasiders at bay. There were a few moments where the Barry defence looked shaky, but overall the first signs of Barry’s back-line are positive.

Mike Lewis also made a sensational stop in the first-half to help keep his side’s 1-0 lead after Luke Borelli struck a ferocious volley towards goal and was incredibly unlucky to concede in the 82nd minute after the linesman adjudged Jordan Spittle’s rebound has in fact crossed the line.

There is certainly plenty to build on for Barry following their first game back in the Welsh Premier League for the 13-years. They didn’t show themselves up at all and they looked assured throughout – this is the kind of resilience that Chesterfield will be proud of and will hope continues for the rest of the season.

Neville Powell’s men lacking cutting edge up front

Overall, the 53 year-old, former midfielder would be more than happy to take a point but it is clear that his side are clearly still missing that cutting edge up front.

He watched his side spur a host of chances in both halves, although, it must be noted Mike Lewis’ heroics in the first-half helped to preserve Barry’s lead.

Borelli was guilty of missing chances in both the first and second-half, but with the amount of chances Powell’s side created at Jenner Park on Sunday evening, there is no reason why the goals can’t start flowing in and he’ll be hoping his side can be more clinical when they host Llandudno on Friday evening.

Ryan Newman could prove to be an astute signing by Chesterfield

Debutant Ryan Newman provided a real zest of energy and endeavour from the moment the whistle went. He looked assured on the ball and if he can maintain this level of performance throughout the season, he could provide to be an astute signing by Gavin Chesterfield.

Newman also helped himself to a goal on his debut as he pounced quickest after Mullock saved well to prevent Kayne McLaggon scoring – he showed fantastic composure to slot home and give the hosts the lead.

And, although he had a reasonably quiet second-half, there is definitely talent there for everybody to see and he’ll be hoping to be a key part of the Barry Town United’s midfield this season in their Welsh Premier League return.

(Featured image: SameOldSmith)