Ryan praises Trefelin’s never say die attitude ahead of League Cup final
Trefelin boss Richie Ryan has leapt praise onto his players for their determination throughout the season as they meet Division One champions Llanelli in the final.
The Division Three side narrowly missed out on promotion after Bridgend Street pipped them to the final promotion spot, but there could still be silverware for Ryan, in his first season in senior management. He takes his side to Garden Village this evening.
Ryan’s side suffered just the two defeats in the league, with one being a defeat to the Cardiff side in the league. However, their Cup form has seen them knock out higher league opposition, to reach this stage of the competition.
Llanelli Town the opponents are the defending Champions after their 3-1 victory over Bridgend Street in the last final, which was played at Briton Ferry Llansawel’s Old Road.
“The boys don’t fear anyone. We don’t want to be second best to anyone and never know when we are beaten. It’s going to be tough but on the day, who knows what might happen.”
The determination to maintain the unbeaten record, before the defeat to Bridgend Street was highlighted in Trefelin’s semi-final victory over Division Two promotion winners Pontypridd Town. They fought back from being a goal down on to occasions, before taking the game to penalties.
“The semi-final night was one of my best football memories. The feeling of pride and emotion was overwhelming on the night. To stand toe-to-toe with a team of Pontypridd’s ilk was something else,”
Getting to the final has really increased the profile of the club. I know the chairman is extremely proud of the boys for getting the club there and we hope to repay all his and the committees hard work by bringing the trophy home.”
The five-time Welsh League winner, with one of the best goal scoring records in the League, has made a few cameo appearances for the Reserves side this season but has taken a back seat role with the firsts team, focusing on his first managerial job.
However with a game like this, having only recently stepped away from the playing side of things, there’s always that wish of being involved in a final like this.
“To be honest, my one wish would be to cross that white line with the boys and play,” said Ryan
To be able to manage this wonderful group of players at this terrific club is certainly the next best thing
It’s been a great season where the team has excelled and we hope it will bring some silverware. The club deserves the occasion and really hope everyone enjoys it.”
Going into the game, many would place Llanelli Town as the favourites, given they’re the reigning cup holders, as well as winning the Division One title by a considerable distance. Trefelin’s record of knocking out higher league teams, the motivation is there to repeat their recent cup feats.
“I think it would be delusional to say that we weren’t underdogs. Not only are they two leagues above us but they won their league at a canter.
Playing right through to the final can have its advantages I suppose but it works the other way as well.”
Talisman Lee Trundle has scored an impressive 21 league goals this campaign, picking up where he left off. However, there isn’t just Trundle to deal wih. They may be boosted in that Trundle plays for Trefelin’s Veteran’s side, allowing them to pay close attention to the former Swansea City man’s strengths.
I don’t think it’s fair to single out Trundle amongst their players. Obviously, he’s an exceptional player but they’ve got 15 more of them as well. I know most of them very well, having played with them at Goytre a few years back.
It’s one thing knowing their strengths, and another thing stopping them. But we’ve got the quality and experience to have a right good go at doing just that.
Their manager Andy Hill is a mate of mine, I was his assistant at Goytre and we played together and against each other back in the day. Looking forward to catching up with him on the night.
