Maiden second tier win for Pontypridd as Gullick strike secures victory
Pontypridd Town secured their maiden Welsh League Division One victory away to Goytre United, courtesy of a strike from Luke Gullick, writes Pontypridd’s Billy Hillman.
Following recent defeats against the top two, Pontypridd went into their fourth consecutive away fixture against fourth placed Goytre United with a strengthened side, following the returns of key players from injury.
The Port Talbot side’s start though was a real shock to the system, with lightening attacks from Goytre threatening the Pontypridd defence with two real efforts in the opening periods. The first came crashing off the bar then moments later, the home side saw another chipped over the bar.
The referee allowed the game to flow, making for a very fast flowing game, but the effectiveness of both defences saw chances come at a premium.
Goytre shaded the first have, as they hit the woodwork for a second time in the first half and the home side soon after chipped wide of the Pontypridd goal, when it seemed easier to score.
However, in the second half, Ponty took control of proceedings. The away side had the lion’s share of possession and the Dragons really begun to breathe some fire into the game.
For more than 20 minutes, the Ponty midfield and attack pressed the home side further back and with 71 minutes on the clock, with the ball bobbling outside the area, Keiron Connor sliced a shot at goal and Luke Gullick pounced at the far post to put the visitors ahead.
Within minutes, Gavin Beddard was replaced by Adam Johns whose pace, graft and energy was used to try and wear down Lee John’s side, but the away side’s attack lacked the final touch on a couple of occasions to extend Ponty’s lead.
Goytre applied late pressure in an attempt to secure a point from the game, and tested the away side’s defence with a couple of snap shots and corners, but David Burnett’s safe hands ensured the visitors secured their first three points of the season.
FEATURED IMAGE: Gareth Burgess
