There is a big game this Tuesday in the Welsh Football League Division One, as leaders Penybont travel to face second-placed Haverfordwest County at the Bridge Meadow.
A win for the Bluebirds would see them close the gap on Rhys Griffiths’ side, and manager Wayne Jones expects the result to be important in the context of the promotion race.
“It will have a big bearing no doubt on the title race, as Penybont have a chance to go eight points clear.
Although saying that, I believe Penybont have six away games on the bounce come the end of the season, which may have an effect as it’s a very tough league.
Jones recognises the importance of avoiding defeat on Tuesday, and has set his stall out for how his side will approach the game: “We have a good home record and will look to continue this, it’s important we don’t lose although we’ll be going all guns out to win!
The Pembrokeshire side haven’t played in the league since January 12, when they drew 2-2 with Cambrian & Clydach Vale, and when asked if he would have liked more preparation for this game, the Bluebirds boss said: “Certainly, however its helped us to get players recovered from injuries. Using these cancellations to our advantage has been the key.“
“We’ve been a victim of our own success in the cup runs, but now we have no excuses as all we have to focus on is the league.“
Star striker Danny Williams departed the club in January to sign a professional contract with Cardiff City.
The forward netted 18 goals in 18 games this season for Haverfordwest, and Jones is sure that he will be missed: “Losing Danny is a big blow, however, we will continue our club policy of developing local and bright talented players.“
“We also have players returning from injury which is like having new signings to be honest.“
The former Aberystwyth Town assistant manager dismissed the idea that this season’s Division One is a two-horse race for promotion: “Cambrian and Afan Lido will be there with us at the end of the season, and let’s not forget we’re only halfway through the season.”
“With Penybont still to play, and the run-in to come, where we’ll play three games a week will be tough and demanding on the players so this will be wide open in my opinion.“
Jones is a former team-mate of Penybont manager Griffiths, the pair played together for Haverfordwest County at the beginning of the millennium, with the latter going on to score over 250 goals in an illustrious playing career.
While there will be no love lost when the whistle goes on Tuesday, Jones has a lot of respect for his ex-team-mate, and recognises the good work he has done during his time in management: “Rhys has taken to management very well, which is something I never doubted he would.“
“He prepares his team well and has recruited well also. I know five of his players well, three of whom enjoyed promotion with me at Haverfordwest three years ago.“
You’ll be able to follow live updates of the game on our website.
(Featured Image: Will Cheshire)
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