Key talking points as Penybont share the spoils with Cefn Druids
Bridgend, Wales, UK. 29th Nov, 2020. Naim Arsan of Penybont in action against Cefn Druids. Penybont v Cefn Druids at Bryntirion Park in the JD Cymru Premier on the 29th November 2020. Credit: Lewis Mitchell/YCPD
The Cefn Druids and Penybont shared the points at the SDM Glass Stadium as two contenders for goal of the season resulted in a draw.
Ben Ahmun’s inch-perfect chipped opener was cancelled out by an 88th-minute volley from defender Jacob Wise.
The draw means Penybont are just four points off fourth-placed Barry Town with two games in hand, with Caernarfon Town coming to the SDM Glass Stadium next week.
For Druids, the draw gave them their fifth point of the season as they look to gain as many points as possible to climb the table and avoid relegation.
Aziamale can be dangerous
German striker Christoph Aziamale was Cefn Druids’ main outlet in the first half.
His pace, power and intelligent positioning gave him a handful of chances early on.
Aziamale could have opened the scoring with a left-footed effort in the box which went over or from his right-footed effort which went wide of the near post.
The attacker also believed he was fouled in the box in the first-half but the referee decided against awarding a spot-kick.
Bont tactically flexible
Rhys Griffiths raised eyebrows around the ground when he replaced his two most deadly attackers – Nathan Wood and Kostya Georgievsky – on the hour mark, despite still looking to take the lead.
The change allowed them to introduce defensive midfielder Ashley Evans, who would often sit in between the two centre-halves, giving Penybont defensive reassurance with three-at-the-back.
This also gave left-back Oliver Dalton and make-shift right-back Mael Davies the opportunity to play higher up the pitch, giving Bont more options in attack.
The ability to change shape in this way could be massively beneficial for the side in the future.
Ben Ahmun is clinical
After opening his account for the club last time out against Bala Town, Ben Ahmun was on target for Penybont again.
Despite being isolated for the majority of the game against Druids’ three centre-halves, the striker took his chance when relied upon.
The ex-STM Sports striker made up for his miss in the 72nd minute when his second lofted attempt was guided into the top-left corner, beating the goalkeeper and a defender on the goal line.
Wise by name, wise by nature
Central defender Jacob Wise was Druids’ standout performer this afternoon.
With his height and ability to beat the opposition in the air, he assured the visitors in defence.
Wise was also effective on the other end of the pitch, with his volley from the edge of the box equalising for Bruno Lopes’ side.
The defender also plays futsal showing his ability on the ball is also an asset he possesses.
