Stereophonics star backs Cwmaman as boss targets Welsh Cup shock

FC Cwmaman manager Delme Jenkins says his side have a wonderful opportunity to test themselves against Cymru Premier opposition as they prepare to face Ammanford in the Welsh Cup.

Four divisions separate the fifth-tier side from their top-flight opponents, but Cwmaman head into the tie in positive spirits after overcoming Cardiff Airport in the previous round.

The club have experienced a difficult period in recent seasons, with relegation and just one league victory last campaign providing a challenging backdrop to their rebuilding efforts. However, the return of several key players, the emergence of young talent and renewed support from the local community have helped lift the mood around the club.

Jenkins believes the Welsh Cup presents an opportunity for his players to show what they can do against some of the best opposition in Welsh football, with a place in the next round offering a significant reward for their progress.

Cwmaman boss reflects on difficult season and rebuilding process

Last season was a difficult one for Cwmaman, who lost several important players following their Alliance Premier League title-winning campaign in 2024.

Jenkins admits the club faced a challenging period, but believes the return of familiar faces and the development of younger players have helped strengthen the squad.

He said: “Last season was difficult, with a lot of key players leaving after we won the Alliance Premier League in 2024. This year, a few of that squad have returned, bringing much-needed experience to the team.

Last year’s Under-16s have now moved into senior football, and six players from that squad have made their first-team debuts so far, which has helped grow our player pool.”

The progress of the younger players has provided an important boost, with six members of last season’s Under-16s already making their first-team debuts.

Their development has helped expand the options available to Jenkins while experienced players have returned to provide greater balance within the squad.

The manager also believes the support surrounding the club has played an important role in creating a positive atmosphere ahead of the Welsh Cup challenge.

He added: “The mood is very positive, and we have had great encouragement and support from the community. Our social media channels show this, with great videos from former players, staff, professional athletes and, of course, Kelly Jones from the Stereophonics.”

Cardiff Airport victory gives Cwmaman confidence ahead of Ammanford clash

Cwmaman booked their place in the next round by beating Cardiff Airport, a side two leagues above them, in a tie that Jenkins believes could prove significant for the group.

The manager highlighted his team’s first-half performance before acknowledging the challenge posed by their opponents after the break, with the contest ultimately decided by a penalty shootout.

He said: “Cardiff Airport has been a tough fixture for years; the club have experienced some tough battles there, so both sides knew each other well. That result was massive; the first half was our best performance of the year. Credit to Cardiff Airport they created more chances than us in the second half, but good fortune was on our side in the shootout.”

The result has provided Cwmaman with a memorable cup moment and an opportunity to carry that confidence into another difficult assignment.

Ammanford, who compete in the Cymru Premier, represent a considerable step up in opposition, with four divisions separating the two teams.

However, Jenkins is keen for his players to embrace the occasion rather than become overawed by the difference in levels.

He said: “This is a wonderful opportunity, and a former player, Owyn Airey, went to Ammanford for a spell. The game is massive for the club, and our team want to expose themselves to the best level possible.”

The connection through former player Owyn Airey adds another point of interest to the fixture, but the focus for Cwmaman will be on making the most of their opportunity against top-flight opposition.

Jenkins tells Cwmaman players to enjoy Welsh Cup opportunity

Despite the gulf between the sides, Jenkins is determined that his players approach the match with the right attitude and without unnecessary pressure.

Cwmaman will enter the contest as underdogs, something their manager believes could work in their favour as they look to produce another memorable performance.

He said: “We have told the boys to go and enjoy it. With division difference we are the underdogs so it’s a nice place to be in, as there’s no unnessary pressure or expectation. The boys will work hard and display a good work ethic, and I’m Sure they’ll give a great account of themselves.”

The manager’s message is clear: Cwmaman must work hard, maintain their discipline and make the most of the opportunity presented to them.

A strong performance would also provide another chance to demonstrate the progress made since last season’s struggles, with the Welsh Cup offering a different challenge from the demands of league football.

Jenkins believes a cup run can have a wider impact on the club, helping build confidence within the squad while bringing greater attention to the work being done at Cwmaman.

He said: “The cup is really important, a good cup run can instil confidence, belief and motivation in the group. We have had so many messages from opposition and the community that it’s overwhelming.”

What progressing against Ammanford would mean to Cwmaman

For Jenkins, the significance of the tie extends beyond the possibility of reaching the next round.

Cwmaman have experienced a series of highs and lows over the past five years, and the manager believes a positive result would be a fitting reward for the attitude and performances shown by his players during the current campaign.

He said: “He said: “This would be a wonderful achievement, the team have experienced a cycle of highs and lows over the past 5 years. A positive result would be a reward that the club deserve with the attitude and performance levels displayed this year, after last years difficult season.”

With community support growing and younger players beginning to establish themselves in senior football, the Welsh Cup has given Cwmaman something to rally around.

Ammanford will start the tie as favourites given their position in the Welsh football pyramid, but Cwmaman have already shown they can compete against higher-ranked opposition.