‘Proud’ – Llantwit Fardre boss reacts Mark Minton after Welsh Cup defeat to Baglan Dragons

Llantwit Fardre manager Mark Minton has praised his players for their performance against Baglan Dragons in the Welsh Cup, despite seeing his side suffer a 3-1 defeat against opposition two divisions above them.

Fardre made an encouraging start to the contest and took the lead through a stunning finish from Ryan Prosser, giving their supporters plenty to cheer about as they went toe-to-toe with higher-league opposition.

Although Baglan Dragons eventually turned the game around to secure victory, Minton was keen to highlight the effort, determination and quality shown by the Llantwit Fardre players, who remained competitive for large parts of the match despite being without several members of their squad.

The occasion also provided a memorable day for Llantwit Fardre, especially the club’s young supporters, with junior players among those cheering on the senior side.

Mark Minton proud of Llantwit Fardre players despite Welsh Cup exit

Minton was full of praise for his side’s approach to the game, insisting there was plenty for Llantwit Fardre to take encouragement from despite the final scoreline.

“I’m very proud of the boys, to be honest. They were excellent in terms of how they went about the game,” he said.

“We stayed in the game, we went 1-0 up. Ryan Prosser, his goal was absolutely outstanding.

“I thought the effort was really good. We had quite a lot of boys out missing today. It was brilliant, I can’t fault them.”

With two divisions separating the teams, Llantwit Fardre faced a significant challenge against Baglan, but they showed they were capable of competing and made the visitors work for their victory.

For Minton, the performance was particularly pleasing given the players unavailable to him, with the squad continuing to battle throughout the contest rather than allowing the occasion to overwhelm them.

Ryan Prosser produces a stunning goal on first start

One of the standout moments for Llantwit Fardre was Prosser’s brilliant goal, which gave the hosts a deserved lead and demonstrated the attacking quality within their ranks.

The forward made his first start of the campaign and made an immediate impression, with Minton delighted to see him back in the side and hoping he can play a significant role during the league season.

“What a finish. We know that is what he can do. He’s there to do it,” the Fardre boss said.

“It’s his first start today as well. It’s great to have him back in there, and I’m hoping he’s ready for the league campaign as we go forward. What a finish.”

Prosser’s contribution offered Fardre a reminder of what they can produce going forward, while his return will provide an encouraging boost as the club turns its attention back to its league ambitions.

Young supporters and Sam Richards impress Minton

The backing from the stands was another highlight for Minton, with the club’s loyal supporters creating an atmosphere that helped make the Welsh Cup tie a special occasion.

Youngsters from Fardre’s junior teams were among those in attendance, underlining the connection between the senior side and the wider club.

“We wanted to move them at one point with all the noise behind us!” Minton joked.

“It’s what our club is all about, I think. It’s great to see that today. Some of those boys will be playing in this team. It’s what it’s about.

“It is a great occasion for them. We need to do that more, definitely with the mascots. It’s an absolutely fantastic day for them.”

On the pitch, Minton was equally pleased with a number of individual performances, particularly that of Sam Richards, who made his debut at the back for Fardre.

Richards arrives with experience of the Cymru Premier, having made 10 appearances for Cardiff Met during the 2025/26 season, and his performance left his new manager optimistic about what he can bring to the team.

“Sam Richards, first game at the back for us. I thought he was brilliant. He’s going to add so much to the side this year,” Minton said.

He also praised Lewis Marling, Ciaran Cox and James Natt for their tireless work, while highlighting the contributions of Connor Shields and Ceirion Harris.

“I’m proud of all the boys. There were a couple of outstanding performances,” he added. “Honestly, I could reel a whole lot off. The boys really worked hard, and outstanding.”

Llantwit Fardre turn attention to promotion ambitions

Despite the disappointment of their Welsh Cup exit, Fardre can now focus on their ambitions in the South Wales Premier League, with promotion to the Ardal Leagues firmly in their sights.

Minton acknowledged that his squad remains relatively young, with most of his players aged 25 or under, although the club has been looking to bring more experience into the team.

“That’s where we are. We’ve tried to get a few more experienced players in the team. Ryan was the most experienced today. Generally, most of our team tend to be 25 or under,” he said.

The manager believes the club’s strong support and enthusiasm could prove important as they look to make progress in the league.

“I think we’re a well-supported club. It’s a big thing of ours. We’ve got a lot of loyal supporters. They love following Llantwit. They’re passionate like myself,” Minton said.

“They’re excited, we could definitely do something definitely.”

While the 3-1 defeat brought their Welsh Cup run to an end, Fardre’s display against higher-level opposition offered reasons for optimism. With Prosser back in action, Richards making an encouraging first impression and a young squad continuing to develop, Minton will hope his side can carry that spirit into their push for promotion.