Fast-starting Cwmbran Celtic were rewarded with a 2-0 win over local rivals Blaenavon Blues in the Ardal South East League.
Cwmbran Celtic were quick out of the blocks when Evan Maidment slotted a first-time finish into the bottom-left corner after good work from Dan Camaj down the right.
Blaenavon almost found themselves level four minutes later when a mix-up between defender and goalkeeper was capitalised on. A great goal-line clearance from Cwmbran Celtic captain Terry Obeng prevented the goal.
The home side were two-nil up in just under 15 minutes after the bottom-left corner was found again, this time by Munya Mabwe following several Blaenavon errors.
Blaenavon built pressure for the rest of the half, creating a few good half-chances, but Celtic held their lead into the break.
The visitors’ pressure continued into the second half, with an effort just wide of the post and some great saves by both goalkeepers.
Celtic were almost three up after a shot just over the bar from substitute Kev Aldoori. Kian Saunders also whipped in a free-kick which was almost tapped home by Obeng at the back post.
Two huge opportunities for Blaenavon were the last talking points of the game, with one effort going over the bar from close range and another chance where the ball wouldn’t fall for Craig Tanner.
Terry Obeng key to Cwmbran Celtic clean sheet
The Celtic skipper was everywhere in this game, really making sure his side held on to the clean sheet towards the end of the game, especially.
Obeng was key in the air, winning nearly every header he was challenged with, as well as making some really key challenges and clearances.
He almost had a goal for himself as well, with the free-kick being whipped into the far post where he awaited it, but it went just over the bar.
Evan Maidment makes it two goals and two assists for the season
A goal on the evening for Evan Maidment, who placed a beautiful shot into the bottom left-hand corner in just the third minute.
Maidment was magic in the midfield and made a handful of good turns to get away from Blaenavon defenders. He almost got an assist for his efforts, too.
New signing Hijambazapo shines
Urio Hijambazapo got an assist for his efforts during the game but terrified the away side’s defenders.
His quick feet down the right were eye-catching, and he made sure to impress after the signing was announced earlier in the week, following a few weeks at the club already.
