Five talking points from Barry Town’s rampant win over Bala Town

Barry Town sealed their place in the top six with a ruthless 6-2 victory in Colin Caton’s 700th game in charge of Bala Town. 

Despite trailing to an early header from Chris Venables, first-half strikes from Kayne McLaggon and Evan Press saw the Linnets respond well. 

Gavin Chesterfield’s side added to their lead in the second-half through Chris Hugh, McLaggon and Press, as the hosts raced to a commanding lead. 

Substitute Kieran Smith gave the Lakesiders hope, but Curtis Jemmett-Hutson’s fantastic effort sealed both a victory and a top-six spot for Barry Town. 

Here are five talking points from the contest at Jenner Park:

Colin Caton’s 700th game in charge 

It was a historic day for Bala Town manager Colin Caton, who celebrated his 700th game in charge of the Lakesiders. 

It’s a remarkable achievement for Caton, who lead Bala to progress in a Europa League tie for the first time over the summer, with a 1-0 win over Valletta. 

Also leading the Lakesiders to Welsh Cup glory in 2017, Caton deserves a tremendous amount of credit on his 700th game in charge.

Bright start from Bala

In a fixture that promised an entertaining contest, the game took just two minutes to spark to life. 

As the Lakesiders won an early free-kick, Sean Smith’s delivery was headed back across goal for Chris Venables to head home from close range. 

Scoring his 17th goal of the season, the striker got Bala Town off to the perfect start.

Remarkable response from Barry

Despite falling behind early, the response from Barry Town was fantastic, as a delivery into the box was bundled home by McLaggon.

As Press scored just five minutes later, the Linnets found themselves ahead and added to their lead in the second-half through Press, Hugh and McLaggon. 

Manager Gavin Chesterfield will undoubtedly be delighted with the way his side reacted to falling a goal behind early.

BARRY, WALES – 27 MARCH, 2021: Kayne McLaggon of Barry Town United celebrates scoring his sides fourth goal Barry Town United v Bala Town in the JD Cymru Premier League on the 27th March 2021 at Jenner Park, Barry, Wales. (Pic by Lewis Mitchell/FAW)

Kayne McLaggon in the goals

Since the re-start of the Cymru Premier season, Barry Town have missed the presence of their talisman McLaggon. 

The striker was lively throughout and looks to have formed a formidable partnership with Nat Jarvis, as Jordan Cotterill operated in the playmaker role. 

Netting two poacher’s goals for the Linnets, the return of McLaggon was a huge factor in the result at Jenner Park.

Evan Press nets his second of the game for Barry Town (Image: Elisio Williams)

Evan Press stands out

Despite a number of impressive individual performances, Barry Town midfielder Evan Press certainly stood out. 

The 20 year-old Linnets leader was industrious throughout, looked comfortable in possession and contributed with two goals. 

With another strong showing from Press in his 50th appearance for the club, he certainly showed how important he is to Chesterfield’s side.

(Featured Image: Lewis Mitchell)

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