| Brace admits it's make or break |
| Thursday 09 April 2009 |
 MANAGER Deryn Brace has admitted that Carmarthen Town's season hinges on their Welsh Cup semi-final with Aberystwyth on Sunday.The Old Gold meet their Welsh Premier rivals at Haverfordwest's New Bridge Meadow, bidding to meet either Bangor City or Welsh League outfit Bridgend Town in the final. And with fourth-placed Carmarthen having little more than a mathematical chance of catching The New Saints, who occupy the final European spot directly above them, Brace admits the cup quest has become all important. "The Aberystwyth semi-final game is our season, as it is theirs," he told the South Wales Evening Post. "Both clubs probably over the last few weeks have taken their foot off the gas a little bit in terms of results but are gearing up for a humdinger of a clash. "It's going to be a really tough game because they are going to be as motivated as we are." The Old Gold lifted the famous trophy two years ago when they beat Afan Lido 3-2, but Aberystwyth - who have lost both of their league encounters with Carmarthen this season - have not tasted success in a major final for 20 years. But Brace insists that will count for little come the weekend. "There's very little between us and games against Aber are always tight," he said. "We need as many fans there as possible to get behind the lads. It does make a difference and it does motivate them." Coach Mark Aizlewood added: "Success this season in respect of qualifying for Europe now depends on one competition and that's the Welsh Cup. "It's absolutely crucial. If you're involved in either side of the club, the coaching side or the actual running of the club, you understand the importance of it. "Yes, it's about the prestige of getting to a Welsh Cup final and a great day out for the fans. But it's also about the finances. If this club won the Welsh Cup we would be in a far stronger position to move forward and progress, and that's the key point." Photo: Carmarthen tasted cup success two years ago. |