| Dream debut for Neath hat-trick hero |
| Saturday 23 January 2010 |
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CHRIS Jones enjoyed a stunning Welsh Premier debut with a hat-trick in Neath's 3-2 victory over Porthmadog.
The Grimsby Town loanee hit three goals in the first-half at The Gnoll, one from the penalty spot, as the Eagles threatened to give lowly Port a roasting. But the Gwynedd outfit showed more resilience after the break and hit back with a goal from Marcus Orlik. And when Rob Folland put through his own goal in the 73rd-minute, it set-up a nervous finish for Andy Dyer's men.  The New Saints and Llanelli extended their lead at the top after slender victories. TNS beat Port Talbot in the clash of the in-form sides at Park Hall with a solitary goal from Steve Evans on the stroke of half-time. Llanelli trailed 2-0 at home to Bangor City, who scored through Mark Smyth and a Chris Sharp penalty, but hit back through Chris Venables and a brace from Rhys Griffiths, the winner arriving in the 93rd-minute. Rhyl put a difficult week behind them by beating Gap Connah's Quay 4-1 at Belle Vue. The Nomads' cause was not helped by the 27th-minute dismissal of defender Andy Alston and they fell behind to goals from Mark Connolly and George Horan. A goal from debutant Aaron Burns gave them hope 11 minutes from time, but Matty Williams settled the home nerves with a late brace. Bala Town won 3-1 at Caersws with goals from Gethin Lloyd, John Toner and Owain Roberts, while Haverfordwest and Airbus shared the spoils 1-1 at the New Bridge Meadow. Photo: Chris Jones nets the second goal of his Neath hat-trick from the penalty spot [Mike Greenslade]. |