Aberystwyth aiming to consolidate
Friday 22 January 2010
Alan MorganABERYSTWYTH Town are aiming to consolidate third place in the Welsh Premier when they host Carmarthen on Friday night.
Seasiders' manager Alun Morgan (pictured) is not getting carried away: "Each game is getting bigger and bigger," he says.
"We’re doing okay, and it’s nice to be in the top three, but I feel there’s room for improvement, and we can still do better."
Old Gold player-boss Deryn Brace has added Wales Under-23 semi pro international defender Sean Cronin to his squad after his release from Haverfordwest.
"Aber are doing well and they will be looking to retain their top three position, it's going to be a really tough test for us," he says.
Newtown travel to Elements Cefn Druids hoping to kick-start their campaign for a top 10 finish from a gruelling backlog of fixtures with just 14 games under their belts so far this season.
"Everyone at the club from fans to players must now pull together because we need to string a run together if we are to get into the top 10," says manager Darren Ryan.
New signing Paul Roberts is suspended while fellow striker Jamie Breeze is on international duty with the Wales Under-18s, but midfielder Andy Webb has returned to the club for a second stint after spells with Guilsfield, Defaid Du and Four Crosses and joins from Shawbury United.
On-loan Aberystwyth goalkeeper Dave Roberts joins midfielders Richie Harris and Jamie Russell in making belated debuts.
Druids are also without Josh Griffiths and Adam Hesp on international duty, while joint player-manager Waynne Phillips is an injury doubt.
Welshpool open their belated 2010 programme with a visit from Prestatyn Town.
The Lilywhites are much changed with striker Marc Griffiths returning from Bala Town and a few loan deals, including Jordan Kane from Wrexham and Eric Ramsey from TNS.
"The new lads met the existing squad on the weekend and got involved straight away. We are a different team nowadays and we cannot wait to welcome Prestatyn after such a long lay-off," says manager Huw Griffiths.
"I am content with my squad. I am hoping to sign one more before the end of the window but overall I am happy."
The visitors are seeking a first win in six league games as they attempt to complete a double, having won 2-1 at Bastion Gardens back in September thanks to a last-minute goal.
"Welshpool have already dropped out of the race for the Super 12 but they haven’t stopped battling for points," says Seasiders' boss Neil Gibson, who is again suspended, but midfielders Gareth Wilson and Michael Parker, and striker Ian Griffiths, all return from bans.