Thornwell too strong for Thursdays (From Free Press Series)

Thornwell too strong for Thursdays

"PROBABLY the best side we've faced this season" - that was the verdict on Thornwell Burnt Barn after they had beaten Abergavenny Thursdays on Saturday.

The glowing tribute came from Thursday boss Bill Mainwaring after seeing his side go down to a 2-0 defeat in the Gwent County League Division Three.

The victory moves Thornwell Burnt Barn up to second in the table, just behind Race, but having played more games.

Mainwaring admitted: "The score was a fair reflection on the match. They were the better team and to be fair I reckon they're the best side we have faced this season."

The result leaves Thursdays rooted to the bottom and Mainwaring admitted: "We're just playing for pride now."

Thornwell played with the strong wind in the first half and used the advantage well, opening up a 2-0 lead before half-time.

But when Thursdays played with the gale at their backs, they failed to break down a well marshalled Thornwell defence, despite creating several chances.

"Yet again we lacked consistency. It has been a problem all season for us. We could have done much better but the lads just didn't seem to perform on Saturday. I'm not sure why but you have to give credit to Thornwell too."

However the Thursdays boss did praise the efforts of new signing Ryan Routley, Will Morris and John Viveash.

"Ryan especially did very well up a front and in central midfield. He's a player we certainly want to hang on to."