Monmouth relegated after defeat (From Free Press Series)

Monmouth relegated after defeat

Pentwynmawr Athletic 2 Monmouth Town 1

MONMOUTH Town have been relegated from Division Two of the Gwent County League after one of the most disappointing seasons in the club's history.

But assistant manager Andrew Lewis vowed Town would be back despite describing the past year as one of the worst in his ten year association with the club.

"We're just all totally gutted," sighed Lewis. "We were so desperate to stay up, but we just didn't have it in the end. We've had plenty of chances this season, but we just haven't taken them."

Town's fate was sealed when Christchurch Hamdden - the side just above them in the table - picked up the vital three points they needed to hold onto their Division Two place and condemn Town to Division Three football next season.

A small glimmer of hope that could see Town hold onto their Division Two status is still flickering though. A large number of sides have dropped out of the Gwent County League due to varying reasons this season meaning officials will now be keen to maintain a steady number of sides in each division.

This means they may decide to relinquish relegation for this season and only promote sides thus keeping a healthy quota of teams in each division.

"It's not the way we would have liked it, but hopefully the Gwent F.A. will decided to abolish relegation for this season and keep us up," said Lewis.

Town lost their final game of the season on Saturday against Pentwynmawr Athletic. Either way the result would have meant nothing as Town contemplate rebuilding in the summer and pushing for a place back in Division Two next season.

"We did play well, but I think that was because the pressure was off. We were relaxed and had nothing to worry about.

"I think this season took a turn for the worse right at the start when we were struggling to field a side. It's only been in the latter half that we have found consistency within the squad. If we had had that at the start then I don't think we would have been talking about relegation now," said Lewis.

With pre-season training already pencilled in for July 1 at the Monmouth Sports Ground Lewis said the club is desperately seeking a new keeper and striker.

"What we need is a decent shot stopper and someone who can bag goals for us. We have no problems creating chances it's just taking them," said Lewis.

If you fancy playing for Monmouth Town next season contact Terry Cleaves on 07729049133.