Dominant Panteg in league stunner (From Free Press Series)

Dominant Panteg in league stunner

IF there was a Gwent County League November Manager of the Month Award, Panteg's Paul Thomas would be hard to beat.

His in-form Division One side have played four, won four and hit 16 goals, and their latest victory on Saturday ended one of the league's most amazing records.

Panteg's 3-2 home win against Blaenavon Blues was the Blues' first defeat in 35 league games, having won promotion last season.

"I couldn't believe it when I heard it. They've drawn four games this season but went unbeaten last season so it's nice to put an end to that," said Thomas.

Saturday's victory was made all the sweeter because at half-time it looked like the Blues were going home with all three points.

They went into the break 2-0 up and Thomas admitted he had a few strong words for his team in the dressing room.

But whatever was said, it worked wonders as the home side hit back with three goals in 15 second-half minutes to seal the win.

Lee Gwilliam hit a brace of goals while Mark Taylor's effort was a beautifully struck shot that hit the roof of the net.

Thomas told the Free Press: "It was a total transformation. Everything we did wrong in the first half came off for us in the second. My players deserve a lot of credit because I didn't mince my words at half-time."

The victory came despite Thomas missing key players in the position of goalkeeper, centre half and striker.

Mark Eves stepped up from 2nd team duties to keep goal, while Paul Hayle at centre half and two-goal Gwilliam proved excellent replacements.

Next up is Third Division leaders Monmouth Town in the Gwent Amateur Cup. Thomas stressed that his team would not be taking anything for granted.

"Any team that tops their division deserves respect and we will not be taking them lightly."

Monmouth Town manager Andrew Smith added: "We will go into the cup clash as underdogs but we wouldn't be surprised if we caused an upset. Confidence is high and there is quality throughout the squad."

So far Monmouth Town have netted an incredible 67 times in 15 games.