Doer's promotion struggle (From Free Press Series)

Doer's promotion struggle

Cwmffrwdoer Sports 1 Llanhilleth 1

THIS was the first of the back-to-back games for the visitors who had the best of a dogged first half that remained goal-less. Five minutes into the second half, from a cross from Kristian Howells, Ryan Waite volleyed the ball into the back of the net to put the 'Doer 1-0 up. Within five minutes the visitors drew level from a dubious penalty slotted home by Chris Townsend.

Wednesday, April 13 Llanhilleth 0 v Cwmffrwdoer 0

Cwmffrwdoer travelled up the valley for the return game played on a large, bumpy pitch with the 'Doer creating the better chances but unable to convert them into goals. the second half was even with very few chances with the best going to Chris Townsend but was denied by a last-ditch tackle by Ricky Malson. In the dying minutes the game was marred when Cwmffrwdoer's Derry Probert suffered a broken leg and was taken to Nevill Hall Hospital. Both teams were distraught over the accident and Cwmffrwdoer wish to extend their best wishes to Derry and his wife Joanne for a speedy recovery.

Saturday, April 16 Cwmffrwdoer 3 v Newport Civil Service 4

Cwmffrwdoer entertained the league leaders with only one point separating the teams and the 'Doer having four games in hand. The visitors dominated the first half having the 'Doer on the back foot and deservedly opening the scoring in the 30th minute through Darren Broadwick. Their lead was increased with a 35 yard lob from Stevie Miner ten minutes from the interval. Whatever was said at half time had the desired effect when goals from Ryan Waite and Kristian Howells made it 2-2. With 30 minutes remaining Scott Wilson was red carded. In the 70th minute Civil regained the lead from Ben Burrows. Within five minutes the 'Doer made it 3-3 when Howells scored from the penalty spot.

In the dying minutes Civil scored the winner from Darren Underwood to take the three points and make the 'Doers promotion drive a little bit harder.