The 2018/19 season started with new faces joining the Monmouthshire Windows East Gwent League and older, more established teams, pulling out, writes Bob Cypher.
New faces were Raglan FC and Monmouth Town, while a shortage of players and uncertainty forced Mathern to disband their second and third teams in order to concentrate on fulfilling their Gwent County League commitments.
Sudbrook survived the opening matches of their Division 2 season but it soon became apparent that they would struggle to field a team and they resigned, preferring to concentrate their efforts on their EGL team.
Underwood disbanded but reappeared with a new name - Iscoed Tafarn - and Severn Tunnel, with Ron Atkins and ex-Chepstow Town player and assistant manager Paul Light at the helm.
They were also joined by a new Severn Tunnel Ladies FC, managed by Sian Elizabeth Rees, and results for both teams have been very encouraging.
Tunnel Ladies play in the South Wales Women and Girls League Division 1 and have a considerable following and, in their first season, are flying high with Mikaela Thomas’ goals being one of many highlights.
Following their relegation disappointment, Caldicot Town Ladies are hoping to bounce straight back and win promotion to the Premier League with manager Luke Harris at the helm.
The signing of a number of new players - including Kelly Cutler - has helped them to the top of the Welsh Women’s League table.
In the EGL, the title race is hotting up with four teams, Castle, Thornwell Red & White A, Iscoed Tafarn and Severn Tunnel in the hunt.
The Division 2 title race is also tight with Sudbrook CC and Chepstow Town the main contenders.
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