PHOTOS: Neil Thomas crosses the ball in the Bluebirds' home clash with Aberystwyth Town.
Below, Lee Hudgell goes on the attack for Haverfordwest County.
Pictures kindly supplied by Kevin Bryce & Matthew Kelly of Rawphotography.me.uk
 Bluebirds draw but deserve victory
Haverfordwest County 0 - Aberystwyth 0
Haverfordwest County fought out a scoreless draw at the Bridge Meadow Stadium and although the Mid Wales side had marginally the better of the first half it was the Bluebirds who were far stronger thereafter and could well have pouched all three points.
There were encouraging signs for manager Gavin Chesterfield as new keeper Neil Thomas looked really strong and marked his debut with two very good first half saves from Ashley Stott and Ricky Evans, whilst Christian Roberts looked strong up front alongside skipper Mark Dodds, with Jaymes Dickson coming on as a sub and showing neat touches so that all three debutants looked as if they have something to contribute to the cause.
Aberystwyth started the match, which was televised live on ‘Sgorio’, knowing that they needed all three points to compete in the top section during the second half of the season and they had useful wide runners in Craig Williams and Lewis Codling, the former drilling a shot just over the bar and the latter setting up the chance on the left flank.
Second half revival
Whatever manager Chesterfield said to his troops at the interval it certainly worked because with Ramasut, Lee Hudgell and Thomas all battling away in midfield they pressed forward. Richard Evans always opposed a threat down the left and he came closest to scoring when he beat his marker, cut inside and unleashed a wicked right-foot drive which forced Can to push the ball just over the bar for a quality save.
The Bluebirds were somehow denied a penalty when Ramasut was clipped in the box but referee Mark Whitby perhaps felt that Ramasut had tried to milk the drama of the situation and waved play on.
The arrival of Chris O’Sullivan and Dickson brought more width to the home attacks and they came very close as they were awarded a series of corners and there were shots from Thomas and Ramasut which flew wide.
Aber always looked a threat on the counter but Lee Jarman, Kyle Graves, Kirk Huggins and Evans made sure that they weren’t able to snatch that vital goal they so desperately needed – to give the Bluebirds the consolation of one point as reward for all their efforts!
Haverfordwest County: Neil Thomas: Kyle Graves; Lee Jarman; Kirk Huggins; Richard Evans: Jamie Bradford; Neil Thomas; Tom Ramasut; Lee Hudgell; Christian Roberts; Mark Dodds (Capt). Subs: Chris O’Sullivan; Danny Thomas; Jaymes Dickson.
Aberystwyth: Steve Cann; Gareth Hughes; Aneurin Thomas (Capt); James McCarten; Michael Howard; Craig Williams; Adam Pepper; Connell Murtagh; Lewis Codling; Ricky Evans; Ashley Stott. Subs: Bari Morgan; Sion James; Steff Edwards; Anthony Finselbach.
Welsh Cup – 4th round
Bluebirds lose eight-goal cup thriller at Farrar Road
Bangor City 5 – Haverfordwest County 3
Bangor City produced a stunning fightback to clinch an absorbing cup-tie victory over Haverfordwest County at Farrar Road.
The hosts led 1-0 at half time with Dave Morley scoring in the 11th minute.
Shortly after the break and Neil Thomas equalised for the Bluebirds. Four minutes later and Jamie Bradford put the visitors in front and Jack Christopher bagged his side’s third in the 67th minute.
But the Citizens woke from their slumber and scored four goals in the space of 26 minutes to claim an unlikely win and progress to the next round.
In the space of a minute they scored twice through Michael Jukes and Les Davies. Alan Bull restored Bangor’s lead, and three minutes in stoppage time Darren Moss added the fifth and finally put this thrilling cup-tie to bed.
Bangor City: Paul Smith; Clive Williams, Chris Roberts, David Morley, James Brewerton (Captain), Craig Garside, Chris Jones, Alan Bull, Les Davies, Nicky Ward, Michael Johnston.
Subs: Peter Hoy Darren Moss, Eddie Jebb, Michael Jukes, Chris Oldfield
Haverfordwest County: Duncan Roberts, Kyle Graves, Richard Evans, Lee Jarman, Mark Dodds (Captain), Neil Thomas, Lee Hudgell, Jamie Bradford, Tom Ramasut, Jack Christopher, Kristian Griffiths.
Subs: Danny Thomas, Chris O'Sullivan, Damon Searle.
Referee: Bryn Markham-Jones.
Bluebirds bag new signings as two players depart
Haverfordwest County’s manager, Gavin Chesterfield, has been hard at work finalising his squad before the transfer deadline at the end of January.
As previously mentioned, Mattie Collins was transferred to Neath earlier in the month and the only other player to have left the club is goalkeeper Lee Idzi and it was mutually decided that he could become a free agent. A spokesman for the club thanked both players for their loyal service and wished them well in their future careers.
Replacement keeper a priority
A replacement’ keeper was a priority and Chesterfield has signed the former semi-professional international, Neil Thomas. The former Carmarthen Town player has vast experience at WPL level, however, recently he has been playing for ambitious Bridgend Town in the Welsh League. He is pleased to be back playing at the higher level and his presence will surely add stability to the defence with his non-stop chat and vision. Because Thomas is cup tied, recently signed Duncan Roberts will deputise in Welsh Cup matches commencing at Bangor City next Saturday.
A very interesting signing is that of Christian Roberts, a striker formerly with Cardiff City, Exeter City, Bristol City and Swindon Town. In all, Christian made 321 football league appearances during which he scored 64 goals. Forced into retirement from full time football with a knee injury at the end of 2008, it is hoped that he will add experience and bite to a strike force that has recently lacked confidence.
Barry boys join the club
Gavin Chesterfield has also recruited two of his most promising youngsters from Barry Town. Jaymes Dixon is a quick striker/winger who has been attracting interest from several clubs following impressive performances in the Welsh League and the manager is confident that he can make the step up into the WPL.
Michael Parkins is a former Cardiff City professional who has also gained experience with Weston super Mare, Grange ‘Quins (WPL) and Bridgend Town. The manager said, “Michael is a very good distributor of a football; his eye for a pass and his creativity will hopefully help us unlock defences. Recently, he has suffered with several niggling injuries but he has now fought his way back to a good level of fitness and is keen to get back into WPL action.
Of course, Haverfordwest County look forward to welcoming all their new players to the Club and hope that, through determination, the strengthened squad will fight their way up the league table and away from the relegation zone.
PHOTO: Matty Collins has signed for Neath.
Bowen strikes back to haunt former Bluebirds’ teammates
Haverfordwest County 0 – Port Talbot Town 1
 A solitary second half strike from former Bluebird Luke Bowen condemned Haverfordwest County to their fifth straight defeat.
After a goalless first period this game turned in the Steelmen’s favour in the 56th minute, when a slick counter-attack down the left led to Bowen racing clear, and the striker drilled a low right-foot drive past Lee Idzi.
Elliott receives marching orders
Ten minutes later and worse followed for Gavin Chesterfield’s Bluebirds as they found themselves down to ten-men, when defender Gareth Elliott picked-up a second yellow for a foul and he made his way for an early shower.
The Bluebirds’ defence looked very nervous all evening and they could have easily conceded early in the match when Idzi had a goal-kick clearance blocked by Bowen and Kyle Graves’ tame back header nearly led to the visitors pinching a goal.
Jack Christopher worked hard up front, but he was never allowed the room or space to cause any damage in front of the Steelmen’s well-protected goal.
Tom Ramasut and Neil Thomas worked tirelessly in vain in the middle of the park and Richard Evans and Chris O’Sullivan failed to get beyond the Steelmen’s defence.
Chesterfield went for broke
With ten minutes to go Gavin Chesterfield brought on Lee Jarman, Lee Hudgell and Jamie Bradford in place of Christopher (picked up a knock), Evans and O’Sullivan respectively, in an attempt to pull back the deficit – Thomas struck the side netting, but the visitors stayed strong and on the balance of play the Steelmen thoroughly deserved their win that sees them in sixth spot, whilst the Bluebirds sit precariously second from bottom.
This Saturday the Bluebirds travel to North Wales to face Bangor City in the Welsh Cup.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Kirk Huggins; Gareth Elliott; Neil Thomas; Chris O’Sullivan; Tom Ramasut; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Richard Evans. Substitutes: Lee Hudgell; Lee Jarman; Jamie Bradford.
Port Talbot Town: David Cornell; Nick Holland; Lloyd Gist; Lee Surman; Kye Edwards; Gareth Phillips; Casey Thomas; Matthew Thompson; Luke Bowen; Liam McCreesh; Lee John. Substitutes: David Brooks; Leigh De Vulgt; Drew Fahiya; Jordan Edwards.
Referee: Mark Whitby.
PHOTO: Kyle Graves and Corey Thomas tussle at the New Bridge Meadow.
Picture kindly supplied by Matthew Kelly of Rawphotography.me.uk
PHOTOS: Above Haverfordwest County press at a corner. Below Lee Hudgell puts in a telling cross.
Pictures kindly supplied by Kevin Bryce.
Williams’ impressive brace sinks sorry Bluebirds
Haverfordwest County 1 – The New Saints 4
Haverfordwest County slipped to their third successive defeat with Matty Harries grabbing a brace for champions The New Saints at the New Bridge Meadow Stadium.
The gulf in class was evident from the kick-off as the visitors led 2-0 with only ten minutes on the clock.
 Hit cold
Chris Sharp missed an open goal, whilst a mix-up in the Bluebirds’ defence led to Craig Jones opening the scoring on six minutes, gifted with an easy tap-in.
Minutes later, and Williams turned on a five-pence piece on the edge of the area and found Lee Idzi’s bottom corner with a brilliant left-foot finish.
Gavin Chesterfield’s Bluebirds struggled playing against the elements, but are to be applauded for not conceding any further goals in the first half.
Given a lifeline
The home side were given a lifeline when Jack Christopher nodded in at the far post from a pinpoint Lee Hudgell cross from the left. Danny Thomas should have equalised but the striker’s close range header from a corner grazed the crossbar.
That Bluebirds’ goal definitely rattled the champions, but on 72 minutes Sharp broke clear, and with a strong hint of offside he calmly slotted past the out-rushing Idzi.
Then with two minutes from the final whistle Williams completed his terrific brace, unleashing an unstoppable 20-yarder that flew in at the angle of post and crossbar to complete the scoring.
Haverfordwest County entertain Port Talbot Town, on Friday 21st January, kick off is at 7.30pm
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Kirk Huggins; Gareth Elliott (Captain); Lee Jarman; Neil Thomas; Chris O’Sullivan; Mattie Collins; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Tom Ramasut; Jamie Bradford; Richard Evans; Rob Morgans; Vincent Atuyei.
The New Saints: Paul Harrison; Aeron Edwards; Chris Marriott; Phil Baker; John McKenna; Tommy Holmes; Scott Ruscoe (Captian); Matthew Berkeley; Chris Sharp; Matthew Williams; Craig Jones. Substitutes: Christian Seargeant; Alex Darlington; Barry Hogan; Marcus Giglio.
Referee: Kevin Morgan.
11th January 2011
PHOTOS: Llanelli's (above) Craig Moses gives Mark Dodds the slip.
Stand-in Bluebirds' keeper Duncan Roberts (below).
Llanelli play the ball out of defence (bottom).
Action pictures by Bill Carne of Pembrokeshiresport.co.uk
 Battling Bluebirds narrowly lose out
against in form Llanelli at Stebonheath Park
Llanelli 2 – Haverfordwest County 1
Haverfordwest County can count themselves unlucky that they didn’t get at least a point at Stebonheath Park against in-form Llanelli on Tuesday evening.
After losing six-nil at leaders Bangor City on Saturday, the Bluebirds played with plenty of spirit and commitment against the Reds.
First half goals from Craig Moses and Craig Williams put the hosts in the driving seat. But the visitors played their hearts out in the second half and they pulled a goal back in the 67th minute through outstanding defender Gareth Elliott, and right at the death Jamie Bradford missed a sitter that would have earned his side a point – but come the final whistle they had to settle for nothing.
After this defeat the Bluebirds are second from bottom, losing for the 13th time this campaign, whilst the Reds are in fifth, picking up their eighth victory of the season.
Early scoring chances
For the opening half-hour both side’s created goal-scoring opportunities. With barely two minutes on the clock and Bluebirds’ Richard Evans forced Reds’ goalkeeper Ashley Morris in to making a good save. Chris O’Sullivan blasted a goal-bound right-footed shot high and wide. Andy Legg’s home outfit saw Craig Williams denied by on-loan goalkeeper Duncan Roberts. The Norfolk born 31 year old who has answered an emergency call to play for the Bluebirds, with normal goalkeeper Lee Idzi out of action with a dislocated finger. Roberts has in the past played for Llanelli and Port Talbot Town in the Welsh Premier and has also had a spell with Bluebirds’ manager Gavin Chesterfield’s former club Barry Town.
 Reds score twice
The Reds finally broke the deadlock in the 31st minute when Craig Moses latched onto a through ball and coolly lobbed the debutant goalkeeper. Four minutes later and the home side doubled their advantage. Former TNS striker Craig Williams finished clinically with his left-peg, despite Roberts getting fingertips to it.
Timely Elliott header
The visitors put on a tremendous second half display and pulled a goal back in the 67th minute. O’Sullivan’s floated free kick in the box was met by a firm far post Elliott header to put the Bluebirds right back in the tussle.
Tom Ramasut and Richard Evans had goal chances brilliantly stopped by Morris. And Reds’ substitute Jason Bowen flashed a shot across the face of Roberts’ goalmouth. And with the very last action of the match Bluebirds’ central midfielder Bradford blazed a shot well over the crossbar from eight-yards when he looked odds-on to grab an equaliser.
Haverfordwest County entertain champions The New Saints on Saturday, 15th January with a 2.30pm kick-off at the New Bridge Meadow Stadium.
Llanelli: Ashley Morris; Kris Thomas; Martyn Giles; Chris Venables; Stuart Jones; Wyn Thomas; Craig Williams; Antonio Corbisiero; Chris Llewellyn; Craig Moses; Owain Warlow. Substitutes: Jason Bowen; Jordan Follows; Andy Legg; Ryan Batley; Adam Orme.
Haverfordwest County: Duncan Roberts; Kyle Graves; Kirk Huggins; Gareth Elliott; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Tom Ramasut; Jamie Bradford; Jack Christopher; Richard Evans. Substitutes: Danny Thomas; Lee Jarman; Lee Hudgell; Rob Morgans; Vincent Atueyi.
Referee: Paul Fisher.
7th January 2011
 Cruel Idzi injury blow sees Bluebirds
hit for six by league leaders
Bangor City 6 – Haverfordwest County 0
Bangor City returned to winning form by banging in six goals without reply against shell-shocked Haverfordwest County at Farrar Road.
The Bluebirds’ cause wasn’t helped when they lost goalkeeper Lee Idzi who dislocated a finger early in the tussle and was replaced by defender Gareth Elliot, who went between the sticks with Kirk Huggins, making his debut from Barry Town in defence, and one he will quickly want to forget.
Five goals adrift by half time
The recalled Chris Jones gave Nev Powell’s outfit an 11th minute lead, Idzi left the pitch and without a recognised keeper the visitors were put to the sword as Les Davies scored twice alongside other goals from Dave Morley and Alan Bull, and they led five-nothing at the interval.
On the hour mark and defender Peter Hoy scored the league leaders’ sixth to put Bangor City past the 50-point mark for the season, and complete an extremely miserable afternoon for Gavin Chesterfield’s team.
Tough trip to Llanelli
Next up for the Bluebirds is a tough trip to Stebonheath on Tuesday (January 11th) where they will face Llanelli in a re-arranged fixture and next Saturday (January 15th) they entertain the champions The New Saints at the New Bridge Meadow Stadium, with a 2.30pm kick-off.
Bangor City: Paul Smith; Peter Hoy; Chris Roberts; Dave Morley; Michael Johnston; Craig Garside; Chris Jones; Clive Williams; Les Davies; Nicky Ward; Alan Bull. Substitutes: Sion Edwards; Marc Smyth; Eddie Jebb; Tom Dix.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Gareth Elliott; Lee Jarman; Mark Dodds; Tom Ramasut; Matty Collins; Neil Thomas; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Richard Evans. Substitutes: Chris O’Sullivan; Kirk Huggins; Jamie Bradford.
Referee: Huw Jones.
PHOTO: Bluebirds' goalkeeper Lee Idzi dislocated a finger.
7th January 2011
 New signings in January transfer
window for Haverfodwest County
Gavin Chesterfield has wasted no time in strengthening his squad by signing Kirk Huggins from Barry Town and Jamie Bradford from Bridgend Town. Assistant manager Damon Searle has also re-signed should he be required in case of emergency.
Huggins, a former Cardiff City player, has worked with Chesterfield for several seasons and he is highly regarded by the new management team as a wing back of real quality.
Jamie Bradford makes a swift return to the New Bridge Meadow Stadium having only left the Bluebirds in November 2010. Again Chesterfield is a real admirerer of Bradford and believes that he can motivate him to become a more influential player than he was first time around.
Haverfordwest County look forward to welcoming the new signings and hope that they have a long and successful stay at the New Bridge Meadow.
PHOTO: Jamie Bradford has re-signed for Haverfordwest County from Bridgend Town.
7th January 2011
 Terry Evans hangs up his boots
It is with real regret that Haverfordwest County have to announce that their experienced and influential defender Terry Evans, has decided to retire from the game. Terry has been struggling with injury for several months and, having received the results of a recent scan earlier this week, he has decided to accept the advice given to him by his consultant.
Terry signed for the Bluebirds in the summer of 2007 and during his time at the New Bridge Meadow, he has proved to be the most consistent player.
As captain, he quietly took control on the field of play encouraging his players and always leading by example. He was able to perform with distinction usually as a wing back but also in midfield.
His great knowledge of the game had accumulated during his time at both Cardiff City and Swansea City; also in the successful Barry Town side of the late 1990s and Carmarthen Town in the League of Wales.
Terry’s presence at The New Bridge Meadow will be sorely missed by all those associated with the Club. Haverfordwest County sincerely thank him for all his hard work, his professionalism and for all the help he has given to other players less experienced than himself.
The Club wishes him and his family every success in the future and is guaranteed a warm welcome whenever he returns to the New Bridge Meadow Stadium.
PHOTO: Haverfordwest County defender Terry Evans is forced to quit football.
1st January 2011
 Two-goal Bluebirds' hero Jack Christopher brings in New Year with a bang!
Aberystwyth Town 0 - Haverfordwest County 2
Jack Christopher brought in the New Year with a bang with the striker bagging a first half brace and earning Haverfordwest County a welcome victory over Aberystwyth Town at Park Avenue.
This was the Bluebirds’ second win in three days, and sees them move off the foot and march up to tenth in the table. It’s amazing what a victory can do in terms of confidence, and manager Gavin Chesterfield in his short spell in charge has got the rejuvenated looking Bluebirds once again firing on all cylinders.
The visitors have gained sweet revenge for being dumped out of the Loosemore’s Cup earlier in the season at the expense of the green and blacks.
Two-goal cushion
The visitors deservedly led two-nothing at the interval where in-form striker Christopher struck in the 23rd and 31st minutes.
Danny Thomas found Christopher with an accurate cross and the front man finished clinically from the tightest of angles to open the scoring.
The Bluebirds didn’t sit on their laurels and extended their lead eight minutes later. Lee Hudgell was this time the provider for Christopher to drill-home a low right-foot shot in the bottom corner.
Rare clean sheet
The hosts came out in the second period all guns blazing, but the Bluebirds comfortably weathered the storm and were delighted to keep a rare clean sheet.
Chris O’Sullivan replaced Hudgell and Kristian Griffiths came on for two-goal hero Christopher, in an concerted effort to make it difficult for Aber to break down the impressive but determined Bluebirds, who were delighted to bag another precious three points.
Haverfordwest County can travel in optimistic mood to league leaders Bangor City next Saturday, brimming with confidence and believing that they can get something out of the clash, where only a few week’s ago looked an extremely daunting prospect.
Aberystwyth Town: Steven Cann; Gareth Hughes; Michael Howard; Aneurin Thomas; James McCarten; Sion James; Craig Williams; Lewis Codling; Anthony Finselbach; Adam Pepper; Stefan Edwards. Substitutes: Bari Morgan; Ryan Marriott; Liam Button.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Gareth Elliott; Lee Jarman; Mark Dodds; Neil Thomas; Lee Hudgell; Tom Ramasut; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Richard Evans. Substitutes: Chris O’Sullivan; Kristian Griffiths.
Referee: Wayne Stephens.
PHOTO: Jack Christopher scored both goals for Haverfordwest County at Park Avenue.
29th December 2010
Thomas strikes twice in Bluebirds’ crucial victory over Old Gold
Haverfordwest County 3 – Carmarthen Town 2
 Danny Thomas scored twice in Haverfordwest County’s deserved 3-2 victory over arch rivals Carmarthen Town at the New Bridge Meadow on Wednesday evening.
With the score level at 2-2 – a draw looked on the cards, but in the 89th minute when Neil Thomas hit a low drive across the face of the box, which was only half cleared and allowed Gareth Elliott to strike a first time goalbound effort that ever alert striker Thomas steered home the winner from inside the six-yard box.
Belated Christmas present
This was only the Bluebirds’ third win of the campaign, but more importantly it handed new manager Gavin Chesterfield the perfect belated Christmas present, winning in his first match in charge at the New Bridge Meadow.
Back in September the Bluebirds drew 2-2 at Richmond Park, but this league tussle looked to be heading for the same score line.
The home side led 2-1 at half time, but they found themselves adrift in the 15th minute. Old Gold striker Tim Hicks was scythed down just outside the box by Bluebirds’ sluggish central defender Lee Jarman. The hosts were punished fully when Sacha Walters’ direct free kick bounced awkwardly in front of goalkeeper Lee Idzi.
Bluebirds come from behind
However, the Bluebirds pressed hard for an equaliser and Gareth Elliott’s firm header from a Chris O’Sullivan corner was cleared off the goal line.
Old Gold goalkeeper Mike Lewis made a host of superb saves before the Bluebirds scored an equaliser in the 24th minute. A long searching ball found Jack Christopher who then skied the ball at least 30 feet up in the air before it found the back of the net.
Just before half time and O’Sullivan’s edge of the area firm shot was parried by Lewis, only for Thomas to react quickly and score from the rebound.
Timely winner
The visitors started the second period lively and were rewarded when Tim Hicks drilled home from a crowded area to square matters.
Right on the stroke of full time and Thomas struck the Bluebirds’ timely winner to give Chesterfield and assistant Damon Searle some thoroughly deserved festive cheer!
Bottom of the table Haverfordwest County have a brief rest before travelling to Park Avenue to face Aberystwyth Town on New Year’s Day.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Gareth Elliott; Mark Dodds (Captain); Lee Jarman; Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Neil Thomas; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Richard Evans. Substitutes: Lee Hudgell; Tom Ramasut; Kristian Griffiths; Steffan Williams; Greg Lees-Griffiths.
Carmarthen Town: Mike Lewis; Lee Phillips; Steve Evans; Gary Bansor; Lee Bevan; Dale Griffiths (Captain); Corey Thomas; Tim Hicks; Nick Harrhy; Darren Griffiths; Sacha Walters. Substitutes: Bobby Briers; Geraint Passmore; Mattie Davies; Clive Ardoling.
Referee: Wayne Stephens.
PHOTO ABOVE: Bluebirds' double goal-scorer Danny Thomas on the ball.
Picture kindly supplied by Kevin Bryce.
11th December 2010
Bluebirds brought down to earth with a bump by The Wing Makers
 Airbus UK Broughton 4 – Haverfordwest County 0
There was no fairy tale start for recently installed Haverfordwest County manager Gavin Chesterfield, as his side were well beaten at Airbus UK Broughton.
Conditions were heavy going, but no excuses the best team definitely won on the day.
The last time the two teams met was back in September, when Haverfordwest County gained an emphatic 4-0 victory, but this time round the Wing Makers deservedly picked up the vital league points. Goals from Nick Ruston, Paul McManus, Andy Moran penalty and a late effort from substitute Tom Rowlands did the damage.
After this good win the home outfit climb up to seventh in the table and the visitors remain bottom. Ruston struck the opener in the 34th minute and gave the Wing Makers a slender one-goal half time cushion.
The Wing Makers grabbed three goals in the second period. Craig Harrison’s Airbus outfit doubled their lead in the 56th minute, when McManus drilled low and hard past the fully outstretched goalkeeper Lee Idzi. Veteran Andy Moran scored the third from the spot and substitute Rowlands scored a late fourth to earn the Wing Makers a comfortable victory.
This Tuesday (14th December) the Bluebirds travel to Stebonheath to face Llanelli in a re-arranged fixture, and on Friday (17th December) they then entertain Port Talbot at the New Bridge Meadow Stadium, kick-off is at 7.30pm.
Airbus UK Broughton: Kristian Rogers; Matthew Woodward; Ryan Edwards; Leon Clowes; Mark Allen; Ashley Williams; Nick Rushton; Danny Desormeaux; Andy Moran; Carl Owen; Paul McManus. Substitutes: Matthew Cook; Jamie Smith; Tom Rowlands; James Davies.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Lee Hudgell; Lee Jarman; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Neil Thomas; Jack Christopher; Tom Ramasut; Richard Evans. Substitutes: Danny Thomas; Steffan Williams; Kristian Griffiths.
Referee: Kevin Parry.
PHOTO: Bluebirds' new boss Gavin Chesterfield lost in his first Welsh Premier game in charge.
25th November 2010
PHOTO: Gavin Chesterfield (centre) with (from left to right) Lee Hudgell, Gareth Elliott, Damon Searle, Steffan Williams, Micky Ellis and Chris O'Sullivan.
Gavin arrives at the Bridge Meadow Stadium
Haverfordwest County’s Welsh Premier League match at Llanelli was postponed on Saturday because of the pitch condition but the new management team of Gavin Chesterfield and Damon Searle attended the Bridge Meadow Stadium during the afternoon to meet local players, club directors and supporters.
Chesterfield arrives with a proven pedigree as a former player and manager of Barry Town and he told PembrokeshireSport.co.uk that he was eagerly anticipating the challenge ahead, working closely with former Blues’ defender Damon Searle as his assistant and current incumbent Micky Ellis as coach.
Club chairman Rob Summons was delighted by the latest recruit to the staff at the Bridge Meadow.
“We are really pleased to have acquired the services of what is going to be a strong footballing management team and there is an air of anticipation at the club which will hopefully see us climb the table. Gavin and Damon have excellent coaching qualifications and we are eager for them to start next Friday at home to Carmarthen Town.”
25th November 2010
 Gavin Chesterfield is appointed new Haverfordwest County Welsh Premier manager
Haverfordwest County have announced with immediate effect that Gavin Chesterfield has been appointed manager.
The club announced the breaking news on their website tonight. Chesterfield was manager of Welsh League Division One outfit Barry Town, but he departed earlier this week to take up this exciting new role with Welsh Premier outfit Haverfordwest County at the New Bridge Meadow.
Former Bluebirds’ defender Damon Searle is set to work alongside Chesterfield and caretaker/coach Mickey Ellis with all first team affairs.
PHOTO: Gavin Chesterfield is the new manager at Haverfordwest County.
20th November 2010
Photo: Bluebirds' defender Mark Dodds pushes forward in his teams poor home defeat at the hands of fellow strugglers Bala Town. Picture kindly supplied by Kevin Bryce.
Mason scores late winner to sink manager-less troubled Bluebirds
Haverfordwest County 0 - Bala Town 1
Chris Mason scored a late winner to earn Bala Town victory over manager-less Haverfordwest County at the New Bridge Meadow.
Just as this clash was heading for a goalless draw, the visitors’ striker scored a timely winner to sink the troubled Bluebirds, who had sacked manager Derek Brazil after last week’s heavy defeat at Neath.
Coach Mickey Ellis has temporarily taken charge of Haverfordwest County, and this bottom of the table defeat adds to their woes as the search for a new boss is on going.
Goalless first half
Incredibly, despite goal-scoring chances at either end it remained goalless at half time. In the early stages Chris Mason and Josh McCauley both went close to breaking the deadlock for the visitors.
Bluebirds’ skipper Neil Thomas saw a low-drilled effort saved by Leon Bimpson. Neil Thomas’ far post header-lacked power. Mason could have grabbed a hat-trick by the interval, but the striker lacked composure in front of goal.
Costly decision
Shortly after the break and the hosts began to get on top. Neil Thomas saw two well-struck efforts saved by in-form Bimpson. Also Chris O’ Sullivan shimmied past a defender, but drilled a low shot well wide.
The Bluebirds had a goal disallowed where the home fans strongly felt the referee should have played advantage. Neil Thomas beat his marker and was impeded by a defender as he fed Danny Thomas, who struck the ball in the back of the net, but was frustratingly recalled by referee Bryn Markham Jones for a free kick for the original foul. That poor decision just about summed up the poor Bluebirds’ luck. And right on full time Mason scored the winner to break the Bluebirds’ hearts.
Before kick-off both teams observed a minute’s silence in memory of former Haverfordwest County player Gerald Williams, who has sadly passed away.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Matty Collins; Mark Dodds; Gareth Elliott; Neil Thomas (Captain); Chris O’Sullivan; Tom Ramasut; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Lee Jarman; Terry Evans; Steffan Williams.
Bala Town: Leon Bimpson; Mark Powell; Gethin Lloyd; Shaun Kelly; Danny Jellicoe; Ross Jeffries; John Irving; Mark Jones (Captain); Chris Mason; Josh Macauley; Paul Ennis. Substitutes: Steve Morrison; Mike Thompson; Steve Fisher.
Referee: Bryn Markham Jones.
13th November 2010
 Bluebirds and Derek Brazil part company
Derek Brazil’s four-year tenure as manager of Welsh Premier outfit Haverfordwest County is effectively over.
After a string of poor results this season, the straw that finally broke the camel’s back came last Friday night when the Bluebirds lost 4-0 at Neath FC, another dreadful result that sees the Bluebirds firmly rooted to the bottom of the table.
Brazil and assistant Mark Evans have parted company with immediate effect, as the club is urgently looking for a suitable replacement.
The club released an official statement on Saturday night on their website thanking both Brazil and Evans for their services.
Brazil said: “It’s in the best interest of myself and the club that the directors have made this decision. Perhaps a fresh face is needed. The players have consistently under performed all season.”
The directors have made this tough decision in order that the next manager can rectify this dreadful situation, as the club stare relegation in the face.
“I would like to thank the board of directors, all the staff and the fans for their support. I want to thank Rob Summons and David Hughes for their ambition. The last four years has been an education,” added departing Brazil.
Anyone interested in this challenging post must be suitably qualified, and should send their application in writing to the chairman at the club’s address.
Derek Brazil is no longer Haverfordwest County boss.
12th November 2010
Ten-man Eagles deservedly gain league double over sorry Bluebirds
Neath FC 4 – Haverfordwest County 0
Star-studded ten-man Neath easily swept aside poor Haverfordwest County with a brilliant second half display to complete a comprehensive league double.
Midway through the second-half they scored three goals in the space of five minutes from Craig Hughes, Kevin Cooper and Paul Fowler and put the Eagles in the driving seat, then just before full time substitute Andy Hill added a fourth to comfortably secure the points.
In an earlier league meeting the Eagles won three-nothing, and in this league clash they totally dominated, gaining sweet revenge for being dumped out of the Loosemores Cup by the visitors earlier in the season. The Bluebirds struggled to cope with the hosts’ evident all round quality and troubled them at every set piece.
Neath had lost their last two league games, but were worthy winners in this one-sided clash and remain third in the table whilst Haverfordwest County are rock bottom.
Mistaken identity
Despite a goalless first period, it was the Eagles who had the lion’s share of possession, but after 21 minutes they were down to ten-men.
Referee Huw Jones issued an early yellow card to Paul Cochlan, it was a classic case of mistaken identity as he didn’t commit the foul, Cochlan later tripped Tom Ramasut and received a second yellow for his troubles and was sent-off.
Heavy rain made the going tough as the Eagles’ Craig Hughes headed agonisingly wide, Fowler struck a low drive that County goalkeeper Lee Idzi did well to stop.
Bluebirds’ defender Kyle Graves made a timely goal line clearance to deny Chris Jones’ shot with the visitors under constant pressure.
Derek Brazil’s Bluebirds' first sight at goal stemmed from a Richard Evans cross that was met by a sweetly struck Danny Thomas volley which was dealt by goalkeeper Craig Morris. On the stroke of half time Trundle came close to breaking the deadlock with a fiercely struck left foot direct free kick that flew inches over the crossbar.
Quick-fire goals
Midway through the second period and the Eagles scored three goals in the space of five minutes to turn this game on its head. Hughes rose highest in the box to score with his head on 59 minutes. Matty Collins lost possession with Trundle taking advantage to put through Cooper to add a second in 61st minute. A minute later and Fowler clinically finished from 12-yards for a third, also substitute Hill scored a late fourth, pouncing on Trundle’s wicked shot that was parried by Idzi. Haverfordwest County’s next game is a home tussle with fellow basement strugglers Bala Town on Saturday 20th November, and kick off is at 2.30pm.
Neath FC: Craig Morris; Ian Hillier; Luke Cummings; Kristian O’Leary; Liam Hancock; Paul Cochlin; Chris Jones; Paul Fowler; Craig Hughes; Lee Trundle; Kevin Cooper. Substitutes: Ashley Evans; Andy Hill; Chad Bond; Luke Morgan; Liam Thomas.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Richard Evans; Gareth Elliott; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Neil Thomas; Tom Ramasut; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Lee Jarman; Steffan Evans; Kristian Griffiths.
Referee: Huw Jones.
6th November 2010
 Bluebirds bag vital Welsh Cup victory
Haverfordwest County 3 - Holyhead Hotspur 2
(After extra time. Score at full time 2-2)
A goal by Jack Christopher after 114 minutes edged Haverfordwest County to a Welsh Cup win over North Wales minnows Holyhead Hotspur but the visitors always looked capable of causing a big upset and it took an astounding point-blank reflex save by Lee Idzi to spare their blushes and take the game into the dreaded penalty shoot-out!Indeed, Holyhead led by 2-1 with two minutes of normal time before Danny Thomas levelled matters to take the game into extra time and temporarily silence the vociferous band of supporters who had made the 340-mile round trip from Holyhead.
Sharp start
The visitors had been relegated from the Cymru Alliance, the North Wales version of the Welsh League, but remain unbeaten this campaign – and looked sharp from the outset as front men Kayleigh Owen and Mel McGuiness caused problems, both going close.Haverfordwest slowly settled and Jack Christopher fired over and Lee Hudgell was unable to latch onto a whipped-in cross by Chris O’Sullivan. The Bluebirds took the lead, though, after 15 minutes when a Hudgell cross was headed towards the top corner by Christopher before Holyhead defender Jonathan Newell kept it out with his hand. Perhaps luckily for Newell, referee Mark Whitby allowed Danny Thomas to volley the ball home and Newell received a yellow card, rather than the red card if the ball had found the net.Perhaps Haverfordwest lost focus for a short while because Holyhead responded with a cracking goal within 45 seconds as Mike Edwards was allowed too much space and he combined with Tom Edwards to set up a goal for Kayleigh Owen.
Chances galore
 Both sides had other half chances but they were locked on 1-all at the interval – and Holyhead should have scored within 45 seconds of the restart as McGuiness was put through but fired just wide of the far post with a low shot. The Bluebirds also had chances but a Gareth Elliott header was cleared off the line and a low drive by Tom Ramasut hit the post and was cleared by keeper Liam Shanahan.Matthew Collins also had a shot blocked by Shanahan and with 11 minutes left Holyhead took the lead when Mike Edwards’ left-foot pile-driver flew into the top corner from 25 yards, despite Idzi’s attempt to palm it clear.
Tight finish
As Haverfordwest fought hard for an equaliser sub Steffan Williams and Danny Thomas went close before they finally grabbed the equaliser when centre half Gareth Elliott pushed forward and headed down for Thomas to score from close range and set up extra time.There was no further scoring in the first period of extra time but the Bluebirds’ winner showed the quality football they can conjure up when Hudgell and Williams combined on the right and Christopher finished clinically at the far post as he side-footed home.Even then there was time for Holyhead to go close but Idzi’s last-ditch save ensured that Haverfordwest County go into the draw for the next round – but it was too close for comfort as they were pushed all the way!
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi, Kyle Graves, Richard Evans, Mark Dodds (Capt), Gareth Elliott, Mattie Collins, Chris O’Sullivan, Tom Ramasut, Danny Thomas, Jack Christopher, Lee Hudgell. Subs: Jamie Bradford, Lee Jarman, Steffan Williams.
Holyhead Hotspur: Liam Shanahan, Nick Dumbarton, Tom Edwards, Mike Kelly (Capt), Alex Jones, Jonathan Newell, Dean Garmey, Paul Rowlands, Kayleigh Owen, Mel McGuiness, Mike Edwards. Subs: Barly Haigh, Ricky Lavelle, Dai Doyle, Bryan Roberts, Declan Jones.
PHOTOS: Bluebirds' cup hero Jack Christopher (top right) heads goalwards. Danny Thomas (above right) scores the equaliser to take the cup-tie into extra-time.
Pictures supplied by Kevin Bryce and Matthew Kelly of Rawphotography.me.uk
30th October 2010
Bluebirds have sinking feeling after Hunt scores late winner
Haverfordwest County 2 - Prestatyn Town 3
Lee Hunt scored the winner two minutes from full time from the penalty spot to earn Prestatyn Town a vital victory over Haverfordwest County at the New Bridge Meadow Stadium.
The home side are firmly rooted at the foot of the table, in their last six games; they’ve picked up just one league point. This poor form is really mounting pressure on manager Derek Brazil, who does not need reminding that it’s results that count, but how much longer will he be given to try and get the Bluebirds back on winning track? Only time will tell.
The visitors took the lead in the 33rd minute when striker Lee Hunt made no mistake with a header from a corner. Bluebirds’ left winger Lee Hudgell equalised, and right on the stroke of half-time Chris O’Sullivan gave the hosts the lead from the penalty spot.
A minute after the interval and Dave Hayes equalised with a sweetly struck volley, again the scoring opportunity stemmed from a corner.
Goalkeeper Jonathan Hill-Dunt pulled off a brilliant save to deny substitute Jack Christopher from scoring with his head. A draw seemed on the cards, but Hunt, made no mistake from the spot for his second goal of the game, and left the home side with that sinking feeling!
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Terry Evans; Richard Evans; Kyle Graves; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Tom Ramasut; Danny Thomas; Neil Thomas; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Jack Christopher; Gareth Elliott; Jamie Bradford; Steffan Williams.
Prestatyn Town: Jonathan Hill-Dunt; Kai Edwards; Jack Lewis; Dave Hayes; Paul O’Neill; Ross Stephens; Michael Parker; Neil Gibson; Lee Hunt; Steve Rogers; Dan Evans. Substitutes: Jon Fisher-Cooke; Steve Harris; Adam France; Rhys Owen.
Referee: Brian James.
PHOTOS: Chris O'Sullivan (top) scores from the peanlty spot to give Haverfordwest County a 2-1 half time lead. Lee Hugell (above right) equalised for Haverfordwest County, but still finished on losing side.
Photos: Kevin Bryce and Matthew Kelly of Rawphotography.me.uk
23rd October 2010
 Thommo strikes to salvage a point for the travelling Bluebirds
Newtown 1 – Haverfordwest County 1
Neil Thomas scored a timely second-half equaliser to earn Haverfordwest County a point against Newtown at Latham Park.
After last week’s humiliating 6-1 defeat at TNS, the Bluebirds played with restored pride to salvage a point, which lifts them off the bottom of the table.
Craig Whitfield scored with a second half header to earn Newtown a one-nothing victory at Haverfordwest County in the first league game of the season.
But in Saturday’s league tussle it was goalless after the first period, but the home side opened the scoring five minutes after the break, striker Craig Davies slotting the ball past helpless goalkeeper Lee Idzi.
Fourteen minutes from full time and Bluebirds’ skipper Neil Thomas struck with a low-drilled shot to earn a valuable point for Derek Brazil’s strugglers.
Andy Cale’s mid-Wales outfit finished the game with ten-men when defender Dave Swanick was sent-off four minutes from the final.
Newtown: Dave Roberts; Dave Swanick; Paul Keddle; Gavin Cadwallader; Lee Hartshorn; Shane Sutton; John McKenna; Dylan Blain; Craig Whitfield; Craig Davies; Adam Worton. Substitutes: Sean Jones; Joshua Evans; Jamie Breeze.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Terry Evans; Richard Evans; Kyle Graves; Mark Doods; Neil Thomas; Chris O’Sullivan; Tom Ramasut; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Lee Hudgell. Subs: Gareth Elliott; Lee Jarman; Jamie Bradford; Steffan Williams.
Referee: Wayne Stephens.
Photo: Neil Thomas (above) in action against Newtown in their first game of the season, the Bluebirds' skipper scored an equaliser at Latham Park to salvage a point for the Bluebirds.
16th October 2010
Champions TNS hit Bluebirds for six!
The New Saints 6 – Haverfordwest County 1
CURRENT champions The New Saints hit struggling Haverfordwest County for six at Park Hall.
The home side led 2-1 at the break, but come the second period they totally dominated, and scored four further goals against the struggling Bluebirds, who sit second from bottom in the table with only two wins from ten starts.
Matthew Berkeley scored the opener on 35 minutes. Two minutes before the interval and Richie Partridge scored his side’s second of the afternoon.
The visitors pulled a goal back through Jack Christopher in the 48th minute.
But the hosts grabbed the game by the scruff when Matthew Williams scored the third and fourth. Chris Sharp came off the bench to score his side’s fifth, turning quickly in the box and firing past Lee Idzi.
The best goal was saved for last. Christian Seargeant unleashing a fierce edge-of-the-area right-foot drive that flew in the top corner, despite Idzi getting a hand to it.
Pembrokeshiresport.co.uk feels that the artificial Park Hall surface definitely gives The New Saints a distinct advantage when playing at home. Whereas every other Welsh Premier outfit plays on grass every week, and only gets to play on an artificial surface once a season, when they travel to Oswestry.
Total Network Solutions: Paul Harrison; Daniel Holmes; Chris Marriott; Tommy Holmes; Scott Ruscoe; Matthew Williams; Christian Seargeant; Craig Jones; Aeron Edwards; Richie Partridge; Matthew Berkeley. Substitutes: Chris Sharp; Connell Rawlinson; Jamie Wood; Alex Darlington; Marcus Giglio.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Richard Evans; Gareth Elliott; Mark Doods; Jamie Bradford; Chris O’Sullivan; Neil Thomas; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Terry Evans; Kristian Griffiths; Steffan Williams.
Referee: Bryn Markham-Jones.
9th October 2010
PHOTOS: Lee Hudgell (above) scores early for Haverfordwest County. Oh so close... Jack Christopher (below) clasping his head after missing a sitter. Kristian Griffiths (bottom) puts in a bone-crunching tackle on Eddie Jebb.
Pictures supplied by Kevin Bryce & Matthew Kelly of Rawphotography.me.uk
Bluebirds rue missed goal scoring chances against runaway league leaders
 Haverfordwest County 1 – Bangor City 2
Alan Bull grabbed a brace at Haverfordwest County to maintain Bangor City’s impressive 100% winning record at the New Bridge Meadow.
The home outfit can count themselves very unlucky that they got nothing out of this league tussle, despite matching Neville Powell’s league leaders in every department.
The hosts got off to a dream start and remarkably broke the deadlock with barely 20 seconds on the clock. Neil Thomas and Jack Christopher were involved in a move that culminated in Lee Hudgell curling his shot past stunned goalkeeper Paul Smith.
That goal visibly rocked the visitors, and they rolled up their sleeves and slowly, but surely, got themselves back on level terms just two minutes before the break, when Bull shrugged off some slack marking inside the box and his fierce drive from close range hit the back of the net.
The visitors took the lead in the 57th minute. Jamie Reed made good ground before releasing Bull in the box, and the left-sided midfielder kept his composure and coolly slotted home.
Missed scoring opportunities
 However, the Bluebirds showed they were not done and dusted, and to their credit they really should have equalised, but were left to rue late missed scoring opportunities.
Eight minutes from full time and referee Mark Whitby pointed to the spot following a handball incident. Skipper Thomas stepped up and unforgiving fired his penalty effort high and wide. Right at the death and worse followed when Christopher missed a sitter from six-yards.
Bluebirds’ boss Derek Brazil will feel bitterly disappointed with the final result, but on the positive note, it was definitely their best display so far this season, but it was Bangor who stretched their lead at the top to 13 points ahead of second placed Neath Athletic, as Haverfordwest County sit second from bottom.
Next Saturday, 16th October Haverfordwest County travel to last season’s title winners Total Network Solutions in search of vital points.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Richard Evans; Gareth Elliott; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Neil Thomas; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Jamie Bradford; Kristian Griffiths; Steffan Williams.
Bangor City: Paul Smith; Peter Hoy; Chris Roberts; Davie Morley; James Brewerton; Michael Johnston; Jamie Reed; Alan Bull; Les Davies; Nicky Ward; Chris Jones. Substitutes: Sion Edwards; Eddie Jebb; Tom Dix.
Referee: Mark Whitby.
5th October 2010
Loosemores Cup quarter-final 2nd leg
Aberystwyth easily overcome ten-man Bluebirds to reach last four
Aberystwyth Town 3 - Haverfordwest County 0
(Aberystwyth Town win 4-1 on aggregate)
Aberystwyth Town marched into the semis of the Loosemoores Cup after easily overcoming ten-man Haverfordwest County by three goals to nothing.
The scores were level at one-goal apiece after the first leg held at the New Bridge Meadow a fortnight ago, so there was everything to play for in the return leg at Park Avenue.
Connall Murtagh broke the deadlock early, before a mistake in the second period at the back let in super-sub Luke Powell to score a second and Ricky Evans added a third from the penalty spot to seal Aber's cup fate.
The home outfit drew first blood with fortuitous goal in the 17th minute. Connall Murtagh’s edge of the area strike took a wicked deflection, completely wrong-footing Bluebirds’ goalkeeper Lee Idzi to find the back of the net.
Aberystwyth Town narrowly led one-nothing at half time. After the interval the Bluebirds came close to scoring on several occasions, Richard Evans missed the best chance as they were denied by in-form Aber goalkeeper Steve Cann.
Harsh penalty and sending off
The hosts added a second goal in the 55th minute when substitute Powell capitalised on hesitancy in defence by centre back Gareth Elliott and goalkeeper Idzi.
Fifteen minutes from full time and the hosts were awarded a penalty that looked a rather harsh decision by the referee, and worse followed when Dyfan Pierce received his marching orders for a second yellow card, it rubbed salt in the Bluebirds’ wound, as up stepped Evans to coolly finish from 12-yards and ensure his team reached the last four of the competition.
This Saturday, 9th October Haverfordwest County face the daunting prospect of facing unbeaten top of the Welsh Premier table Bangor City at the New Bridge Meadow, kick-off is at 2.30pm.
The third round of the Welsh Cup was drawn this afternoon, and Haverfordwest County have a home tie against Holyhead Hotspurs FC, to be played on or before Saturday, 6th November.
Aberystwyth Town: Steve Cann; Craig Williams; Gareth Hughes; James McCarten; Sion James; Connall Murtagh; Lewis Codling; Adam Pepper; Luke Sherbon; Richard Evans; Stefan Edwards. Substitutes: Luke Powell; Aneurin Thomas; Anthony Finselbach.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Chris O’Sullivan; Gareth Elliott; Mark Dodds; Dyfan Pierce; Lee Hudgell; Neil Thomas; Matty Collins; Neil Thomas; Richard Evans; Jack Christopher; Danny Thomas. Substitutes: Nathan Evans; Steffan Williams; Jack Jones; Vincent Ateuyi.
1st October 2010
PHOTO: Port Talbot Town goalkeeper Lee Kendall punches clear the danger at a corner.
Picture supplied by Kevin Bryce.
Bluebirds lack mettle against the mighty Steelmen
Port Talbot Town 3 – Haverfordwest County 0
Haverfordwest County lost their second Welsh Premier match on the trot in the space of three days.
The Steelmen grabbed three goals without reply at the GenQuip Stadium to secure vital points for their delighted home manager Mark Jones.
Luke Bowen scored early and Martin Rose stroked home a second from the penalty spot and Liam McCreesh completed the scoring.
This result lifts the Steelmen up to sixth, whilst the visitors remain in ninth spot.
Bluebirds concede three goals
The Steelmen opened their goal scoring account in the first minute, striker Luke Bowen (a former Bluebird) finished off a good move to bring up his third goal of the campaign. Former Bluebirds' goalkeeper Lee Kendall pulled off a super stop to deny Jack Christopher getting an equaliser.
The hosts led one-nothing at half time before Bowen’s co-striker Martin Rose added a second-goal from the penalty spot in the 67th minute.
The second goal definitely took the wind out of the visitors’ sails, and 14 minutes from full time McCreesh struck a third with a cheeky 30-yard lob to complete a miserable evening for the Bluebirds, who have now conceded seven goals in their last two outings without scoring themselves.
Port Talbot Town: Lee Kendall; Nicky Holland; Lloyd Grist; Craig Jones; Jordan Richards; Lee Surman; Lee John; Luke Bowen; Martin Rose; Liam McCreesh; David Brooks. Substitutes: Gareth Phillips; Matthew Thompson; Drew Fahiya.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Richard Evans; Gareth Elliott; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Neil Thomas; Tom Ramasut; Jack Christopher; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Danny Thomas; Jamie Bradford; Kristian Griffiths; Steffan Williams.
Referee: Brian James.
28th September 2010
Hat-trick hero Rhys comes back to haunt shocking Bluebirds
Haverfordwest County 0 – Llanelli 4
Rhys Griffiths’ stunning hat-trick secured Llanelli a comfortable four-goal victory over an extremely poor Haverfordwest County outfit at the New Bridge Meadow on Tuesday night.
The Reds were stronger in every department, and former Bluebird striker Griffiths scored in the 25th, 65th and 89th minutes to complete a well-crafted hat-trick, and has now scored eight goals so far this season.
Owain Warlow also cashed in with the second goal, and at that stage the writing was already on the cards for Derek Brazil’s out thought and totally out played Bluebirds.
The hosts badly missed the services of Kyle Graves and Matty Collins, both picked up injuries after Saturday’s emphatic 4-0 win over Airbus UK Broughton.
The Reds took the lead in the 25th minute, with good build-up play down the left from the menacing Owain Warlow who set-up Rhys Griffiths, and the experienced striker calmly slotting past Lee Idzi from just outside the six-yard box.
Worse followed just four mintes later when Warlow goal-provider turned scorer. The wide-sided midfielder was given far too much space in the box and the Bluebirds paid fully as he finished clinically at Idzi’s near post.
Reds good value for lead
Reds' player boss Andy Legg’s outfit were definitely good value for their 2-0 cushion at half time. Griffiths missed a sitter but quickly made amends by adding a third with his head in the 65h minute from an accurate cross by Chris Llewellyn. A minute from full time and on fire Griffiths made no mistake with the fourth on the night to bring up his hat-trick.
Haverfordwest County travel to Port Talbot Town on Friday (1st October) evening where they will have everything crossed to get back to winning ways after this shocker!
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Terry Evans; Richard Evans; Lee Jarman; Mark Dodds; Jamie Bradford; Chris O’Sullivan; Neil Thomas; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Tom Ramasut; Kristian Griffiths; Steffan Williams.
Llanelli: Ashley Morris; Chris Thomas; Chris Llewellyn; Chris Venables; Stuart Jones (Captain); Wyn Thomas; Jason Bowen; Antonio Corbisiero; Rhys Griffiths; Scott Evans; Owain Warlow. Substitutes: Jordan Follows; Ross Jones; Andy Legg; Ryan Batley; Adam Orme.
Referee: Kevin Morgan.
25th September 2010
 Wingmakers shot down at Bridge Meadow
Haverfordwest County 4 –
Airbus UK Broughton 0
The Bluebirds put on a terrific display to comfortably overcome Airbus UK Broughton at the New Bridge Meadow in the live featured televised match shown on S4C's Sgorio on Saturday afternoon.
Before this clash the Bluebirds were third from bottom in the table while the visitors were third from top. But judging by this superb performance the Bluebirds could push for a top six finish if they can maintain this kind of workmanlike display. Bluebirds' goalkeeper Lee Idzi was in fine form and he will be thrilled he kept a clean sheet.
The home side led 2-0 at half-time thanks to Neil Thomas and Jack Christopher finding the back of the net.
After the break the hosts scored two further goals - both from direct free kicks. Firstly, Matty Collins struck a beauty from the edge of the box and Chris O’Sullivan followed suit six minutes before full time.
 Two goals in each half
The visitors got off to a dream start when skipper Neil Thomas fired home from close range. The Bluebirds doubled their lead in the 37th minute when Jack Christopher made no mistake with a textbook header.
The Wingmakers could have no complaints with the final result as the hosts showed true desire to get back on track to winning ways.
Matty Collins struck a peach of goal for the third, the centre midfielder stroked home a 65th minute direct free-kick.
Christopher proved a big thorn in the Wingmakers' defence and six minutes from full time O’Sullivan added a fourth with a well-executed free kick that beat goalkeeper Kristian Rogers at his near post.
The Bluebirds entertain Llanelli on Tuesday, 28th September in a re-arranged Welsh Premier game at the New Bridge Meadow, kick-off 7.30pm.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Terry Evans; Richard Evans; Kyle Graves; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Neil Thomas (Captain), Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Lee Jarman; Jamie Bradford; Tom Ramasut; Steffan Williams.
Airbus UK Broughton: Kristian Rogers; Phillip Clarke; Giovanni Feliciello; Matty Woodward; Mark Allen (Captain), Ashley Williams; Ryan Edwards; Danny Desormeaux; Andy Moran; Nick Rushton; Matthew Cook. Substitutes: Paul McManus; Andrew Thomas.
Referee: Paul Thomas.
PHOTOS: Jack Christopher (top) rises highest in the box to score the Bluebirds' second goal with a terrific textbook header in their convincing home win over Airbus UK Broughton.
Bluebirds' skipper Neil Thomas (above) denies Aibus Uk's Ashley Williams possession.
Pictures kindly suppiled by Kevin Bryce.
21st September 2010
PHOTO: Seasiders' Steven Cann gathers a high-ball at the New Bridge Meadow.
Picture supplied by Kevin Bryce.
Loosemores Cup – Quarter Final – 1st leg
Timely Thommo equaliser keeps Bluebirds in cup tie
Haverfordwest County 1 - Aberystwyth Town 1
Haverfordwest County came from behind against Aberystwyth to gain a draw in the first-leg of an intriguing cup-tie at the New Bridge Meadow on Tuesday evening.
Lewis Codling scored with a peach of a header to give the Seasiders a one-goal cushion, but midway through the second period and Bluebirds’ skipper Neil Thomas pounced for an equaliser, leaving the tie in the balance.
The home side made a bright start and they should have taken the lead when Lee Hudgell’s cross fell kindly to Danny Thomas, who flashed a snap-shot just wide of the left-hand post. Jack Christopher was unlucky not to get on the end of a clever Matty Collins through ball.
Seasiders draw first blood
However, against the run of play it was the visitors who took the lead in the 25th minute. A high ball in the box led to Lewis Codling looping a header over Lee Idzi from six-yards. The Seasiders held onto their one-goal cushion at the interval.
Christopher powered a header over the crossbar as the Bluebirds pressed hard for an equaliser. Chris O’Sullivan struck a weak volley that Steven Cann stopped with his legs. The Seasiders soaked-up the pressure and hit the hosts on the counter-attack.
Captain Thommo levels matters
The Bluebirds squared matters in the 69th minute through captain Neil Thomas drilling the ball in the bottom corner. A minute later and Cann pulled off an excellent double save to deny Neil Thomas and then Christopher.
The Bluebirds travel to Park Avenue for the second leg on Tuesday, 5th October, and they have it all to do if they are going to reach the semi-final stage of the competition.
Haverfordwest County entertain Airbus UK Broughton this Saturday (25th September) in the live televised Principality Welsh Premier game on S4C - that is scheduled to kick-off at 3.45pm.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Terry Evans; Richard Evans; Kyle Graves; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Neil Thomas; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Jamie Bradford; Tom Ramasut; Steffan Williams; Kristian Griffiths.
Aberystwyth Town: Steven Cann; Sion James; Michael Howard; Aneurin Thomas; James McCarten; Conall Murtagh; Ryan Marriott; Gareth Hughes; Luke Sherbon; Ricky Evans; Lewis Codling. Substitutes: Stefan Edwards; Anthony Finselbach; Bari Morgan.
Referee: Dean John.
17th September 2010
Old Gold super-sub Andy grabs late equaliser to spoil Bluebirds’ night
Carmarthen Town 2 - Haverfordwest County 2
 Super-sub Andy Evans’ dramatic injury time equaliser gifted Carmarthen Town an unlikely draw with Haverfordwest County at Richmond Park on Friday night.
Twice the Old Gold outfit trailed, but twice they defiantly clawed their way back to salvage a point.
Danny Thomas gave the visitors the lead, a firm Nick Harrhy header levelled matters at half time. Bluebirds’ skipper Neil Thomas thought he claimed the winner in the 88th minute, but in the fourth minute of added time, Evans beat the visitors’ offside trap to equalise with a sweetly struck left-foot strike and earn the Old Gold a point when all seemed lost.
Danny scores against former team-mates
The visitors had the better of the opening exchanges. Striker Jack Christopher missed an early glorious opportunity to put the Bluebirds in front.
Matty Collins, Tom Ramasut dictated play from the middle of the park and they were rewarded on 26 minutes when they opened their goal-scoring account. Christopher set-up Danny Thomas and the former Old Gold product neatly slotted the ball through goalkeeper Mike Lewis’ legs.
However, Tommi Morgan’s outfit responded against the run of play and equalised two minutes before half time. Bluebirds’ centre back Lee Jarman was dispossessed and was punished fully as Nick Harrhy scored with a point-blank header from inside the six-yard box.
Andy’s late strike breaks Bluebirds’ hearts
Shortly after the break and Derek Brazil’s outfit piled on the pressure. Neil Thomas planted a firm header just wide and Lewis pulled off a brilliant save to deny Terry Evans, who tried his luck with a powerful low drive.
Bluebirds’ goalkeeper Lee Idzi pulled of a tremendous double save to deny Harrhy and Evans. Christopher clipped Lewis’ crossbar and Neil Thomas was denied by another fine Lewis stop.
Two minutes from full time and the visitors took the lead for a second time. Substitute Chris O’Sullivan’s free kick in the box, saw skipper Neil Thomas bury his effort from ten-yards following a goal mouth melee.
The Bluebirds travelling fans were in celebratory mood, but their hopes of three away points were quashed, as super-sub Evans grabbed an equaliser with the last kick of a thrilling tussle.
Carmarthen Town: Mike Lewis; Lee Phillips; Dale Griffiths; Gary Bansor; Lee Jenkins; Kieran Howard; Corey Thomas; Geraint Passmore; Nick Harrhy; Darren Griffiths; Sasha Walters. Substitutes: Andy Evans; Craig Frater; Bobby Briers; Owain James; Adam Davies.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Terry Evans; Lee Jarman; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Neil Thomas; Tom Ramasut; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Chris O’Sullivan; Jamie Bradford; Richard Evans; Steffan Williams.
Referee: Brian James.
PHOTO: Danny Thomas (above) scored his first goal of the season for Haverfordwest County against his former team-mates.
Picture supplied by Matthew Kelly of Rawphotography.me.uk
8th September 2010
Loosemores League Cup 1st round – 2nd leg
Eagles crash out of cup at the expense of fully committed ten-man Bluebirds
Neath 2 - Haverfordwest County 2
(Haverfordwest County win 4-3 on aggregate)
 Haverfordwest County produced the shock result of the round as they defeated hotly fancied Neath 4-3 on aggregate at the Gnoll on Tuesday evening.
The visitors led 2-1 after the first leg, and showed total commitment for 97 minutes, despite being reduced to ten-men at the end of the first period, and deservedly progressed in the quarter-final of the Loosemores Cup as it finished 2-2.
Paul Cochlin gave the hosts an early lead, but Jack Christopher scored a goal in each half to put the visitors in a healthy position, despite having their backs to the wall in a tense finale for the hardy band of delighted travelling Bluebirds’ supporters.
Eagles' substitute Andy Hill equalised with an 85th minute header, and despite seven minutes of agonising injury time Derek Brazil’s ten-man heroes clung on to cause one of the biggest upsets in the Loosemores League Cup history.
Ten-men rise to cup glory
The Eagles broke the deadlock in the seventh minute, defender Cochlin was totally unmarked at a free kick and he rose highest to score with a firm free header.
The visitors squared matters in the 19th minute. Impressive County central midfielder Tom Ramasut set-up Danny Thomas, whose low drive was parried by goalkeeper Craig Morris, only for striker Jack Christopher to react quickest and sweetly strike a left-footed volley crashing in the back of the net. Christopher had another scoring opportunity superbly blocked by Morris, and minutes later, the lively striker struck the underside of the crossbar.
But the visitors’ cause was turned on its head as they were reduced to ten-men when Gareth Elliott, marked his return from injury to the starting line-up, by picking up two quick successive yellow cards, which resulted in referee Darren Adie sending off the annoyed defender.
The visitors got off to a dream start as Christopher bagged his second goal of the tie five minutes after the interval. Ramasut again the instigator setting-up the on-fire striker’s shot-cum-cross that comprehensively beat Morris.
Kristian O’Leary struck the Bluebirds’ crossbar with thumping header. Lee Idzi produced a stunning save to deny Andy Hill, but five minutes from full time and the Eagles equalised through Hill’s powerful header.
The Eagles piled on the pressure but come the final whistle it was the Bluebirds who celebrated reaching the next round with a brilliant morale-boosting result.
Haverfordwest County have reached the last eight of the competition, and will now face Aberystwyth Town in a two-leg affair, where the triumphant team will reach the semi-final stage in a re-vamped competition that the cup winners are set to receive £10,000 in prize monies.
Neath: Craig Morris; Ian Hillier (Captain); Andrew Fairbairn; Kristian O’Leary; Liam Hancock; Paul Cochlin; Chris Jones; Paul Fowler; Lee Trundle; Chad Bond. Substitutes: Stephen Pockett; Ashley Evans; Andrew Hill; Luke Cummings; Liam Thomas.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Terry Evans; Kristian Griffiths; Kyle Graves; Gareth Elliott; Tom Ramasut; Steffan Williams; Jamie Bradford; Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Rhys Dalling. Substitutes: Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Lee Hudgell; Vincent Ateuyi.
Referee: Darren Adie.
Assistants: Mike Dyson; Phil Thomas.
Fourth official: Kevin Morgan.
PHOTO: Jack Christopher (above) grabbed a brace in Bluebirds' sweet cup success at Neath.
5th September 2010
O'Sullivan's wonder-goal seals first win for Bluebirds at Bala Town
 Bala Town 0 – Haverfordwest County 1
A wonder goal from Chris O’Sullivan proved decisive as Haverfordwest County won their bottom of the table clash with Bala Town at Maes Tegid Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The central midfielder marked his return to the starting line-up by scoring a fantastic goal a minute after the break, O’Sullivan saw that Leon Bimpson was off his line, and struck an incredible long-searching shot (David Beckham style) which sailed over the goalkeeper from just inside Bala Town’s half.
First league win of season
Both teams came into this league clash looking for their first league win of the campaign, but it was the visitors who proved triumphant, as they came out on top to collect their first valuable points of the season.
This result was no more than what Derek Brazil’s Haverfordwest County outfit deserved. Left sided-midfielder Lee Hudgell continued his impressive form alongside a workhorse display from skipper Neil Thomas in mdfield. Mark Dodds and Lee Jarman, were both rock solid at the back alongside Terry Evans and Kyle Graves, plus goalkeeper Lee Idzi will be delighted that he kept a clean sheet.
Haverfordwest County travel to Neath this Wednesday (8th September) where they take a slender 2-1 lead to the Gnoll in the second leg of the Loosemore’s Cup.
This Friday (10th September) Haverfordwest County entertain Llanelli (who beat TNS 2-1 at the weekend) in the Principality Welsh Premier at the New Bridge Meadow, kick-off is scheduled for 7.30pm.
Bala Town: Leon Bimpson; John Irving; Gethin Lloyd; Mark Powell; Danny Jellicoe; Danny Williams; Owain Roberts; Mark Jones; Ross Jefferies; Neil Fisher; Mike Thompson. Substitutes: Josh MacAuley; Steve Morrisson; Robert Evans.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Terry Evans; Lee Jarman; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Neil Thomas; Tom Ramasut; Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Jack Christopher; Richard Evans; Jamie Bradford.
Referee: Huw Jones.
PHOTO: Haverfordwest County's Chris O'Sullivan scored the winner with a David Beckham style strike!
31st August 2010
 PHOTOS: Lee Hudgell (above) cracks home the Bluebirds’ equaliser.
Jack Christopher (below) wins the ball in the aerial stakes.
Pictures: Kevin Bryce & Bill Carne.
Welsh Premier League – Loosemoore’s Cup 1st leg
Skipper Thomas grabs Bluebirds’ winner to send Eagles home flapping
 Haverfordwest County 2 – Neath FC 1
Haverfordwest County came from behind to secure a first leg lead against Neath at the New Bridge Meadow on Tuesday evening.
Chad Bond gave the visitors an early lead, which was cancelled out by a terrific Lee Hudgell strike to make it level at half time. Midway through the second period and skipper Neil Thomas hammered home the winner, giving the Bluebirds a slender one-goal cushion for the second leg.
These two sides met only four days ago in the Welsh Premier, where moneybags Neath ran out 3-0 winners at the New Bridge Meadow.
The visitors opened their goal-scoring account in the seventh minute. Left-sided midfielder Chad Bond punished the Bluebirds’ defenders fully for giving him far too much time and space on the ball, striking a terrific 20-yard screamer that flew in the top left-hand corner.
Terrific fightback
At that point the Bluebirds’ fans envisaged a landslide, but to the home side’s credit they knuckled down and got stuck in, and within eight minutes they equalised through deadly Hudgell, the midfielder lashed home from an acute angle.
The home side took the lead in the 73rd minute when man of the match Hudgell’s byline cross was met first time by skipper Neil Thomas, who rifled his first time shot in the roof of the net from close range for the winner.
Next week Haverfordwest County travel to Neath to play the second leg at the Gnoll.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi, Terry Evans, Richard Evans, Kyle Graves, Mark Dodds, Matty Collins, Steffan Williams, Neil Thomas (Captain), Danny Thomas, Jack Christopher, Lee Hudgell. Substitutes: Jamie Bradford, Tom Ramasut, Kristian Griffiths.
Neath FC: Craig Morris, Ian Hillier (Captain), Andrew Fairburn, Kristian O’Leary, Stephen Pockett, Paul Cochlin, Chris Jones, Ashley Evans, Andy Hill, Lee Trundle, Chad Bond. Substitutes: Liam Hancock, Paul Fowler, Craig Hughes, Luke Collins, Liam Thomas.
Referee: Paul Fisher.
27th August 2010
PHOTOS: Neath's super star Lee Trundle (above) has a crack at goal in their league clash at the Bridge Meadow on Friday night.
Below Lee Trundle makes a break.
Bluebirds' new boy Matty Collins (2nd below) makes a pass under pressure.
Pictures by Bill Carne of Pembrokeshiresport.co.uk
Super star Trundle strikes twice to sink sorry Bluebirds to bottom of the table
Haverfordwest County 0 – Neath FC 3
Super star Lee Trundle scored two late goals to earn Neath a hard fought victory over Haverfordwest County on Friday night.
The visitors led 1-0 at the break as Kristian O’Leary pounced midway the first period, and Trundle proved his full worth by scoring two late class finishes to open his goal scoring account.
The Bluebirds have lost their opening three matches of the campaign, and manager Derek Brazil's outfit will feel bitterly disappointed with a flattering final scoreline - but nonetheless, it puts them bottom of the table without a point to their name and they have not scored.
The visitors were strong in all departments and they will surely be strong contenders for the Welsh Premier title.
Can count themselves unlucky
 The Bluebirds went in at half time trailing one-nothing and on the balance of play they can count themselves unlucky.
The home outfit had the better of the opening exchanges. Danny Thomas’s firm header was well saved by goalkeeper Craig Morris. Striker Jack Christopher saw his close range effort stopped by Morris’s legs. Central midfielder Matty Collins drove a low hard shot just past the post.
But the star-studded visitors scored the only goal of the half on 20 minutes. The Bluebirds’ defenders poorly dealt with a corner whipped into the box and former Swans' star O’Leary lashed the ball home from inside the six-yard box.
In the second period Morris pulled off a superb save at full stretch from the edge of the box to deny Lee Hudgell.
At the other end Lee Idzi pulled off a quality save to deny Trundle extending the lead with a curling direct free kick.
The Bluebirds felt they should have had a penalty when Danny Thomas was clearly taken down from behind in the box, just as he looked odds-on to equalise.
Trundle strikes twice
The visitors kept their composure and were content to hit the Bluebirds on the counter-attack as they pushed everyone forward.
Late in the game Trundle put the game to bed with two clinical finishes. He showed his true class by scoring his side’s second goal with a delightful 18-yard chip, and the third, he neatly tucked the ball past Idzi from inside the box to seal the points.
Both teams observed a minute’s silence before kick-off in memory of long-serving Haverfordwest County secretary Cliff Saies.
On Tuesday, August 31st the Bluebirds face Neath again at the Bridge Meadow, in the first round of the Loosemore’s Cup.
But the Bluebirds’ next Welsh Premier tussle is an away trip to Bala Town on Sunday, 5th September, kick-off is at 2.30pm.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Lee Hudgell; Lee Jarman; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Neil Thomas (Captain); Danny Thomas; Jack Christopher; Richard Evans. Substitutes: Terry Evans; Tom Ramasut; Jamie Bradford; Steffan Williams.
Neath FC: Craig Morris; Ian Hillier (Captain); Andrew Fairburn; Kristian O’Leary; Paul Cochlin; Lim Hancock; Chris Jones; Paul Fowler; Craig Hughes; Lee Trundle; Chad Bond. Substitutes: Stephen Pocket; Ashley Evans; Andy Hill; Luke Cummings; Liam Thomas.
Referee: Mark Whitby.
21st August 2010
UnluckyBluebirds slip to second successive defeat
Prestatyn Town 1 – Haverfordwest County 0
Prestatyn. Town picked up their first win of the season over a rather unlucky Haverfordwest County outfit at Bastion Road on Saturday.
The North Wales outfit were hammered 5-2 at champions Total Network Solutions on the opening day of the season, but the Seasiders responded positively to earn a fortuitous one-goal victory, handing delighted Seasiders’ player boss Neil Gibson his first precious league points.
Lee Hunt bagged the winner four minutes before half time. Hunt’s firm low-drive was parried by Bluebirds’ goalkeeper Lee Idzi, only for the alert striker to follow-up quickly and head home the rebound, for his third goal in first two outings of the season.
Goalkeeper in superb form
The visitors created plenty of scoring opportunities in the second period, but they found Seasiders’ Jonathan Hill-Dunt in superlative form. The goalkeeper made at least three terrific goal-bound saves, and he also brilliantly saved a penalty on the hour mark to deny Jack Christopher from adding an equaliser.
Former Swansea City star Matty Collins impressed in the middle of the park on his full debut for the Bluebirds. Substitute Lee Hudgell also created havoc for the last 20 minutes on the left – but the Seasiders stood firm to collect the all-important win and boost confidence for their tough trip to Newtown next Saturday.
Haverfordwest County face a star-studded Neath outfit this Friday, 27th August and they should include former Championship star Lee Trundle in their ranks. The league clash is scheduled to kick-off at 7.30pm at the New Bridge Meadow.
Prestatyn Town: Jonathan Hill-Dunt; Kai Edwards; Jack Lewis; Dave Hayes; Paul O’Neill; Gareth Wilson; Steve Hoult; Neil Gibson; Lee Hunt; Russ Jones; Ross Stephens. Substitutes: Steve Rogers; Ian Griffiths; Michael Parker.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Terry Evans; Lee Jarman; Mark Dodds; Matty Collins; Chris O’Sullivan; Danny Thomas; Neil Thomas; Jack Christopher; Richard Evans. Substitutes: Lee Hudgell; Jamie Bradford; Tom Ramasut.
Referee: Matthew Bridges.
19th August 2010
 Big name signing joins Bluebirds
Haverfordwest County are delighted to announce the signature of Matty Collins who recently left Swansea City by mutual consent.
Merthyr born Collins has represented his country at under 17,19 and 21 levels and was also included in the full Welsh squad against Georgia . His previous clubs were Swindon Town, Fulham and Wrexham (loan).
County manager, Derek Brazil, said, “My club have great ambitions and this signing underlines that fact. My negotiations with Matty were very straightforward. It is good to deal with a player who is motivated not purely by money. A player of his quality would be a great asset to any WPL club and it is a great compliment that he has chosen to join us.”
“Matty just wants to play football regularly and, of course, we are pleased to give him that opportunity. I know that he will prove to be a great acquisition for Haverfordwest County and he is assured of a very warm welcome at our Club,” added Chairman, Rob Summons.
Photo: Matty Collins signs for Haverfordwest County after he recently left Swansea City by mutual consent.
14th August 2010
Principality Welsh Premier League
Disappointing Bluebirds sunk by crucial Whitfield glancing header
 Haverfordwest County 0 – Newtown 1
Craig Whitfield’s crucial second half header earned Newtown victory over a very disappointing Haverfordwest County outfit at the New Bridge Meadow on Saturday.
The Bluebirds had showed plenty of early promise as they didn’t lose a pre-season friendly, but when it counted, they came second best as they narrowly lost on the opening day of the season.
Newtown had their pre-season plans disrupted as their manager Darren Ryan departed the Mid-Wales club just eight days ago. But in stepped the vastly experienced Andy Cale and he will be delighted that his side claimed three precious away points on his managerial debut.
Dull first period
The score remained goalless after a dull first half; neither side caused any real danger in front of goal. The best chance of the first period fell late to Danny Thomas just before the break. A long ball from Lee Jarman found Neil Thomas, and the skipper’s through ball released Danny Thomas, who blazed his effort well over the crossbar.
 However, the visitors scored the winner in the 60th minute. Industrious striker Craig Whitfield stole a march on the static Bluebirds’ defence in the box and glanced a header from a precise Adam Worton cross in the back of the net.
The Bluebirds brought on Lee Hudgell and Steffan Williams who replaced Jamie Bradford and Danny Thomas, in a concerted effort to salvage a dreadful situation.
Jarman should have grabbed an equaliser as the centre back planted a firm header from a Chris O’Sullivan free-kick harmlessly wide of the target. Right at the end Newtown goalkeeper Dave Roberts pulled off a stunning stop to deny Lee Hudgell equalising with a sweetly struck volley.
Next Saturday, Haverfordwest County will look to return to winning ways as they travel to Prestatyn Town. The North Wales outfit were trounced 5-2 at Park Hall by reigning champions The New Saints to mark the start of the re-structured 12-team Principality Welsh Premier League season on Friday night.
Haverfordwest County: Lee Idzi; Kyle Graves; Terry Evans; Lee Jarman; Mark Dodds; Jamie Bradford; Chris O’Sullivan; Danny Thomas; Neil Thomas (Captain); Jack Christopher; Richard Evans. Substitutes: Lee Hudgell; Steffan Williams; Tom Ramasut.
Newtown: Dave Roberts; Sean Jones; Paul Keddie; Lee Hartshorn; Gavin Cadwallader (Captain); Craig Hutchinson; Adam Worton; Shane Sutton; Craig Whitfield; Dylan Blain; Chris Hartland. Substitutes: Jamie Breeze; Robbie James; Rhys Jones.
Referee: Dean John.
Photos: Newtown goalkeeper Dave Roberts clatters Bluebirds' striker Jack Christopher.
Newtown defender Lee Hartshorn stops Bluebirds' skipper Neil Thomas in his tracks. Pictures by Pembrokeshiresport.co.uk
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