Who will win the 2026 Senior Cup? Top flight managers' forecasts
PembrokeshireSport.co.uk concludes it’s blanket coverage of the Senior Cup Final with a forecast from all ten managers from the first division not playing in the final, and their viewpoints show how close the game is likely to be . . so, see what you think.
Goodwick United or Monkton Swifts? Rival managers give their views....
Scott Davies (Hakin United): "It's a hard one to call this year. I think Monkton have a very dangerous front line, led by Dylan (Davies) and with so much pace around him. Goodwick have hit form and are scoring freely at the perfect time so you would expect goals. I will go for a tight one but Monkton to win with just a goal in it."
Verdict: Monkton
Graham Ninnis (St Ishmaels): "I think it will be a close game between two really good teams. But for me, Goodwick will edge it. Regardless, it should be a good game to watch."
Verdict: Goodwick
Gareth Noot (Tenby): "It's a tough one to call this, both teams have had a decent season to be fair. I actually fancy Monkton 2-1 though, they’ve massively improved this season and have the team to push Goodwick all the way. Goodwick do have that winning mentality but I think Monkton can surprise them with their pace and energy throughout the team.
Verdict: Monkton
Mike Preddy (Merlins Bridge): "This has the potential to be a great cup final. Both sides have multiple ‘match winners’ at their disposal who could be the difference for them. Monkton have been very good this season, but I think Goodwick’s experience from recent success will see them through a tight game."
Verdict: Goodwick
Jack Christopher (Carew): "I'm going for a 3-2 Monkton win, I've got to stick with the boys this side of the water! Goodwick are a very strong outfit with some serious experience and quality, have match winners like Scott Delaney and Rhys Dalling - and probably the best centre midfield partnership in Pembrokeshire in Jake (Smith) and Rhys (Jones). But Monkton recently beating Goodwick in the league and knocking out both Hakin and Tenby - you'd have to bet on them to find a way to lift the cup. Ben Steele is massive for them and Dylan (Davies) up top has had a strong season with some important goals. Corey and 'Twinno' have got a quality club like Monkton back where it belongs - but all the best to both teams and hopefully the game will live up to expectations."
Verdict: Monkton
Craig Butland (Pennar Robins): I think it will be a really closely contested final and a good battle, both teams have attacking strength and individual battles out wide will be key. Goodwick will want a trophy to finish their season and with the quality they possess in many areas of the pitch, and the experience in these sorts of fixtures. I do think they’ll win by a goal. But they will have to handle Dylan Davies and keep out a top striker. I think Goodwick will lift the trophy, but wouldn’t be surprised if it went the distance and if you pushed me for a score I would say Goodwick 3-2 Monkton.
Verdict: Goodwick
Ryan Williams (Narberth): "I think Monkton are going to win 3-2. Both teams are very good but I’d say Monkton have been the best team we’ve played this season, with all their boys linking up very well. The only thing I’d say is Monkton need to keep there heads."
Verdict: Monkton
Phil Jones (Fishguard Sports): "I obviously want Goodwick to win as it's my son Nicholas' first Senior Cup Final. But will they? There's the rub. Monkton are the better footballing team and if they turn up it'll be an entertaining game. My heart says 2-0 Goodwick."
Verdict: Goodwick
Matthew Ellis (Clarbeston Road): "I’m expecting a tight, competitive final, but Monkton may just have enough to come out on top. What stands out for me is their recent form against Goodwick, picking up a home win and a draw at Phoenix Park in the league. They also knocked Hakin out of the cup with a superb 3–0 win at The Obs which highlights their ability to perform in big games. A key factor could be the fitness of captain Ben Steele - if he is available, Monkton could have the leadership and quality needed to edge the game. It's a very evenly balanced contest but I'll go Monkton 2-1 Goodwick.
Verdict: Monkton
Lukas Gamble (Kilgetty): "I’m a little bit torn on who I’d like to win. It would be great if it was Monkton as it’s been a long time since they’ve won it, but at the same time, Foxy (Matthew Fox), is someone I’ve known for a while and I’ve seen him grow as a coach. He pulled off a massive upset two years ago to win the Senior Cup with Clarby, and if he could do it again with Goodwick would be some achievement. We’ve played both Monkton and Goodwick teams in recent weeks and there is little to separate them in terms of quality. Both teams have the ability to hurt you and I think it will be a high scoring game. I can see it swinging both ways over the 90 minutes, possibly going to extra time, but if I have to choose, I think Goodwick will edge it 3-2.
Verdict: Goodwick
So, the perception that this will be a tight final is certainly true when it comes to the Division 1 managers, with an exact split of 5-5 when it comes to their tips for the trophy.