Free Press Sport
Cwmbran worthy winners in Gwent County derby
12:49pm Wednesday 22nd February 2012
Blaenavon Blues 0 Cwmbran Town 5 Cwmbran were worthy winners in this first division Gwent County fixture although the score line was not a true reflection of the game overall and slightly flattered the visitors.
Blues managers Ryan Huish and Lee Wathen made three changes from the side which narrowly lost at Spencers, Jonathan Arthur making his first appearance of the season at right back, Lloyd Jeffries returning from injury, to play up front with Richard Williams and Captain Lee Wathen moving into midfield.
The first twenty minutes play was very even, Blues' keeper Wayne Ottley making a fine save from Town striker Sean Matthews. After a goalmouth scramble Cwmbran took the lead and immediately doubled the lead with a well struck free kick from Mike Archer.
On the stroke of half time Cwmbran pulled further ahead after Ottley parried a shot only for Matthews to tuck the loose ball away.
Blues tried hard in the second period and Craig Tanner playing his way back into form, hit the bar with a thunderous shot and minutes later was inches away with a curling free kick.
Marc Browning and Jamie Brankley worked tirelessly in the Blues midfield with Darryl Brenton and Matt Cox solid in the middle of the defence.
The experience in the Cwmbran side showed at the end when they made sure of the three points with two late strikes.
The Blues are back in action on Saturday 3rd March when they travel to face PILCS FC, 3pm Kick off.
The second side won 4-3 after extra time in their open cup game with Crickhowell, Steve White, Matthew 'Berba' Cox, Matthew Cox and Craig Harris scoring their goals. This weekend the Blues reserves welcome Clydach Wasps to the Memorial ground for a league fixture kick off 2:15pm. Refreshments will be available at the ground.