Welsh League Division One – Cwmamman Utd vs Ammanford AFC

Nathan McNeil – Cwmamman United stalwart

The scene was set at Grenig Park (September 15) with a large crowd, perfect playing surface, historic football occasion and local rivalry in heaps. However, the match proved to be a slow burner with both teams extremely tentative in the first 15 minutes. However, on 15 minutes Brett Enoch of Ammanford committed a reckless  footed tackle on local lad Nathan McNeil which resulted in straight red.

Cwmamman United in blue

The atmosphere rose a notch but Cwmamman still struggled to impose their authority with chances at a premium. Ross Morgan and Ryan Thomas were working hard in midfield for Cwmamman trying to create something while Kyle Nugget Ashford was industrious along the wing. Ammanford however were strong in breaking down attacks and played out well from the back.

Cwmamman United Juniors provided ‘Guard of Honour’ for the teams

The game then took another turn with Chrissy Allen booked on thirty minutes for a leading elbow. Then two minutes later as an Ammanford defender fell as he went up against Allen. Ammanford players surrounded the referee and Allen received another yellow and was off much to his amazement.

Ten men each and the game started to open up a little with the breakthrough coming on forty four minutes when a defensive lapse allowed Ashley Curtis through on the keeper. He calmly put it away to ecstatic celebrations from players and the home crowd.

The second half was quite different with Cwmamman Utd getting some control and creating a number of clear chances. Colin Harris had two great opportunities for Cwm. One in front of goal where he took one more turn before shooting resulting in a great block and another through on the keeper when he tried to chip him unsuccessfully. Another free header by Mcneill was steered wide with the goal at his mercy. Cwm then brought on Ryan Hurlow and his pace proved to be a major problem for Ammanford. Chris Curtis in goal for Cwmamman was outstanding and dominated the aerial bombardment coming his way.

Gruffydd Harrison gracious in defeat shakes hands with Cwmamman United Assistant Manager Jeff Matthews.

The intensity of the match saw a couple of yellows for both sides and the final 10 mins saw Cwm defending for their lives as Ammanford pushed on for the equaliser. The defence of Mcneill, Howarth, John and Allen were excellent and held on for the win. A 4th consecutive clean sheet which is a huge achievement.

So Cwm claim the bragging rights and move to 5th in Welsh League One while Ammanford sit one off the bottom. This win will mean a lot to Eirian Rees and the local Cwmamman management team and they will be confident of pushing on. The next match is away on Friday evening at Taffs Well.