Newcastle Emlyn Thrills Fans with 5-3 Win, Ties at Top of League

Newcastle Emlyn climbed to the top of the Ceredigion League, matching leaders Crymych on points after an exhilarating 5–3 victory against Pencader on Saturday. With Crymych occupied by the Emrys Morgan Cup, Emlyn capitalized on the opportunity to surge ahead, establishing a commanding 3–0 lead by halftime.

The match at Pencader saw a standout performance from Peter Almond, who netted two goals, alongside a strike from Dorian Davies. Despite being down at the break, Pencader fought back with determination, earning a penalty converted by Alfie Morgan shortly after the restart. Nevertheless, Osian Thomas quickly restored Emlyn’s three-goal cushion, demonstrating the visitors’ resilience.

As the second half progressed, Pencader narrowed the deficit with additional goals from Morgan Mably and Bradley Rowland, bringing the score to 4–3. The game took a turn when Rhodri Rees of Pencader received a second yellow card, reducing his team to ten men. Thomas capitalized on the advantage, sealing the win with his second goal of the match.

Emlyn’s manager, Gareth Winston, acknowledged the challenge posed by Pencader, stating, “Credit to Pencader. I honestly don’t think they should be where they are. They came at us and were a good side and it rattled us.” He expressed satisfaction with the result, noting that the team has already surpassed their total points from last season. “The next is to make sure we are safe from relegation. That’s our mentality,” he added.

In another fixture, Cardigan Town and Maesglas battled to a 2–2 draw. Maesglas dominated the first half with goals from Kieran Harman and Iwan Griffiths. However, Cardigan responded after halftime, leveling the score with strikes from Iwan James and Dean Thomas.

In the Division, leaders Lampeter Town Reserves and Bargod Rangers continued their strong performances, both securing hard-fought victories. Lampeter triumphed over New Quay with a score of 4–2, with contributions from Terry Witts, Hugo Albeski-Douglas (who scored twice), and Jason Jones. Ross Diamond scored twice for New Quay, but it was not enough to avoid defeat.

Bargod took a 2–0 lead against Aberporth at halftime, thanks to an Ethan Furness penalty and an own goal by Oliver Sibley. Despite Michael King pulling one back for Aberporth, Bargod held on to secure the win.

Felinfach Reserves edged out Llechryd Reserves with a narrow 1–0 victory, thanks to Krzysztof Dolniak’s decisive goal in the fifth minute. Meanwhile, Tregaron Turfs Reserves triumphed 3–2 at Ffostrasol Reserves, with goals from Jay Kenney, Caradog Daniel, and Richard Parkin.

Aberaeron enjoyed a convincing 5–2 victory at Maesglas Reserves, with goals from Dafydd Roberts, Harry Holder, Rhydian Davies, Endaf Williams, and Rhodri Jones. Nathan Baxter and Kieran James found the net for Maesglas, but their efforts fell short.

As the season progresses, Newcastle Emlyn’s performance showcases their potential, with aspirations to secure their place in the league and build upon this momentum. The league remains competitive, and every match continues to be crucial as teams vie for position.