Last Roll of Alderdice Wins It for Town

Saturday 19th September

Pontyclun 1 Monmouth Town 2

Jack Alderidice's last gasp header gave all three points to Monmouth in what, on the face of it would seem, a smash and grab raid. That would be far from the truth as the Kingfishers ambled around in the Pontyclun sunshine passing up all gifts on offer and somehow contriving to leave it so late to put a smile on the faces of their travelling support. Indeed for the last fifteen minutes Pontyclun were the better side and could, and possibly should, have won it, guilty themselves of poor finishing - that particular prize having been won hands down by misfiring Town strikers - none of whom could hit a bull's bum with a bedpan on an afternoon to forget in front of goal.

And yet the approach play was bright enough all through the first half with Pontyclun lively on the counter having added a bit of pace and trickery with younger, more adventurous forwards but Town creating much the better openings.

Predictably Town fell behind when a counter attack stretched the defence and left Campbell exposed as Woodington slotted home on 29 minutes. Smith also cleared off the line soon after but with the last touch of the half Sam Palmer took advantage finally rolling home following a smart move.

The second half proved much the same story with Tranter persistent and getting in great positions and Town guilty of giving the ball away too cheaply.

Toward the end Bowen went close, Palmer's free kick was well kept out, Ford blasted wide, Tranter had one saved and with the very last touch Alderdice made it all seem like they were just kidding and they did want to win after all. Nearly had me going there they did!

Town boss Barry Burns visibly ageing as the game wore on said "You can't really analyse that. We've had about ten great chances in the first half alone, and the same number in the second half so we're doing something right! What I do know is that we can't keep dominating games and failing in the only thing that matters - scoring goals. Luckily Pontyclun also missed some good chances. On another day we're going home with nothing so we're happy with the three points."

Meanwhile Town second string kept up their impressive opening to their Welsh League season beating Aberbargoed Buds 2 - 1 with both goals from Eddie Murphy. They will be looking to claim top spot this weekend with a home game against leaders Caldicot Town (kick off 2.30). The first XI are away at second place Briton Ferry.