Last season both played in JD Cymru Southern League 1, Afan survived comfotably, whereas Port Talbot had their worst season ever, played 30, lost 30, scored 8 conceded 121, thats -113 and must surely make them the worst team in the UK (at the moment). Fot William of the Higland League, may have held that title but this season played 34, W1, D4 and L29, F34 A 134, only -100
It's a shame as they have had success over the clubs 121 year history. As recently as 2009/10 Port Talbot qualified for the qualifying rounds of the Europa League. So their fall down the Welsh pyramid has been nothing short of spectacular.
We saw Port Talbot on Easter Monday aginst Afan Lido FC, who are their local rivals and quite a rivalry it is as well. Afan's ground, Marstons Stadium is about half a mile away, possibly the closest derby match in the UK apart from Dundee vs Dundee Utd, up in Tannerdice, which is literally at opposite ends of the street.
Afan had a better season than Port Talbot, although anyone would struggle to have a worse season. They finished 10th in the league winning 39 points. Sat on the edge of a hosuing estate. Persimmon are building new houses on land to the sea front side of the ground. Entry was gained down a narrow alley in between houses and the building site. But then you are greeted with Turnstiles.
Another "real ground", lovely stand and a ground we will visit when the season starts again.
I'm not sure if this a done thing in Wales or we just got lucky but we could gain access quite easily to both grounds this morning, as gates were wide open and no one was around, all we took was photos and I dont think we left any footprints (urban explorers code).
Afan is right by the sea front, which has plently of parking, cafes, takeaways, a cinema, leisure centre and a massive prom. The views are quite spectacular and you can clearly see Swansea and beyond further down the coast.
Tomorrow we are off to find Penybont FC (Bridgend), who finished 2nd behind TNS (ironically across the border in England).
Comments
Post a Comment