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Tuesday - and as the players reflected after their frist defeat of the league, Fairway was pleased to welcome Curtis Jackson back to training on Tuesday (3rd) - bringing the youngster straight back into the team to replace Richardson. Wednesday night's trip to Caernarfon Town would be Pontlottyn's first chance to bounce back from that defeat and rather unimpressive showing against Connah's Quay - and they didn't take long to make a positive impression. Curtis Jackson took just 10 minutes to open the scoring - picking up on a poor goal kick to beat 'keeper Willock. Although Pontlottyn looked the better side, Fairway's men lost some of their attacking impetus when Phil Carratt withdrew through injury midway through the first half. With Kevan on in his place, the visitors were forced back, and when Danny Barton put Jason Sadler through for the equaliser on 59, many feared the worst. Caernarfon though failed to follow this up with sustained attacks, and the game seemed to peter out as a spectacle. Two minutes from time however, Chris McConville nipped onto a Taylor cross, putting the ball into the middle - and allowing Alex Kevan to stretch, heading what proved to be the winner past a stranded Willock. It was scarcely deserved, but there would be no way back for Caernarfon - and Fairway in particular was pleased that his side had won their long-awaited game in hand, sending them nine points clear at the top of the table.
Although disapointed to note that Phil Carratt would be out for a fortnight (knee), Fairway was more relieved than anything else that up next would be another struggling side - bottom club Welshpool on Saturday (7th). With goal hero Kevan starting on the left at Maesydre, the Pontlottyn boss was especially keen to see how loaned-out teenager Gareth Rees was doing - just as long as he didn't do too well against his employers. It wasn't Rees who caused the first panic of the day however - it was Aaron Shanahan - dismissed on 8 minutes for the crudest of challenges on the bustling Hendra. Welshpool quickly took advantage of the extra space, and before half time Paul Roberts had netted twice (34 and 42) to leave Fairway fuming at the interval. Things went from bad to their ill-discaplined worse on 57 - Robert Brown following fellow midfielder Shanahan down the tunnel for a second bookable offence as Pontlottyn went into damage limitation mode. The nine men remaining defended with plenty of spirit and even - deep into injury time (93) - pulled one back, through Chris McConville , now top scorer with 15 to his name.
In the changing room after the game, Fairway hit the roof. It was the last thing his side needed - and although the board agreed to file appeals, neither players nor manager expected anything positive back from the Football Association. They would be right. On Tuesday (10th), the same day that Pontlottyn visit Total Network Solutions in the Premier Cup, Aaron Shanahan recieved a further two-game ban for his troubles.
Changes were made with Pontlottyn needing just a point to be sure of qualification in the Premier Cup - and Steve Soley once again took the captains armband in a bid to inspire the side to at least a clean sheet. TNS looked better from the off - and when Nicky Ward put them ahead on 20, doom seemed to set in amongst the away support. Ward then added a second on the stroke of half time - and despite a vastly improved - but still goalless - second half performance, Fairway was still furious with the result.
Worse would come - Wednesday (11th) saw young Robert Brown don a suit for his suspension appeal. It would be in vain - and with closest rivals TNS hosting struggling Welshpool at the weekend, Fairway knew that his side simply had to turn things around on Saturday.
" Pontlottyn Blast Furnace manager Stuart Fairway has told his squad that they cannot afford to lose to Afan Lido tomorrow. "It's a big game" he said. "We've simply got to win it, to avoid handing the advantage to TNS. Although, in the worse case scenario, we'd be 4 points ahead still, it would be a huge physcological boost to them in the runup to the busy Christmas period of games".
Pontlottyn have struggled of late, winning just one of their last five matches - compared to an amazing 19 competitive match unbeaten streak from August till November.
"We know that we have been off form of late" said striker David Taylor . "It's something we've been working hard to address, and hopefully we will get it right - teams don't just become bad overnight, it doesen't happen".
The general consensus is that Pontlottyn have not recaptured their sensational form of last season - top goalscorer currently is midfielder Chris McConville , with 15, whilst this time last season Darren Poole had scored over 20. Poole though, is unconcerned. "We'll get it right" he said. "We're still top of the league, and competing in four seperate competitions - in the final of one of the Cups - and seven points clear at the top of the table as well. It's been a good season, but we put a lot of pressure on ourselves with the speed we wrapped it up last season. The players knew it would be harder this time around, and I think that's been proved with recent results".
It remains to be seen weather Fairway will use some of his estimated £55,000 warchest to strengthen the squad in the second half of the season - although the Englishman has not previously been known for spending large amounts of money in the middle of the campaign'
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Fairway was pleased with his squad's repsonse to the media - especially Taylor's, with it's emphasis on the work that the team had been doing in training. Although still an incredibly popular figure, Fairway knew that his sides' supporters could be - like all fans - fickle.
Afan Lido came into the match on Saturday (14th) with a similar record to Pontlottyn - 1 victory in their last five matches. This time though, Pontlottyn would have their revenge. In a frenetic opening Steve Soley rammed home his 5th goal of the season from close range (21), and for the first time in some weeks, Pontlottyn finally hit top gear once more. Darren Poole beautifully beat 'keeper Thomas with a one-on-one on 36 minutes, and before the break skipper Rhodri Jones smashed home a third on 44. There was really no way back for Lido in the second half - and while it hadn't started off comfortable for Pontlottyn, Lido never looked likely to trouble the visitors late on.
With Christmas fever in the air, and 11 days until the next match - on Boxing Day - Fairway was delighted that his men had finally got back into their stride. As often at this time of year, he allowed his thoughts to wander to his beloved Brighton & Hove Albion . Bottom of Division One, the Seagulls had recorded just five victories all season. Things could be worse here, he pondered.
There would be a blow on Tuesday (17th) - with an injury to bit-part striker Lee Withe , keeping the frontman-cum-winger out of the reckoning for around 10 days (Neck). Worse was to come on Christmas day itself, with Michel Kuipers twisting his knee in an accident at home - doctors ruling the Dutchman out for 10 days. Whilst Fairway had no problems recalling Alex O'Reilly , Kuipers knew that, after recent results, he may find it slightly more difficult than imagined to win his place back should the Irishman recapture his stunning form of earlier in the campaign. Better news over the festive season came with the return of Phil Carratt from a knee injury - the winger moving straight back into the first team for the Boxing Day trip to Caersws
The festive spirit was very much on show at the Recreation Ground, with Chris Waddle's side coming off the back of a 5-1 thrashing of Aberystwyth. Although back to winning ways, Fairway warned his side that they simply couldn't be complacent - it was, perhaps, the attitude that had led to a dismal December. Less than a minute into the match, Fairway wondered if his men had been listening - Graham Evans blasting the ball beyond a stunned O'Reilly to leave him fuming on the bench. Fortunatley, this time there would be no collapse - Steve Soley took a clever first touch before burying Taylor's cross on 17, and when Curtis Jackson hammered Pontlottyn ahead on 28, things seemed relativley comfortable. On the stroke of half time however, words were exchanged between Chris McConville and Caersws Graham Evans. Within a few seconds, Evans was on the deck holding his face, and McConville had been dismissed for a headbutt on the goalscorer. The 10 men seemed to redouble their efforts after the break, and when Soley set up David Taylor for a third on 58, only one result looked on the cards. Although Evans did pull one back on 82 for Caersws with a well-taken effort, Curtis Jackson's 15th of the season in injury time sealed the victory - and a welcome Christmas present for all at the club.
Someone who wouldn't recieve a welcome Christmas present would be midfielder Chris McConville - fined a week's wages for violent conduct, which he at least had the sense to accept with good grace. The Welsh FA, however, were not happy - and threw the book at the 19-year old, handing him an 8-Game ban.
Alongside McConville, Fairway also rested Robert Lawrence against Aberystwyth Town - Chris Thomas coming into the centre of defence, with Vaughan moving to right back. Pontlottyn got off to a fine start, and on 9 minutes, converted early possesion into a goal - David Taylor diving to head a Lawrence cross beyond 'keeper Morgan. Unfortunatley, the lead would last just a few minutes - on 15, Aberystwyth's Glyndwr Hughes was in the right place at the right time, stabbing home a rebound to put the visitors level. Both sides had chances before the break - Jackson hitting the bar for Pontlottyn - but it was the hour mark before the visitors took the lead. On 60 a drifting Jones corner to the far post was glanced home, Martyn Griffiths getting up well despite the presence of Kevan to leave Pontlottyn chasing the game. This time, they were able to achieve that without folding - and when sub Marcus Richardson put the Blast level on 67 with a half-volley, even the more pessimistic amongst the home support felt their side could get the win. They would be justified in their faith on 77 - Darren Poole scoring a brilliant free kick to put Pontlottyn ahead. There would be one final twist in the tale however - and for second placed Haverfordwest, it would prove crucial - the defecit reduced to just four points when, on 81, Moses Ooaolaleye rifled home an equaliser, the Nigerian youngster bagging only his second of the season.
It would be a frustrating end to a real month to forget for Fairway - although the return of Lee Withe (29th) would provide at least a minor boost.
The new year began with the same, injury-hit problems that the last one had ended - Chris Thomas straining a wrist in training to rule him out for around a week.
With Kuipers only fit to sit on the bench, Fairway stuck with O'Reilly for the opener of 2003 - the visit of Oswestry Town in the league. Once again, Pontlottyn took an early lead - David Taylor rifling home a rebound to put the home side ahead from close range on 13. In contrast to recent weeks, Ponlottyn seemes to approach the game with a positive, upbeat attitude - and when Curtis Jackson reacted quickest to steer home a Carratt cross, only one result looked likely. Although Oswestry pulled one back on 28 through Hopkins, they never looked likely to cause any problems, and as the game progressed, Fairway felt confident that his side were finally back in the swing of things at the top of the table. A third - Curtis Jackson again - followed before the break (36), before Jackson wrapped up his hatrick early in the second half with a shot on the turn on 48. Oswestry were in and out of the game - and perhaps unlucky not to hit the scoresheet in the second half - but Darren Poole did, wrapping up a fine victory on 79 with a powerful shot after a one-two with Steve Soley. Just about the pefect buildup for the League Cup Final in midweek.
A further boost ahead of the final came with the return of Michel Kuipers on Monday (6th) - and without even playing a day later, Pontlottyn's progression in the Premier Cup was assured by other results. That though, could wait - Fairway was on the chase for his second trophy in charge of Pontlottyn.
Glamorgan Gazette - Sport - Thursday 8th January 2003
'League Cup Glory for Pontlottyn'
' Pontlottyn Blast Furnace have won their first Cup competition under Stuart Fairway's management with a 3-1 victory over Bangor City - but Fairway's men didn't have things all their own way.
On a bitterly cold, wet evening in Bangor, the home side started the better, and on 3 minutes, took the lead. After striker Lloyd - a one-time Pontlottyn transfer target - saw his shot tipped around the post by 'keeper Alex O'Reilly, Warren Gibbs reacted quickest to blast home a Burgess corner. After initial suprise at going behind, Pontlottyn recovered well, and on 17, equalised with thier first chance of the evening.
A clever, quickly taken throw-in by Lee Lawrence allowed winger Phil Carratt to run on, and cut inside - beating 'keeper Martin Davies with a powerful, left-footed effort from just inside the area. After an action-packed opening, neither side found it easy to impose themsleves on the game, with the pitch condition worsening by the minute - indeed there would be just one further first half chance, O'Reilly saving well from Barton.
With Player/Coach Steve Soley suffering a knock, Fairway made one change at half time - bringing Alex Kevan on in midfield to replace the former Southport man. Five minutes later, the change would have an impact - Kevan impeded by Burgess in the penalty box, allowing Darren Poole a chance to net from the spot that the winger wouldn't pass up, netting his 15th of the season. Going a goal behind inspired Bangor, and Alex O'Reilly quickly became the busier of the two 'keepers, denying Shrimpton with a fingertip save on 61, moments after Danny Barton had acrobatically volleyed over the top.
Despite this increased pressure, Bangor were unable to carve out the chance that would lead to an equaliser - and as they ran out of steam, Pontlottyn surged back into the match, with sub Kevan performing well in the midfield 'engine room'. Finally, on 85, Ponlottyn did kill off their opponents, with another substitute - Marcus Richardson meeting a Shanahan cross with a thumping, bullet header. Although Bangor staged a brief revival - Shrimpton seeing a shot well saved - there was never likely to be any way back, and when the final whistle blew it was Ponlottyn skipper Rhodri Jones who stepped up to collect the trophy.
Manager Stuart Fairway said; "We've done very well tonight. All credit to Bangor, they put us under real pressure at times, but I was delighted with the defence. We've improved tonight, getting back to the form we were showing a couple of months ago, and I'm delighted. I had worried that a poor December would have taken it out of the lads, but they are real professionals, and have come to work for this win. They deserve all the praise they will get".
Perhaps one of the key reasons for Pontlottyn's success is the return from suspension of midfielder Aaron Shanahan . The Irishman, 20, only recently returned from a 3-match ban, and manager Fairway feels he is crucial to his sides' hopes. "Aaron has something that very few players in the squad have" he said. "He really does get stuck in, and mixes it, but he's also got the ability to break from his role and play with freedom. It's something I encourage, and although you don't usually expect a central midfielder to go bombing down the flank and cross for a winner, Aaron's cross for Marcus Richardson's goal was just typical of him. He's tenacious, and he could go a long way in the game".
For their part, Bangor played well - creating more chances than Pontlottyn but perhaps letting themselves down with some poor finishing, as top scorer Danny Barton admits. "We just didn't hit the target enough today" he said. "We didn't put the 'keeper under enough pressure, and although Warren Gibbs got the early goal, they (Pontlottyn) were just more ruthless in front of goal".
The victory gives Stuart Fairway his first Domestic Cup in charge of Pontlottyn - and sparks hopes that a now resurgent Pontlottyn Blast Furnace can go on to achieve what would be an amazing - and unprecedented - Welsh Quadruple of the League Cup, FA Cup, Premier Cup and League. The Blast are still top of the table, seven points clear with 15 matches yet to play. For now though, that is in the future - the celebrations for this trophy will no doubt last for some time'
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In fact, the celebrations could not last as long as Fairway - or his players - might have hoped - with just one change for Saturday's trip to Carmarthern Town . 'keeper Alex O'Reilly found himself benched despite a fine, Man of the Match performance in the League Cup final, with Dutchman Michel Kuipers recalled to the team after injury. Kuipers, however, would have little to do - Pontlottyn destroyed a dismal Carmarthern - with the home side registering just a solitary shot - off target - all afternoon. The scoring began in the 22nd minute, with Lee Lawrence driving a low shot beyond 'keeper Brook. Brook was dimissed soon after - hauling down Carratt inside the box on 39, but Poole could only steer the penalty straight at his grateful replacement, teenager Fowler. It was in the second half though when Ponlottyn really went for victory - Marcus Richardson driving in the first of four goals for the ex-Torquay man on 49 - his second coming two minutes later (51). Another defensive error led to his hatrick on 72, whilst six minutes from time Darren Poole squared for the big centre-forward to knock home his fourth of the afternoon, and Pontlottyn's fifth. Back in business? - Looks like it.
In fact better news would come after the game, with Haverfordwest losing at home to Llanelli - bringing the gap at the top of the table back to 10 points, and with Pontlottyn again hitting form, few expected Fairway's men to throw away their lead for a second time.
With his side already through in the Premier Cup, Fairway chose a weakened side for Wednesday's (15th) visit of Afan Lido = the final game of the Group stages. 17-year old Craig Rees made his Senior debut between the sticks, with Chris McConville also playing - bans not counting in this competition. Unsuprisingly, Lido attacked from the off - keen to put the inexperience Rees under pressure. The 17-year old responded admirably - making his presence felt with a couple of good stops early on. A minute before half time however it was Pontlottyn who took the lead - Chris McConville poking home a deflected corner to score in his first game of 2003. Soon after the break, it was 2 - Curtis Jackson (53) cracking home a Kevan cross to put the home side in cruise mode. Lido were still stubborn in their restistance though, and indeed on 61 Reynolds struck the woodwork with an angled drive. Youngster Rees impressed too - a fingertip save on 64 from Gibson. Afan Lido finally ran out of steam, and a lazy rather than malicious, push on Jackson on 77 resulted in a spot-kick. With just 13 minutes remaining of - most probably - the only match he will play in January, Chris McConville sent 'keeper Thomas the wrong way from the spot, sealing a comfortable victory for Pontlottyn - and setting up a plum tie with English Division Two leaders Cardiff City at the Furnace Stadium in the Quarter Finals.
Despite Rees' performance - and that of Chris Kitson , voted Man of the Match after a solid showing, Fairway returned to a more orthodox lineup on Saturday, with Caernarfon Town visiting in the League. On a bitterly cold afternoon the home side began brightly, and Steve Soley opened the scoring with a glancing header - meeting Carratt's near-post corner to great effect. Two minutes later, Blast had doubled their lead - with Carratt repeating his trick, this time David Taylor nodding the ball beyond 'keeper Curtis. It wouldn't all be Pontlottyn - Sadler struck the post for Caernarfon - but on 29, any hope of a comeback was effectivley killed off. A surging run from Shanahan, ending in a perfect slide-rule pass, gave Steve Soley the chance to drive his second of the afternoon beyond Curtis. Despite hitting the post on the stroke of half time, the visitors offered little in the second half - and Pontlottyn could have made it four right at the death with a Taylor diving header. The scoreline, however, was not especially representative of the game - Caernarfon were perhaps a little unlucky, with Kuipers inspired in goal for Fairway's men.
On Monday morning the increasing harmony - and availability - of Pontlottyn's squad was reduced once again, with skipper Rhodri Jones ruled out for 10 days with a gashed head. The defender did return to light training by the end of the week, but Fairway still considered him unfit on Saturday, with Chris Kitson called into the squad for Saturday's (25th) trip to Newtown . Within the first minute Pontlottyn were ahead - and they never looked back. Pontlottyn immediatley won the ball from the centre, and when Richardson knocked a pass on, Phil Carratt drilled the visitors ahead. On 11 David Taylor made it two - a well taken chance after a terrible Norris goal kick doubling the lead. It took just a further 10 minutes before Marcus Richardson made it three - Aaron Shanahan providing the assist for the rangy ex-Torquay man to nod home. With all hope seemingly abandoned by Newtown, David Taylor met a Soley cross with a firm diving header to make it four on 24 - and when Marcus Richardson prodded home a Carratt corner on 37, several Newtown fans gave up and went home. After such an exciting first half, the second was never going to be much of a spectacle - and with no shots recorded, those who left at the interval were perfectly justified. Newtown - especially loanee 'keeper Norris - were woeful, and their position of 13th does look a little high at the moment.
With a 5-0 victory to round off the month, it was perhaps a suprise that Fairway didn't collect the Manager of the Month award - that instead went to Peter Nicholas of Llanelli.
Although Fairway was able to recall skipper Rhodri Jones , he would have Marcus Richardson unavailable (Neck) for Saturday's (1st) visit of Cefn Druids , instead recalling youngster Curtis Jackson in attack. Despite the teenage 'goal machine' present in attack, it was one of Pontlottyn's few 'veterans' who opened the scoring - Steve Soley curling home an effort from distance to beat 'keeper Thomas. Young Jackson was having a frustrating afternoon - twice denied before half time, but it was 'keeper Michel Kuipers who did the most to keep Pontlottyn ahead before the break - making blocks from Parry and Plant in a frenzied scramble on 44. The second half continued in the same, disjointed fashion of the first - and with a goal needed to settle the game down, a lot of game time was taken up with scrappy midfield play. It would lead to Pontlottyn's second goal - Carratt's shot on 69 parried by Carl Thomas straight into the path of Steve Soley , who was on hand to steer home his second of the afternoon, and 10th of the season. The visitors still looked to have something about them, and on 76 netted a probably deserved goal. Paul Mazzarella - a busy force in midfield throughout - took the ball down the left, crossing brilliantly for Raith Plant to power a header beyond Kuipers. Any thoughts of an equaliser would be killed off four minutes before the final whistle - Phil Carratt drilling the ball square for left-back Lee Lawrence to pop up as an unlikely match-winner. With 11 games remaining, Fairway's men lie 10 points clear of a resurgent Llanelli at the top of the Welsh Premier - and unless a calamitous collapse, such as that happened before Christmas, repeats itself, the trophy should be on it's way to the Furnace Stadium once again.
Monday morning (3rd) would see a welcome return for Marcus Richardson . Far from being the bit-part player some had expected, Richardson has developed into a crucial member of the Pontlottyn squad - with an impressive 13 goals in 19 starts, with a further 8 substitute appearances.
Despite the availability of Richardson, Fairway chose an unchanged side for Saturday's trip to Barry Town in the Cup. With a place in the Quarter Finals at stake, he wanted a victory - but also had an eye on a particularly difficult Midweek match. Pontlottyn began well, and on 16, took the lead - Darren Poole hitting a rising shot that crashed off the bar on it's way into the net. Steve Soley also wanted in on the act - and it was his first-half brace (24 and 36) that convinced Fairway the day was won. Three changes at half time took a little of the momentum out of Pontlottyn's attacks - although sub Withe struck the post - but Chris Fowler's 86th minute goal proved just a consolation for the home team. With progression in one Cup assured thoughts could now turn to arguably one of Pontlottyn's biggest games of the season - the Premier Cup Quarter Final. In the same stage of this - the FA Cup, Pontlottyn were drawn to face currently managerless Cwmbran Town .
Tuesday's (11th) saw Pontlottyn welcome Cardiff City - one of the so-called 'Welsh Exile' clubs - brought with it it's own problems. Curtis Jackson succumbed to an ankle strain on the morning of the game, keeping him out for 3 weeks, and Fairway also had something of a dilemma in midfield, with Chris McConville's suspension now up. As it was, the young midfielder would only make the bench, with Richardson, as expected, returning for Jackson in attack.
Glamorgan Gazette - Sport - Wednesday 12th February 2004
'Quadruple Dream Still on After Incredible Premier Success'
'Pontlottyn Blast Furnace could still be on for a remarkable Welsh Quadruple after defeating English Second Division leaders Cardiff City 2-1 at a packed Furnace Stadium last night. With his side top of the table, already winners of the League Cup and through to the Quarter Finals of the Welsh FA Cup, The Premier Cup, which pits Welsh Premier sides against the four 'exiled' clubs of Cardiff, Swansea, Wrexham and Merthyr Tydfil, represented possibly the biggest challenge for Stuart Fairway's celebrated young side.
Cardiff - who began with players including England 'keeper Richard Wright, Norway star Alf-Inge Haaland, Wales international Robert Earnshaw and Australian international Danny Invincible, started the better side - and Pontlottyn's hopes looked to take a serious blow as early as the third minute - captain Scott Young , allegedly being courted by Premiership side Middlesbrough, heading home Jason Bowen's corner to put the 'English' outfit ahead.
Although shaken by the early goal, Pontlottyn responded admirably - and twice struck the woodwork, through Taylor on 10 and strike partner Richardson 4 minutes later. Kuipers was still the busier of the two 'keepers though - and Cardiff themselves were inches away from a second before the break, with the Dutchman unable to do anything about Robert Earnshaw's piledriver, and then header, against the crossbar. With one change at the break Fairway replaced a susprisingly lacklustre Poole with returning midfielder Chris McConville.
McConville, just back from an 8-match suspension, would have a key role to play - combining with Aaron Shanahan on 59 to set up Marcus Richardson for a very-well taken header that gave ex-Arsenal and Everton man Wright no chance. After the initial shock of conceding, Cardiff seemed to settle down to midfield play, with tight, defensive-minded manevuers and little in the way of attacking endevaour throughout the second half. Pontlottyn too seemed content to play out time, and at times seemed almost dumbstruck that they were holding the Second Division leaders.
Towards the end though the home team stepped up a gear - Chris McConville had a shot tipped wide on 85 before three minutes later came the stuff dreams are made of. 20-year old right back Robert Lawrence found himself in the right place at the right time - heading a cross from namesake Lee beyond Wright. There would be no comeback - Scottish prodigy Andy Rodgers did come close in injury time - tricking the goal's provider but then blasting over the top with Kuipers racing to narrow the angle.
After the match, the sheer gulf between the two sides was exposed. Furious Cardiff chairman Sam Hammam said; "I've spent £8.5 million on players this season. The Pontlottyn chairman has told me he has spent £60,000 - yet they seemed much more willing to fight for the cause, and got a result that, if you had told me it would happen before the game, I would have laughed about. I'm not happy at all".
Pontlottyn manager Fairway was more keen to focus on his own team than the 'superior' opposition. "We just went out and gave it 110%" he said. "I stressed to the lads ahead of the game how hard it would be, but they didn't get overawed and just gave it their all. There's a lot of tired players back in that changing room, and I know how they feel. It was an immense performance, from the 'keeper to the strikers"
After dumping perhaps the favourites for this competition out, Pontlottyn now face Connah's Quay over two legs in the Semi Finals. Quay, who have beaten Pontlottyn in their last two meetings, also beat English-based opposition, knocking out Merthyr Tydfil'
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Despite the heroics of Chris McConville, Fairway chose to stick with an unchanged side on Saturday for the League trip to Cwmbran Town . With the home side appointing legendary striker Dean Saunders as manager during the week, kickoff was - understandably, in Fairway's eyes - delayed whilst the ex-Liverpool man was presented to the crowd. With the formalities out of the way, Pontlottyn proceeded to ensure the Saunders era at Cwmbran wouldn't start with a victory. On 10 minutes Shanahan set up young David Taylor for a bullet header at goal - only for 'keeper O'Hagan to block. Marcus Richardson made no mistake, practically running the rebound into the net. Just under 20 minutes later, O'Hagan repeated his 'party trick' - this time spilling a Richardson header for Steve Soley to tap home from close range. It wasn't all Pontlottyn - Saunders will have been pleased with Chris Summers in particular, who caused problems and headed wide just before the interval, but the performance of stopper O'Hagan would be less impressive. Again, this time in the second half, the 31-year old dropped a clanger - and the ball - at the feet of David Taylor , who needed little invitation to poke home his 17th of the season. A fourth would have been harsh - and as the game progressed, O'Hagan did become more of a presence between the sticks, with a couple of good stops late on. A fine victory was rendered even more important after the match - Llanelli falling to defeat, to leave them in third - and Pontlottyn 12 points clear of Haverfordwest County at the top.
Another League match would follow on Wednesday (19th) - Total Network Solutions the visitors to the Furnace Stadium - and with just 10 games to go, talk of the title was really starting to spring up in both the stands and the changing room. Fairway took time out to remind his players that they still had some way to go yet - and also to introduce one of next season's new faces. Partick Thistle frontman Paul Walker would be joining on a Bosman free at the end of the season, and the manager was rather excited. Walker, 25, is a versatile player, with experience as both a centre-forward and a goal-getting left winger. Although especially known for his pace, a video and scout reports had convinced Fairway that Walker could to a job in the Welsh league. There would be just one change for the match against TNS - a clearly exhausted Rhodri Jones rested, with young Chris Thomas in his place. After a slow start to the game in tricky, windswept conditions, it was TNS who took the lead on 19 - with midfielder Mark Roberts continuing his amazing strike rate that has brought him 22 goals this season. Few had expected the visitors to open the scoring, and fewer still expected them to add a second - but on 30 John Toner did exactly that, shooting under the diving Kuipers as Roberts turned provider. With geniuine fears setting in amongst the home support - and players - Darren Poole did his best to allieviate concerns on 39, sending the 'keeper the wrong way after Perry had handled a Soley cross inside the box. With an ear-bashing at the interval, Fairway replaced Soley with McConville - but on 53, Wood crossed for Nicky Ward to rifle a third, ending any hopes of a comeback. He was at a loss to explain it - things failed to improve late on, with the result ending a run of 13 games unbeaten in all competitions.
Although a little disapointed, Fairway chose not to give his young team an ear-bashing - instead deciding that tiredness had played it's part. Therfore, for Saturday's (22nd) penultimate game of the month, away at fellow high-flyers Haverfordwest County , he rang the changes - bringing McConville, Jones and Kevan at the expense of Soley, Robert Lawrence and Carratt. The first half was - unfortunatley - not characterised by good play, but by unfortunate injuries. Whilst dangerman Matthew Lee-Williams limped off for Haverfordwest on 4 minutes, Alex Kevan had to be carried from the field just before half time, with Fairway particularly worried about his midfielder after a crunching challenge. With the game 'needing a goal', Fairway was unhappy to see it come for the opponents - Haverfordwest taking a less than deserved lead on 68 through Tom Billing. Three minutes later, and the scores were level - after a dire first half, all the afternoon's goal action was packed into a short spell, with Marcus Richardson getting Pontlottyn out of jail on 71 with a thunderous drive from Darren Poole's inswinging cross. There would be no glorious ending, although both sides had late chances a draw was perhaps the fairest result.
With the matches for the month now at an end, Fairway had a difficult decision to make. First of the youth products, winger Gareth Rees , would be out of contract at the end of the season. In his two senior starts for Pontlottyn - both in the Cups - the 17-year old had performed reasonably well, but, by all accounts, his loan spell at struggling Welshpool had revealed serious limitations to his game. In order to be fair, Fairway took the decision to end the loan spell - bringing Rees back to Furnace Park for three months that would prove crucial to his chances of staying involved with his hometown team.
"After rejecting a £30,000 bid for goalkeeper Alex O'Reilly last summer, Pontlottyn Blast Furnace manager Stuart Fairway has slapped the Irishman on the Transfer List in a bid to cut the wage bill at Furnace Park. "Alex is a good 'keeper" he said, before adding; "But Michel Kuipers has come in and forced him out - we've got young Craig Rees as another option, and I feel it's only fair to reduce our wage bill and get Alex the first team football he deserves elsewhere"
O'Reilly, 23, is known to be interesting Scottish side Falkirk , as well as other clubs across Europe. Meanwhile, Fairway has also confirmed that young winger Gareth Rees will not be offered a new deal at the end of the season. "Gareth was the first youth player to break through under my reign, and of course I'm sorry to be letting him go" he said. "But we feel that Gareth just isn't good enough for this level, and although he will be retained until the end of his contract, there will be no new deal at the end of the season".
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With transfer news out of the way, Fairway was pleased to be able to select a side for the first time in a week - Barry Town the visitors to the Furnace Stadium. Although now 'only' nine points clear at the top of the table, Fairway was mindful that this time last season, his side had won the title - and was keen to get that particular trophy wrapped up as soon as possible. His side, however, seemed to have other ideas - the defence all at sea early on, with Craig Owen taking advantage to sidefoot past a stranded Kuipers. As it was, Pontlottyn's equaliser on 22 was somewhat fortuitous as well - Lee Phillips deflecting an angled McConville drive past his own 'keeper. The goal gave Pontlottyn a boost, and on 44, Phil Carratt swept them into the lead after finding half a yard inside the box. Still Barry - and young forward Owen in particular - wouldn't give in, and bedore the break the visitors levelled, a volley providing the 18-year old's 11th of the campaign. After a disapointing first half though, the second half belonged to Pontlottyn - Shanahan hit the bar on 50, before Chris McConville finally put Pontlottyn ahead once more from the spot on 69. Though Barry looked to have little left in reserve, Darren Poole sent waves of relief around Furnace Park in injury time - before Chris McConville netted what, at the start of the day, looked like an unlikely fifth goal - the midfielder cracking home a wonderful drive to complete his 'pennance' after that 8-game ban.
With the victory, and poor results for the two chasing sides of Haverfordwest and Llanelli, Fairway was pleased that his side again siezed the initiative, moving back up to 11 points clear in the process. Perhaps - for the second season in a row - the title could be won in March. The week passed quietly, although on Friday Fairway was pleased to welcome Curtis Jackson back after recovering from a strained ankle. The striker - with 19 to his credit this season - was performing above Fairway's expectations, with the manager particularly wary of his tender years. With that in mind, Jackson would only make the bench in an otherwise unchanged side for Saturday's (8th) trip to Cwmbran Town in the Quarter Finals of the Welsh Cup. Dean Saunders men looked in confident mood - but just 6 minutes in, this optimistic start was crushed in emphatic fashion - Marcus Richardson scoring number 17 for the season with a powerful effort. On 15 however, Pontlottyn were pegged back - bit-part striker Mattie Davies staking his claim for more regular involvement with a powerful shot past 'keeper Kuipers. Chances then came thick and fast for both sides, with Cwmbran 'keeper O'Hagan in particular impressing after some calamatious handling in the League clash between the two sides last month. By far the best chance of normal time, however, came right at the death - and from an unlikely source. Sub Ryan Dorrian, hardly a regular for Pontlottyn, got real power behind his shot, but just dragged it wide with the 'keeper beaten. Extra Time though was by far a more nervy period for the visitors - both Chris Summers and especially Mattie Davies unfortunate not to end Pontlottyn's quadruple dreams. The inevitable came moments later - a final whistle that ensured spot kicks would settle this tighest of cup ties. Cwmbran kicked first - and Summers promptly missed, sending his kick straight at Kuipers. McConville then put Pontlottyn ahead, before Davies, Poole, Cwmbran's Thomas and Rhodri Jones for Pontlottyn all successfully converted their kicks. The vital kick for Pontlottyn came from Phil Carratt - and while he made no mistake, battling Cwmbran winger Adam Moore balooned his kick over the bar to end his teams' hopes. It was a harsh way to end what had perhaps been Pontlottyn's most even match of the season - both 'keepers totally exhausted at the end of 120 epic minutes.
Although he felt sorry for opposite number Saunders, Fairway felt more relief than anything else - his side had, yet again, won a crucial game - and will play Haverfordwest County in the Semi Finals. As well as the draw on Sunday, Fairway also had a transfer bid to deal with. Some £20,000 less than the previous year - but this time, Alex O'Reilly could go. £10,000 was enough to secure talks, and both Malmo FC and Falkirk took the opportunity. It took the Irish stopper just 12 hours to decide his future lay in Scotland, rather than Sweden - moving to become one of six 'keepers at the Scottish Division One outfit. Fairway immediatley promoted young Craig Rees to the first team squad - confident that the teenager, an impressive cup display under his belt earlier in the campaign, had what it takes if called upon.
Despite his confidence about Rees, Fairway was also keen to bring in - at least on a temporary basis - a third 'keeper, to add extra cover. Again he went back to England - with Nuneaton Borough stopper Chris McKenzie asked back for a second spell at Pontlottyn, until the end of the season. With McKenzie - and Nuneaton - mulling over the bid, it would be Rees on the bench for Saturday's (15th) trip to Port Talbot Town , a match which would also see a return to fitness of midfielder Alex Kevan . Other than the the two changes on the bench, Fairway made no other switches - knowing that victory would practically end third-placed Llanelli's Championship charge, and seriously dent the hopes of Haverfordwest. With this on his mind, an early goal certainly helped matters - Chris McConville thumping home his 20th goal of the season on 12. The lead wouldn't last long - Craig Hanford a hero for Port Talbot, scoring his second of the season on the half hour in some style. Despite running the play, Pontlottyn found it difficult to convert possession into chances - and after a frustrated Richardson saw yellow just before the break, Fairway swapped him with Jackson in a bid to inject pace into the front line. If anything though, it was Port Talbot who seized the initative after the break - Kuipers making a superb one-handed stop to deny Carpenter, before finally, the home side made a breakthrough - sub Mark Dodds meeting a superb Regan cross on 78 to head Port Talbot into the lead. This spurred Pontlottyn into action - Carratt had a stinging volley well held by the experinced Freestone, before Poole hit the side netting. Finally, in injury time, the Port Talbot player/manager would be beaten - Jackson's volley skidding on the wet turf, giving Freestone no chance - and David Taylor was in the right place to smash home the rebound. It was indeed unfortunate for Freestone's players, who had given it their all - and were very close to securing what would have been a memorable scalp. The title would have to wait - but for how long?
On Monday morning Chris McKenzie put pen to paper on a loan deal - his second stint at Pontlottyn in a single season. Although losing his understudy status didn't seem to phaze young 'keeper Craig Rees , Fairway was at pains to point out to the teenager that he would get his chance next season - with less reserve team action, but more travelling with the First Team squad - perhaps, both Fairway and Rees hoped, in Europe to boot.
McKenzie's chance in the first team would come sooner than anyone expected - Kuipers suffering from an unexplained lack of fitness ahead of Saturday's (22nd) visit of Bangor - minus their star striker, 21-year old Gareth Barton, away on International duty with the Wales Under 21's. The big Dutchman did make the bench - between the sticks the only change to the team that were held a week previous. A sellout crowd packed the Furnace Stadium - but the vast majority were to be disapointed. Bangor began very well, with McKenzie picking the ball out of his net three times in five minutes (20, 23 and 25) - with Daniel Lloyd, a striker who could have signed for Pontlottyn, claiming a hatrick. It looked hard to see a way back for Pontlottyn after that - although Marcus Richardson restored some hope on 70 - but by the time Chris Ware had added a fourth on 76, the game was long since lost. Despite conceding four however, McKenzie stood up well in a hard-pressed defence. One of those days for Pontlottyn? - It certainly seemed so, with Fairway at least releived to note that both Llanelli and Haverfordwest slipped up - the latter side gaining the only point of any of the top three on Saturday.
With Michel Kuipers returned to the team for the trip to third-placed Llanelli on the final weekend of March, Fairway got one of the more intelligent members of his squad to do the maths. Two victories would do it - and where better to start than here. It certainly began well - Darren Poole shot Pontlottyn ahead from the game's first attack on 15 - but on 23, Steven Devonald provided the corner for young striker David Hughes to head Llanelli level. Three minutes later, Healey found Carl Mainwaring - and 'Napoleon' grabbed his 15th of the season with a shot that would have tested the best of 'keepers, through a crowd of players. Llanelli continued to pressurise - even midfielder Fred Wilson, on loan from Pontlottyn, close with a rising drive. Fairway, however, had his half-time notes ripped up - but in the right way. On the stroke of half time David Taylor struck a crucial equaliser after Hidie had failed to deal with a Richardson effort - and the game was again on. Pontlottyn went all out for victory in the second half - but hadn't reckoned on giving away a silly free kick on 53. Marvin Arthur blasted Llanelli back into the lead, and they never looked back - 19-year old stopper Hidie had the game of his life in goal, and some wasteful finishing denied Pontlottyn the victory Fairway so craved.
Suddenly, things didn't look quite so promising. Four League games to go, and a gap of just five points at the top of the table - as well as three critical Cup matches - a one-off Welsh Cup Semi Final, and the Two legged Premier Cup affair, on the cards in April. A crucial month would begin with some bad news - Dutch coach Pieter Huistra telling Fairway he had no intention of extending his contract when it expired at the end of the season. Just to further dampen the manager's spirits, scout Jamie Lewis , also out of contract in three months, also refused talks over a new one.
The backroom problems, however, would have to be put to one side as Fairway named an unchanged side for the first game of the month on Saturday (5th). Haverfordwest County the hosts - and a place in the Cup Final the prize.
'Back to Business - Pontlottyn Blast into Cup Final'
'Pontlottyn Blast Furnace have shrugged off recent poor results to beat Haverfordwest County 3-1, and put themselves into the Welsh Cup Final against Newtown .
After shaky performances of late, Pontlottyn got off to the perfect start - with David Taylor meeting a Chris McConville cross after just two minutes to head the ball past 'keeper David Blower and claim his 20th goal of the season. Just nine minutes later, the home side at the ball in the net - but, to the consternation of the home crowd, referee Jones ruled out a Price effort for offside. The disallowed 'goal' only seemed to spur Pontlottyn on, and on 19, they went 2-0 ahead. Captain Rhodri Jones , who has already lifted the League Cup this season, climbed to glance home Phil Carratt's whipped-over corner - and plenty in the away end thought victory was assured.
As it was, Pontlottyn would have to work a little harder - Tom Billing forcing Kuipers into a fine save on the stroke of half time. The loose ball fell to Alex Davies , and the 22-year old attacking midfielder siezed his chance, striking the ball powerfully, but keeping it low, to evade the desparate hands of the Dutchman and make things a little less clear-cut.
While the Second half began in quieter fashion, on 51 came a moment that David Taylor may live to regret - the goalscorer picking up a booking which will see him miss Pontlottyn's crucial League match against Connah's Quay next week. Despite this, he didn't seem too downbeat - not allowing the upcoming ban to affect his perfomance - and on 72, Taylor's pace down the flank set up a chance for sub Steve Soley to cross - Aaron Shanahan gleefully connecting to send the ball beyond Blower and into the net. This time, there would be no comeback - with the victory ending a 4-game streak without a win.
Manager Fairway however, was just relieved to get the game out of the way. "I always expected it to be tough, and they certainly gave us a good workout" he said. "Haverfordwest have some great young players, and I expect this last month to be very tough in the league".
Opposite number Deryn Brace , one of the youngest player/managers around at 27, said; "I don't think it'll be a physcological blow in the League race. Obviously we wanted to do as well in the Cup as we can, but as the cliche goes, we will now be able to concentrate on the league, whilst Pontlottyn are still competing in three competitions. I hope we can bounce back from this to overhaul them in the title race - we don't want them having everything their own way!"
Despite Brace's comments, it does indeed look as if Pontlottyn could go on to acheive the Quadruple - with the League Cup already won, and a crucial Premier Cup Semi Final First Leg match ahead in midweek. With that in mind perhaps, Fairway made three changes after 66 minutes - but for now, there is only one Cup Final on the lips of Pontlottyn fans everywhere"
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It would be a risk - but one Fairway would have to take. With one eye on the League match - ironically also against Connah's Quay on Saturday, he left out Darren Poole, Robert Lawrence and Phil Carratt for Tuesday's (8th) First Leg of the Premier Cup Semi Final. On a cold, but dry evening at the Furnace Stadium, Fairway was delighted when, with his side's first real attack, one of his 'stand-ins' put them ahead. Alex Kevan , a man who has so often this season been in the right place at the right time, did it again - a downward header from McConville's wicked cross to beat 'keeper Mulliner. Although 'Quay were shocked by the goal, they were still a potent threat - and just before the break, veteran Kenworthy put through the lethal goalscoring teenager Alec Sumner, only for Kuipers to 'earn his corn' with a stunning stop. The visitors again attacked after the break - both Terry and Sumner causing problems, before Steve Soley netted with a beautiful chipped shot on 62 to beat the stranded Mulliner. The 'keeper had strayed off his line, and when presented with a Kevan pass, Soley tried something that usually wouldn't even work on the training ground. This time, it did - dropping just behind the desparing stopper to double Pontlottyn's lead. While the crowd - a miserly 193 - was of huge disapointment for Fairway, Connah's Quay were still more of a worry - and on 69, Alec Sumner finally pulled one back. With 'away goal' alarm bells ringing in his ears, Fairway was amongst the most enthusiastic in clapping 'keeper Kuipers after a tremendous stop from Mutton on 72 - but even more so right at the death. A dangerous Kevan ball into the box fell just pefectly for Marcus Richardson to connect - and send Pontlottyn into the Second Leg on a far healthier footing.
Before all that though, there would be a League match - again at home, and again against Connah's Quay - to worry about. With things increasingly tense at the top, Fairway recalled Poole, Lawrence and Carratt - but would rest Rhodri Jones, Chris McConville, Alex Kevan and had to do without the banned David Taylor. Again Fairway turned to his mathematicians. Again, they told him that two wins would be enough - the league would not be won this afternoon, regardless of how Haverfordwest fared at Newtown. Despite this, stand-in skipper Steve Soley looked delighted with his 15th of the season on 11, and things would only get better. The back-in-favour Curtis Jackson drilled home a second on 16 for his 20th, and then on 22, another - the youngster bagging the Third of the afternoon from Thomas' far post cross. On 30 however, Robert Lawrence limped off to be replaced by Jones - with Fairway silently praying that his side suffered no further injuries. At half time, he took the decision - hauling off Carratt and Richardson with an eye on the Premier Cup match in midweek. Connah's Quay took advantage of the extra space, and on 58 - two minutes after Kuipers had punched clear - Alec Sumner pulled one back after a fine jinking run. 8 minutes later, Kuipers was unable to deal with the youngster a second time - and Sumner poked home his second, bringing the scores to 3-2. With Pontlottyn in something resembling disarray, Tommy Mutton stabbed home an equaliser five minutes from time - bringing a sold-out Furnace Park to - at least in the home end - silence. One further twist, however, was yet to come - and Steve Soley provided it - crashing home a Poole cross to seal the victory. A nervy wait would then follow...
In the changing room after the game, Fairway absorbed the news. Haverfordwest County could only draw with Newtown - meaning Pontlottyn just needed a draw to seal their second title in succession. Before that though, there would be a third game against Connah's Quay - this time at the Deeside Stadium - back in the Premier Cup. Pontlottyn would have to go through that game without Robert Lawrence - the right back ruled out for 10 days after suffering a bruised thigh in the epic victory. He evaulated his options on Tuesday morning. Lawrence was definatley out of Saturday's 'League decider' whatever - but with his side carrying a 2-goal advantage, he had contemplated fielding a weakened team. In the end, after hours of debate with Assistant Tony Adams, he decided against it - although Darren Poole would miss out, with 'forgotten man' Lee Withe operating on the right in his place. Fairway's final instructions to his men were blunt - "get it wrapped up early, then start thinking about Saturday. No silly injuries". Steve Soley obviously heard the first part of his instruction - drilling home a Withe cross in the second minute to practically end Connah's Quay's hopes. 10 minutes later though, an injury to Phil Carratt certainly wasn't in the script. As Fairway worried about his young winger, Curtis Jackson put the game beyond reasonable doubt - heading home a Soley corner in the 37th minute to make it 5-1 on aggreagate. The Second Half was a real washout - 'Quay, sensing their lack of hope, seemed to play within themselves, with even Alec Sumner proving little threat. They managed just two chances all evening - while Pontlottyn were hardly better themselves. That though, would not be a problem - they had done it, and would be in the Final of the Premier Cup - against Wrexham .
The news on Phil Carratt wouldn't be so good. A broken toe for the 20-year old would keep him out of Saturday's crucial league game with Aberystwyth Town - but he would be back in contention for the two Cup Finals, both in the early part of May. He looked over his team again in the changing room. Breezy and wet outside - with a humid feel thanks no doubt to some recent thundery showers. Just the sort of weather in which 16th placed Aberystwyth could cause an upset. This time, Fairway expected no favours from Deryn Brace's Haverfordwest - they too would travel, but to bottom of the league Welshpool, a game that, even on a normal day, they would be expected to win comfortably, let alone one as important as this. They all knew a point would do - but, as they prepared to step onto the field at Park Avenue, Fairway reminded them that it was not what their supporters had travelled to see. More importantly, it was not what he wanted to see.
'Pontlottyn Blast Furnace have secured their Second Welsh Premier League Championship in succession with a 4-0 demolition of Aberyswtyth Town at Park Avenue this afternoon. Although Second-Placed Haverfordwest County destroyed Welshpool 5-2, it would not be enough, with Deryn Brace's men needing Pontlottyn to lose their final three games of a hectic season.
With a place in the Premier Cup Final secured in midweek, Stuart Fairway's side looked likely to win the league here from the off - going a goal up inside five minutes when Lee Lawrence fired home a Taylor cross to put his side ahead. When David Taylor notched up a second six minutes later - steering home a Chris McConville pass - the day looked all but over for the hosts, who have had a dreadful season.
Pontlottyn then went goal-crazy - Alex Kevan scoring twice in three minutes, on 19 and 22, to end any resistance, the first a powerful header and the second a wonderful shot to conclude a mazy run. From then on, the game really became the supporting act - Pontlottyn's army of supporters celebrated on the terraces, also including the Aberystwyth fans who have seen precious little success this year. Whilst the second half was a patch on the first for entertainment - the rain strengthening - supporters of both teams stayed behind to clap the worthy Champions off a rain-lashed pitch at the end.
Speaking after the game, Pontlottyn Manager Stuart Fairway said; "I'm so pleased, and I'm so proud of my players - this meant a lot to them, and today they've paid our supporters back for those poor performances both last month, and just before Christmas. I'm happy for me, but most of all, I'm happy for the players - this is just an amazing experience, and one that's even better than last year"
Pontlottyn could still make history - with the League Cup in the bag, and now the Championship, the Blast now have the Finals of both the Welsh Cup and Premier Cup competitions to play - both coming at their own fortress-like Furnace Park home. Captain Rhodri Jones however says the players are not phased at the prospect. "We all want the Quadruple" he said. "It's not been done before, so to get our names in the record books would be brilliant. We know it won't be easy - Newtown and Wrexham are both good teams, and we will have to work hard for it - but this season, we've proved that we're not afraid of a battle".
Pontlottyn will be presented with the Trophy next Saturday, ahead of their final Home League game of the season, against Caersws .
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Now they had done it - The League in addition to the League Cup, and for Fairway, the realisation of a dream - for the second season in a row, Pontlottyn Blast Furnace would be competing for the European Cup. It might not be a long run in the competition - but the opportunity was enough for most.
There would be just one change on Wednesday (23rd), with Steve Soley back into the side in place of McConville for the League visit of bottom club Welshpool . With the hard work done, and Welshpool 'celebrating' another abysmal campaign at the bottom, little was expected of the game - and other than a 6th minute disallowed goal for Pontlottyn, there was indeed little for referee Thomas to worry about. Both sides had chances, but the game - unfortunate for the 1998 in attendance - had the feel of what it was, an end of season game between two sides who could do little to improve their current, but totally opposite, positions. Pontlottyn did seal it - on 79 Steve Soley added number 18 for the season with a low drive following Kevan's pass. Not that it mattered now, but Fairway also noted another defeat for Haverfordwest - a 1-0 reverse against Cefn Druids - bringing the gap between the teams back to 10 points.
The following morning Robert Lawrence returned to training - Fairway keen for him to be involved in the climax of the league season against Caersws on Saturday to build up fitness ahead of the two Cup Finals. It was on Friday however that Fairway was reminded of the 'other side' of this success. In what is likely to be his final match for Pontlottyn, young Gareth Rees put in a Man of the Match performance - and scored - for the reserves in a win over Caersws. It would come too late to save his career at his boyhood club, but Fairway hoped that some - lower-league - suitors had scouts in attendance for the performance.
Fairway recalled both Lawrence and Chris McConville for the final league match - which, of course, began with Rhodri Jones collecting the Championship trophy from Welsh FA president David Collins . With the 'suits' in attendance, Fairway told his side to go out and impress - and impress they did. Alex Kevan curled home a brilliant opener on 4 minutes to claim his 10th of the season, while three minutes later Marcus Richardson notched up his 20th, heading home a Shanahan cross. A third quickly followed - Aaron Shanahan joining the 'record men' with his fifth of the campaign. Mistakes for Pontlottyn have been rare this season - but on 34, Marcus Richardson put through his own net, diverting a Howells free kick past Kuipers. Just before the break Graham Evans pulled the scores back to 4-2 - and those from the Welsh FA certainly had an entertaining game, if not a technical demonstration of how the game should be played. While on the pitch the second half was little to write home about, off it, Collins was making another presentation - a cheque for £180,000 for winning the League. It - and, of course, the 4-2 victory - would prove an ideal end for the League season. With it out of the way, the Cups could take priority.
The winger nodded sadly - as did Fairway - the 20-year old having failed a fitness test on his broken toe - and ruling him out of a place in the team for Sunday's (4th) Cup Final. Elsewhere, there would be some tough decisions to make - but other than Carratt, Fairway had no injury worries. The weather would be suitable - dry and warm, with a pleasant spring sunshine breaking through some early morning mist.
'Pontlottyn Blast Furnace have continued their incredible season by beating Newtown 2-1 in a nervy Welsh Cup Final. Pontlottyn, who had already won the League and League Cup, have now completed the treble - but certainly had to work against a tough Newtown side.
Newtown started the better after a nervy opening period, and on 18 minutes, Paul Roberts rifled a shot against the upright. The visitors did look the better side - restricting Pontlottyn to midfield scrambles, and on 34 it needed a fine stop by Michel Kuipers in the Pontlottyn goal to deny David Watkins. Perhaps suprising then - but it was in fact Pontlottyn's first chance that gave them the lead on 40. Richardson won the ball in midfield, and swept it wide for Lee Lawrence to hit a deep cross. David Taylor was on the end of it - outjumping Anuerin Thomas to head Pontlottyn into the lead. Within 60 seconds Newtown were level - Wickham swooping onto a well-worked pass, before keeping his cross low - Paul Roberts crashing home an unstoppable drive to keep things tight into the half time interval.
With Marcus Richardson unusually subdued, Fairway replaced the striker at half time - but how many managers have the luxury of Curtis Jackson on the bench? - the prodigious 17-year old delivered, with a stunning volley on 59 from Shanahan's deep ball into the area. With victory seemingly assured, the game lost a lot as a spectacle - but in the 'finest' traditions of Cup Finals, neither side ever hit anything approaching top gear.
Right at the death, Newtown could have forced extra time - Roberts dragging the ball back, only for sub Terry Green to head over the top, with Kuipers never threatened. The final whistle came moments later - Rhodri Jones collecting the Cup - and for Pontlottyn, the dream of an unprecedented Quadruple is still very much on'
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Whilst on the pitch it was all sweetness and light ahead of the Premier Cup Final, off it was a different matter. Scout Jamie Lewis , Coach Pieter Huistra and young winger Gareth Rees all left on Tuesday (6th) at the expiration of their contracts. By Wednesday, Phil Carratt returned after injury - and walked straight back into the team. Although Fairway felt it harsh on Alex Kevan , Carratt is a more natural winger - and with a very tricky game against Wrexham to complete the season on Sunday (11th), he felt that Carratt's natural energy and pace would present more of a threat.
It would be the only change to his side - Rhodri Jones leading them onto the Furnace Park pitch for the final time this season. Three trophies down, one to go. Would they do it? - Could they do it? - Fairway swallowed hard. He would soon find out...
'Pontlottyn Blast Furnace have become the first team to win all four domestic Welsh trophies in a season, after defeating Wrexham 4-2 on penalties to win the Premier Cup. The game - at a packed Furnace Park - started in the worst possible way for the hosts, with right-back Robert Lawrence limping off within the opening minute to be replaced by Chris Kitson.
Both teams had chances in the first half - the best probably coming for Pontlottyn on 29, when McConville forced Irish 'B' 'keeper Joe Murphy into a fine reflex save. Wrexham's best move came on 44, entirely crafted in the Carribean - Trinidad & Tobago international Carlos Edwards crossed for club and country teammate Hector Sam, only for the 21-goal hitman to crash a drive over the bar.
After a scrappy start to the second half, Wrexham's superior fitness began to tell, with the English-based side seeming to camp inside the Pontlottyn area at times. Michel Kuipers was quickly forced into action, making four stops in the space of a minute on 70, before Fairway wisely injected some fresh legs in the form of Steve Soley (Replacing McConville) and Curtis Jackson (Richardson). Although desperatley hanging on at times, Pontlottyn did threaten on 88 - Darren Poole slashing wildly at a cross, volleying well wide of Joe Murphy's posts. Despite Wrexham looking the better side, Extra Time saw things even up - both sets of players seeming to tire, with penalties the inevitable result. The home side kicked first, with Darren Poole scoring, before Hector Sam replied for Wrexham. David Taylor then made it two, before Mark Evans thumped his shot against the post to hand Pontlottyn the initative. Phil Carratt made no mistake, whilst Wrexham's Bennett kept his side in with a low, powerful effort. Sub Curtis Jackson then scored to pile the pressure on Man of the Match Tony Barras. The 32-year old defender wearily stepped up, and shot at goal - only to be denied by a superb Kuipers save.
Speaking immediatley after the game, a clearly emotional Stuart Fairway said; "I'm so proud, so very proud - we've achieved what nobody said we would, and I'm delighted for the boys. This means so much to all of us".
Pontlottyn, who were awarded £100,000 in prize money after their victory, are confident that they will be able to keep hold of both their manager and multi trophy-winning squad. Chairman Fred Watson told BBC Sport; "Stuart has achieved miracles here, and we want him to stay as long as possible. Of course, he should be attracting the attention of other clubs, as should our players, but there is absolutley no way we want to loose any of them. Stuart will be given a substantial amount of money to spend next season, should he want to improve the squad of course".
Despite Watson's optimisim, it's hard to see Fairway staying in Wales forever - and certainly that will also be the case with some of his young squad. Tonight though, any fears of Pontlottyn fans are far away - the Quadruple is something worth celebrating'
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On Wednesday (14th) Fairway collected the Welsh Manager of the Year award - but, unlike last season, there would be no prizes for his players - David Taylor's Runners-Up medal in the Welsh Young Player of the Year category. Taylor's award - or perhaps, his 22 goals this season, earnt him a callup to the Wales Under 21's - back in the squad for a game against Portugal.
While Taylor could live it up at the expense of the Welsh FA, Fairway had a hard decision to make. A bid of £20,000 was in - skipper Rhodri Jones the target on Saturday (24th) - and by Sunday, Jones had agreed a move to St Patricks Athletic . Although pleased with his captain, Fairway couldn't ignore the bid - and with the promise of over £200,000 to spend in the summer, he decided to cash in. Also leaving the club - albeit in June - was Fred Wilson . After a season on loan at Llanelli, Fairway came to another tough decision, listing the Australian-born youngster. Perth Glory were waiting with the invitation, and the £10,000 cheque - enough for the midfielder to return home.
Jones' replacement would arrive before the end of the month - Fairway announcing the first Andorran to play in Wales, with the signing of 8-times capped Chema on a free transfer. As the central defender, a natural left-footer, booked in, loanee goalkeeper Chris McKenzie booked out - heading back to Nuneaton after his second loan spell at the Furnace Stadium.
While Fred Wilson left the club on his pre-arranged transfer back to Oz on the 8th, Fairway would have to wait until the 22nd of the month, a Sunday, to discover his 'duties' for next season. This time, the board knew what to expect - or at least, knew what they wanted. The title - a 'Serious Championship Challenge' the official wording, but Fairway knew exactly what that meant. More positivley, David Taylor collected the Fans' Player of the Year award for the second time in a row - but it was what his board wanted that worried Fairway the most. Indeed, it left him - for the first time - considering his own future.
Any thoughts of departure would be put off - at least temporarily, as Fairway waited for the Champions League draw on Wednesday (25th). Before that though, he would have to - with a heavy heart in some cases - reject approaches for Preseason Friendlies. With an eye on Europe, Fairway decided against his side hosting Tottenham Hotspur and St Eitienne amongst others. He would chose the Friendly opponents on his own terms - should he still be here...
'Pontlottyn Blast Furnace have been drawn against Neftchi Baku in the First Qualifying Round for the European Champions League. Should Stuart Fairway's men - as expected - overcome their opponents, they face a far more challenging tie against FC Kobenhavn of Denmark in the Second Qualifying Round.
For More Reaction, see tomorrow's Glamorgan Gazette
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It made up Fairway's mind for him - his time at Pontlottyn should end. The promotion of a third Youth product, 17-year old midfielder Paul Edwards did make him briefly reconsider, but the suprise retirement of Scout Craig Dodds did little to alieviate the growing resentment Fairway felt towards his board of directors. Pressure was fine - but to publically pile it on his young team, and - to boot - continually ignore his request to improve Pontlottyn's woeful training facilities or usually-packed Furnace Stadium, was more than enough.
Epilouge
On the 30th of June 2003, Stuart Fairway resigned his post as manager of Pontlottyn Blast Furnace. In two seasons, he won Two League Championships and all three Welsh Cup competitions once. In addition, in 103 games, his side lost on just 13 occasions, drawing even less - 11, with 288 goals scored and 117 conceded.
On a Personal basis, Fairway collected Nine awards, including Two Welsh Manager of the Year accolades, and also earnt himself a reputation of 'Fair' in Wales - surpassing even that of National coach Mark Hughes.
Authors Notes;
Thanks for reading this one, it's been a pleasure to write. I have decided to end the story here for a couple of reasons - namely the forthcoming release of Football Manager 2005 ( \o/ Gratis copy, again :thup: ) - and that I also feel the story has reached a natural conclusion. I could bang on for years trying - and, no doubt, failing - in European Competition, but to be honest I think it would be pretty dull to read, let alone write about. This game will continue 'offline' - I've resigned and am just going to see if any jobs come up.
I have enjoyed it immensley though - to be honest, I had totally forgotten that I switched Pontlottyn into the League, so when I saw them again, it made sense to manage. Incidentally, I believe I was bloody lucky with the players I bought - just a basic 4-4-2, and well, the stats speak for themselves. I hope you have enjoyed reading, and I'm looking forward to writing my first Football Manager story. I've got a good idea who I'll be in charge of as well...
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