Abertillery Excelsiors - 2 

Blaenavon Blues - 3

IN a hard fought game, the Blues maintained their composure and just get the better of a tenacious Abertillery Excelsiors outfit.

Blues manager Charlie Attard made six changes from last week's team who were beaten by PILCS. Keeper Wayne Ottley returned after a week's suspension, Ryan Simons, Marc Browning, and Lloyd Jeffries were all given a run out and a new centre back pairing of Daryl Brenton and Matthew Cox were given the job of stiffening up the Blues back four.

Blues looked to be solid at the back but after 15 minutes Excelsior's took the lead with a scrappy goal from their striker Delmy Wickett.

A good run by Josh Bull resulted in Craig Tanner shooting inches wide. Excelsior's Wickett forced Ottley to make a good save at the expense of a corner. On the 30 minute mark Excelsior's Matthew Lewis headed against the bar and then headed the rebound over.

Blues equalised right on half time, when Bull latched onto a through ball and calmly beat Parsons in the Excelsior's goal.  

The second half continued in the same vein, and a clever run by Penry saw him set up Bull who was in turn taken down in the box. Craig Tanner stepped up and calmly despatched the penalty for a 2-1 lead.

Back came Excelsiors and after Ryan Simons fouled Thomas in the box, Leigh Bull converted the spot kick to level the scores. Josh Bull had a golden opportunity to finish the game off but his effort was saved by Parsons in the Excelsior's goal.

In the last five minutes of play Craig Tanner, who had caused Excelsior's problems all afternoon, was brought down. Lee Penry took the responsibility of the penalty and converted it with some style. Blues held on for the remaining minutes to secure three valuable points.  

Next week the Blues entertain Albion Rovers at the Memorial ground with a 3pm kick-off.