Penycae - 1

Blaenavon Blues - 3

WITH a severely limited squad the Blaenavon Blues gave a good account of themselves in North Wales on Saturday as they battled Welsh National League side Penycae in the quarter finals of the FAW Trophy.

Having never reached this stage of the competition before the club was relished the opportunity to play a north Wales side that compete at two levels higher than the Blues in the FAW Pyramid system.

From the kick-off the Blues immediately set about pressurising the Penycae side and forcing mistakes.

The front pair of Darren Harris and Neil Cox worked extremely hard to close down Penycae who rather than resorting to goal kicks and long balls played their football out of defence.

Ward, Wathen, Harris and Belli's staunch defensive work allowed the Blues midfield and attack to start creating opportunities, and following some good work down the left wing, Neil Cox tucked away a cross into the box for a deserved lead.

Penycae piled on the pressure and the Blues defence held out almost until the interval, but Penycae managed to just slot a corner past the unlucky young Blues keeper Alex Bull.

In the second-half the Blues did well to soak up a constant barrage from Penycae, but come the hour Penycae managed to sneak another corner in at the far post to take the lead.

The Blues kept their heads up and continued to attack, but failed to break down the resolute Penycae defence.

Ten minutes before time, one such attacking opportunity down the flank by the Blues resulted in the ball being given away far too easily as Penycae countered and scored their third.

The Blues refused to capitulate and continued to attack and create chances.

Michael Waite who was outstanding in the second half had a few individual efforts saved and created a couple for Harris and White, which the keeper again saved and tipped onto the crossbar respectively.

Despite giving their all, the Blues could not find any further goals in what was a well contested and good spirited game with both sides playing excellent football.

The Blues players must be given credit for their performance, who with a severely limited squad, battled for the full 90 minutes and showed that on their day, they can be a match for any team including those in higher divisions.

Hopefully the Blues can show this type of effort and commitment for the remainder of the season and ensure a comfortable league position rather than being involved in a relegation battle.

A spokesman for the club told the Chronicle, "The players and supporters of Blaenavon Blues would like to thank Penycae F.C for such a great game and the friendship and hospitality they showed everyone after the game by providing food and refreshments."