Caerau (Ely) FC vs Cwmbran Celtic

Match Report

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Celtic went into this game hoping to make it three wins in a row after victories over Cambrian & Clydach and Ammanford in recent weeks.

However, it quickly became evident that Caerau (Ely) were going to prove tough opponents. They totally dominated the early stages and it was no surprise when they took the lead after 12 minutes when Jack Turner rose unchallenged to head home a corner from Liam Bishop. Caerau’s free- flowing football and movement continued to cause Celtic problems and the Managers changed the team formation to try to combat this. This improved things a little and Celtic equalised in the 22^nd minute when a corner from Isaac Powell evaded Shaun Gardiner in the home goal and found its way into the net at the far post.

While Celtic had more of the game for the remainder of the half, it was Caerau who always looked the more dangerous, particularly down the left flank where George Sheppard was a constant threat and Celtic were lucky that none of his excellent crosses were converted.

Half time: Caerau (Ely) 1 Celtic 1

Caerau continued to dominate at the start of the second half and quickly went into a 3-1 lead with striker Brandon Griffiths scoring goals in the 50^th & 55^th minute both assisted by the impressive Tom McLean. Although Celtic pulled a goal back in the 58^th minute with an excellent goal from Alex Bonthron, Caerau’s dominance continued and it was only a string of fine saves by Iwan Hooper that prevented them increasing their lead.

However, another goal did eventually arrive in the 81^st minute when substitute Dan Bowen eventually beat Hooper with a well placed shot after the Celtic defence missed several opportunities to clear the danger.

This was a comprehensive win for Caerau. Their movement, technical ability and speed were too good for Celtic on this occasion. Caerau’s League position suggests that they don’t perform at this level on a consistent basis, but they are a young team and if they stay together and add this consistency to their game they will undoubtedly be challenging at the top end of the League in future seasons.

Full time Caerau (Ely) 4 Celtic 2

MoM: Iwan Hooper

A few images from the game