Cwmbran Celtic vs Ammanford

Cwmbran Celtic’s home playing record versus Ammanford going into this match was played 8 won 8 but, in an entertaining game between two evenly matched sides, they were pleased to come away with a 4th draw in their last 5 home games because it keeps them 4 points clear of their opponents, now unbeaten in their last 6 games, who are the only side who can realistically deny Celtic a top half finish in the league.

The defences dominated in the 1st half, the only shot of note being from 46-year-old ex-Swansea pro Lee Trundle whose shot was well saved by Josh Winstone diving to his left.

After the break Celtic took the lead in the 49th minute when Josh Rippon leapt like a salmon at the far post to loop his header from a Lewis Iles cross over keeper Morris into the net. The visitors were soon level when, on 53 minutes, a cross-shot from wide on the left by Jay Thomas flew into the net giving Winstone no chance – a superb effort.

Ammanford were on top in the closing stages. Trundle smashed the ball against the bar and Birch’s goal bound shot was well saved by Winstone diving to his right.

A mention for referee Gavin Townsend, who as befits his track record, had a fine game.

Celtic will guarantee themselves 8th place in the table if they win against 14th placed Trefelin next Saturday. The Port Talbot side have failed to win since 6 December in their last 13 league games (lost 9 drawn 4), but as Celtic have found in recent weeks against the bottom two Ynyshir and Swansea University, Trefelin will no doubt scrap to the death.