Heads held up high as Magpies go out.

Cup games are a mainstay of the Barmouth tradition, and Saturday was no exception. Leading up to the game it was all put into jeopardy with heavy rain in the area, but the hard work of Gareth the Groundsman and others ensured the pitch was at it’s immaculate best. A bumper crowd of over 300 was in attendance to watch the second round clash. With the visitors bringing a coach of travelling supporters who were in good voice throughout.

Manager Iolo Owen came in to the game looking to build on last weeks 3-0 victory over high flying Amlwch Town, which saw both Billy Jones with a brace and Ben Fisher, score all three goals from outside the box. Missing for the game was Jamie Jones, who was injured in training, and Ste Bratt who was working.

Llanidloes Town, the Daffs, came into the game sitting comfortably on top of the Mid Wales Division 1 table, having not lost a single league game all season. The game got underway with the visitors winnings the toss and deciding to make the magpies switch sides. From the kick off it was clear the magpies would be tested, but as the game grew they were giving a good account of themselves, the first half was a test of attrition for both teams, each testing each other’s practice, but with no real end product. Alex Evans in goal was called into action with 15 minutes left of the half, following a deflated shot he reacted superbly to his right hand side and pushed the ball out for a corner. The half ended with the Magpies on top for the last five minutes, Ieuan Brooks holding the ball up then putting Ben Fisher through on goal only to shoot just wide.

The second half started with a frantic pace, from the kick off The Daffs pressed, forcing a corner seconds into the half, and following up with several chances, a couple of shots wide and a save from goalkeeper Alex Evans kept the game level. But on 49 minutes the visitors took the lead, a good move down the left saw Striker Connor Bird running in from midfield and unmarked, the ball was squared to him, and he fired it into the goal. Not dejected the Magpies took charge of the game and for the last 20 minutes they were clearly on top with Osian Owen down the left for Barmouth setting the example. His log throws were putting Llanidloes under constant pressure but it was not enough in the end. Captain Carwyn Jones and Jono Harrison both put in a brilliant performance in defence, playing their first game together since Carwyn’s return, looked like Virgil Van Dijk and Joel Matip at the back with Joe Soar and Osian Owen on either side. The Magpies defence easily held its own against higher league opposition. The midfield also has to be given credit, Llion Owen and Joey Jones were solid all game with Ben Fisher and Andy Papirnyk looking dangerous every time they were on the ball. Billy Jones and Ieuan Brooks both looked sharp up front and put the visitors under pressure. Joe Thomas replaced Billy mid way through the second half in a tactical switch and this disturbed the Llanidloes midfield, with Bobby Griffith replacing Ben Fisher with 10 minutes to go. Tom Czekeryla was a unused substitute.

Following the match the Barmouth players thanked the support from the home fans, and in a great gesture went to high-five the 30 or so children who have been given wrist bands allowing them free entry to all home games this season, a great gesture from the club.

Club captain Carwyn Jones had the following to say after the match “Gutted about the loss today, but awesome to have the support down the Wern, especially all the kids who didn’t stop chanting all game! Thanks from all the players!”

Barmouth & Dyffryn United FC

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