Sunday 1st May Aberbargoed 6 a-side tournament

Score: CHAMPIONS

Phil Croker and Darrel Barnes were in charge of the 6 a-sides this year with a little help from myself. Wednesday was our opening day with 2 sides involved. Phils B side were in a group of 3 and started with a win over Pont Red Stars but went down to a very good Cefn FForest side who went through this group. Phil’s boys having several chances missed were punished by some good finishing from Cefn.
Darrel had the A side and were in a group of 4. The first up were Six Bells who we beat 1 - 0. Next came league rivals Aberbargoed still smarting after coming 2nd to us in the league and wanted revenge but went down again 2 - 1 to us. Cwm Welfare after their cup and league double were next and were to strong for us beating us 3 - 1.
After finally finding out we were still in the competition ha ha ,Crusaders next game was on Sunday morning at 10. After losing our goalkeeper to the bank holiday week-end, who did not know we were still in and another player with the same reason, Crusaders A- side were down to a bare 6.
First up Aberbargoed again and after a very competitive game we won 2-1. Next Maesycwmmer which from a fortunate draw were our semi finalists leaving the 2 big guns in the other semi. Beating Maesy put us in the final and with nothing to lose Crusaders were on cloud 9.
The other semi brought Cwm Welfare and Risca and Gelli together, which Risca won. Risca now were clear favourites to win with a very talented squad of players and Crusaders only having 6 players fitness and determination had to count. Risca scored first and half time we were looking tired. Darrel told the boys 10 mins of giving everything was the order of the day and that’s exactly what they did and scored to make it i-i. Crusaders were shattered and when the final whistle went the whole place roared with cheers and the boys had won by 1 corner. What a fantastic performance from these lads.
These boys Dan Stephenson, Kael Matthews on Wednesday and Sundays Luke Prosser, Ross Guthrie, Callum Doucherty, Matthew Wood, Alex Bartlett and Sam Barnes deserves all the applause they received for a fantastic performance of which I am very very proud. WELL DONE LADS.

Tournament Report: David Prosser

Thursday 28 April 2005, TSA North Gwent Division One, Stadia Della Hockey Cwmfelinfach, Crusaders 'B' versus Cwm Sports, Referee: Mr Tudor Lewis (Blackwood)

Score: Crusaders 'B' 2 Cwm Sports 8

The last game of the 2004/2005 campaign was witnessed at a packed Della Hockey. Packed that is with away supporters, as the hordes from the Ebbw Valley ventured south on their annual beano - it’s the closest many of them have been to Barry Island. The 'B's had an interesting mix of a couple of first-teamers, some regulars, a couple of Under 18s, and the return of the legendary (if not mythical) Rocky 'Balboa' Radford. Cwm, in the top half of the table were to prove too strong, and raced into a two-goal lead early on, as their pace was too much for the Crus lumbering defence. However, youngster Greg Hughes, who was Crus MOTM, netted his first senior goal, and hope was revived at 1-2. But only for about 30 seconds, as Cwm scored almost immediately from the restart. Stand-in 'keeper, Jinxy had obviously been taking a few tips from the Sprinx performance at The Woodlands, and was consistently managing to get out of the way of any incoming shots. When this didn’t work, he then proceeded to take fumbling (or it may have been juggling) to new heights. After about 30 minutes, World War III broke out, when Shergar had an altercation (handbags at forty paces) which spilled over onto the away touchline. It was difficult to tell who was fighting/pulling people apart, but the local plod (one proper copper and one community officer), who were only standing ten yards away, thought it was hilarious. Ref Tudor Lewis could have issued a flurry of yellows and reds, but chose to keep the cards in his pocket. After another Cwm goal, Baz then got sent off for punching the Cwm winger, in retaliation for stamping. With 10 men, Crus then started to play some tidy stuff, and Fishcake reduced the arrears, only for Cwm to make it 5-2 at half-time. in the second half, the shenanigans all died down, and after going quickly 7-2 up after the restart, the Crus then ran their socks off to keep this score for the next half hour. The menacing Shearer then came on, some say for Alla Beesh, but it is highly doubtful if he started in the first place. Followed by the long-overdue introduction of Rockaldo, who entered the field of play to a tumultuous reception (i.e. Troggy laughing his head off) replacing the Judge, who gave a whole new meaning to the word 'ineffective'. The closest ever Crus looked to scoring, was when the Rock swivelled on a sixpence thirty yards out, and sent the local squirrel population scurrying for cover. A few trout in the Sirhowy were also none-too-pleased, as the ball hit the river like a Barnes Wallis bouncing bomb. After a Cwm player was upended (outside the box incidentally), justice was done, when Jinxy pulled off a remarkable save to his left, to the acclaim of the raucous home support (Trog, Gilk, Cat Senior & Ron Hughes) behind his goal. The visitors could only muster one more goal to run out 8-2 winners. Unless Aber Bluebirds 'B' can get a point from their remaining two games, Crus 'B' will have, once again, avoided the ignominy of the NG wooden spoon. Well done to Temps and all the lads who have turned out in the cause this season.

Match Report: Reuters Special Correspondent

23rd April Cefn FForest v Crusaders

Score: Cefn FForest 2 v Crusaders 6

Final game of the season and everything to play for. Crusaders needed a win and Aberbargoed needed us to lose or draw to get something out of it. Cefn FForest went down 2 v 1 to us on Tuesday and we knew they would want revenge today. Aberbargoed boys were there watching and went mad when Cefn went 1 nil up in the first 10 mins. Crusaders started nervously with everything to lose on their minds, but with a few helpful and kind words of wisdom from the sideline started to play football.
Luke Prosser had a goal disallowed for off side just before their deflected goal off the corner went in, and we were hoping it was not going to be one of those days.
Crusaders pressure started to get results with Luke and Aaron Richards getting better ball from mid-fielders Rob Lawford and J J Allen. Callum Docherty and Shaun Barnes with great ball skills started to dominate and take control of the game. Man of the match Aaron Richards definitely got out of bed the right side today and was flying over the turf with everyone’s admiration of his pace and finishing skills as he scored a very impressive 4 goals and killed off any questions Cefn FForest had to ask. Luke Prosser after several chances finished a mistake from Cefns keeper to make it 5.
With the game as good as won Cefn heads went down and with several subs being made Crusaders started to enjoy themselves. The second goal from Cefn gave them a little hope but that was killed off when Matthew Wood who unselfishly plays centre back for us when in his heart wants to play mid-field scored a well deserved first goal for Crusaders and I was personally thrilled for him for all his hard work. Final whistle and Crusaders had done it and everyone were over the moon with this 9 game winning run to win our section.
When our season started and we took a few hidings of 11 v 2 and 10 v 0 etc, I did not think winning any section would be possible but from hard work and a great team spirit just goes to show want can be achieved.
I would like to personally thank everyone in this team for their commitment and enthusiasm including Darrel Barnes and Phil Croker my partners in crime for a great season for Crusaders AFC.
For the last time from me this season WELL DONE LADS.

Match Report: David Prosser

Under 15s v. Pentwynmawr home

Score: 0-3

Crus - 0 pent – 3

M. O. M. Daniel / Jason

Last game of the season I selected a team from the past.2 fullbacks 3 halfbacks 2 wingers 2 inside forwards and a centre forward. Jamie in goals our forwards played in the back our backs played upfront and our insides played outside, confused I was. a good first half both teams on top form 0-0 half time. second half in the pouring rain pent got 3- breakaway goals taken really well no fault to any of our team .3-0 to them fulltime

Match Report: Russel Suter

Venue - Britannia Fields
Cefn FForest v Crusaders Thirds
Date - 23/04/05
Conditions - Been Better!!

In poor conditions the thirds set off to play the local rivals Cefn FForest.
The pitch had a lot of rain on it which stopped the Crue's playing their usual attractive Brazilian football. With Gavin Drobac deciding to dive around in the mud before the game had even started he found that he couldn't run as fast as usual which was no loss really! With Scott Gilchrist injured he had to play in goals for this encounter. Temps returned from his mid week injury (rumoured to be a splinter in his right Hoof) in the Centre of the defence with Young Sh*t Stains along side him! Fishcake and Randy Simpkins came into the centre of the midfield with Brinkley (Fresh you would think from not running about on Thursday) on the left wing and Sick note on the right wing. The Crue's took a surprising lead with a well placed header from Fishcake after some neat interplay through the midfield.
This lead didn't last long with our defence leaking a goal followed by another. Then a further defensive mistake and we were 3 down. With 5 minutes to go to half time the keeper could only parry the strike from
Dai Thom into the path of Chidgy who tapped in from 6 yards. The lads went in 3.2 down at half time optimistic of a good result. Tom Watkins came on for Brinkley who was none existent in the first half apart from one good touch (which only he can remember). Within 10 minutes of the second half starting and we had conceded 2 goals and a change was needed. Off went Dai Thom (for the second time in less than 72 hours and on came Slasher Snr(Mikey). Cefn FForest then scored again to make it 5.2. Then came the turning point in the match, a seemingly nothing ball which was going out for a goal kick was turned into our net by JC.
His curse only has 40 years left to run so he should be able to enjoy his retirement. If this goal hadn't gone in I firmly believe we could have won that game but there you go!! Cefn added another two goals from there on and we lost 8.2 (Thanks JC).

Man of the Match - Randy Simpkins
Dummy - Fishcake

Yards were dished out to Sprinks and JC as they love the taste of the local champagne known as Eridgevale. This pretty much ended their evenings JC was on the verge of killing himself and Sprinks couldn't stay in one place for more than 5 minutes talking sh*t to everyone and for fear that if he did actually sit down too long he would indeed fall into a coma.

Match Report: David Thomas

Cefn Forest 9-2 Crusaders 3rds
Britannia Fields
Score: Cefn Forest 9-2 Crusaders

After putting a strong side out we were expecting revenge for an earlier defeat in the season. On a really wet slidy surface I was glad my hamstring wasn't up to it so I could just watch on the side. Quite relieved Gilky wasn't playing out as he would have been sliding like a fool everywhere and also it was nice to find out he wasn't very good in the sticks. Crusaders took the lead with a header but then our Fishy struck twice to put us 2-1 in front. The game was still played at a decent pace and Crusaders capitalised on a slip and it was 2-2. Fortunately we made it 3-2 just before half-time through our local postman.

Second half was 1 way traffic as Crusaders just drifted away. Nice to see Tom Watkins miss a sitter at 4-2, but many comical slips, defensive errors and an appalling own goal from Crusaders made my afternoon. I could go and get pissed now.

See you up the lion soon lads, Dai.

Match Report: Dai Berry

Thursday 21 April 2005, TSA North Gwent AFL Division One, The Woodlands v Crusaders B at the Ashvale Republic Stadium, Tredegar (North).

Score: The Woodlands 10 Crusaders B 0

The Thirds crashed to their worst defeat of the season on a sunny (yes, I'll repeat that, SUNNY) evening at the top of the Sirhowy Valley. The home side are pushing for the First Division Championship, and a near-capacity crowd was out in force (well around 50 anyway). Donning the gloves for the Bs was Flight Lieutenant Sprinks, who commanded his area with all the panache of Juilan Clary. Young Barnsey also played a blinder, with no recorded touches of the ball before being substituted by the the legend that is Shearer. Both were nearly booked for not interfering with play, and loitering without intent. Unbelievably, the score after half an hour was 0-0 - how, nobody knows, as The Woodlands managed to blaze over or wide on at least a dozen occasions. in the back four young Dan Morgan and the 'veteran' Simpko (a young Gary McAllister) were playing blinders. Sean Chucky Chidgers was having a decent game on the left flank, and Scott Gilk putting in some trademark crunching tackles in midfield. Up front, Judge and Alla Beesh managed to avoid any balls hoofed in their direction. The extreme altitude began to tell on the visitors, and two goals within a minute broke the Crus' resistance. The roar of the home crowd was however lost, as a combination of a local scrambler (having an motorcycle exhaust in Ashvale is something of a novelty) and a 747 passing a few hundred feet above the pitch drowned everything out. Half time - 2-0 to the home side. An interval pep-talk from stand-in manager Karl Tom worked wonders, as The Woodlands doubled their score within 5 minutes. Heads dropped, one-way traffic ensued and the inevitable rout developed. In between of punching two goals into his own net, and miraculously, ducking out of the way of another shot, Sprinx had a five-minute purple patch, when stupendous shots were brilliantly saved and the fans stared open-jawed at his one-man defiance. However, the effects of a Moroccan woodbine quickly wore off, and we were back to reality. Shearer replaced the veteran Dai Tom, and looked extremely menacing. Nothing to do with the play, he just looked menacing. The Gothic look even had the intimidated locals leaving in their droves. The home keeper did not have a shot to save, and the only effort was from dead-ball 'expert' Alla Beesh, who managed to hoof a twenty five yard free kick, about half a mile across some desolate moorland. The Brecon Beacons Mountain Rescue Team were scrambled to try and locate the ball. Ian 'Arthur' Daley battled till the end, and along with Gilk and Simpko, were the only Crus to take any credit in the second half. With our goal difference now plummeting, we can only hope that Aber Bluebirds B don’t skank another point in their remaining games, which would then see us probably ending up with the NG wooden spoon.

Match Report: John Motson (!!!)

A second (yes, second) MR from the Woodlands game - a bit like London buses, you wait an age for a MR, then two turn up at once (the John Motson version has already been posted).

Why Not!

Location -"The Land That Time Forgot” AKA - Ashvale Date - Thursday 21/04/05 Crusaders B v The Woodlands

Not the place you really want to travel to on a Thursday night(or ever) but the lads made the long trip up the valley to Ashvale to play the Woodlands.
Whilst waiting for the boys to arrive I was stood in the street by the pitch where to my surprise a car pulled up and the woman opened the door only for it to fall completely off! Anywhere else this would probably be out of the ordinary but the lad got out of the driver's side and said to his mother "you stupid Bit*h" and then proceeded to re-attach the door back to the car.

The game started promisingly for the Thirds (we didn't concede in the first half hour)!! With no real keeper to call on Mr Wayne Brinkley did the honours. He kept the goal well until Two quick goals went past
him. The lads went in Two down at half time. A quick team talk from Stand in Manager Mickey Quinn(AKA Karl Thomas) and Substitution, Shearer on and Darren Anderton( AKA - Dai Thomas) off. The lads went
back onto the Battle Field and were quickly 3 down with a fine strike from their Striker. This seemed to deflate the boys and for the remainder of the game they were camped out in our box. Goal after goal
went in with the Score finally 10.0 and the Crue's only getting Two shots all game. This score line could have easily been a North Gwent record but for the heroics of Goal keeper Sprinks!! Ian Daley also Netted an OG and 2 shots came back off the bar only to Hit Sprinks on the Back and go into the Net.

All in all the game was a shambolic performance where most of the players just gave up apart from Scott Gilk. Ian Daley and Simpkins.

Match Report: David Thomas

Woodlands V Crusaders B. Ash Vale. 21/04/05

score: Woodlands 10-0 Crusaders B

Well done lads, you have a good site here. We waited for this game as we're in the run-in for the title. When you turned up late we seen you had a lot of youngsters out there and were expecting a comfortable victory. Took us over half hour to break you down as your 2 centre backs played superbly. 2nd half, playing up the slope, we thought it would be a tough 45 but all your boys seemed to give up apart from the old centre back and that big blonde boy in midfield who was crunching all of our players. Your keeper is definitely Drinky in disguise (Don't Ask). Keep this site going lads

Match Report: .John Phillips

North Gwent Division 1, Wednesday 20th April 2005. Hockey Fields. Referee - Clinton Hughes

Score: Crusaders B 2-2 Abertillery Bluebirds

With over 14 willing players, this looked to be a real thriller as the clash of the 2 sh*ttest teams in the North Gwent were to clash on this damp evening. Gerald may not have had a very good season but at least in the 1sts we get a good team talk. Templers refused to give anything of the sort so the players lined up against the worst team in Gwent, not caring any of the less.

After some loose balls went skidding about as early as 4 seconds; Under-18 Dan Morgan decided to take 1 of the Bluebirds Players out. It should have been a straight red but super referee Clinton couldn't be arsed to get his cards out. After an abysmal standard of football and general arsing about was being watched by a 30 or so crowd at the Della hockey, 1 of their players missed goal. Apart from that, keeper Jon Smith jumped out to catch a useless boot up the pitch. Once again, Smith failed to catch the ball but took out fans favourite Robbie Trigg in the process. Trigg hobbled off and was replaced by Huw 'Sunbed' Moseley. Crus had a corner which was only half dealt with. Beach struck a poor shot from the edge of the box but midfielder Scott Gilchrist was on hand to stab the ball home. 1-0 to the home side. Shortly after, Gilchrist was put through again by Karl Thomas but his well struck left shot was well saved by the Aber keeper. In fact, it was only Gilchrist getting shots in from the edge of the box for the rest of the half. However, shortly before half time, Gilchrist intercepted an Aber throw-in but it kindly fell into the path of an Aber striker named 'Rossi' who strolled past the non-existent Crus defence to bring the away side in 1-1 at half time.

Second half saw the arrival of Shearer. It also saw some more really bad standard of football played. Leon Reeves scored a looping header to make it 2-1 to the home side. Oh and Dan Morgan finally got booked for what should have been his 6th yellow card. Crus thought they had done enough but in the last minute of play Aber equalised from the near post after a corner. Disaster. Crus got back on the attack straight away and Shearer caused some really ugly scenes. After charging into the keeper when Crus had a corner, youngster Shearer thought he could take on more by offering out both of Abers centre backs. This unfortunately was full time and Abertillery were delighted with a point. Let's hope we don't finish below these Muppets.

Man Of The Match - Dan Morgan for entertainment value.

Match Report: Huw Moseley

16th April Crusaders v Pont Red Stars

Crusaders 3 v Pont Red Stars 1

Pont Red Stars came out exactly the way I expected. From the kick off I knew they would give us a good game. Crusaders started better than against Cefn on Tuesday night so game on.
End to end football, good tackling and good chances both ends from the start until Callum Docherty chased down a lost cause and pinched a ball off the keeper and Shaun Barnes as keen as ever tapped it in to go one nil up. Aaron Richards again done some unselfish running and was unlucky not to get on the score sheet today. His striking partner today Luke Prosser got no. 2 and Crusaders were on their way. Pont played some good football and managed to pinch one back just before half time when our back four were caught napping.
Second half good pressure from Pont but a break away goal from Luke finished off the Pont lads. Luke’s 2nd and Crusaders 3rd put the game out of reach for Pont.
Man of the match today had to be Ross Guthrie for his defending with Aaron Bonthron who both together won us this tie. Bartlett Sam Barnes and Justin all helped making up a solid back four against a very good striking attack for Pont.
Next up Maesycwmmer on Tuesday so let’s keep this winning streak going. Well done lads.

Match Report: David Prosser

Crusaders B V RTB Ebbw Vale. Saturday 16th April 2005. Stade Della Hockey. Referee - An average 1

Crusaders B 2-3 RTB Ebbw Vale

Just 2 weeks before this fixture Crus lost 8-2 to a poor Ebbw Vale side. They brought down a stronger team to Cwmfelinfach expecting to trounce us. It wasn't the case. Crus boosted by a couple of 1st teams players started the better. Scott Gilchrist should have buried 1 early on after running onto a Jonny Smith throw but chipped it over the bar. Within 10 minutes a hopeful Jonny Smith ball was put into the path of Julian 'Judge' Parr who finished with his left foot from an acute angle. 1-0 to the home side. After about 30 minutes Chris Jenkins was upended in the box by 1 of the RTB players. Set piece hogger Mark Beacham put away a feeble penalty. RTB were trying the typical North Gwent style of long ball and it finally worked when a mix up between Goalkeeper Michael Croft and centre backs Gavin Drobac and Andy Simpkins left the RTB striker to tap into an empty net. A crucial goal for the visiting side just before half time.

2nd half and Crus never really got going. A few players tried playing with their mouths instead of letting their feet do the talking. Scott Gilchrist was brought off for under 18 Nathan Barnes and after about 70 minutes, the other RTB striker fired an excellent volley into the corner of Crofts net. 2-2 and the momentum with RTB. Crus battled on to no avail, and it was the story of Crusaders season when 10 minutes to do, RTBS striker got his 2nd of the game with a well struck shot, but Croft should really had kept it out.

Man of the Match - Chris Jenkins/ Robbie Trigg

Match Report: Ian Daley

Rhymney B V Crusaders B, Thursday 14th April 2005. Rhymney Stadium. Referee - 1 of their guys in an old school Rangers top

Rhymney B 4-0 Crusaders

Typical Crusaders pathetic preparation, meant to meet down the pavilion at 17:15 and there is barely enough players to field 1 side. As most of the lads were 3rds and players that represented the 3rds on Tuesday night @ Drisiog, we were about to leave (already late). All of a sudden at around 17:40, Super Coach Parnell comes along, nicks half the players for the 2nds. This leaves The Crus 3rds re-calling Mikey Jones who I believe hasn't kicked a ball all season. Also, stand in coach, had to go via Wattsville to pick up under 18 star Nathan Barnes, fresh from work.

After arriving half hour late, the sell out crowd in Rhymney were getting impatient. Positions were being estimated after kick off and veteran Karl Thomas was playing centre back. Rhymney’s tactics were obvious. A long ball for their big players to head on to, a couple of fast guys down the flanks. Rhymney were the better side of the 1st half with Crus looking to hit them with their little pace on the breaks. Only a couple of scrambles and a 30 yard Scott Gilchrist drive which was just over was managed in the 1st half.

2nd half, Rhymney made it 2-0. The 1st coming after a Robert Trigg headed clearance off the line fell to Rhymney’s big number 2 who was unchallenged with his headed rebound. The 2nd came after a break, when a Robert Trigg throw-in was quickly broken up and their quick striker who threatened all of the 1st half finally got his reward with a splendid finish. Crus battled on for the rest of the game under difficult circumstances. Curs however did provide a few chances. A fine Dai Thomas in-swinging free kick was met by the head of Wayne Brinkley who was inches wide. Another Gilchrist drive from the edge of the area sailed narrowly over too. With about 10 minutes to go Julian 'Judge' Parr latched onto an under hit back pass from their chunky left back, he rounded the keeper only to be taken out. Any normal ref would have sent the Rhymney keeper off for this offence (Not for just looking like something out of Lord of the Rings). This was the ref’s only bad decision but it prevented Crus from getting anything out of the game. Beacham as usual tried hogging the set piece but Karl Thomas told him it was getting kind of boring now. Thomas managed to pass the ball back to the keeper. 1 way traffic for the last 10 minutes as the home crowd urge on cup semi-finalists Rhymney. Crus had a few tired legs out there, not even Shearer could make a difference (although he made a trademark hack down of their left back). A few players had clearly given up chasing the cause and started bickering amongst themselves. Rhymney’s man of the match made it 3-0 after scoring the 2nd of his game with a fierce header off a corner. In injury time then he managed a hat-trick of headers, despite looking offside after the ball was chipped over to him.

Match Report: Nathan Barnes

Anyway, no shame to the Crus beacuse of the lack of preparation to this game. A big thankyou for Michael Jones, helping the club out.

Man Of the Match - Karl Thomas

12th April Crusaders v Cefn FForest

Crusaders 2 v Cefn FForest 1

After Saturdays convincing display against Glyncoed, the boys thought all they would have to do was turn up and 3 points were in the bag. How wrong they were. Cefn started with more belief than Crus and straight from the off were on top and made several shots at goal without troubling Dan in goals to much. To many boys for Crusaders were not switched on and it was no surprise when Cefn went in front with a goal we would normally prevent.
Aaron Richards and man of the match Rob Lawford came on as subs with instant effect. Aaron upfront with Luke put constant pressure on their back four winning corner after corner. From one of these corners Ross Guthrie headed home a good goal with another of his dominant performances.
Rob took control of midfield winning good ball for our strikers to attack with chance after chance being missed until Luke Prosser put a goal away and Crusaders started to control the game. If chances were taken as we did against Glyncoed, we could have won by a lot more.
Next up Pont Red Stars so let’s get back to our best football and keep marching on to the winning line. Well done lads.

Match Report: David Prosser

Tuesday 12th April, North Gwent Division 1, Drisiog Inn V Crusaders B. Venue: Beaufort Playing Fields, Referee: 1 of their guys (Done Well too), Attendance: 20 approx

Drisiog Inn 4-2 Crusaders B

When all players were due to meet at 17:15 for selection down the car park, there was probably not enough to field 1 team, never mind getting 2 together. However, players did hurry back from work and other events and @ about 17:30 there was enough for 2 full sides with subs included. As Simon 'Temps' Stevens, Dai Thomas, Karl Thomas (and all his towny crew) were unavailable for selection, manager for the day would be Shane 'Niblo' Badham. Typically for a mid-week fixture it was an unusual selection but this was nothing to be disappointed about as there were a couple of lads returning from injury, a few under 18s making debuts and a couple of 1sts using the last of their legs before they have a nice Summer off.

It was about 17:40 before the squad headed towards Beaufort meaning absolutely no chance to meet the 18:00 kick off time. Mood was pretty good as it was everyone’s 1st mid-week fixture for quite some time. The only downside was a moody Jon Hayward going AWOL because he couldn't play the home fixture for the 2nds. Everyone turboed getting changed because of the late appearance and there was no time for any inspiring team talk off stand in manager Niblo (Not that there would be 1 anyway.)

Conditions were really good on the small pitch in Beaufort with the sun shining and the ground not being too hard as both teams were willing to lunge into many a slide tackle. After around 5 minutes Drisiog came out off the blocks quicker and grabbed a scramble goal. Their players were all quicker to react after stand-in keeper John Smith made a couple of blocks. Crusaders hadn’t really started well and only managed 1 early chance with Julian 'Judge' Parr firing a tame shot at the Drisiog goalkeeper. It was only after about 15 minutes when Drisiog doubled their lead. Their virtually unchallenged attack finished with Jon Smith spilling a tame shot into the path of their striker who had a lucky finish. It took Crusaders a while to recover with Drisiog having plenty of the ball and attacking well down the flanks. After Crusaders rode the storm for a bit, chances were coming our way. Step forward set piece specialist Sean Chidgey. The 16 year old making his senior debut was using his lethal left foot to take corners all evening. However, on this occasion after the keeper spilt his cross, fellow under 18 Dan Morgan somehow headed onto the bar and over. It seemed like an open goal. Julian 'Judge' Parr was also fed through by Robert Trigg but struck wide this time. Sean Chidgey also tried a Trevor Sinclair type overhead which was narrowly over. About 5 minutes before half time, disaster struck as Drisiog’s counter attack was superbly finished with a striker from their best player. Jonny Smith had no chance in saving it. Shane 'Niblo' Badham selfishly tried playing himself through an injury so brought himself off. It was also a tactical change as Robbie Trigg could play his usual full back role with Substitute Nathan Barnes taking up the right wing spot. Just before half time though a Sean Chidgey out-swinging corner was met at the back post by the head of Scott Gilchrist who steered it in to bring Crus back into the game. Dan Morgan is claiming he nicked the last touch on the line via his fringe mind.

2nd half and game on, Crusaders were to find themselves providing most the threats into a pretty much end to end game. On the hour mark Sean Chidgeys magic left foot corner was met head-on by Nicky Thomas. Superb finish. 3-2 with half hour to go. Could this be a great comeback? More good news as Crusaders now unleashed the weapon of Shearer to be brought on, sacrificing Englishman Ian Daley in a positive change for the game. Julian 'Judge' Parr managed to fire a shot at the keeper once again when Sean Chdigey was in a better position. Yet another Chidgey corner to the back post found Scott Gilchrist whose left foot effort was hit on the line by substitute Nathan Barnes of all people. Mark Beacham fired a free-kick just a couple of yards over. It was a frantic finish with Drisiog using the pace they had to counter attack the Crus. Jon Smith made a couple of good saves on these counter attacks to keep the Crus searching for the equaliser but with a couple of minutes ago, the jinx of Crusaders AFC struck once again. A useless long ball spun into the path of defender Dan Morgan whose volleyed pass back wrong-footed Jonny Smith.

Final score 4-2 Drisiog Inn. This score was admittedly flattering for their players, but it was a fine game to take part in.

Man of the Match: Nicky Thomas

Match Report: Andrew Simpkins

Sat 9th April Glyncoed 0 v Crusaders 8

Score: 8 v 0 to Crusaders

Once again our opponents were Glyncoed. Going down by 6 on Tuesday night Glyncoed found our inform team hard to break down. From the kick off Crusaders took control of this match and from front to back everyone played their part.
Half time Crusaders were 3 nil up, followed by a very strong second half, 8 nil was the lowest score it could have been after so many chances were mist mainly down to the uneven pitch. The scorers on the day were Tom Mullins scoring a well taken goal and his first for Crus, Aaron Richards with a well deserved goal, Justin Carter with his first from the penalty spot, Callum Docherty and Ross Guthrie also getting on the score sheet and man of the match Luke Prosser with another good hat-trick showing a great all round team effort.
Next game is Tuesday night against Cefn FForest, so let’s keep this winning streak going. Well done lads.

Match report: David Prosser

15s v Pentwynmawr away 9/4/05

Crus-4. Pentwynmawr-2.

Goal Scorers. LUKE MORETON - 1 BEN WALKER-1 DANIEL MORRIS-1 JACK TINKLYN-1.
M.O.M. BEN WALKER.
Into the penultimate game of the season and we produced our best performance. An early goal from LUKE, sneaking in at the near post to head in a corner, then another within minutes from BEN who battled, won possession, ran through and finished his own work, and proved throughout the match that he was quite at home in a battle against their mid field.2 nil up and creating chance after chance we felt we should have had a significant lead at half time, but instead they scored off one of their few attacking moves catching out our defence, this was one of the only time JASON was beaten in a magnificent performance. Into a tight second period we had to wait a long time before DANIEL notched our 3rd following in to tap in at the far post. They struck back scoring a break away goal off our corner. Then JACK secured 3 points when he broke down the right shooting, beating the keeper with a deflection.
1 game to go Pentwynmawr home we will have some fun.

Match Report: Russel Suter

Tue 5th April Crusaders 6 v Glyncoed 0

Crusaders started on fire for the first time this season and totally controlled the game from the start. Luke Prosser got us of the mark with a great reaction strike outside the box. Second goal was a quality header from man of the match Rob Lawford. Rob played with great heart and commitment winning tackles and all headers in midfield and totally deserved this reward.

Constant pressure from Crusaders brought several corners which Callum Docherty took advantage of and scored no.3. Pace upfront from Aaron Richards and Luke was to much for Glyncoed to handle on the day and another break saw Luke put a well timed ball through for Shaun Barnes to run on and finish bringing up no.4.

Solid defence again give confidence for our midfield to play football and link up with our on form strikers. Ross Guthrie again with a solid game chipped a ball over the top for Luke to run on and go round the keeper and scored his 2nd and Crusaders 5th.

Half time came and Crus were well on top. Subs were made to give all our players as much match time as we can without upsetting our hold on the game. ALL the players that came on played with the same heart as the boys that started which I was pleased to see.

Glyncoed with their big squad started to apply a little pressure but with our back four as strong as they are Danniel Stephenson hardly touched the ball. More pressure from Crusaders saw Richards with a good run and shoot which came back off the post followed in by top poachers Adam Brinkley who tucked the ball away like Wayne Rooney for crusaders no.6.

An all round good performance from the boys. Saturday we are up with Glyncoed again so we must put in the same performance again. Let’s keep winning lads and show these teams how good we are. Well done lads.

Match report: David Prosser

15s v BEAUFORT AWAY ----- 2/9/05

Crus - 2 Beaufort - 6
Goal scorers - DANIEL MORRIS, JORDEN BROMLEY M.O.M. DANIEL MORRIS.
Playing top of the 2nd division was always going to be difficult especially when Katie withdrew with an illness and we lost Jamie with injury shortly after the start. But after all that we managed to take the lead on a short pitch and the wind behind Jorden kicked the ball over their defence for Daniel to play a 1-2 with Liam and shoot pass the keeper. They then got on top and their right winger, running our defence ragged mare the opening to level the score. Our heads dropped a bit from then to the 2nd half and they ran away with the game scoring 4 unanswered goals. The 2nd period started with their centre half scoring from their own half straight from the kick off the wind catching Jorden by surprise. I then switched my centre halves and centre forwards and Ben went in goals. Jorden then showed us what we had been missing with him in goals breaking up the wing beating players and when Jason found him with a pass inside their box finished it like the striker he used to be. All in all the boys didn’t deserve to lose 6-2 with Daniel and Liam showing they can defend as well.

Match Report: Russel Suter

Crusader 1 v Tredegar 2, Saturday 2nd April 2005, Hockey Field Cwmfelinfach

Crusader took to the field against this years favourite for both league and cup. Cru's started much the better and totally outplayed the team that finished above them last season, Ginge and Melvin both wasting excellent chances to put the Crusaders into a well deserved lead. Tredegar were rattled! Half time should have read more like Crusader 3 Tredegar 0, Tredegar only managing one half decent attempt at goal in the first 45 minutes. Crusaders started the second half in the same manner and some good persistence from Melvin set up Steve Prosser to earn Crusaders their deserved lead. This first goal opened up play, Tredegar now trying to get forward at every opportunity, they pulled a goal back after Crusaders failed to deal with a tame corner and the ball somehow found the back of the net.... a few minutes later a free kick on the edge of the box allowed Tredegar to score another by quickly drilling the ball into the bottom corner whilst Crusaders were still setting up their wall...2-1 Tredegar. You could sense the relief of the Tredegar side who were seriously thinking they were about to loose this game. A few injuries to Cru's players meant they were unable to force an equaliser. A very good game with an excellent performance and display against a side that has only lost 2 games in the last 2 years...

MOM Jamie Edwards

Match Report: Chris Parnell

15s v Risca and Gelli home
Crusaders - 1 Risca - 0
Goals: DANIEL MORRIS (pen).
m.o.m JASON SUTER.
A stern team talk before this game sparked our players back to life. I made a couple of changes moved LUKE into midfield JAMIE to left fullback and JON into the centre of defence. JASON without LUKE beside him showed he can dominate the centre-half position he was outstanding. The rest of the team showed true grit and determination and had Risca on the back foot from the start long spells of pressure resulted in Risca conceding a penalty mid way through the first period DANIEL stepped up to convert his second pen in 2 weeks. The rest of the game was tense affair with neither team threatening to score. Their manager was disappointed by Risca’s performance but i think it was down to our players not giving them an inch.

Match Report: Russel Suter

19th 03 05 Crusaders 5 v Aberbargoed 4

International day Wales v Ireland, top game, important result. Crusaders v Aberbargoed equally important in regards to the result.
What a day to have your best player and captain ill, 2 boys away with rugby and football games to follow, several boys falling ill with the bug, and the most important game of your season to play.
Two players turned up when allot would not. Ross Guthrie and Aaron Bomthron after a bad week with the bug, showed what commitment is given when required and a big thank you from me for that. Man of the match Matthew Wood for filling in as centre back with Ross only playing the second half.
Big games need big players to stand up and be counted and no more bigger player than Luke Prossrer who scored a crucial hat- trick in a very competitive game. Aaron Ricards again got on the score sheet with a goal but most importantly a huge game in respect to who we were playing and what we were playing for. Callum Docherty again scored for Crusaders and at one time we were leading four v one and totally in control but then Aberbargoed with all their talent, turned on the magic and pulled a couple back.
Rob Lawford and Kael Matthews played their part in mid field, and a big thank-you from me to them for their part in this vital win.
ALL players need rewards but unfortunately only the chosen few get the mention. May I as coach / come manager or what ever you want to call us, say a huge thank-you to every boy who made the effort for Crusaders in today’s important result, and that includes the parents also, who without their backing we are nothing.
Again to all the boys thank-you and well done.

Match Report: David Prosser

12 March 2005, Home v Tredegar under 16 (Friendly)

On a warm but breezy Saturday morning Crus won the toss and played with the wind at their backs. The first half produced very few chances with both defences on top. However after Dane Bennett was fouled outside the box which lead to Robert Lewis free-kick soaring into the bottom left hand corner of the net, but however Tredegar equalised with a hotly disputed goal following a handball by the Tredegar striker. In the second half Tredegar dominated the game and it was no surprise when Tredegar scored following a Wimbledon type attack will a long ball kick downfield by the Keeper with the Crus defender misjudging the bounce of the ball and the striker beating Ryan Macdonald with his shot. This spurred Crus into action with a long pass up field by Gethin Jones to Andrew Norris who flicks the ball onto Robert Lewis who then steered the ball passed the Keeper into the net. This lead to a final heart beating minutes with Tredegar laying siege to the Crus goal, but the defence held firm for a final score of 2-2.
Man of the match Robert Lewis

Match Report: Tudor Lewis

15s v waunllwyd away

Crus - 2 Wanllwyd – 4
Goal Scorers: Leon Higgs, Daniel Morris pen.
m.o.m. Luke Moreton.

Words fail me we’re without a win in 4 games now and playing like this I can’t see us winning again.

Match Report: Russel Suter

12th march 05 Pont Red Stars 2 v Crusaders under 14s 4

Crusaders started 2nd best just like we did against Aberbargoed and went down 2 nil in the first 15 mins. Dan Stephenson again kept us in the game while the rest of the team decided whether to play or not.
Half time came and another quite word was spoken to the boys to wake up and play football. Aaron Richards went from the wing to striker and came up with goal no.1 and suddenly Pont new they were in a game. A Scramble in the box brought no.2 from J J Allen who played excellent on the day, with pride and determination that any coach loves to see. Pont attacked again and was given a justified penalty with one of their strikers being upended in the box. Man of the match Daniel Stephenson saved the penalty which totally changed the game. Crusaders changed gear and after several attacking moves Callum Docherty scored the 3rd and Pont Red Stars were on the back foot.
After several attacks and corners, Callum scored his second and Crusaders 4th and the game was as good as won with less than 15 mins to go. Pont made a couple of attacks, but with our defence solid and Dan in excellent form, only one outcome was certain.
Another good performance from the boys, with one or two little lessons to learn from.

A big thank-you to the subs on the day for being patient in a close game and for the big players to stand up and be counted and play unselfish football which sometimes no credit is given.

Match Report: David Prosser

under 15s v Beaufort home
Crus - 1 Beaufort - 9
G/score LIAM DAVIES pen
m.o.m. LUKE MORETON.
The less said about this performanse the better.

Match report: Russell Suter

26/2/05 under 15s v Risca & Gelli away

Crus-3 Risca-8

Goals Daniel Morris-1
Luke Moreton 1
Jack Tinklyn 1

Mom. Luke Moreton

We struggled to get into the game and against the run of play took a 2 nil lead through DANIEL and JACK who both took their chances very well. Then mid way through the 1st half thinking we had won the game relaxed and let Risca run riot. Going 5 - 2 down early into the 2nd period LUKE pushed up and pinched a 3rd goal. LUKE PROSSER guesting for the 15s came on as sub and won us a penalty, up stepped to every ones surprise our goalie JORDEN who hit the post, they broke away and from the resulting attack scored. so instead of being 5 -4 down it was now 6 - 3. It was all down hill from that point and Risca who couldn’t believe their luck ran away with the game.
we face top of the league next week god help us.

Match report: Russell Suter

19th feb @ maesycwmmer 2 v crusaders under 14s 10

Maesycwmmer 14s are a young side starting from scratch with new players so this season they will admit themselves they are not the strongest team in the leage.How ever in saying that Crusaders are a new young team ourselves and a re getting better ever game.
Crusaders knew when we started we were favourites to win, but still had to do the business on the field. Calum Docherty scored the first with a excellent strike outside the box giving the goalkeeper no chance, followed by a good free kick from Ross Guthrie who finished with a hat-trick after another captains winning performance.
Sam Rose and Aaron Richards were the strikers on the day and did not let the boys down both scoring 2 goals and causing the defenders all sorts of trouble.
After making a few subs to give all the boys plenty of playing time, Adam Brinkley blasted home number 9 after a ball rebounded back from the keeper. After the first great strike goal from Calum ,Crusaders took charge of this game and showed how well the boys can pass the ball around and with the quality of Shaun Barnes control and volley which brought up number 10 you can say on the day we are as good as any team in the league
Not all the best players score the goals. Big performances were given by so many players like Dan Stephenson every week big game player, Justin Carter, Matthew Wood and Alex Bartlet making up the back 4 with Ross and unselfish players like Kael Matthews and Rob Lawford working their socks off for the team.Man of the match this week was Tom Mullins getting better with every game, joining a midfield fight for starting position with the above and J J Allen and Arron Morris all playing well.
With Pont Red Stars next week I hope this standard keeps up and we will keep winning. Well done lads.

Match Report - Dave Prosser

19/2/05 away Tillery Colts
Ttillery Colts - 2 Crusaders - 1

goal scorer daniel morris
m.o.m. not applicable

After the highs of winning the 1st 2 games comes the lows of losing. Not just losing but not competing, going into games with the wrong attitude means we will lose. in a very poor 1st half we couldn't tackle, pass or coordinate any shape that a team needs. shot after shot rained in on our goals but lucky none of them on target. We couldn't get out of our half of the field. Just before half time we managed to string 3 passes together and almost score bringing a good save off their keeper. Changes at half time made no real difference we still couldn't hold any possession, but if LIAM had his scoring boots on we could have sneaked the win.four one on ones with their keeper saw two good saves and two go passed the post. LUKE next to miss his shot cleared off the line only to be given a free kick for a late challenge. KATIE sent the free kick on target but again their keeper pulled off the save.Time told in the end and a breakaway saw them one on one but slotted home, the 2nd followed shortly after. DANIEL managed to get 1 back with his only attempt at goals. But it was all to little to late.
a very disappointing result.

Match Report - Russel Suter

TSA North Gwent AFL Division One
Ref: Mr P. Morris (Cwmfelinfach)
Crusaders B v Cefn Fforest United

Date - 19/02/05
Venue - Stadia Della Hockey
Match - Crusaders v Cefn Forest

With the Thirds rooted to the bottom of the league and Cefn forest looking to go into Third in the League this game was not going to be an easy one for the Crue's. Or so it seemed..............

With the referee not turning up the Crue's had to call on the services of "Wizzer" to do the honours. Third team manager Temps had a bare squad left to pick from but with a few extra lads turning up he was able to field a strong 11 with two subs. Opting to change his loyal Captain (David Thomas) for the more experienced member of the team (Karl Thomas) didn't go down well with the supporters on the side but being a true professional and former Clubman Dai took the decision well(only giving stopping twice to abuse Temps)!!!

The game started with the Crue's playing some neat and attractive passing football. All eleven players were playing like they wanted the win in this Local Derby, challenging for every ball and not pulling out of any tackles. The Crue's had a number of good chances within the first 25 minutes with the Cefn Keeper in good form keeping his side in it. A fine strike by Crue's New Boy "Chopsy" forced a corner to which he then headed against the post and Goal Machine David Thomas picked up the scraps to head us into the lead with around 15 minutes to half time.
More Crue's pressure on the Cefn goal nearly led to another goal but it wasn't to be. Temps was then forced to making a Sub when David Thomas was caught accidentally by Cefn Forest left back and could no longer continue. On came "Super Tanker" Chris Parnell to add 20 Stone to the Crue's midfield. Half time whistle blew and the lads came in for a Half Time rub down and Lucozade sports drink (in other words a Fag and tap water)!! The boys were confident that they could go back out and repeat the football from the first half and did so in Style.

Not even 15 minutes into the Second half when Mark Beecham hit an unstoppable drive into the bottom left corner given the keeper no chance. Crue's then had to take some pressure from Cefn and they were rewarded
a penalty when defender "Henchoz" thought he was the Keeper and punched out the ball from a cross. Wizzer indicates a Penalty and the score is then 2 - 1. A few more chances from the Crue's before we were awarded a Free Kick about 20 Yards out. With the Debutante Chopsy having a very good game he stepped up to Blast the Ball through the wall and passed the helpless keeper. With only 10 minutes left the lads sensed victory and held on to win the game 3 - 1.

The Thirds first victory of the season could be followed up next week when they visit Second Bottom Abertillery Bluebirds B !! Come on the Lads!!

D. Thomas Pitch side Reporter
Cwmfelin Gazette

Date - Saturday 5th Feb 2005
Venue - Brynmawr Bowl
Crusaders v Brynmawr Town

Arriving up at Brynmawr early for a change the Lads were out on the pitch around 10 Minute before their opposition. They finally came out after watching some wayward practice shots from the mixture of thirds.
The Referee calls up both Captains and Says "Listen Lads I've been there, done it and bought the T-Shirt so I want no lip or abusive language".Thomas wins the Toss and we stay as we are.
The first 10 minutes saw the Crusaders dominate the game to the anger of the large Brynmawr crowd who thought this was going to be a walk over like last time we met. After very tidy build up play both Gavin Drobac and Karl Thomas were denied by the post and a fine save from the keeper. Before Crusaders were given a Corner which was taken quickly by David Thomas and Gavin Drobac notched up his first of the season.
He missed a Penalty last year on this ground so his confidence was high after this well taken goal.
More pressure followed but no extra goals were added. Then came a few quick goals from Brynmawr which were defensive mistakes following the route One Football being played by Brynmawr. Cru's went in at 4.1 down at half time.
After a few hasty words at half time the Lads went back out on the Field of Battle determined not to lose anymore goals, 5 Minutes into the Second half and off went Karl Thomas and David Thomas for Wayne Brinkly (Striker) and Ian Daley (Right Wing) both of which made early and impressive touches, Brinkly nearly scoring and involved in some good link up play with Micky Quinn AKA Gavin Drobac. Ian was as solid as usual not backing out of anything and winning most 50 - 50's!!

There were further chances to score but not taken by our side before Brynmawr again scored a few more goals and went on to win the Match 6.1.
Some much needed practice on Set plays and fitness is needed for the Thirds to get off the foot of the Table.

Match Report - David Thomas

Aberbargoed 5 v Crusaders 3

Aberbargoed started the better and quickly went into the lead from a badly defended corner. Followed shortly by the second and finally a own goal third, Crusaders had not joined the party. Crusaders with a depleted squad with eight players either on school trips or injured still had a team to take on Aber.Dan Stephenson kept us in the game with some fine saves,but the first half was Abers.
After a quite word at half time,I told the boys to stand up and be counted, and that's exactly what they did. Straight after half time Luke Prosser run onto a ball and was fouled earning us a well disserved penalty. After putting away a well struck kick, the ref decided that it had to be taken again because he had not blown his whistle. We all looked at each other and thought oh no not another frustrating ref, and we was not disappointed.Luke slotted home the second penalty and we quickly took charge of the game with Ross Guthrie heading home the second for us. Penalty shouts,worse than the first came one after another but nothing given. Crusaders pushing for the equaliser got caught on the break and a failed clearance gifted Aber their 4th.Again Crusaders attacked and a great ball through from man of the match Shaun Barnes, put Arron Richards through with his great pace and fired home our 3rd.
With time running out Crusaders pushed bodies forward and almost equalised when Luke again breaking through hit the post with his effort.Aber took their last goal well against the play and the game was lost. With conditions and with Aber with an obvious home advantage I was more than satisfied with the determination with our squad. A different day and venue I believe we would have got a result.Well done lads.

Match Report - Dave Prosser

29/01/05 RTB Ebbw Vale (Friendly)

following a good start by crus, RTB scored the first goal against the run of play after a mix up in the crusaders defence. This spurred crusaders into action with the equalising goal by Robert Lewis following a double save by the home keeper off Richard Crompton and Chris Evans. This was quickly followed by a second goal from Dane Bennett, who rounded the keeper to side foot the ball in. More pressure by crusaders lead to a near miss by Dane Bennett from an acute angle. However crusaders could not continue to keep the pressure on the home team and did not play to the same standard as the first half, with the passing game non existent,which resulted in the home team scoring 2 further goals to win the match.
A fine display in defence by Gareth Finch and Chris Evans which bourns well for the future.

Man of Match:Chris Evans

Match Report - Tudor Lewis

29th jan home to Glyncoed k.o. 12 am
Crusaders 2-3 Glyncoed

After watching a great display from the 15s,Glyncoed was the next target for the 14s with a 12am k.o.
Under 14s having a large squad,fielded a team with players in positions not normally asked of them.All the same the game should have been won.
Glyncoed took an early lead from a well worked goal followed quickly by a good forward attacking run from striker Sam Rose. Crusaders equalised from a penalty after Sam was brought down in the box.Man of the match Ross Guthrie scored the penalty. After Glyncoed scored another 2 goals, Crusaders now had to step up their game. After many changes Crusaders now looking more familiar with boys back to normal positions increased the pressure and after hitting both post and bar and numerous chances cleared off the line ,a victory was on the cards.Luke Prosser made a very late entry into the game with only 10 mins to go and made an instant impact by scoring with his second touch bringing the game to a very exciting finish. Corner after corner was won by Crusaders but that 3rd goal was not to be scored.
That was the last game before the league starts so now the serious football begins and if we can start as good as the 15s have started, I will be pleased.

Match Report - Dave Prosser

Crus 15s v Waunllwyd

WE ARE TOP OF THE LEAGUE SAY WE ARE TOP OF THE LEAGUE.
A first half hat trick and a 4th early in the 2nd half secured 3 points for the crus. I know football is a team game and the team must play well together which i always preach to my players, but this game was all about LIAM DAVIES.
A player that has played in nearly every position. A player that i shout at more than any other. A player who seems to lack self confidence on the pitch. And a player who said he couldn't play up front. His 4 goals proved him wrong.
1st- a cracking pass from NATHEN was controlled on his chest just inside their half, the ball ran into his stride, he ran into the corner of the area, going around the keeper slotting the ball home.
2nd- again latching on to a pass beating a defender shooting passed the keeper.
3rd- slightly lucky but still had to lob the keeper from outside the box with his left foot.
4th- good work by DANIEL won the ball off their full back passed to LIAM who turned outside the centre half and slot in off the far post.
LIAM TOP STRIKER TOP GOAL SCORER.
A late goal in the 1st half and a late one in the 2nd gave Waunllwyd a couple of consolation goals but never really threatened as we thought they would.
I would like to just say that we have now turned the corner and our boys and katie are now showing their true potential i have got 14 of the best lets all stick with it

M.O.M. LIAM DAVIES

G/score LIAM DAVIES - 4.

Match Report - Russell Suter

Under 15’s v. Tillery Colts home

After a long break since our last game the boys were looking forward to entertain Tillery Colts.
The early part of the game was completely dominated by the Crus with NATHEN playing some brilliant football so it didn’t take him long to find LIAM with a killer pass. LIAM ran passed the last defender and scored in the bottom corner.
Tillery couldn’t get into the game and every attack was thwarted by either LUKE or JON who was up against their best player. Attack after attack Liam hit the post KATIE had a shot cleared off the line and then the 2nd goal came from DANIEL who following play to slot home was passed the keeper.
We were failing to score in the early part of the season but since LIAM and DANIEL partnered each other up front we haven’t fail to score. After going 2-0 down Tillery got their reward after a disputed corner the Crus defence lost their concentration and Tillery slipped the ball in at the near post, 2-1 at half time.
In the 2nd period Tillery dominated the play for long periods but the Crus stood firm to the task. The game was a well fought affair with 2 sides equally matched and with no further goals in the 2nd half the Crus narrowly came away with the victory.
Goals Liam Davies -1 Daniel Morris -1
Man of the Match. Nathen Morgan

Match Report - Russell Suter

Saturday 15th January
Ashvale Colts 1 Crusaders 0

very poor conditions at Ashvale. Fog that bad we could not see the goals from one end to the other.Both managers agreed to try and play but in normal circumstances this game would have been called off.The game itself was very good in bad conditions, and losing 1 goal against a side 6 places above us is no disgrace.Crusaders were well in this game and are showing improvement ever time we play.Goal keepers impressed again with top saves from Danniel Stephenson with 2 and a exerlent save from Patrick Baker kept us in contention.Ashvale just deserved the win, but Crusaders are getting there. WELL DONE LADS.

Match Report - Dave Prosser

Saturday 15th January 2005
Trethomas Bluebirds 3 Crusaders 2
Gwent County Third Division
Referee – Clinton James (Pontllanfraith)

For the third successive game, the Crusaders managed to throw away the lead and points in the last 15 minutes of the game. The game kicked off in typical January conditions - wet, cold and windy. The pitch was marginally playable, with the referee voicing his concerns regarding the water collecting on the surface.

Trethomas flew out of the blocks and were looking to exploit the conditions by playing balls in behind the Crus' defence. They dominated the opening 15 minutes and deservedly scored from the penalty spot when Barry Williams made a clumsy challenge in the box. This early setback kicked the Crus' into gear and within 5 minutes they had equalised when Watkins was impeded by the Trethomas left back when clean through. Even though the full back fouled Watkins he managed to tuck the ball away, however, the referee decided to blow for a penalty. If the referee was playing by the rule book, the defender should have been shown the red card as he was the last defender, but only a yellow card was shown. Watkins slammed home the penalty to make it 1-1.

The rest of the first half was entertaining stuff, with the pitch making defending a nightmare for both sides. The two keepers were both on top form, with the Trethomas keeper pulling off two one-on-one saves, which the Crus' should have put away. As it happened, the Trethomas keeper undone all his previous hard work by making a Jerzey Dudek type error and letting a tame Slasher shot slip through his fingers in the last minute of the half. This meant the Crus' went into half time 2-1 up.

The second half kicked off in worsening conditions, and Trethomas started to pile the pressure on the Crus' defence. The Crus' were happy to absorb this pressure and looked to hit Trethomas on the break. This almost provided the Crus' with a third as fishcake was put clean through only to delay his shot which allowed the defender to make a last gasp tackle.

As time ticked on, Trethomas were putting more and more pressure on the defence, and had one or two good chances to level the game. However, the Crus' defence were holding firm as we approached the dreaded last 15 minutes - would the Crus' throw yet another lead away? As it happened, yes they would! With just under 15 minutes remaining, a terrible cross field ball by Slasher fell straight to the feet of the Trethomas striker who slid his partner in to level the game. As with previous games, another goal was to follow in the next few minutes.
The Crus' had a throw in deep in the Trethomas half, which was cleared up field. A lack of commitment and fitness from the Crus' players allowed a Trethomas player to run clean through on goal and put the ball past the unlucky Gerald in goal to make the score 3-2 to Trethomas.

The Crus' did find some energy to try and force the equaliser when Barry Williams put Fishcake clean through. However, the Trethomas keeper made up for his earlier mistake to pull off another fine save and ensure the three points stayed with the home team.

Another defeat for the Crusaders, who again fell asleep in the late stages of the game. The Crus' have know thrown approximately 15 points away in the last 15 minutes of games and may well pay the penalty for such carelessness. Full credit goes to both keepers who pulled off a series of good saves (Gerald a clear man of the match). Indeed the final score could easily have been 6-6 ! Finally, some credit to the
referee who managed to keep control of the game in awful conditions.

Match Report - Chris Jenkins

Saturday 8th January 2005
Crusaders 2 New Inn 3
Gwent County Third Division
Referee - Mr N Lewis (Newport)

Crusaders went into the fixture hoping to get 2005 off to the best possible start with three points against a New Inn team who also found themselves at the wrong end of the table. With wet and windy conditions overnight, the pitch was going to prove difficult, however it held up well for the 90 minutes.
The first half was a quiet affair, with both teams struggling to find any rhythm following the two week Christmas break. Both sides had a series of half chances, with Slasher flashing the best of them wide after 30 mins. Neither keeper had a save to make in the first half and both sides went into half-time satisfied with the 0-0 scoreline.
The Crus' now had the wind at their backs and should have used this to their advantage, however it was New Inn who drew first blood when some hesitant defending (just the three attempts to clear the ball) let the New Inn center forward in to make it 1-0. This kicked the Crus' into gear and they immediately started to pressurise the New Inn goal.
Prosser went close with a left foot volley and Watkins forced the keeper into a brilliant save when the ball looked destined for the bottom corner. With the pressure mounting on the New Inn defence, a foul was conceded on the edge of the area and Watkins slammed home the resultant free kick to make it 1-1. The Crus' were now forcing New Inn back and would have took the lead but for another outstanding save from the keeper at the feet of fishcake.
New Inn now seemed spent as an attacking force and the Crus' piled forward, and indeed were rewarded when a Prosser cross from the right wing was met by Watkins to make it 2-1. Soon after another Crus' attack sent Watkins clean through and with a little encouragement from the side he tried to chip the 6ft plus keeper from twenty yards !
Needless to say the score remained 2-1. Would these missed chances come back to haunt the Crus'? You bet they would.
The Crus', typically for this season, managed to crumble and throw away a lead when the three points were almost in the bag. New Inn were on the back foot but managed to break the Crus' offside trap (a correct decision as confirmed by the Trog) to make it 2-2 with about 7 mins remaining.Worse was to follow, straight from the kick off center back Huw Mosely scuffed a pass straight into the path of the oncoming forward. He was left with a clear run in on goal before Jenkins managed to whip his legs from underneath him on the edge of the box. The referee blew for the free-kick, but Jenkins was saved from the red card by Ben English who the referee deemed close enough to the action. From the resulting free kick New Inn hit the woodwork and the ball rebounded to one of three New Inn (only one Crus' player had decided to follow the kick) players following up. Within a minute the Crus' had managed to turn a 2-1 lead into a 3-2 deficit !
Although the Crus' tried to find an equaliser, New Inn held firm for the remaining five minutes to seal the three points. Another careless, passionless performance from the Crus' was punished yet again. With only 11 games remaining, the Crus' need at least five wins to be confident of not finishing bottom, but unless they can learn how to finish a game off/defend a lead its going to be a tense few months.

Match Report - Chris Jenkins

PILCS sports ground, Pontypool
PILCS 3-3 Crusaders AFC

Crus' went into the match full of confidence following the impressive cup performance against Llanilleth last Saturday.
The first half saw Crus' totally dominate an ineffective PILCS side. A series of missed chances by Jenkins, Watkins and Prosser started to cause frustratration before Murphy, playing his last game before yet another ban, rose majestically to meet a Prosser corner and make it 1-0.
Jenkins and Watkins both managed to miss sitters before a sweeping move starting on the edge of the Crus' box saw Watkins slam home his fifth goal in three games from close range. A first half totally dominated by the Crus' saw them leave the pitch 2-0 to the good at half time. A few of the players might have cast a thought back to last years game when Crus' managed to throw a 2-0 half-time lead away !
The second half started in exactly the same manner, more missed chances including a poor finish from Watkins following a 40 yard run - a sure contender for goal of the season if he had found the back of the net ! On the hour the Crus' made their domination count when Revis met a Prosser free kick to score number 3. Surely the three points were now in the bag !
On 70 minutes the PILCS centre forward scored a belter, he turned and hit a volley from 25 yards which gave the Crus' keeper no chance. From nowhere PILCS had an injection of confidence and within 10 minutes were level following two more classy finishes from the young PILCS striker. The Crus' defence was looking very shaky after dominating the previous 70 minutes. The score now 3-3 with five minutes remaining. A last gasp save from Andy prevented PILCS taking the lead before Fishcake missed the chance to seal the three points in the last minute when he blazed wide from 10 yards out.
Overall, an excellent performance for 70 minutes, with the Crus' playing some of the best football of the season. However the missed chances always threatend to come back and haunt us, and in the end this proved to be correct with PILCS scoring three goals in a crazy 14 minutes. On the bright side, another point and hopefully some more confidence to take into 2005.

Match Report - Chris Jenkins

Crusaders v Beaufort A at Ynysddu

Crusaders 5-1 Beaufort Colts 'A'

Crusaders always the better team on the day. Total control from the start.
All season trying desperately to play good passing football and not getting the run of the ball and then bingo, everything coming together all at once.
Luke Prosser after being put in one position after another, does what he does best and scores a good hat-trick, releasing pressure allowing everyone to relax and play football.
Followed by 2 good goals from Calum Dochety a good result well over due was on the cards.ALL 14 boys on the day played with commitment and pride.
A special mention to the back 4 to which every football team needs, Ross , Woody, Sam and man of the match Justin Carter for a match winning performance.
Bring on the league and well done lads.

Match Report - David Prosser

Risca -1 Crusaders -3
venue: 11/12 CRUS 15s v. RISCA @ TY ISAF PARK

GOALS DANIEL MORRIS-2 LIAM DAVIES-1
M.O.M LEON HIGGS.

The Crus went into this game in good confidence after their 1st win last week. 1st period saw the two sides equally balanced not many goal scoring chances, both defences on top Suter and Jones on form.
It was late into the half when the breakthrough came. Good passing down the left between Jamie and Jon finally found Liam who managed to free himself from his defender run in on goals and touch the ball past the out coming keeper 1-0 halftime.
Subs where made just after halftime, an out of sorts Luke making way for Joel and Katie on for Liam.
It didn’t take long before Katie out on the right with Leon having a magnificent game behind her created some great attacking moves. Daniel finally benefiting and increased the lead to 2-0.Risca came back strong and when Jon had to go off injured the pressure told and a series of mistakes saw Luke score into his own goal. The Crus had to lift themselves in the last part of the game otherwise Risca could have drawn level with 10 mins remaining Rhys made space and passed a cracking ball trough to Daniel who raced on to the ball and shot passed the keeper who had on chance of saving 3-1 game over.

Another fine performance by Crus who now have to wait until the New Year for their next game.

I wish you all a MERRY CHRISTMAS.

Match Report – Russell Suter

Saturday 11th December 2004
Crusaders 3 Llanhilleth Athletic 3 (a.e.t. – Llanhilleth won 4-3 on pens)
County Motors Cup Round 2
Fields Park, Newbridge
Referee: S.Mason (Newport)

Third Division strugglers Crusaders played a home match against a team that were flying high in the second division. So current form would suggest this match would be one way traffic, but this was not to be.
Crusaders took to the field raring to go, and took the game to their opponents straight away. It was looking good with some attractive football being played, until goalkeeper Kyle Williams made a disastrous mistake, which gifted Llanhilleth the lead.
Some ferocious tackles were flying in from both teams, which lead to cautions for both Barry Williams and Ben Murphy. Crusaders mounted the pressure and snatched a goal back through the clinical finishing of Ryan Watkins.
Barry Williams made another rash challenge and Coach Trog was forced to withdraw him from the game with only 35 minutes played. The clock wound down and the referee called time on a manic first half with the score at 1-1.
The second half was underway and the collisions raged. Crusaders were dealt a further blow when another goal was conceded as the opposing centre forward turned past a stationary Ben Murphy to fire home the ball from 10 yards.
Crusaders came back, playing good passing football and were given a huge advantage when a Llanhilleth player was sent from the field after kicking one of the Crusaders boys.
Unfortunately the referee was intent on spoiling the contest, and harshly sent Ben Murphy from the field when he made a two-footed tackle which won the ball.
Crusaders went close to getting a goal back when neat one-two from Watkins and Howls sent Howls through only for him to spoon a left foot shot wide of the target. Llanhilleth then added to the home team’s misery by scoring a third, when a mistake was made by the bad judgement of Leon Reeves.
Captain Gavin Evans got the lads going, and a deserved equaliser was scored when Howls went clean through to see his shot parried to the tireless Ben English, who slid the ball home from close range.
Crusaders fought hard and were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box when a crude challenge was made on Howls. Evans rolled the ball to Watkins who chipped over the wall to curl a superb shot into the far corner. The referee blew the final whistle and the game was taken into extra time.
With both team tired, extra time contributed little action to note although both teams had good chances to win the game either side of the interval. It looked like both teams were happy to settle the match by way of penalty kicks. Which was the case when the referee finally called proceedings to a halt.
Crusaders went first, and Ryan Watkins fired the ball past the opposition goalkeeper. The away team then missed as Kyle made a fantastic save, giving the advantage to Crusaders, only for Gavin Evans to step up and put his tame effort into the hands of the goalkeeper.
Llanhilleth’s second penalty was scored and the brilliant Andrew Simpkins stepped up to coolly slot the ball into the net. But Llanhilleth also then scored their third.
Leon Reeves took the fourth, and put the blazed miles over the bar. The ball was eventually found three valleys away. Luckily the opposition hit the post with their fourth.
The crusaders fifth turn was calmly placed into the bottom corner by Slasher and the visitors scored the remaining penalty taking the teams into sudden death.
Ben English had the honours and had his shot saved, which invited the opposition player to fire home their opportunity to win the game, which he did.
The Crusaders can be upbeat about the display but will have to wait until next year for their next cup game.

Match Report - Dan Howls

Crusaders -2 Pentwynmawr -1
goals- Daniel Morris, Jack Tinklyn
m.o.m. Jorden Bromley.

Today we entertained Pentwynmawr in a bottom of the table clash. Crus went into the game with a changed line up leaving out Daniel, Nathen and Katie in favour of Jack, Ben and Scott. early pressure from Pent saw Jorden at his best pulling off some great saves and poor finishing we were lucky to keep the game on level terms. Crus gradually fought their way into the game with Liam creating havoc amongst their defense. 25 min's gone when again Liam pressurized their goaly into a mistake, won the ball wide left crossing for Jack to shoot home from 18yards 1-0 Crus. much of the remaining 1st half saw Pent squander more chances and Jorden make save after save.
into the second half Katie on for Jon, Daniel for Liam and Nathen on for Jason and a new strike partnership of Rhys and Daniel, we gave a good account of ourselves with Rhys hitting the post then Pent equalized with about 10 min's remaining. this was when we saw Crus dig deep and produce the winner for Daniel to shoot low past the keeper. at last we had rode our luck and come away with a fine victory, Pentwynmawr traveled home wondering how they didn't score a hat full the answer was simple JORDEN BROMLEY

Match Report - RUSSEL SUTER

Crusaders B vs Trinant at Wattsville

Finally Starting the Game late due to no nets, pump, flags and pegs the referee(Ging) blows to start the onslaught. The Crus' went straight on the attack and scored with the first five minutes after neat play down the left and a cross that missed everyone but Dai Thomas (usually applies his trade down with the Thirds but due to a change in management got the Nod with the Seconds) who Side footed an inch perfect pass to Justin to simply tap in from 4 Yards.
The Second goal came after good Team Play down the Right side resulting in a Gavin Hoare Shot that rattled the bar and dropped to Justin to Tap in. Trinant not happy with being Two down after Ten minutes applied a Little pressure but then it was Gavin's turn to get on the Score sheet. Picking the Ball up inside his own half beating one, then another, then another and so on.... His shot was too good for their keeper who's dive just made the goal look even better. Trinant were then awarded a Dodgy Free Kick just outside the Box for Hand Ball by Jamie Edwards. Ex Crus' player Gankers stepped up and Blasted a Shot passed the Two Man Wall and into the Net. More pressure followed with Trinant having a Shot cleared off the Line, minutes passed with more chances for the Crus' to score but the chances went a begging and the whistle blew for Half Time with the Crus' Leading 3-1.

A change in the Ref was required as Ging couldn't find the Air to Blow the Whistle and this was causing Heated Debates from Both Sides. A Trinant official took the Whistle and started the Second half. Due to the lack of decisions going their way in the First half the Ref decided to let a few rash Trinant tackles go unpunished. Justin then made a good run down the Left side and crossed for Gavin to Score again. Stand-In manager Trog, then made a Change and brought off the Experienced Dai Thom and on went Ging(the Clubs wandering Jew) his performance was not up to the usual standard (nothing more to say on that). Trinant then scored and felt there was a chance to nick something from the Game only for Justin to bag another goal from close range. With the Score at 5-2 Trinant resorted to more Foul play but never threatened the Goal kept well by Thomas Watkins. Gavin then got his Third of the Game with some neat interplay with Ryan James and Justin quickly Rattled in another shortly after. The Crus' should have scored 10 in this Game easily but some poor shooting and a few saves from the Keeper meant there would be no more goals in this Game.

Man of the Match - Justin Edwards
Dummy of the Match - Ging.

Final Score 7 - 2

Scorers
Justin Edwards 4
Gavin Hoare 3

Match Report - David Thomas

Quarter Final
Crus -0 Oakdale-5.

m.o.m. LUKE MORETON.
Having lost 9-0 to our visitors earlier in the season we knew it was going to be a hard game to win. But as we know cup games brings out the best in teams.
We started the game very well having a fair share of possession but could not break down their defense who i must say are the best in the league. LIAM and RHYS in the centre of midfield in very good form winning the ball and springing into attack also feeding DANIEL who was trying but not getting any change from the defenders. LUKE and JASON having a good time keeping their strike force at bay and i must point out that JASON played his best game of the season.
20 min's into the 1st half with the score still 0-0 Oakdale's midfield got on top passing a lovely ball wide right catching JON by surprise and a thunderous shot as he was cutting in made JORDEN pull off a cracking save only to see the ball creep through his hands and trickle into the net. the next goal came 5 min's later, JORDEN again making a fine save from a headed corner the rebound falling to the centre forward and before any defenders could react slammed in their 2nd. A dogged fight for the rest of the half.

The introduction of BEN at half time gave us another dimension in tackling and spurred us on. long into the 2nd period saw the two teams cancel themselves out until they broke down the left substitute JACK couldn't stop an attack the ball was crossed to an unmarked man who slotted home 3-0. With only 10 min's remaining I sent LUKE and JASON up to see if we could claw the game back, but they hit us with 2 more breakaway goals which made the result look one sided IT WAS ANYTHING BUT. A cracking performance by the whole team.
RUSSEL SUTER

Welsh Autoparts Gwent County FA League Division 3.
Whiteheads 1 – Crusaders 0.
Saturday 17th November.

A tricky away game faced Jason Watkins’ (in the absence of G) young side and with points desperately needed the Crusaders took to the field with a strong outfit. After some delightful warm up sessions taken by probably the best ‘coach’ ever the Cru’s were raring to go.

Within the first 10 minutes a strong claim for a red card against the home side was turned down by the referee as Fishcake was clearly taken out as he broke the defence. This set the scene for what proved to be a difficult game for the Whiteheads back 4 as many times the Crus front runners got behind them. The first half continued to see Crus dominate the game, with some good movement and flowing football resulting in Crusaders creating many chances but once again could not capitalise on any of them. Stand in keeper Leon Reeves had little to do and adopted the unorthodox but effective ‘Okey Cokey’ style to keep the ball out of the Crusaders onion bag on no more than a few occasions. Throughout the first half the team maintained pressure with Ben English and Nicky Thom linking well on the right, Chris Jenkins marshalling the midfield and Ben Murphy using his height and strength well to win all aerial battles. A very pleasing first half for the lads with both sides coming off locked at 0-0.

The second half saw a change in play with Whiteheads opting for 3 upfront but again the Crusaders managed to sustain the pressure they had built up in the first half and continued to create chances. With Whiteheads stepping up their game they also started to threaten the Crusaders goal and just after the 60 minute mark the break through came when some sloppy marking from Crus, allowed their substitute striker to rifle a shot into the back of the net from 20 yards, Leon got a hand to it but there was enough power to carry the ball over the line. 1-0. Slightly disheartened the Crus got it back together and continued to attack the opposition’s goal, only a couple of good saves from their keeper kept the ball out of the net. Why didn’t he stay at home?! With the introduction of the 3 subs, Crus went for all out attack, but continued to be frustrated by the home side and some disappointing finishing.

Both sides finished the game with 10 men, not through red cards, but through injury. Hayward tried his best to get back and win the ball from their winger but was slightly late in his tackle (apparently he’s still trying to get there) resulting in the home player going off with a suspected dislocated shoulder. Crusaders suffered their loss when Ben English bravely stuck his head in front of what can only be described as a cannon ball of a free kick. After we finally placed his eyes back into his head, he managed to wobble off. Luckily no damage was done, only a headache which was not enough to stop him from getting up to do his paper round in the morning.

All in all a disappointing afternoon for Crusaders as they felt they should have come away with something. But on the bright side the lads did show the potential that will easily get them a few more points before the season is out.

MOTM – Chris Jenkins

(Special mention to The Legend, he ran the line like a pro)

Saturday 27th November
Crusaders 2XI 3 vs Southend 5 – Cup 1st round
@ Beaufort Welfare

Not a good campaign for the second team this year as they fall at the first hurdle.
The game started badly with no pre-match warm up just straight into kick off, this led to the away side conceding early in the first 10 minutes.
Crusaders Captain Ian Burgess’s battle cry was quickly heeded and the response was a well taken goal finished by Justin Edwards and supplied through a precision pass by Gavin Hoare. The home team took the game to the visitors and got a further goal soon after. Yet again the Crusaders team responded and a rather tame long-range effort from Steve Prosser squeezed inside the weary goalkeepers inside post. Halftime came and the boys were upbeat going in 2-2.
The second half was much of the same with Southend taking the lead once more; Once again the Visitors response was to peg them back through a magnificent header at the back post by G Hoare courtesy of a well delivered corner by Alun Prosser.
Crusaders continued the fight but had a goal disallowed for offside and squandered a brilliant chance when Justin Edwards rounded the goalkeeper only to scuff a shot towards an empty net, which was cleared by a desperate defensive effort.
The home team took control from then on scored another goal from a corner at the back post. This time Crusaders failed to respond and when Southend scored their fifth goal the visitors were dead and buried.
A quick mention and a welcome return to the side for Jamie “street fighter” Edwards who quickly showed us he has lost none of his antics.
So the lads went down to a decent Southend side by 5 goals to 3. The game was a fierce contest for 70 minutes but then fizzled out as the Crusaders team suffered through a lack of stamina and effort.

MOTM: Ryan James

Match Report
Daniel Howls

BRYNMAWR 10-1 CRUSADERS B
NORTH GWENT TOM PERKINS CUP
VENUE: PAST A RUGBY PITCH AND DOWN A BANKING SOMEHWERE IN BRYNMAWR.
REFEREE: 1 OF THEIR GUYS
ATTENDANCE: 4 (ALL OF WHOM LEFT DISGUSTED BY THE SHOCKING DISPLAY)

Possibly the worst game ever for the Crusaders 3rds who simply didn't turn up. On a miserable day and a mucky pitch in the middle of nowhere the Crus simply couldn't create their own atmosphere. After half hr gone nobody had broke sweat as Mark Beacham seen 6 goals go past him. Half Time 6-0.
The 2nd half was only a slight improvement as Brynmawr continued to make a mockery of Crusaders. With around 10 minutes to go Brynmawr were 9-0 up but Crus mounted a rare flowing attack forward. Julian 'Judge' Parr assisted Gilchrist down the left, who was in acres of free space and managed to fire a powerful left foot drive from the edge of the box into the roof of the net. Hopefully, that's the smallest consolation Crusaders will see all season. At 9-1, the comeback was hardly on as Brynmawr made it double figures. 10-1.

Man Of The Match: Nobody. There was no point turning up.

Match Report - Scott Gilchrist

UNDER 18S MATCH REPORT
CRUSADERS 0-3 MONMOUTH
VENUE: CWMFELINFACH JUNIOR PITCH
REFEREE: LEE HUGHES
ATTENDANCE: LOW INTO DOUBLE FIGURES

The 18s were to host league leaders Monmouth in a very difficult clash. The visitors already had the physiological edge having already defeated Crus on the opening day of the season and knocking them out of the cup just a couple of weeks to go. Key defender Ben English, Sean Chidgey and Christian East were all ruled out injured. Lewis Hillier was being questioned by the police for under age drinking up the red lion just the previous night. Crus started well, but were only limited to half chances against a solid Monmouth side.
Captain Jon Haywood managed to clip the bar from a corner kick but that was the closest the Crus managed to get. With 10 minutes before the break, Monmouth scored with a 25 yard belter as the Crus defence could only half clear. Half Time 0-1. It took Monmouth just 10 minutes into the 2nd half to double their tally as their striker managed to latch on to the ball after some poor Crus defending. The Crus managed to battle on and the crowd were roaring for Shearer to come on. Despite Crusaders constant battling they simply couldn't supply the ball to Shearer up front. With 10 minutes to go Monmouth sealed the game with a deflected shot from outside the box. A tough 90 minutes out of the way for the 18s. On another day against a lesser side in the league, the Crus would have probably got something out of the game but they were playing against the possible league champions on this occasion.

Man Of The Match: Shearer. Legend.

Match Report- Scott Gilchrist

Welsh Autoparts Gwent County FA League Division Three
Crusaders 1, Abergavenny Thursdays 1
Fields Park, Newbridge
Saturday 13th November 2004
Referee - C Burrows

Following last weeks impressive cup performance against Coed Eva, the Crus' went into the game against an improved Abergavenny side full of confidence. With next weeks game being away against top-of-the-league Monmouth it was important to get something from this game to help us climb the league.

Looking back on the game, a series of missed chances cost the Crus' full points. The first half was one-way traffic aimed at the Abergavenny goal. Ryan Watkins, continuing to play well up front, missed two simple chances to get on the scoresheet before Nicky Thomas notched his first of the season which a delicate chip into the far corner following good build up play by Johnny Fishcake and Ben English.

The Crus' found themselves in behind the Abergavenny defence on numerous occasions but each time lacked the composure to pick the correct final ball. Would all these missed chances come back to haunt us? Abergavenny had one notable attack in the first half - with their centre forward unleashing a vicious left foot drive which Ben English done well to clear off the line. Half-time came with the Crus' holding
a very comfortable 1-0 lead.

The second half produced more of the same, with Crus' again getting into good positions but failing to capitalise. Nicky Thomas was put clean through on the hour but the Abergavenny keeper did well to keep his effort out. As the game progressed you could sense Abergavenny were going to get at least one chance to equalise. On 75 minutes the referee contributed to the games major turning point. Johnny Fishcake
outpaced the Abergavenny defence to get through on goal. In a desperate attempt to get back, the Abergavenny defender brought Fishcake down in the box. A blatant penalty, well so we thought. Unbelievably the referee signaled for a goal kick - stating the defender got a foot to the ball. If this was