Football: Rhiw pay the penalty in loss

Apr 3 2008 by Our Correspondent, Merthyr Express

FOOTBALL

Ely Rangers 2 Troedyrhiw 0

RHIW were eager to get a win under their belts to bolster their division two survival hopes and hand new manager Cohen Griffith his first three points.

The visitors had the best of the opening minutes and could have gone 2-0 up in a matter of minutes.

Carl Harbord’s fine effort hit the bar, then Steve Minett went close.

Shortly after it was Rangers who took the lead when an unfortunate deflection off Chris Siers gave them the lead.

The hosts were 2-0 up within minutes, leaving Rhiw shellshocked as it could easily have been the other way round.

Rhiw stuck to their task and indeed had the lion’s share of possession throughout the rest of the half, but were unable to turn it into goals.

The second half saw Rhiw continue to gain more possession as they went at Rangers and were awarded a penalty and a chance to get themselves back into the game.

Adam Callan was upended in the box and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot and sending off the offender. Up stepped Richie Collins but he saw his kick denied with a fine save.

Rhiw were disappointed to say the least but continued to put pressure on Rangers and make use of the extra man advantage.

They had numerous chances to get on the scoresheet but were unable to find the net and, as the game drew to a close, they looked resigned to defeat as time wasn’t on their side.

At the final whistle Rhiw were left to reflect on what might have been.

All in all Rhiw were the better side, but a crazy 10-minute spell in the first half saw them concede two goals and, despite their best efforts, they were unable to haul themselves back into the game.

This Saturday sees fellow strugglers Pontyclun visit the Willows for what will be a hugely important fixture, kick-off 2.30pm.