With 2024 now in full swing, there are plenty of crucial encounters across the JD Cymru Leagues this weekend. Here are the key fixtures to watch in each division.
JD Cymru Premier – Aberystwyth Town v Colwyn Bay (Friday, 8pm)
Aberystwyth Town claimed a vital draw against Haverfordwest County last weekend to move within two points of safety in the JD Cymru Premier and the Seasiders will now have the chance to escape the relegation zone by leapfrogging Colwyn Bay with victory over the Seagulls on Friday night at Park Avenue.
However, Anthony Williams’ side have failed to win any of their nine home games in the league this season and have not won at Park Avenue in any competition since beating JD Cymru South side Pontardawe Town in the JD Welsh Cup back in October.
Colwyn Bay are looking to return to winning ways following a four-match losing streak, with Steve Evans’ side most recently being edged out 2-1 by Caernarfon Town on New Year’s Eve.
In the phase one reverse fixture between the two sides in September, goals from Tom Creamer, Dan Jones and Udi Akpan secured a 3-1 victory for the Seagulls – their first ever home win in the JD Cymru Premier.
JD Cymru North – Airbus UK Broughton v Bangor 1876 (Friday, 7:30pm)
JD Cymru North leaders Airbus UK Broughton face a tricky test on Friday night when they host in-form Bangor 1876 at the Hollingsworth Group Stadium.
The Wingmakers are currently top of the table on 42 points, but with Flint Town United and Holywell Town close behind with a healthy number of games in hand, three points may be a must for Mark Allen’s side.
They returned to winning ways on New Year’s Day with a comfortable 3-0 victory away to Gresford Athletic, which was much-needed after they were held to a goalless draw in the Boxing Day reverse fixture.
Bangor 1876 triumphed 4-1 over Porthmadog on New Year’s Day, which was a fifth win in six games for Mike Johnston’s team.
JD Cymru North top goalscorer Corrig McGonigle has been at the heart of his side’s impressive form and took his league tally this season 17 with a brace against Port.
A second half double from George Peers separated these two sides back in October as Airbus snatched a 2-1 win at Nantporth Stadium.
JD Cymru South – Llantwit Major v Briton Ferry Llansawel (Saturday, 2pm)
There will be eyes locked on both ends of the JD Cymru South table when league leaders Briton Ferry Llansawel travel to struggling side Llantwit Major on Saturday.
Ferry built a strong lead at the top of the table over the festive period, going eight points clear following a hard-fought 3-2 win over Cwmbran Celtic before back-to-back wins over neighbours Baglan Dragons.
With second-place Llanelli Town and third-place Afan Lido meeting on Friday night, Andy Dyer’s side may have the chance to go further ahead of the teams below them the day after.
In contrast, three consecutive losses have left Llantwit Major stranded in the relegation zone and nine points adrift of safety.
Ben Stait’s side were left frustrated over the Christmas period as both of their matches against Goytre United were postponed due to waterlogged pitches.
The last meeting between Ferry and Major in November saw the Reds storm to a 5-0 victory thanks to Josh Bull’s double and one goal each for Luke Bowen, Luis Bates and Jasper Payne.
