Expect plenty of drama at Park Avenue on Sunday as both semi-finals of the FAW Youth Cup take place at the home of Aberystwyth Town.
Newport County, who claimed the trophy back in 2005 and knocked-out current holders Briton Ferry Llansawel in the last round, will take on Caernarfon Town in the opening match (KO 12:30). Newtown will then face Haverfordwest County in the second semi-final (KO 16:30) with both teams looking to win the competition for the very first time.
Moses Alexander-Walker was the hat-trick hero for Newport County in the quarter-final in a comprehensive 6-0 away victory over Briton Ferry Llansawel. The side eliminated AFC Llwydcoed, Flint Town United and Cambrian United in the previous rounds, scoring 12 goals in the process. However, they needed penalties to see off Flint Town United after a 4-4 draw, with Cameron Egan adding to his two goals in normal time by scoring the decisive penalty.
“We knew coming here that it was going to be a tough game, they’re the holders,” said head coach Joe Flurry to the club’s official website after victory against Ferry. “I’m really proud of the lads. Although we scored six, which is sensational, in the dressing room we gave a big nod to the defenders and the goalkeeper who kept a very good clean sheet. It’s a real collective effort from the players, coaching staff, sports science, and everyone else involved. We are in a really good place, and I am so proud of everyone.”
Hari Lambe has been in excellent form for Caernarfon Town on their way to the last four having scored in every round. Lambe was on target against Cardiff Met and Penybont in early victories and scored twice in the 3-3 draw with Connah’s Quay Nomads in the quarter-final. However, it was substitute Guto Parry who would ensure their progress with the crucial penalty in the shoot-out.
Newtown have seen off the challenge of Bala Town, Airbus UK Broughton, Pontypridd United and The New Saints on their way to the semi-finals. Robert Davies and Griff Davies scored hat-tricks in Round 1 and Round 2 respectively, but it was Tarran Hollinshead who has made the difference in the last two rounds. Hollinshead scored in the winning penalty in the shoot-out with Pontypridd United in Round 3 before registering the only goal of the game in the last round against The New Saints.
Daniel John came off the bench to score twice for Haverfordwest County in their opening round 2-1 win over Canton, but the side enjoyed far more convincing victories against Graig Villa Dino and Carmarthen Town, winning 6-1 and 8-3 respectively on their way to the quarter-final. A penalty shoot-out was required away to Caerau Ely to make to the last four following a 2-2 draw, and it was substitute Kyle O’Sullivan who booked their place with the winning spot kick.
Tickets for both semi-finals will only be available to buy on the gate, costing £2 for adults. Entry is free for concessions.
