M.4 - 21/2022 Season

By Eloise Martin

Disappointment as home game ends in 0-1 loss against Aberystwyth

Last week’s home match against Aberystwyth ended in a 0-1 loss. Having won the previous game against Port Talbot Sunday’s loss hit hard when Aberystwyth’s early winner in the 18th minute via a penalty was enough to take all three points.

The first chance in the match came from the opposition. A ball heading towards the top of the goal led to an impressive save when their effort was tipped just over the bar by goalkeeper Maisie Jones. Soon after Alana Murphy’s chance from just outside the box was saved by the Aberystwyth goalkeeper Ffion Ashman.

In the 18th minute a foul inside the box resulted in a penalty for the opposition. This was netted by Amy Jenkins giving Aberystwyth an early lead. A minute later Carys Bufton found the back of the net in a swift fight back. However, she was flagged for offside.

The first half continued to involve chances for both sides. Maisie Jones made another excellent save tipping the ball over the bar again as Aberystwyth attempted to extend their lead. Pontypridd had a strong spell just before half-time with good build up play but unfortunately were unable to convert.

The second half started off strong with substitute Ellie Gunney squaring the ball to Millie Jones whose ball was blocked. Gunney also went 1 on 1 with goalkeeper Ashman, after an excellent run but failed to capitalise. Pontypridd continued to chase for an equaliser with Alison Witts also finding herself 1 on 1 with goalkeeper Ashman, who was able to block the shot.

The Dragons efforts were not enough, and the game ended with Aberystwyth taking home the three points.

Fern Burrage-Male expressed her disappointment at the loss. “Losing 0-1 is incredibly difficult for us especially at home.” “Despite the result there were lots of positives to take from the game, we had spells of really good football.” She was optimistic: “We will pick ourselves up from this we have got a big game next week and we will continue to build in training.”

League action pauses next week as Pontypridd face Cardiff Bluebells in the FAW Cup.