LLANDYRNOG 2
CEFN 0
A DECADE of hurt is now a distant memory for the new Summer League champions.
Llandyrnog have experienced some tough times since they last claimed the top honour way back in 2000, but in front of a large crowd at Cae Nant, Phil Hinchliffe’s side decisively gained the three points needed to secure the club’s 17th Summer League title.
There had to be a winner on the night, according to Llandyrnog assistant manager Jimmy McNally.
“I think a draw would have been a bit of an anti-climax,” he said.
“That was a cup final for both sides, really.”
Quite understandably, the early stages proved to be cagey, with both sides probing for any weaknesses to exploit.
Cefn’s Dilwyn Roberts said: “It was a very close game.
“We were quite pleased with the first half performance up the hill to hold them.”
Needing to win on the night, Cefn did go close to netting in the first half.
Dewi Jones just failed to break the deadlock with a header, while Jones fired straight at impressive Llandyrnog keeper Danny Jones when he was well placed.
“It was 50-50 at half-time and we fancied our chances,” added Roberts.
McNally said: “In the first half we had some chances... but we just couldn’t quite put them in.
“Everyone was there on the edge of their seats desperate for the ball to be put in the back of the net!”
Llandyrnog gained the initiative in unfortunate fashion.
Cefn goalkeeper Ifan Roberts has been in brilliant form all season, but when he dropped the ball, Llandyrnog hotshot Josh Davies was there to roll in his 23rd strike of the summer.
McNally had plenty of praise for the Cefn number one and he said: “He made some great saves.”
One save in particular saw Roberts brilliantly keep out a header from Llandyrnog player-manager Phil Hinchcliffe.
Llandyrnog were keen to add a second goal to put the seal on their title triumph and it eventually came with a couple of minutes remaining.
Josh Davies hooked the ball to Danny Roberts, who netted his fifth - and most important - goal of 2011.
McNally admitted: “Danny Robs said he heard every body holding their breath and he said it seemed to take an age to go in!”
Despite being disappointed, Dilwyn Roberts offered his congratulations to Llandyrnog for their fine season.
Adam Lloyd was in stunning form at the back for the new champions and he deservedly gained the man of the match accolade, while Cefn’s top performer was defender Dave Evans.
“We have had a couple of critics this season, but that’s the way it goes,” added McNally.
“We have had no suspensions this season and very few yellow cards, and I think our football’s done the talking this season.”
Now, Llandyrnog are looking at a perfect season with a league and Shield double.
McNally said: “The Shield this season is going to be interesting and it’s a chance for every team.
“I think we have shown a few people what we are made of.
“We are definitely going for the Shield!”
Llandyrnog’s honours:
League champions: 1950, 1954, 1957, 1964, 1977, 1078, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1991, 2000, 2011
Shield winners: 1954, 1959, 1966, 1975, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1991, 1992, 1994