Nicky nicks it! (From Barry And District News)

Nicky nicks it!

HAVERFORDWEST 0 BARRY 1

BARRY went eight points clear with this hard fought victory over hard working but an extremely physical home side on Tuesday evening.

Kenny Brown made three changes from Saturday's game against TNS.

Resting himself, Andy York played in central defence. Lee Jarman came in for Lee Phillips who was rested, whilst Nicky Burke replaced the injured David Toomey.

Burke scored the only goal of the game and was man of the match. The physical contest suited the powerfully built Burke and he caused plenty of problems to the homes side's three man central defence. Haverfordwest managed by John Lewis were extremely physical particularly in the second half. Referee Ceri Richards turning a blind eye to some over zealous challenges by the home side. Before the end Jarman went off with a head injury and Lee Phillips and Jason Price were booked.

Jamie Moralee hit an early drive just over and missed another chance when the ball dropped to him in the penalty box and he pulled his shot wide. A little more composure would have put Barry in front.

Jon French sent in a couple of telling crosses, Tom Ramasut putting one just past the post with a neat shot.

Andrew York was caught in possession and lively young striker Richard Adams hit his chance wide. The home side had a brief spell of possession but it was Barry back on the attack. A Gary Lloyd free kick found Burke in the box. The young striker stood strong and hit home.

Another tremendous free kick by Lloyd hit the bar but with Barry strikers closing in, none could hit home the rebound. Again Lloyd tested the home keeper and he only managed to save at the second attempt. This came after good work by Mike Flynn and Tom Ramasut.

John Lewis known for his ruthless tactics must have launched into his players at half time as the game turned into a second half dog fight. The home side did everything they could to put themselves about with some challenges outside the laws of the game. Referee Ceri Richards took a soft approach and too much was allowed to go on!

The home side's adrenalin rush caused lots of problems for Barry, but without causing too much worry for Simon Rayner.

Nicky Burke collected the ball on the left and his fiery shot was parried by the keeper who just kept off Jon French converting the chance. It was Tom Ramasut's good run that again saw him test the keeper.

Kenny Brown brought on himself Lee Phillips and Lee Pratt before the end and would have been glad to have got through the 90 minutes. Some of the heavy challenges by the home side could have brought injuries to Barry and Lee Jarman came off with a head wound three minutes from time.

Barry Travel to Port Talbot tomorrow night (Friday).

They will expect another physical contest from a team who have some improved form. Kenny Brown will want another three points from this crucial contest. Supporters can book with Tim on 734050 to travel. The bus leaves at 6pm.

On Tuesday evening Barry travel to the Vetch where they must have a real chance of defeating a beleaguered Swansea in the FAW Premier Cup semi final. If they win they will play Cardiff City in the final, worth £100,000 to the winner. Cardiff defeated Wrexham on penalties after a 1-1 draw on 90 minutes.

Again ring Tim if you want to travel to Swansea.