Merthyr are hit for six by Vale (From Barry And District News)

Merthyr are hit for six by Vale

THE VALE Representative League Under 12's team took on a Merthyr league U12's representative side at Merthyr Tydfil's ground, Penydarren Park on Sunday, March 23.

The Vale team started the sharper and took an early lead with Dinas Powys's Dan Jose finding the net with a well-taken goal from inside the area. The Vale side grew stronger as the first half progressed and numerous onslaughts were halted by the Merthyr defence.

The pressure eventually paid off with Dan Jose scoring his second goal, stroking the ball in from close range following a Nat Taylor-Moore cross. This spurred on the Merthyr boys who got a goal back on the break, narrowly beating Sully goalkeeper Lewis May.

The Vale team started the second half with more confidence, playing some excellent passing football, which resulted in a goal for Llantwit Major's in-form striker Luke James. St Athan's Gareth Hughes, playing in his more accustomed role up front, also got on the score sheet following superb link play between the midfield and attack. The Vale lads were now thoroughly enjoying the occasion, and this was reflected in their football.

Shots rained in on the opposition's goal, resulting in the Merthyr goalkeeper parrying Vale captain Max Morgan's shot into the path of Richard Bright, who coolly slotted the ball home. Substitute Gethin Jennings completed Vale's scoring with a superb left foot volley from just inside the penalty area. Although Merthyr scored a late consolation goal the final score finished Merthyr League 2, Vale League 6.

Considering this was the first game the lads have played together, with little time to practice, they performed exceptionally well, and it is hoped that the league will arrange further matches before the season ends. Thanks are due to the coaches from Llantwit Major, and Sully for accepting the 'challenge' of organising the team and the pre-match trials, and to Merthyr for the hospitality shown.

Starting line up: Lewis May, James Thomas, Max Wootton, (Richard Bright), David Griffiths, Sam Mawhinney, Nathaniel Taylor-Moore, (Shaun Jackontow), Max Morgan, Josh Hill, Josh Sewell, (Gethin Jennings), Luke James, Dan Jose, (Gareth Hughes) Subs not used (injured): Luke Dee, Mathew Greene.