Welsh Schools Under 15 Cup Competition:
Newport Schools 2 - Pembrokeshire Schools 5
Pembrokeshire’s last match of the season resulted in a sound performance and a deserved win at Newport’s Llanwern School in a night match.
Pembrokeshire’s determination to win the ball and then to counter attack in numbers through their midfield of Ieuan Rutherford, Sion O’Sullivan and Finn Iles, kept the Newport team racing desperately back to defend their goal. Goals by Paul Miller (2) and Alfie Stotter meant that Pembrokeshire had run up a 3-0 lead by half time, even though Newport attacked strongly from their right side to keep a sound visiting defence in action, and protect James Harries, who kept goal safely.
Strong fight-back resisted
Newport came out strongly with a slight wind and slope advantage for the second half, but a defence in which Patrick Smith was outstanding resisted pressure, particularly from corners, and many dangerous shots were blocked.
Newport managed two goals from close range but could not increase their lead as replacement goal keeper Adam Butler kept cool under pressure, allowing Pembrokeshire to remain composed as further goals from Paul Miller and Jordan White restored team confidence.
This was a notable win for Pembrokeshire Schools at Under 15s level and showed how the squad has developed over the season. Garin Gardner and Curtis Hicks had fine games in the visiting defence and are both eligible for the under 15 competition next season.
Pembrokeshire Squad: James Harries; Curtis Hicks; Carl Gwyther; Patrick Smith (Capt); Aled Evans; Ieuan Rutherford; Garin Gardner; Finn Iles; Sion O’Sullivan; Paul Miller; Alfie Stotter; Adam Butler; Jordan White.