PHOTOS:
James Gwilt pulls off a brilliant save to deny Bobby Briers scoring from the spot
Nicky Palmer worked tirelessly for Haverfordwest County
Haverfordwest County 0 – Barry Town United 0
Haverfordwest County players, staff and fans must have felt relieved at the final whistle as they held on for a goalless draw with Barry Town United at the Conygar Bridge Meadow Stadium.
The Bluebirds were well on top in the first half, but once striker Ashley Bevan received a straight red card, the dynamics of the game changed.
Haverfordwest County’s left-sided midfielder Lee Hudgell missed a golden opportunity to score early on, as Barry goalkeeper Mike Lewis smothered his close range shot.
Penalty saved
Midway through the first period and the home outfit were awarded a penalty when keeper Lewis was caught tugging at a jersey. Chris O’Sullivan drilled his spot kick down the middle, but somehow Lewis stopped it with his legs.
Minutes later and Bevan was sent off for what referee deemed a dangerous tackle, it looked harsh decision, but one that Bevan must learn from.
Defensive set-up
After the break, the Bluebirds set-up defensively, having two banks of four to try and nullify the visitors' goal threat.
However, on the hour mark Barry were awarded a penalty when defender Matthew Broome tripped Kareem Leigh inside the box. Former Bluebird Bobby Briers struck a firm penalty that keeper James Gwilt did brilliantly to beat out, diving to his right.
Jordan Cotterill was unlucky not to break the deadlock when he struck a fierce shot from distance that hit the post.
No further scares as the Bluebirds claimed a deserved draw when all looked lost when they went down to ten-men in the first period.
On Tuesday, 6th September, Haverfordwest County entertain Port Talbot in the Word Cup, the kick-off is at 7.45pm.
Haverfordwest County: James Gwilt; Matthew Broome; Luke Harris; Sean Pemberton; Spencer Williams; Nicky Palmer; Chris O’Sullivan; Steffan Davies; Lee Hudgell; Ashley Bevan; Rhys Dalling. Substitutes: Nathan Banner; Rhydian Davies; Kristian Speake; Steffan Williams.
Barry Town United: Mike Lewis; Bobby Briers; Chris Hugh; Luke Cooper; Ryan Evans; James Saddler (Captain); Lee Baldock; Louis Gerrard; Kareem Leigh; Jordan Cotterill; Drew Fahiya. Substitutes: Lewis Cosslett; Michael Hartley; Tyrrell Webbe; Paul Morgan; Dan Bradley.
Referee: Benjamin Williams
Assistants: Pedr McMullen & Neal Lewis
