Haverfordwest County will be looking for a response to the disappointment of Tuesday night when we travel to The Rock to take on Cefn Druids in the JD Cymru Premier Play-Off Conference tomorrow.
The Bluebirds slipped to a 1-0 defeat against Aberystwyth Town at the Ogi Bridge Meadow three days ago, with Louis Bradford’s late goal enough to see the Black and Greens edge a closely-fought encounter under the lights.
The defeat means that County are now without a win in three matches, following last Saturday’s 3-2 defeat to Cardiff Metropolitan and the goalless draw with Connah’s Quay Nomads seven days prior.
However, our recent form against the Ancients will provide us with confidence heading into tomorrow’s game, with the 6-1 victory at the Ogi Bridge Meadow just under a month ago still fresh in the memory.
The Bluebirds last made the visit to The Rock on February 26, a game which saw manager Nicky Hayen take charge of the team for the first time, as we ran out 2-0 winners thanks to Alhagi Touray Sisay and a wonderful strike from Jack Wilson.
In the first meeting between the sides in Phase One, County came from behind to win 2-1 at the Meadow, with Wilson’s late brace giving us a valuable three points.
Druids, who are already relegated and will play their football in the JD Cymru North next season, have made an up and down start to Phase Two, with defeats to County, Barry Town United and Connah’s Quay Nomads (twice), however they did manage to defeat Cardiff Metropolitan 2-0 a fortnight ago, and drew 3-3 with Aberystwyth Town in the first game after the split.
Recent results have seen the Play-Off Conference become even more congested, with just five points separating Cardiff Metropolitan – who currently top the standings – from Barry Town United, who occupy the second relegation spot as it stands.
With this in mind, the Bluebirds could find themselves anywhere from 7th to 10th after the close of play tomorrow. Only a County win, coupled with a Cardiff Metropolitan defeat at home to Aberystwyth Town, would see Hayen’s side climb to the top of the Conference, while a draw or a defeat opens the door for us to drop down a place or two as the competition really begins to heat up.
Key man: Liam Thomas – The winger has proved to be a useful addition for the Ancients since arriving at the club in January on a contract until the end of the season. A player who possesses quick feet and a sharp turn of pace, the 19-year-old has shown why he was part of the academy setups at Derby County and Shrewsbury Town. The former Newtown man provided the assist for the Druids’ only goal in the 6-1 defeat to the Bluebirds last month, and is someone we will need to keep close tabs on throughout the game.
Previous meeting
Cefn Druids vs. Haverfordwest County – JD Cymru Premier MD29 (Kick-off: 14:30)
