Presteigne and Rhayader Town meet in a big Radnorshire derby at Llanandras Park tomorrow (Saturday). The rivals clash in the Spar Mid Wales League for the first time since Rhayader’s promotion in the summer – and both teams are looking forward to what should be a well-supported local derby.
Presteigne assistant manager Tom Ammonds said earlier this week: “Hopefully we will have a decent crowd as we are certainly worth watching at the moment” – referring to the number of goals both scored and conceded in recent weeks.
Presteigne’s last three games have produced a staggering 29 goals in total.
On a more serious note, Ammonds added: “It will be a tough game – the league as a whole is as tough as I have ever known it to be”.
Presteigne, however, should be close to full strength with Mike Symonds, Glen Tolley, Adie Bennett and Mattie Davies set to return, having missed the League Cup win at Llanfyllin. Striker Kenny Styles (hamstring) is Presteigne’s one injury doubt.
Rhayader player-manager Dylan McPhee is also anticipating a hard-fought derby. McPhee, whose side remain on fourth spot in the table, said: “We are expecting a difficult game as when they have everyone available, Presteigne are as strong as anyone in the league. If both teams play to their potential, it should be a real cracker.”
McPhee is without Chris Murphy, Rhys Thomas and Marc Maunder, but strikers Simon Boss Johnson and Dan Field could figure for the Weirglodd side.
There is a curtailed league programme in the Watson Associates Mid Wales League (South) tomorrow (Saturday) with several sides opting not to play in the aftermath of “Mad Friday”.
Newcastle are, however, in action and will be keen to extend their four-match unbeaten league run at home against Penybont United.
Manager John Good-ridge welcomes Matt Jones and Richard Jones back from holiday while Adrian Jones faces a late fitness test.
