News Of the Welsh police Football Association

WELSH POLICE CONQUER 14 SIGNALS

7th OCTOBER 2001.

In a lively and combative encounter the Welsh Police Football team held onto a one goal advantage to secure a win against the 14 Signals Regiment in the annual fixture at the Bridge Meadow, Haverfordwest last Wednesday afternoon.

The third minute goal of striker Gareth Martin who rounded off an excellent move with a well struck shot which gave goalkeeper Daz Sachs no chance was to prove crucial in a game which the Welsh Police dominated the first half and the Signals were well to the fore in the second half.

The Welsh Police fielded a very experienced team with the former Spurs and Swansea keeper and new manager Mark Kendall providing an inspirational performance in the front line as well as encouraging and guiding his team throughout. A key player for the Police was the former Cwmbran player Russell Wigley who was always a source of danger with his superb runs and ball control on a tricky surface.

The game was played at a good pace throughout with strong interpassing on both sides and length of the field moves which were a delight to watch bearing in mind that the teams were together for the first time after a two months lay off. Good performances were given by the Dyfed Powys pair of Dave Lee and Dave Mallin who combined cleverly in the back and proved to be efficient and strong defenders.

In the second half the Police were indebted to the experience of Steve Jones of North Wales who made several fine saves to thwart the growing confidence of the opposition particularly the strong midfielder Douglas. The dangerous "Ernie" Wise was a source of danger when he came on as substitute for the Signals with some telling shots at goal, combining well with the prominent midfielder Stuart Gray.

The Police were deprived of a second goal in the closing minutes following a fine solo effort by the ever dangerous Martin who was thwarted by an excellent save from goalkeeper Sachs off his legs.

The game was played in good spirit and proved to be an excellent advertisement for inter- services sport, well handled throughout by the highly experienced Pembrokeshire referee Phil Cook who was well supported by his Society colleagues Byron Phillips and Chris Stapleton as assistants.

Click here for Home | Click here for More News | Click here for  Newsletter Index