NEWCASTLE Emlyn bounced back to winning ways in the South Wales Women's Hockey League division one with a 3-1 win in their penultimate game against Radnor.

The conditions at Crymych Leisure Centre couldn’t have been better, and the Carmarthenshire side did not disappoint after a few losses on their travels.

Both teams looked evenly matched during the first 10 minutes, with Emlyn’s defensive trio of Ellie Lloyd, Ffion Davies and vice-captain Sioned Davies being tested by Radnor’s skilful forward players, particularly in the centre and right channels.

Sweeper Elen Hill’s solid defensive play, however, continued to dispossess the attacking side, and a rapid attack from captain Sara Patterson down the left wing earned Emlyn a short corner at the 20th minute.

Centre midfield Mel Williams capitalised with a lovely flick past the goalkeeper to make it 1-0 to the home side.

Forward Sioned Fflur Davies caused some huge issues for Radnor’s defence, who couldn’t match her speed down the right wing throughout.

After some lovely passing from midfield player Gwawr Evans, Sioned Fflur made a break down the centre, passing to Carys Owen for her first touch of the ball, having only just stepped foot on the pitch.

A fantastic strike from Carys was on target into the top right-hand corner, and the Radnor goalkeeper was unable to react, making it 2-0 to Emlyn at half time.

Radnor did not make the rest of the game easy for Emlyn, and came back from half time with renewed energy.

Radnor’s forwards were quick and accurate with their passing in attack, continuing to challenge second-half sweeper Lois Davies, and experienced back Lowri Hubbard.

Sioned Davies in defence was as strong as ever, assisting Rosie Hughes and Efa Jones, who linked up brilliantly on the right wing with Sioned Fflur.

Another carry from Sioned reached centre forward Enfys Davies in the attacking circle, whose impressive shot was on target made it 3-0.

Efa Jones continued to carry strongly, earning a short corner for Emlyn just inside the circle due to a Radnor foot.

The attacking duo of Enfys Davies and Mel Williams were quickly shut down by a well-worked defence from Radnor, however, and the counter-attack was on.

Radnor’s tails were up by now, and despite a string of saves from Emlyn’s talented goalkeeper Elin Williams, Radnor managed to beat the home defence, sneaking the ball into the bottom right pocket to make it 3-1.

As ever, Emlyn continued pushing and skilled youngster Flo Plant impressed when coming on as a forward replacement, bringing some much-needed energy to the latter half of the game.

Sara Patterson made some exhilarating breaks down the centre, but some impressive goalkeeping from Radnor prevented her from getting the hit on goal.

Player of the match was thoroughly deserved by Sioned Fflur Davies, but Emlyn should be pleased with a strong, gutsy performance from both attack and defence, resulting in well-earned win for the whole squad. 

Thanks were expressed to match sponsors Ellie Lloyd Sports Therapy, Patterson Transport and Bois Y Mowo.

Next up, Newcastle Emlyn play league rivals Bridgend on Saturday in Crymych for their last league game of the season, push back 1.30pm. Home support would be very much appreciated for this important game.