Match report: Penybont 0-0 TNS
International Penybont returned to the DragonBet stadium for the first time since our European tour to Andorra in our Novira Cymru Premier opener against TNS.
In front of a crowd of over a thousand eager Bont supporters, the new-look boys in blue certainly rose to the occasion!
Fast start
The game began with a quick tempo, with both sides keen to take control over the match. Sure enough, the first chance of the game went the way of Bont as new signing Ethan Vaughan fired a powerful effort over the bar.
TNS looked to respond shortly after, from a corner that was bravely claimed by Dan Higgs who returns to Bont this season on a loan spell from Cardiff City.
From there, Bont launched a counter attack back at the visitors that found the feet of another new recruit, former Bristol Rovers midfielder, Tom Mehew who fired a low driven shot narrowly wide of the left post.
A miscommunication at the back resulted in TNS’ Leo Smith collecting a loose ball, however, he couldn’t break down the brick wall that is Dan Higgs who claimed the ball comfortably with an acrobatic diving stop.
At the end of the half, two added minutes were confirmed before the sides went into the break on level terms.
Second Half underway
Higgs saw the first bit of action of the half as he made a super save to deny the visitors once again! Rhys Griffiths saw this time suitable to make a double Bont substitution as they searched for an opener.
The change saw Jac Clay and debutant striker, Tyler Walker take to the field in replacement of Nathan Wood and Ryan Hill.
This was closely followed by another double substitution for Bont as Chris Venables and Noah Daley replaced Marinho Manga and Ethan Cann in yet another attempt to add attacking depth to this Bont side.
Despite a couple of late TNS opportunities, Bont rode out the result and finished the opening match of the season in a goalless draw against the reigning champions.
Next Up
Rhys Griffiths side will travel up north to Caernarfon in what will undoubtedly be yet another highly contested fixture.
Bont XI:
Higgs; Mehew, Davies (c), Wood (Clay 66’), Pritchard, Cann (Daley 76’), Melbourne, Hill (Walker 66’), Manga (Venables 76’), Shepherd, Vaughan.
Attendance: 1025
Ben Lewis ✍️