Vikings enjoy their day in the sun!

 
 

Record score for Bennett’s boys

Hakin United’s final tally of seven goals was a new record in the competition after the previous record of six had stood for 70 years. Mike Phillips, the county record keeper, was able to confirm that six-goal successes had previously been achieved by Narberth (1947/48), Pembroke Borough (48/49) and RAF Pembroke Dock (1952/53).

Well done Clarbie

Matthew Ellis and his team were clearly shattered at the end but they played their part in the final and were still in with a shout at half time. Like Hakin, they have a great manager and bunch of lads, and did brilliantly to again reach the final and I hope they can make it three appearances in a row nest season!

Huge and well-behaved crowd

In his role as Hon Treasurer of the Manderwood Pembrokeshire League, Mike was able to confirm that it was one of the best crowds at a final but not a record gate, and it was lovely to see another family day out from both clubs.
 

Well done Keith

Keith Scourfield, the excellent previous Hon Treasurer, always helps Mike out on the big day but looked likely to miss his first final in memory because his car broke down outside his Princes’ Gate home – but a quick call to the rescue services and the fitting of a new battery so the relieved Mr Scourfield at the match, as ever.

Nippers give a terrific exhibition of skills

There was a half-time innovation as a mixed under seven and under eight team from each club gave an exhibition of their skills in a mini-match – and didn’t they look brilliant in their respective blue and red strips as they showed the benefit of good coaching too!
 

Well done The Bluebirds

There is no doubt that playing the final at the Conygar Bridge Meadow Stadium gives an added boost to the day and well done to David Hughes and his hard workers throughout the day, especially those organising the parking or selling refreshments – and to groundsman Kevin Craig for the superb state of the playing surface.

Danny takes cover as the sun strikes

One of my lasting memories of the day came when I spotted Danny Thomas, the president of the Pembrokeshire Referees Society, looking as smart as ever but perhaps thinking that he was on Broad Haven Beach with his handkerchief draped neatly over his head to prevent sunburn on his bald patch! It was proof of how hot things were – and how resourceful Mr Thomas is!
 

Pre-match build-up for players . . .

Clarbeston Road started their day off with an excellent brunch with Simon Brick at the Cross Inn in the village, followed by a quick look at the pitch and a relaxing walk around Haverfordwest – whilst Hakin United followed their tried and trusted method of treating it like any other match, meeting at their clubhouse and making their way together to Haverfordwest.

. . . And officials too!

The officials also follow a nice tradition as referee James Olyott was joined by assistants Gareth Elliott and Steve Williams (taking the place of Gavin Southcott, who was injured), plus fourth official Charles Davies were joined by other refs for a light lunch at the Friars Inn, where they also took part in a quiz organised by Sean O’Connor. No doubt about the biggest eater, which was veteran ref Paul Jackson with an enormous plate of food – and Charles Davies didn’t do too badly with his steak either!
 

Well done James

Congratulations to James Olyott on a very successful final where his quiet but assured control saw him able to complete his part in the game without having to show any yellow or red cards – well done James!

Nice start to proceedings

As usual, the teams and officials were led out onto the pitch by Manderwood League hon secretary Brian Hawkins to be presented to Chris Tansey of sponsors Manderwood, with Steve Briars (Pembrokeshire League Chairman) and Jean Wooler (Chairperson of the West Wales FA), whilst Ceri Richards, the outstanding hon sec of the West Wales FA was also there to support.

Wonder goal by skipper Nicky

The game got off to a splendid start for Hakin when their captain, Nicky Woodrow, scored an opening goal that would have graced any final as he found himself on the right edge of the box, flicked the ball into the air and produced a thunderous left foot volley into the top far corner that would have graced any goal of the season at the highest level on ‘television!

Youngest man of the match

The man of the match award was judged by Chris Tansey, Jimmy Yeomans and Daisy Picton and there were huge cheers when Mr T announced that it was Ben Fawcett, who is just 17 and played a huge part in the Vikings’ victory. Again, as tradition demands, he was presented with the match ball, which was, as usual, sponsored by Mark White of Ocky White Travel Ltd. Nicky Woodrow also ended up with a ball used on the day as a memento – and who could blame him as he became the first player to score hat-tricks in two finals!

Benny receives Lilian Holman trophy

Another special award came for Hakin manager Kristan Bennett as he received the Lilian Holman Memorial Trophy from Royston Holman, who has done so much good work for the Pembrokeshire League Committee.

Wrong again!

And finally, I have to admit that I got it wrong again and I have to apologise to Clarbeston Road for tipping them – whilst my pals Gordon Thomas and Fraser Watson went for the safe option. But at least I have the consolation of their being way out with the scoreline!