There’s a positive feel to this morning’s notebook with the promise of a grassroots legacy and the new domestic season edging ever nearer, following the draw of the Nathaniel MG Cup first round and two Cymru Premier clubs going head-to-head in a pre-season meeting last night. As always, feel free to get involved via the comments or social media, and thanks to those who’ve recently started following along.
The FAW have announced that World Cup qualification will allow them to invest £4 million into developing grassroots facilities in Wales. (FAW)
NOTES: This investment is not just a commitment towards grassroots football, but promises to create a long-standing legacy in communities across Wales that will celebrate our World Cup qualification for years to come. Details on funding and how clubs can apply will be made available over the summer and autumn. Let’s hope this funding is utilised to make a real difference.
Cardiff City striker Phoebie Poole believes playing in the Adran League can be a pathway for other domestic-based players to reach the national team following her recent call-up to the forthcoming development camp squad. (Genero Adran Leagues)
The draw for the first round of the Nathaniel MG Cup was announced last night with ties being played over the weekend of Saturday 23 July. (Cymru Football)
NOTES: The southern section of the draw threw up two early NPT derbies with Goytre United drawn against Trefelin and Briton Ferry hosting Afan Lido. Other notable ties include last season’s Cymru South champions Llantwit Major facing Carmarthen Town and Swansea Uni against Cambrian & Clydach.
The New Saints ran out 4-1 winners as they hosted Bala Town in a pre-season friendly last night.
NOTES: The main objective of this early meeting between the two sides would’ve been to help both teams build their match sharpness and competitive edge ahead of their respective European ties. Two goals either side of half-time, including a brace from Adrian Cieslewicz gave Saints a four-goal lead, before recent Bala signing James Davies reduced to the deficit. Ben Clarke and Jordan William were also on target for the Park Hall club.
Harri Horwood is looking forward to reuniting with former manager Anthony Williams after Aberystwyth Town confirmed the 22-year-old has returned for a third spell with the club. Horwood played for Penrhyncoch last season but previously played under Williams when at Cardiff Met. “Last season was only my first full season of senior football, so I can’t thank Fred, Sion and the Penrhyn boys enough.” he said.
“Taff (Williams) is a great manager with great ideas. From our time together at Met, it’s clear to see he has exciting plans for an attractive style of play that we can’t wait to show the fans next season.
“I know this is my third stint at the club but hopefully this time around I can showcase to the fans what I can offer to the squad.” (Official club site)
Cefn Druids have announced defender Phil Mooney has extended his stay at the Rock for another season. (Official club Twitter)
Airbus UK Broughton have announced several pre-season games, including matches against Hyde and Northwich as they build-up to their return to the Cymru Premier. (Official club Twitter)
Work on the installation of Flint Town United’s new 3G surface continues. (Official club Twitter)
In light of a cancelled friendly against Pontypridd United on Saturday, Carmarthen Town have announced that they will be hosting an intra-squad friendly at 10am, free to spectators. (Official club twitter)
The Welsh Football Notebook 