Match stats:

Gareth Blackwell
Matthew James (Pen)

So into the first game of the season, the Vader’s travelled in convoy across baron lands into the dump known as The Rhondda. With 18 Vader’s travelling it was unfortunate that some were going to go without a game. Christian Powys put himself forward as one of the people to miss out (hat off to him) along with Dempo who just relishes the chance to pretend he’s played and was more than happy not to overexert himself more than necessary, in fact putting his togs on was enough energy wasted for the day.

Ynysmaerdy had a very nice field, shame about the telephone box we had to get changed in.

So to the kickoff, the Vader’s line up looked a strong one and Ynysmaerdy weren’t the youngest looking team or the most energetic bar a young winger who had the pace of Theo Walcott.

The match was evenly balanced until a bounce caught the Vader’s defence off guard and the centre forward went through to slot an easy goal against the run of play.

The Vader’s pressed on with heads up and created quite a few chances with Jammy and Lee Isaac working the right flank. Isaac’s passes into space in front of goal let to two good chances which weren’t converted.
Just before half time scott sainsbury who was making a pest of himself in the middle got brought down and a bit of afters from the centre forward saw him get a straight red from the ref.

The Vader’s were again punished for ball watching just before half time and found themselves 2-0 down.

2-0 going into half time but this was an unfair score line as the Vader’s had the better of the half even before the sending off. Two goals were gifted to Ynysmaerdy and there was a lot of work to be done second half.

From the kickoff the Vader’s started as they ended the first half looking to get the goals back. Blackie the “static man” surprised everyone when he actually friggin moved and Titch put him through and Blackie finished well. The Vader’s back on track but moment later a sloppy free-kick saw James “I’ve had 2 hours kip” spill the ball between his legs and The Vader’s were back to square one.

Changes were made, Isaac out for Tom Evans and Rob Boydell for Allan Thomas.

Not long after the Vader’s were still pressing for a comeback and scott sainsbury was brought down in the area, and after milking it to death he got up and Titch converted the penalty, making it 3 from 3 for Titch.
With around 15 mins left the game could have gone anyway and Hoggsy was brought in for Blackie and did well in the time he had, apart from missing an absolute sitter and headed wide. Unlucky and would have seen the Vader’s level.

Moments before the end Ynysmaerdy managed to score another while all the Vader’s defence were diving in and allowed the little winger to smash one home past GK Jimbob.

The game looking like it was all but done Rich Boydell was put through 1 on 1 with the keeper and the Fridge in goal had no intention of getting the ball and smashed Rich to the floor, no penalty, no free kick, nothing! And Richie looks to be sporting a broken nose for his trouble.

Not the best start to the season, but it could have been worse. The Vader’s did pay the ball along the floor much better and some stellar performances were put in.

Lastly thanks to all for coming, and apologies to the boys who didn’t manage to get on. It’s tought when there’s so many of us. Thanks for your support and you’r chance to prove yourselves will come soon.

Man of the Match: Richard Boydell
Quote of the Day: Uh boys, I just want to make a suggestion now, I don’t know what you think but I think I should start pushing up a bit.

Closely followed by “Sharameese Twins” – always rely on Hambone.