Monmouth Town’s first team have clinched the Gwent League Division Two title for the first time since 1996 with an amazing fifteen game unbeaten run that proved much for all of their rivals. Although season long leaders Newport Civil Service stumbled on their run in and too many games too their toll on other rivals Llanhilleth and Abertillery Bluebirds, 43 points from 45 blew away all opposition in the second half of the season. A comfortable and competent 3-2 win at Abertillery gave the Kingfishers the title by three points and sent a clear message that they will be a force to be reckoned with in Division One next season as they seek to secure Welsh League status in double quick time. Town goals from Bowen and a twenty five yard strike from Neville Harris put paid to a hard working Abertillery side, but the travelling support who managed to find the ground, were treated to some pressure free passing football that has been the trademark of Andrew Smith’s young side. The average was admittedly doubled by the appearance of Philpotts in goal at the age of 49 and perhaps trebled by a cameo appearance by Chairman Lee Robson for the last five minutes, adding a little comedy value to the final moments to the final stages of a remarkable season. However, Smith was delighted with the title win, commenting “It has been an amazing 2006. We were only defeated by Abergbargoed in the cup, who have just won promotion to the Welsh League. “Everyone who has played a part should be proud of themselves. I also have to thank the support we’ve had for the past few weeks at home and with the encouragement we’ve all received in shops, pubs and restaurants throughout the town”. He added “It really has shown that Monmouth deserves a football team playing at Welsh League level. “The support really gave us a lift, particularly in the tough games against our nearest rivals. Division One next season is going to be hard, but I’m confident that if we can keep up the effort and enthusiasm, our best is yet to come”. Club chairman, Lee Robson, for once was too tired to speak after his five minutes of fame, but ace striker Matthew Bowen spoke for the rest of the players when he said “Mine’s a Bow and Black”. The Town’s second string have their final chance of silverware this Friday, when they take on East Gwent champions Tintern Abbey at Caldicot Town’s ground in the Watkins Shield final. After the third team’s championship win and the first team’s triumph, Marc Turley’s men will be keen to make sure they have some silverware on show for the club’s awards evening in June. Lee Robson said he hoped supporters would travel to Caldicot to cheer the side on. “The support for the first team has certainly worked and I would love to see a good crowd make their way to Caldicot to make sure all three sides can celebrate a trophy win. It really would put the icing on the cake for a fantastic season”.
well in the kingfishers !
