Newtown 1 Carmarthen 1
NEWTOWN boss Darren Ryan admits his thoughts are now firmly on strengthening his squad after watching the Robins secure their survival with a battling point at Latham Park.
Although Sean Butler’s early strike was cancelled out by Danny Thomas in the second half, the Robins were not to be denied a share of the spoils as they signed off a largely disappointing season on a more positive note.
“I couldn’t fault the effort and commitment of the lads,” said the Newtown boss.
“We brought three or four young lads in and they handled the step up well.
“But there’s no getting away from the fact that we’ve finished second from bottom.
“There’s a lot of work to be done in the summer, and I’m going to be busy bringing in five or six players with a bit more quality and experience.”
Newtown made the perfect start when the lively Christian Courtney worked his way to the byline on 15 minutes and crossed for Butler to volley home.
Courtney proved a handful throughout in a promising first period for the hosts and had a chance to double the lead only to miskick when well placed.
Carmarthen, however, hit back seven minutes into the second period when Thomas was afforded plenty of space to fire past 17-year-old debutant keeper Dave Jones.
The West Wales visitors had their opportunities as they enjoyed the better of the second period with Mattie Davies and Liam Hancock both going close.
But Newtown, for whom youngster Dan Griffiths impressed at right back on his first-team debut, were not to be denied a share of the spoils with a resolute showing.
Carmarthen chairman Jeff Thomas felt his side had enough chances to have won.
He added: “Everyone associated with our club is delighted that Newtown will still be in the Welsh Premier next season.”
