A new campaign officially gets underway for Lee Johns side this Saturday 2nd August (2pm kick off) as the Reds travel to JD Cymru South side Ynyshir Albions in the second round of the Nathaniel MG Cup.

Competitive football is back after the Reds lifted the Cymru South title in April at home to Trefelin. Preparations for the new JD Cymru Premier campaign are well underway but first the Reds enter the league cup.

Whilst pre season preparations concluded with a crowd of over 600 at Stebonheath Park on Tuesday evening, supporters will welcome the return of competitive action in anticipation of next week’s league opener. 

Our Opponents – Ynyshir Albions

Ynyshir were promoted back to the Cymru South following a victory in the Ardal Southern League play off final against Chepstow Town back in May.

‘The Buns’ have already kicked off their campaign in both the league and cup competition. A 4-1 victory over familiar opposition in Cardiff Draconians sealed the tie with the Reds this Saturday. Goals on the day from; Joseff Haig, Andre Griffiths, Calum Salter and Jago Norton.

It would then be a heavy defeat for Ynyshir upon their return to the second tier. A 1-4 defeat at home to Caerau Ely despite taking the lead in the game proved just how competitive and fierce the Cymru South will be this season. 

Players to watch from the Buns include; Andre Griffiths who has two goals in two games already this campaign as well as young forward Joseff Haig who has a goal and one assist in the opening two games.

An interesting piece of history to note…For the first time in Ynyshirs 33 year history, they will be welcoming a Cymru Premier side to the Ynyshir Oval with the visit of the Reds this Saturday.

Reds Recap

Lee John has added a number of new faces to the squad ahead of the new campaign with a great range of players all arriving at Stebonheath Park – with supporters already catching glimpses of our new arrivals in action during pre-season.  

Preparations for the new season saw the Reds face a great mix of opposition which kicked off with a trip to Pontypridd United and concluded with Swansea City’s U21s visiting us just two days ago.

Unfortunately, last season’s only appearance in the Nathaniel MG Cup saw the Reds exit the competition in the early stages following defeat to Barry Town United on penalties. 

Our Previous Encounter…

We last met the Buns back in April 2023 during the 2022/23 Cymru South season.

A trip to the Ynyshir Oval saw the Reds win by seven goals to two – hattricks from Brandon Griffiths and Jamie Baker (which also included THAT bicycle kick goal) as well as an own goal from Jago Norton secured an emphatic victory for Llanell.

We hope you can join us on the road for our first game of the new season – your support both home and away during the previous campaign was key to our success and long may it continue!