East Gwent Senior League - Benevolent Cup Round One

CUP-holders Undy Athletic began their defence with victory over Thornwell Red and White but it took two goals in extra-time to clinch a place in the second round.

With the score 1-1 at full-time, 10-man Undy dug deep to score twice.

“We are delighted to win in our attempt to defend the cup,” Undy manager Andrew Peacock said later.

“It looked like the tide had turned against us when we had a man sent off but the lads defended excellently and were decisive on the break.”

His opposite number, Terry Woodward, was disappointed after his men matched their opponents for 90 minutes and believed they should have won it in normal time.

“They scored first from a very debatable offside but we took over and had several chances before Kenny Vidler scored with a great header.

“We had more chances but couldn’t score after they went down to 10 men, in fact they could have had another man dismissed but the ref let the guy stay on after a blatant foul and he was already on a yellow.

“We didn’t turn up in the first half of extra time letting them score two poor goals.

“I would like to say a big “thank you” to Matthew Pearce for playing in goal. None of the goals were down to him and he made a few great saves.

Luke Smith, Thor Wyles and an own goal clinched it for Undy.

Meanwhile, losing finalists Mathern A began their bid to go one step further with a 14-0 win at Caldicot Castle A.

Mathern’s manager Lee Baker paid tribute to Castle for their attitude and spirit.

“I applaud everyone at Castle for the will to play football.” he said later.

“They were still battling right to the end. It was a tough game for them and I think their attitude to keep going is what makes them. Hats off to them!”

Mathern’s goals came from Wayne Duffield (3), Kyle Gettings (2), Harry Lewis (2), Tom Watson (2) Hywel Pugh, Rob Wood, James Trigg and Jack Taylor.

In other matches, Rockfield Rovers won 4-2 at Tintern Abbey after being 2-0 down. Rovers’ goals came from Gareth Walters, Dave Macdonald, Owen Walters and Karl Pszczola.

Chepstow Athletic beat Severn Tunnel 5-0, Underwood A thrashed Castle B 12-1 and Sudbrook CC overcame Mathern B 8-1 at Mill Lane.

Despite the defeat, Mathern’s deputy manager Keith Tipper was pleased with his team’s performance.

“We lost Matt Edwards early on and went in 2-1 down at half time,” he said.

“We felt positive but were caught twice on the break but every player put in 100% effort right to the end. Good luck to Sudbrook in the next round.”

Chris Huggett scored Mathern’s goal.