NEXT season promises to be an exciting one for Porthmadog’s successful youth players as Sion Eifion takes them a step further in their development.
The Traeth club is hoping that it will have a team playing in the Welsh Alliance Reserves League, which will be meeting to look at their application for membership.
The intention is to play Reserves fixtures on a Friday evening under the floodlights, and also on Saturdays.
“I’m delighted that next season we could be playing in the Welsh Alliance Reserve Division,” said Sion Eifion.
“Having won the Under 18s league last season, the boys are more than ready to step into senior football.
“The league will have some exciting and challenging teams, which will only aid in the development of our boys. Already several of these young players have signed for the new season.
“It will also ensure that all players are signed as senior players for the club, which means that they can all play a part at first team level if and when the time is right.
“I’m also excited to say that both the reserves and the first team will be working closer than ever next year.
“I can’t wait to get started and to have another successful season with the boys.”
The Under 18s had completed a superb season by winning the North Wales Coast FA Youth Cup, beating Penrhyn Bay 6-0 in the final at Parc Meurig, Bethesda.
Having already won the Vale of Clwyd Youth League with a 100 per cent record, it completed a superb double.
Sion Eifion added: “It’s fair to say it’s been a successful season for the Under 18s.
“Going from a tough season last year to winning the double this year is credit to the effort and commitment of my players, an outstanding group to work with.
“Another success story from the season is that many Under 18s have now gained valuable first team experience in training and games.
“The highlight for me personally was seeing Math Roberts making his senior debut for the Club. I’m sure he’ll be the first of many from this cohort of players.
“I’d also like to thank club members, supporters, players and most importantly my Under 18s coaching staff for their outstanding support throughout the season.”
Sion Eifion has arranged several pre-season games for the Reserves, starting with a game against Blaenau Ffestiniog at Cae Clyd on 11 July.
The list is: Wednesday, 11 July, Blaenau Ffestiniog away; Saturday, 14 July, Nantlle Vale, home; Wednesday, 18 July, Waunfawr, home; Saturday, 28 July, Cefn Mawr Rangers Reserves, home; Tuesday, 31 July, Llandudno U19s, home.
The club has already signed up last season’s U18s skipper Aled Williams, keeper Morgan Jones and top scorer Rhys Hughes. He was also delighted to be able to sign assistant coach Sion Parry, this time as a player as well!
“It’s hard to believe that he’s still only 21,” said Jones. “He’s still hungry to learn and grow as a player.”
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