As they prepare to take on Monkton Swifts 2nds in the Manderwood Pembrokeshire Division Two Cup Final, we take a look at Johnston's team with a lowdown on the players and coaching team.
Goalkeepers
Anthony Bevans
Having resigned for Johnston following a mid-season move to Hakin, Bevs has shown his quality in between the sticks with a number of commanding performances in the second half of the season including a MOTM display against Tish in the quarter-finals. Some even say he cracked a smile afterwards.
Andrew Fairbairn
Much loved member of the group who is definitely one of the "jokers" of the squad, unfortunately missed a key period of the season with a nasty injury, has shown his quality on a number of occasions including in a couple of cup games this season.
Defenders
Marcus Allen
Younger brother of player-manager Squashy, Marcus has firmly established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet and has enjoyed a solid season as the reliable first choice right back. Undoubtedly the “wind up merchant” of the group, we know Marcus will be sinking a few Guinesses regardless of the result.
Josh Farrar
Speaking of “wind up merchants”, here’s the man who comfortably takes 2nd place. Having joined the team mid-season, Josh has settled in well and proved helpful to the team in a number of positions already - right back, centre back and even in goal - just ask him about his “world class save” against Bridge 🤔
Billy Davies
After enjoying a stellar debut season for the Seconds team who he has helped guide to the brink of promotion, Billy has looked equally assured when stepping into the First Team recently. Good on the ball and dangerous from set-pieces. Has lost his hair since that photo was taken.
Lewis Boswell
Reliable and experienced in the heart of the defence, Lewis is the organiser of the team and his marshalling of the backline will be key for Johnston on the night. Very vocal on the pitch, although most is directed at the referee.
Steven “Squashy” Allen (Player-Manager)
An experienced player with plenty of silverware throughout his playing career at the likes of West Dragons and Hakin. A natural leader whose knowhow will be vital to the team, every defender’s dream to play alongside. His toughest decision will be deciding what to do with his hair.
Martin “Ginge” John
Since joining the club, Ginge has proved himself as a reliable performer all across the backline. The type of player that others love to play alongside and with good reason.
Frazier Stoddart
Young full back enjoying his first season in senior football, Frazier has shown he has plenty of quality and certainly a bright future ahead.
Midfielders
Geno Cleal
Might be one of the oldest players in the squad but you would never know that from watching him. Absolutely tireless whether he plays at full back or in the middle of the park. 71% of the world is covered by water and the rest by Geno.
Craig Bendall (Vice Captain, Player-Coach)
Experienced player in the middle of the park, built for big occasions like this. Tough, physical player but with a wand of a left foot. Reliable from set-pieces and scored the vital penalty goal in the quarter-finals. 1/10 to commit the first foul of the game.
Joey George (Captain)
Captain fantastic in midfield who seems to be hitting form at just about the right time on a hot-streak of goals and assists (although most were helping the 2nds)… dazzling with the ball at his feet, the type of player we all love watching.
Kieran Walker
Another reliable performer who works hard and doesn’t stop running wherever asked to play, capable of slotting in a number of positions.
Forwards
Alfie Crawford
Enjoying a fantastic debut season in senior football, hitting over 20 goals for both teams and double figures for assists. Has recently been contributing with key goals in big games and will be hoping for another match-winning performance here.
Kieran Blundell
The player Marcus Allen wishes he was, an explosive strong fast paced right winger with an eye for goal. Excellent debut season after signing in the summer with key goals in big games.
Josh Knapp
Another young, fast winger who has contributed with important goals and assists this season, after an impressive debut season for the 2nds last season. Blink and you’ll miss him.
Tom Richards
A hard working forward who will run all day, whether it’s up front or on the wing. Has recently returned to the team with a number of strong performances and fits in with the Johnston’s dynamic fluid attack.
Scott Crawford (Player-Manager)
A physical presence up front who brings plenty of experience having played for some of Pembrokeshire’s best teams over the years, the veteran forward will be key in bringing together Johnston's attack.
Coaching Team
Squashy and Crawf - Managers
With a wealth of experience on the pitch, the veteran duo have also been leading the team off it, using their knowhow to help manage the group and bring through the talented youngsters at the club.
Darren Lewis - First Aid
Always carrying his magic spray, a pack of lucozade and a handful of Mars bars, Darren's first aid kit is like Mary Poppin's handbag, always having what you need. Darren's dedication to the team helping across all aspects makes him a key member of the setup.