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It's once again that time of year, the biggest celebration of Pembrokeshire football as teams vie for silverware at the Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium on Saturday 12th April, 2.30pm kick-off.
Last season saw a fairytale upset as Clarbeston Road beat league champions Goodwick United with a script no one could have written.
This year promises to draw a bumper crowd with local rivals Hakin United and Milford United set to meet for Pembrokeshire's grand prize.
Hakin will certainly enter the game as heavy favourites. Currently sitting 2nd in the league, they have been rejuvenated under the returning manager Scott Davies, who has also led them to the West Wales Cup semi-final where they will face West Wales Premier League side St Josephs.
They have missed out on the league title to Goodwick, but there's no shame in that with Chris O'Sullivan's men setting the recent standard with three consecutive league wins. Hakin have lost only once this season (to Goodwick), a result they responded to by knocking Goodwick out of this competition just a week later, before securing their place in the Senior Cup final.
After last season's "transition" period, Scott Davies returned with his customary high standards. Speaking to the players, it's clear how much they respect him as a coach of exceptional calibre. He has restored a swagger to the team, which was evident immediately in pre-season matches that included some high-scoring affairs against local rivals.
There will be selection questions ahead of the big game. In goal, Adrian Devonald started the season (including a fantastic performance in the first league game against Goodwick, a 1-1 draw) with Gareth Fawcett between the sticks more recently - almost certainly number one now.
In defence, Camron Thomas has returned this season after a long-term injury but hasn't enjoyed a consistent run in the team. We've seen various combinations at the back. Ben Aldred was the standout performer in their semi-final win over Pennar in this competition at centre-half, Mark Jones has played full-back at times, and we've seen youngsters like Henry Mayhem and Leo Power feature. One wonders how many times Hakin have fielded the same starting XI this season. That's without even mentioning the usual stalwarts such as Kieran King and Jay Power.
In midfield, I am almost certain that Jack Britton and Jordan Kilby will start. Britton, like Davies, has returned this season (after limited appearances last year) and has brought considerable quality to the middle of the park. Undoubtedly one of the league's finest players, he rises to the big occasion and has scored numerous crucial goals in important matches. Kilby, Hakin's only major summer signing, brings a tenacious, industrious quality to midfield, working tirelessly to help his fellow midfielders flourish.
Captain Ryan Wilson is enjoying a tremendous season, contributing plenty of goals and assists. As a former Milford United player, he represents one of many subplots in play.
Alfie Storer has seen his campaign hampered by injuries. He struggled in the last league encounter against Goodwick and has been eased back into the team since. Leon Luby was suspended for that match but has since returned – a tricky winger and potential match-winner in his own right.
In attack, club legend Ashley Bevan will be hoping to find his scoring touch after cutting a frustrated figure in the last league game against Goodwick. However, he did manage a goal and assist late last month against Pennar Robins in the league – everyone knows his quality.
Liam Parks, signed from Milford United partway through the season – one of the main storylines of the game – has been in excellent form recently. He's scored in double figures in his first season for the Vikings, immediately settling at the club. His father, Steve Parks, coaching Milford United, so they will be well aware of his abilities.
In Shane Walsh, Hakin have another workhorse who gives absolutely everything throughout the match. He's enjoyed another impressive season, playing anywhere across the front line (and even at full-back) for his team. His determination and desire exemplify what's needed to compete at the highest level.
For Milford United, it has been an exceptionally challenging season, with the team being relegated from Pembrokeshire Division One.
Last season, following their promotion from Division Two, they enjoyed an excellent campaign with some impressive results, finishing well clear of the relegation zone.
That success was spearheaded by an attacking front three of Liam Parks, Liam Parr and Scott Reid.
Parks was injured at the beginning of the season before signing for Hakin. Liam Parr has suffered multiple injury problems this season, while Reid has faced difficulties with work commitments after starting a new job last year.
Losing those goals and assists would certainly be a significant blow to any team.
Nevertheless, they have still demonstrated their quality at times, including an impressive 2-1 win over cup holders Clarbeston Road in the semi-finals.
Man of the match that day was goalkeeper Charlie Malloy, undoubtedly one of the team's standout performers. The 18-year-old has earned considerable praise from around the county for his ability, and Milford fans reading this might not appreciate the suggestion, but it wouldn't be surprising if Hakin United were interested in bringing him in, given his bright future and proven ability at a high level.
The Robins showed tremendous battling spirit to win that day, with Clarby enjoying much of the possession but finding themselves frustrated in front of goal. While the youthful Malloy starred in goal, 46-year-old experienced defender Anthony Hubbuck was superb in shutting out the usually troublesome Ben "Rocky" John up front. He will have his work cut out against Hakin's forwards and will need to give absolutely everything.
Alongside Hubbuck in defence is Milford United's captain Scott Griffiths. He was sent off in the semi-final but the team have played enough games for him to return from suspension. He brings quality and experience to the side. I was informed by someone at the club that he plans to travel to watch the Ashes next season, so this would be an excellent swansong for him if he could lift some silverware.
One of the goalscorers in the semi-final was 17-year-old Jack Dyer, and Milford certainly have some promising youngsters coming through at the club. Beyond the difficulties the first team has endured, their third team have enjoyed a title-winning debut season in Division 5, so the club certainly has a bright future and will be looking to rebuild in Division 2 next campaign.
The match-winner in the semi-final was none other than Scott Reid. The experienced forward is renowned for scoring goals whenever he plays, and although his appearances have been limited this season, he will be up for this grand occasion. Yet another subplot involves his brother Mark Jones, with whom he previously played at Herbrandston. With a rich rivalry between the siblings – who will come out on top?
Referee - Stefan Jenkins
Assistant Referees - Sion Jenkins and Barry Evans
Fourth Official - Neil Crawshaw
An officiating team of the highest calibre, accustomed to refereeing matches at the highest levels. The Jenkins brothers have overseen countless significant occasions. The trio of the Jenkins brothers and Crawshaw have been part of the officiating team for the last two finals I've attended, both handled with aplomb with no notable controversial incidents.
Stefan is known for his quiet yet firm control, Sion was one of the youngest Senior Cup final referees a couple of seasons ago, and Crawshaw similarly brings firmness – strict but respected. I watched him referee the last league encounter between Goodwick and Hakin very capably.
Barry Evans contributes considerable experience as well; the Carew man is a well-liked sporting figure all round. A team that will command respect and possesses the experience and composure to handle the big decisions.
There's no doubt about it, Hakin will be heavy favourites going into this game.
The same was said about Goodwick last year, although we should remember that Clarbeston Road had finished 3rd in the league and had already completed a domestic treble over Hakin United, demonstrating their quality and pedigree in defeating strong sides before that final match.
If Milford United can win this game, it will be an even greater upset of the highest magnitude. The match promises to attract a substantial crowd, with supporters passionately cheering on their respective teams, and Milford United will need to draw on that atmosphere to summon something special for victory. Should they achieve the impossible, I believe they would become the first relegated side ever to do so.
As usual, I will be there to watch the game, and our photographer Matthew Watters (MW10 Sports Photography) will be present to capture all the action. See you there!
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