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All eyes in Pembrokeshire football will be fixed on Phoenix Park this Saturday (8th February 2025) as league leaders Goodwick United host their fierce rivals Hakin United in what could prove to be a season-defining encounter. With both sides still unbeaten this season, the stakes couldn't be higher in what is undoubtedly the biggest game in the Pembrokeshire football calendar.

The Story So Far

Goodwick United have been in imperious form, winning 14 of their 15 matches and drawing just once - against Hakin themselves in the reverse fixture at The Observatory (The Obs). That 1-1 draw remains the only "blemish" on an otherwise perfect record as they seek to defend their title. Four points clear at the summit, they know a draw would maintain their comfortable cushion over their rivals.

While Goodwick dominated last season's title race, this year's campaign has a different complexion entirely. The landscape has shifted dramatically with Hakin United's resurgence under returning manager Scott Davies. Last season saw the Vikings in transition, with Davies' absence and several key players unavailable contributing to a below-par (for their incredibly high standards) campaign. However, Davies' return has transformed the team's fortunes, bringing back that confident swagger that has long been associated with the club.

Key Personnel and Summer Changes

The summer transfer window brought significant changes for both sides. Goodwick United saw the departures of Dan James and Ben Adams to Pennar Robins, while goalkeeper Kyle Marsh made the move to Kilgetty. However, their replacements have not just filled the void but potentially strengthened the squad. Nick Jones has proven to be a commanding presence between the posts, while Sean Pemberton's increased involvement in defence this season (having barely featured after signing last year) has added another dimension to their backline. The mid-season return of Matty Delaney could prove crucial - he could be the difference between securing one trophy or potentially two or three this season.

For Hakin, the return of key players has been just as significant as any new signings. Jack Britton's presence in central midfield has been vital, forming an impressive partnership with summer acquisition Jordan Kilby from Monkton Swifts. This dynamic midfield duo has provided the perfect platform for the team's more attack-minded players to express themselves.

One of the most compelling narratives this season has been the return of Ashley Bevan to regular action for Hakin. Following a serious injury and subsequent recovery period that kept him largely sidelined in recent years, Bevan's comeback has added another dimension to the Vikings' attack. As one of Pembrokeshire's most renowned players, his match-winning capabilities could prove decisive in a fixture of this magnitude.

Recent Form and Cup Aspirations

Both sides enter this clash with momentum in cup competitions. Goodwick, fresh from victory over Cwmmamman in the West Wales Cup, now face perhaps their sternest test yet with an away trip to St Josephs. In fact, I would consider these three sides - St Josephs, Goodwick, and Hakin - the favourites for the prestigious trophy.

Goodwick's recent form has been efficient if not spectacular, with back-to-back 1-0 victories. Manager Chris O'Sullivan has noted their need to be more clinical, particularly after their narrow win over Merlins Bridge. However, their ability to get results in all sorts of ways has been impressive - Will Haworth's 94th-minute winner against Tenby could prove to be a pivotal moment in their season.

On their day, Goodwick's attacking talent containing the likes of Rhys Dalling, Rhys Jones and Will Haworth, can take teams apart. The Phoenix Boys will hope a home crowd in the biggest game of the season will help take them back up a gear.

Hakin have shown their own cup pedigree, sweeping aside Seaside in their West Wales Cup encounter. The emergence of young talent has been particularly encouraging, with 16-year-old Henry Mayhew impressing in defence, following in the footsteps of Leo Power earlier in the season. Captain Ryan Wilson is enjoying a particularly productive season, with his leadership alongside Mark Jones in defence proving crucial to their unbeaten run.

The Title Race

While Goodwick would probably be content with a draw (although they'll no doubt be going out to win) to maintain their four-point advantage, Hakin essentially need their rivals to slip up twice if they're to have any chance of claiming the crown. This makes it a must-win game for the Vikings, especially considering they've already dropped points against Tenby and Pennar this season.

A Personal Perspective

As someone deeply embedded in the Pembrokeshire football community, this fixture holds special significance. When asked who I'm supporting, I can only answer honestly - I'm hoping for a fantastic game of football. Having covered both teams extensively, I've been accused of favouring both sides at different times, but the reality is I have friends in both camps. Jack Britton is a great mate of mine, while on the Goodwick side, I have strong connections with the likes of Jake Smith and Luke Hayward.

Both teams have been instrumental in the success of Connect: Pembrokeshire, with their fans and players being among the most passionate supporters of our work. It puts a smile on my face seeing Robert Cousins comment on a Goodwick post, or watching a reel of Ashley Bevan scoring rack up thousands of views from passionate Pembrokeshire football fans.

The Importance of Player Availability

The significance of having full-strength squads available cannot be overstated, particularly with both sides harbouring West Wales Cup ambitions. We saw last year how Goodwick struggled against Penlan without Jake Smith and Rhys Jones in midfield, while Hakin's experiences with injuries to key players like Alfie Stottor and Ashley Bevan have shown how crucial squad depth can be. If either Pembrokeshire side is to lift that illustrious trophy, they'll need their best players available.

Prediction

Making a prediction for this clash feels almost impossible - and perhaps that's for the best. A score draw seems the most likely outcome, but both teams have the quality to claim all three points. What's most important is that we witness a game worthy of the occasion, preferably without any injuries that could impact either side's cup campaigns.

The remarkable quality of both teams is underlined by the genuine possibility that both could complete the season undefeated - a testament to their consistency and championship credentials. With both teams still in their cup competitions, this fixture could set the tone for the remainder of what is turning out to be an unforgettable season in Pembrokeshire football.

This Saturday, Phoenix Park will host not just a football match, but a celebration of everything that makes Pembrokeshire football special. I can't wait.

Photos from the previous encounter from MW10 Sports Photography

Photo Gallery (click to view in full)