Neyland secured a 3-1 victory in their Division 2 encounter at the Athletic Ground against Johnston on Saturday (Jan 17), writes Jonathan Twigg, after the Tigers took the lead five minutes before half time half time lead through Ryan Doyle, midfielder Charlie Hughes set up the veteran striker for the game’s opening goal.
The lead last all of two minutes before winger Max Bowman-Davies drew his side level with the even more venerable Nomads centre half, Sean Hannon providing the assist.
Referee Barry Evans allowed the game to flow which suited both sides who like to play their football on the floor, although the home side took the lead when goalkeeper Patrick Hannon set Jake Booth up to score 5 minutes into the second half. Booth turned provider for the crucial goal which saw his side go 3-1 up through teenage attacker Joe Gale, a lead they never looked like losing.
The win keeps Neyland unbeaten league run from November last year intact, but more importantly keeps them in the promotion hunt for the top echelon, as they aim for second place behind run away unbeaten league leaders, Milford United, a position currently held by Hakin United Reserves, who cannot be promoted.
Johnston season now rests with their cup exploits, in the Senior Cup where they are through to the sixteen round and also the Division 2 cup, which is now down to the Quarter Final.
Prior to kick off both sides observed an impeccable minute’s silence in memory of Jozef Polak who had a long association with the Johnston Club, with the club's Facebook page sharing this fitting tribute:
"Everyone at Johnston Football Club is devastated to hear of the passing of club legend Jozef Polak and wish to send our most heartfelt condolences to his family at this difficult time.
Jozef’s association with the club began at the start of the century with his father sponsoring the club, with Jozef stepping up his involvement around 2012, which soon saw the most successful season in the club’s history as we lifted the West Wales Cup - as photographed with Jozef holding the trophy.
Him and his family have supported the village events consistently over the years, and must have helped bought over 20 Senior Team kits as well as Junior and Minis kits, ball and other accessories, training tops, tracksuits and more… you name it and Jozef was there to help.
This generosity extended to bailing us out on numerous work needed for our changing rooms. We never had to ask twice. It got to the point around June where the club would call Jozef and he'd simply ask how much do you want.
He loved the village and loved his association with the football club. He is what people call a Character.
RIP to a true legend of the club."
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