Pontypridd’s first game of 2022 ended in defeat in a topsy-turvy match with TERV League title-chasing AFC Bargoed at Ynysangharad Park.
Captain Kieron Cook made his 50th senior appearance for the club but it got off to the worst possible start when Bargoed scored inside the first minute thanks a world class left foot strike from Cameron Thomas. The home side fought back well and levelled through Joe Thomas’ first goal for the club. The set-piece threat was further underlined when Dan Perry headed home Kieron Cook’s corner, giving Ponty a half-time lead.
Bargoed enjoyed most of the possession throughout but Ponty’s resolute defence meant clear chances were few, while the home side carried a counter-attacking threat when the opportunity came. Bargoed’s persistence was eventually rewarded through two teenagers. Wilson Makia pounced on a rebound to head home the equaliser before Zak Jones curled home a free-kick to restore the vistors’ lead.
The home side’s frustration was compounded by a red card for Jack Watkins but even with ten-man, Ponty pushed for an equaliser. Huw Morgan hit the bar and Connor Bickford was twice denied in the closing moments as Bargoed held firm to win an entertaining and even contest.
RESULT | Pontypridd FC 2-3 AFC Bargoed
Pontypridd FC: Alex Mitchell-Charman [gk], Brad Harris, Ryan Jones (Dewi Webster 46), Daniel Perry, Connor Bickford, Aled Evans, Kieron Cook [c] (Cameron Curry 80), Joe Thomas, Ashley Moyle (Jack Watkins 70), Geraint Lewis, Huw Morgan
Goals: J. Thomas (18), D. Perry (37)
Yellow card: D. Webster | Red card: J. Watkins (second booking)
Man of the Match: D. Perry
Referee: G. Thomas
