For the first time this season a Merthyr Town fixture was my destination. No better place to watch the mighty Martyrs than the beautiful Penydarren Park, the best stadium in all of non-league football. Taking on the host this afternoon was Walton casuals. Having beaten a heavily weaken Harrow Borough side midweek the guest come into the game of the back of a win, whilst the home said lost their previous fixture to Tiverton town. Ahead of this match the only welsh representative in the league announced the signings of Dylan Jones, Corey Shephard and Keyon Reffell. After eight games played Walton sit six points above their opponents before this tie. From the first whistle to the last… come on Martyrs!
Within four minutes Walton Casuals had taken the lead. Goal coming from a header in the box following a corner, player left unmarked by the host. Negative signs from the very start. The martyrs had their first attempt a few moments after. Another chance came for Merthyr Town when Yakubu created a pathway for Cameron Keetch whose effort was blocked by defenders. Late pressure from the home side in the first half put the visiting keeper under pressure, forcing the Fulham loanee into some fantastic saves. Well done to the young man.
At half time Merthyr Town seemed dead and buried, poor from start to finish. Crisis looked to be looming in south wales this season. The host created chances but were unable to make them count. Today’s visitors played well on the break, using their few opportunities to turn the tide in this match. Walton in front by the skin of their teeth. A brilliant piece of defensive play kept the stags in the game early in the second half. New signing Reffel weaved a chance for himself, one that should have levelled the score this afternoon. Unlucky not to find the net. Things went from bad to worse for the welsh side as Walton grabbed a second. Hit from 20 yards out the guest are now in full confidence, and the handful of traveling supporters are loving it. Full time came after that.
In conclusion this afternoon was another poor performance from a struggling martyrs side. Worrying start to the league season. Players were not able to organise themselves, or create a passage of play. Not good enough for the ex-football league club. Fans deserve much better! Thank you to Merthyr Town supporters for another warm welcome, and it was a pleasure to be visiting again. Will see you all soon. Wishing the club all the best for the season. Best fans in non-league by a mile!
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