Classy Caersws Crush Dismal Druids

Alan Morgan's tenure as manager of NEWI Cefn Druids got off to the worse possible start as Caersws cruised to a 5-0 victory at Plaskynaston Lane without even breaking into a sweat at a steamy Plaskynaton Lane.

The visitors totally dominated their sorry hosts and could easily have doubled their goal tally, with Druids rescued by the woodwork and some fine saves on numerous occasions.

The rout began on 16 minutes when Graham Evans outpaced keeper Mike Price, and from an acute angle his swerving shot came back off the post falling kindly to fellow striker Melville Thompson who slotted home.

The Bluebirds continued to dominate, and top marksman Graham Evans doubled their lead on 33 minutes, sending a looping header into the back of the net after a fine cross which beat the home goalkeeper.

The half time whistle must have been a welcome sound to new Druids boss Alan Morgan, but even a tactical switch which saw John Main replaced by new signing Ian Williams failed to see the Ancients' fortunes improve in the 2nd half.

The visitors third followed a comedy of errors in the Druids' defence, a basic lack of understanding between Price and his defenders allowed Sws' centre back Hugh Clarke to head home unchallenged.

The move of the match produced Caersws' fourth goal. Some fine pin-point passing between a confident Bluebirds' midfield, eventually found the hard-working Evans, who made no mistake from 15 yards with a thunderous effort which left Price with no chance.

Things continued to go from bad to worse for Druids even after dangerman Graham Evans had been substitued. Young sub Ian Probert beat the offside trap and slotted a low drive into the right hand corner of the net to complete the visitor's scoring for the day.

Although it was only the first game of the season, the new Druids boss should be very concerned by his team's performance, which lacked passion and any cohesion. Credit should not be taken away from Caersws however, who could well improve on last season's finish. Their forward line of Evans and Thompson could well be the pairing of the season and should get the goals which will win a European place for the village club. As for Druids, well things can surely only get better...