Llanfair boss living in the real world

After early talk of promotion following some encouraging results, Llanfair United have found themselves looking over their shoulders once again in the Spar Mid Wales Division Two.

The dynamic new look team has become more than a match for anyone that they have come up against this season and a current of optimism was flowing down the River Banwy.

But two league defeats on the bounce have brought a touch of realism to the club and a pragmatic Griffiths (right) has appealed for patience by telling fans “remember this is our first season at this level”.

“At the start of the season, if you told me that we would have 11 points after 10 games then I would have said fine. But after having 11 points after eight games and not moved on, it’s hard not to be disappointed,” said Griffiths. “But I am still optimistic that we can do well in the league, but we must remember that this is a first for Llanfair United.

“At the moment I feel that we have a good side and, at full strength, we can match anybody in the league. Not having a consistent team each week makes it hard to put a run of games together and we are just lacking a bit of consistency and confidence at the moment.”

This weekend, Llanfair face a tricky challenge in hosting Abermule who have adapted to life well in Mid Wales football. Griffiths admits that while he is happy with his squad, he is still on the look-out for quality to strengthen his ranks. The league remains extremely tight and two wins can put Llanfair right back in the mix so, can they still gain promotion?

“That’s a hard question!” Griffiths said. “Like I have said before, we can match anybody on our day but being such a tight league I wouldn't say we weren't good enough to go up. If we don’t win promotion this year, then I think next year we will have the experience and squad to do so.”

Elsewhere, in the Spar Mid Wales League, in Division One, Llanrhaeadr will look to hold on to their slender lead at the top when they entertain Dolgellau, while Berriew face a tricky match at Tywyn Bryncrug. Waterloo Rovers travel to Penparcau while Dyffryn Banw taken on Llanidloes and Llansantffraid Village host Bow Street.

In Division Two, Four Crosses take their fine run of seven unbeaten matches to bottom club Meifod while Montgomery hit the road again with a trip to Aberaeron. Llanfyllin are at home to Bont.

The Amateur League action will be dominated by the second round of the Emrys Morgan Cup.