CEFN DRUIDS 0 ABERYSTWYTH 4

Aberystwyth secured their first away win of the season last night on what was an emotional evening for everyone associated with the club.

The club website reported: "The club were devastated yesterday morning to learn of the passing of Tony Payne, who was head of security at Park Avenue and a hugely popular figure, not only at Aberystwyth Town but within the local community also.

"Tony’s contribution to the club over many years was immeasurable and his warm welcome, generosity and friendship will be sorely missed by all. Everyone’s thoughts are currently with his wife Sara and children Jordan and Sophie.

"Football is insignificant in these circumstances – however Aberystwyth Town FC would like to dedicate last night’s victory to our dear friend, Tony."

Ahead of the game, Gavin Allen made one change from Saturday’s defeat to Barry Town, with Jonathan Evans replacing Rhys Davies.

Druids arguably had the better of much of the first half, as Connor Roberts saved well from Josef Faux on 20 minutes before both Aaron Simpson and Alex Darlington had chances to open the scoring also.

At the other end, Marc Williams was finding his range, first having a shot deflected for a corner before shooting just over from 20 yards. On 41 minutes, the Aber captain got even closer still, hitting the woodwork following good work from Gwion Owen, who was once again impressing with his tireless energy in the middle of midfield.

On 44 minutes, Aber took the lead. Druids keeper Dawid Szczepaniak spilled the ball from his grasp, and Jonathan Evans reacted quickest, slotting into the net to give Aber the advantage.

And less than a minute later it was 2-0, as Marc Williams hit a sublime effort into the top right of the net from 20 yards.

Aber continued their good play after the restart, with Jonathan Evans doing well down the right hand side and finding Williams again, who was unlucky to see his header flash just wide. Lee Jenkins had to be alert on a couple of occasions to deny the home side, before Steff Davies just failed to connect with another cross from Jonathan Evans, who was giving Druids’ left back a torrid time.

Steff Davies did not have to wait long for another opportunity however, and on 62 minutes it was 3-0 to the visitors. Jonathan Evans was once again involved in the action, beating his marker before sending in a superb cross to Marc Williams at the back post. The Aber captain nodded down for Steff Davies to net his second goal in as many games and the Seasiders’ third of the night.

With ten minutes left on the clock, Aber were dealt a blow when Jonathan Evans pulled up and had to be substituted. The winger had been in terrific form all game, contributing to much of what was good about the team’s performance, and everyone at the club will be hoping that the injury sustained does not keep him out for too long. Jack Thorn came on in Evans’ place.

And Aber, who climb into the top six following this result, added a fourth when Jack Thorn with his first goal in senior football after good work down the left by Richie Ricketts..

Manager Gavin Allen said: “I thought we were on it. It was a great performance from the boys with four goals and a clean sheet.

"They have showed character tonight. I thought the back line were excellent – they won everything.

"At times we’ve looked threatening, and it was a decent performance.

"I hope Tony would be looking down on us and smiling tonight and Tony, that’s three points for you mate.”

Next up for The Black & Greens is a trip to Bala Town on Saturday, which is live on Sgorio with a 5.15pm Kick-Off.