Gwent County League Roundup

MATHERN FC extended their unbeaten run to six matches with a 4-1 victory at Cefn Fforest.

Elliot Greening gave the Division Two side an early advantage and then completed his hat-trick without reply before his team were reduced to 10 men when Matty Board was sent off for two bookable offences.

Despite the setback Alex Watkins made it 4-0 to the visitors before Fforest scored on 70 minutes.

Mark Organ and Dave Harvey claimed two assists each for Mathern’s goals and manager Colin Jeffery was pleased with another three points gained on the road.

On Saturday, Mathern host Cwm who are four points and one place below them with Jeffery hoping they can keep the momentum going.

Meanwhile, in Division Three, Blackrock Rovers kept their good form running with a 3-0 home win over West of St Julians in a match manager Paul Lovell described as a “tough and bruising encounter”.

“We had a slightly depleted squad so, as manager, it was nice to see the team step up and be counted when it mattered.

“Ben Smith gave us the lead from the penalty spot on 20 minutes but then a double sending off – one from each side – seemed to affect our opponents more than it did us and Ben completed his hat-trick before half-time.

The second half was a nasty affair with lots of fouls and bust-ups breaking up the play.

“Although there were no further goals, we stood firm against some intense pressure, both mentally and physically for a very satisfying result.”

The manager also hit out at four recent visiting teams who failed to take advantage of the food and hospitality laid on by the club,

“It’s very rude in my opinion,” he said. “We prepare food for the visitors, as is expected, and we expect good sportsmanship in coming back to our club after the match, as we do when we are playing away. It’s very disappointing when teams don’t.”

Blackrock, who moved up to fourth place, just one point behind leaders Rogerstone, visit Rhymney on Saturday.

Rockfield Rovers, who were without a game at the weekend, are due to entertain bottom club Penygarn and Trevethin on Saturday.