The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

NOTES ON FOOTBALL. LBy VETERAN.] At last, the Newtown football men have reached the goal of their ambition, and for this season, at least, they are the champion association team of Wales. Well do they descrv) this honour, and it has been obtained by honest and fair work on the football field. It is "now many years since the Cup was brought to Newtown in 1873-9, I think, and then Wrexham were the finalists. In the same year, I believe, Oswestry and Newport fought their battle for the possession of the Shropshire Cup, and Newport won. History has repeated itself this year with a vengeance. Newtowu and Wrexham, and Oswestry run! Newport met again for the same trophies, and strange to say, with the same results as in 1878-9. Then, as now, Oswestry were the favourites for the Shropshire Cnp. On the other hand, Wrexham were certainly favourites in the first encounter for the Welsh Cup, and in the match on Monday, opinions were pretty evenly divided as to the merits of the teams. There is no disguising the fact, that at least five out of six spectators on the field wished Newtown to win, but felt afraid of the cleyer Wrexham men. There was in fact little or nothing between the teams as to merit. Another strange coincidence connected with these matches was the fact that one man, Keeley, got all three gcals for Newport, while rhe gallant Captain of the Newtown team scored the three for his side. I gave short notes on the game in the special edition, but I suppose, I must, re- capitulate a little. It was evident that both teams were fit and meant winning or dying haid in the attempt. In the first ten minutes Newtown cer- tainly had the best of the game. The defence was capital, and the half-backs fed the forwards who peppered away at goal, but were rather wild in their shooting. Then Wrexham had a look in, and from a case of pushing, and this is a failing on the part of some of the Newtown men, Wrexham got their first goal—a very lucky one. Nothing dis- mayed, the Newtown men attacked and before many minutes, Parry with a clever run and pass to Mytton, who unsel- fishly tapped on to W. E. Pryce-Jones, a loud cheer announced that the latter had equalised. Even play followed for some time, Goodwin especially distinguishing himself with clever saves, one being very brilliant. Wrexham were now slightly having the best of the game, and from a foul given against Chapman, Wrexham scored another lucky goal. Both their goals were obtained from fouls, and the lesson I trust will not be lost on some of the Newtown men. But for these fouls it is probable that Wrexham would have been beaten pointless. Just before half-time misfortune befell Newtown. The ball was sent at goal, and Harrison, I think, not only jumped at Goodwin. the goalkeeper, but actually clawed him in the face. Human nature is human nature all the world over, and few. very few, can receive a smack in the face with complacency. Goodwin lost his temper, and in the heat of the moment deliberately kicked his assailant. Upon this, Mr. Brodie pr imptly walked up and ordered Goodwin off the ground. This decision naturally gave great dissatisfaction to the majority of spectators present. Now I don't for a single moment wish to find the slightest fault with Mr. Brodie's decision as to Goodwin. There is no doubt the latter was wrong, and very wrong too, but, as the goalkeeper is the most unprotected man on the field, some allowance should have been made for the scurvy way in which he was treated by the Wrexham man, and if the latter had also been sent off very few would have raised a murmur. ¡ Goodwin received great provocation, and for this reason can the more readily be forgiven by true sportsmen. After this unpleasantness W. E. Pryce- Jones wisely altered his field. He put Town send in goal, Worthen back, and the willing Parry at left half, while II. F. Mytton combined left inside and centre. No better arrangement could have been made under the circumstances, and the men acquitted themselves grandly in their new position. Up to half-time Wrexham pressed under the new arrangement, but immediately the game was restarted the Newtown fellows braced themselves up for a noble and supreme effort. Though placed under great disadvantages they attacked furiously. Mytton and A. W. Pryce-Jones specially dis- tinguished themselves with their daring and brilliant runs, while W. E. Pryce-Jones coolly placed himself in a favourable position to wait the turn of events, or rather the coming of the ball across goal mouth. Before the game was very old a mighty roar showed that something had happened. Mytton and A. W. had dashed up and gained a corner. This was capitally placed by Parry, and after a pass or r-jvo Vie ball landed at tlJe flt of W. F., whe pr-n^pty^ 1'he ""I'.aaiam fUgfc. o 4*9$* 'his1 winning point, uni a laie wervj vmy .thjouUe- } some but Harper, V\t>v~thtn, and i owisenv them at bay. Tovnsseml";ept 1 as well ?. ever he did in the best of his days, and much of the credit of the victory is due to his splendid work between the posts. Mytton and A. W. having the ball well passed to them by the half-backs, again got up, and a little play round goal ended in W. E. from his comfortable position giving his side the lead. A mighty roar greeted this grand work, 1nt the game was not over by any means. Lea led his men on bravely and fed his forwards in admirable style, but they spoilt most of his efforts by continually poaching off-side. Just before time A. W. and Mytton would probably have added another point but for their play being spoilt by a stray dog. Soon after Mytton made a capital run and passed beautifully to W. E. Pryce-Jones, who somehow missed the easiest chance he had. Soon after the whistle blew and Newtown were vociferously cheered on their magnificent victory. It was a victory worth more than a passing notice. I fancy the Newtown men created a record by winning an important Cup with only ten men. To the credit of the winners it must be said that they behaved splendidly about the Goodwin contretemps, and in very few places would the spectators have acted with such becoming moderation. The Newtown men deserved their victory, and they will value it all the more on account of the stubbornness of the contest. The Wrexham men, though defeated, were not in the least disgraced. They played beautiful football, but were outpaced by the Newtown for- wards. Beeston has a few shady tricks, and narrowly escaped dismissal. Trainer was tricky at times, but Chapman had his eye on him. The Newtown men played with great determination, though they did not, as a a whole, come up to their Chirk form. Now the Cup is at Newtown it will be lovingly careti for, and will not be allowed to move far without a great struggle. The victory must be very gratifyin ,to the Captain of the team, as he has spared neither money, time, nor trouble, to get his men fit; and his feat of scoring all three goals gave even pleasure to the rest of the team than he derived personally from this success. M. Stoker too, deserves his share of praise, as he has been father, trainer, friend and counsellor all in one. Mr. Lloyd, the hon. sec., also deserves great credit for his great share of the work. The gate was a record one for the Welsh Cup, and the credit or this is entirely d ie to Mr. Tom Bratton, for his pluck and enterprise. Both teams and the whole town of WeJshpool arB indebted to this gentleman for his excellent arrangements. On Wednesday, His Worship, the Mayor of Welshpool, in talking over the game of Monday, said he was much pleased with the orderly and well behaved crowd, and he was glad to say that not one snigle caso of drunkenness or disorderly con- duct was brought to his notice. Considering the great number present, and the excitement, this is a very great compliment to footballers. The result of the Shropshire Cup contest was a great surprise. Newport are at the bottom of the Shropshire League, and Oswestry stand second on the list. On this form there was only one team in it, but the Newport men were in fine form while Oswestry were quite below the mavk. On all hands it is admitted that the better team on the day's play won. Bennion's team were not only a strong defensive lot, but the forwards were verv smart on the ball. The Wellington ground is a very poor one, and better adapted to the Newport style of play than that of Oswestry. This much may be said in favour of the losers. A capital game was witnessed at Aberystwvth on Tuesday inche final for the Medals. The "teams left in the Congregationalists and the Town Reserve. The first named are quite boys and very light, but they had much the best of the play and won by 3 to 2, after a very pleasant game. Some of the boys were very tricky, and the right wing pair—the brothers Ellis-are coming men. The sturdy htiio half-back plays up like a little Holt, and, in fact, all the boys showed good gentlemanly football. Tlie Town Reserve played a rice game, but the g«al-keeper was rather a failure. To the credit of the lowers it must be said that they did not take undue advantage over their little opponents by using weight or by rough play. The ame was a model one, and passed off without the slightest hitch. The 8t. George's men were so delighted with their recepfclou in Aberystwyth when they met the home team for the Welsh Cup, that they made ar- rangeme!56-j for another match at this fashionable watering place. This took place on Tuesday after- noon before a good gate. The Dragons brought with them the Charity Cup so long associated with their name, and this handsome trophy was greatly admired by the spectators on the ground. The home team were short of Rea and Morris, and it was felt. that the Dragons would avenge their former defeat, but the home players quite held their own all through the game, and again won a good game. Under the circumstances this was a creditable performance. The Dragons played a very good and gentlemanly game, and it is little wonder that they are so popular here. The grand tackling and kicking of Morris and Turley were special features of the play, and Pinkstone's throws in were little short of marvellous. D. Morgan, W. R. Jones, D. M. Jones, and Edwards and Garner quite played up to form, and the two latter were success- ful in scoring for their side. The defence of the winners was admirable, and Jack Jones excelled himself in goal, saving marvellously at times. The last goal obtained by Edwards was a real gem, and was beautifully worked for—D. Morgan passing just in the nick of time to J. II. To-day the Welsh Cup winners visit this town, and there is no doubt they wi!! have a grand reception. The game will l;p a good one, but, takiug ail things into consideration, I think the home team will hold their own. J. H. Edwards is coming out wonderfully well for Bury. On Saturday he had the honour of scoring the winning goal for his side, and he is con- sidered as the coming man in Bury. He has good speed, and has plenty of pluck, and passes well. With care and practice there is no doubt he will be in the front rank next year, and Bury arc naturally proud of their capture. With the Final Cup ties staring them in the face, it was not to be expected that either Newtown or Oswestry would run any risks with their men on Saturday. Consequently the League matches were fought out by reserve men. Wellington brought a fairly strong team to Newtown, whereas all the Newtown eleven were reserves, and very fine reserves they proved. The defence of Ellwall and Hamer, and Edwards in goal was capital, and on many occasions they sav^d grandly from the dan- gerous rushes of the Vv o.lington front rank. Thr Newtown half-backs and forwards played a mar- vellously cool and gcod game—their play in fact being quite up to the standard of some of the best forward play seen on the ground this year. John Frederick scored the first goal for the home team after some very fine forward play, while the second goal by G. H. Mytton was the result of as fine a bit of individual play as anyone would wish to see. The Wellington men made strenuous efforts to either draw or gain a couple of points, but the plucky little reserve men held their own up to the end, and had the honour of defeating a strong League team pointless. The Whitchurch v. Oswestry match was a nearly similar one to the ri'>ve, but here both sides had reserves—Oswestry nine, and Whitchurch eight. Whitchurch were expected to win easily, out the young hands of the United played up well, and ran out winners by 4 to 1. 1 was pleased to see Wilcox assisting the United, and the once brilliant winger occasionally put in some of his famous runs, and all through played a downright good game. The first goal scored by the United was from his foot, and a fine shot it was. Very soon afterwards the Whitchurch left wing pair got down, and Challinor scored with as fine a shot as ever was seen. From this time Whitcliurcil were beaten men, and were only occasionally dangerous. Now and again the Whitchurch forwards broke away and sent in some stiff shots to the goalkeeper, but Edwards wa3 as safe as I trust lie will be to-day. F. Lewis played a capital back game, and his partner was nearly as good. Daniels and D. Roberts were far too good for the opposing forwards, while Ma-es did the work of half-a-dozen men. The right half-back of Whitchurch played a very rough game, and was called to order more than once by the loug-suffering referee. Mr. W. H. Evans would certainly have sent him off the ground. Plimmer and Davies played a rattling game on the right wing for the United, and the latter is a most promising youth. His forward play was the feature of the match. To the surprise of the spectators Oswestry won by 4 to 1, and thus assisted the goal average of their team. SHROPSHIRE AND DISTRICT LEAGUE. Played Won Lost Drn For Aget Pte St. George's .15 11 1 3 39 15 25 Oswestrv United .17 10 3 4 52 24 24 Newtown 17 8 7 2 42 35 18 Hereford 17 5 5 7 33 24 17 Shrewsbury 14 7 5 2 33 23 16 Wrock, ardir-e Wood 14 5 5 4 23 28 14 Iron-Bridge 15 6 8 1 33 39 13 Whitchurch— 3 7 4 23 32 10 Newport 17 3 11 3 18 48 9 Wellington Tcyvn Y-i 3 8 2 27 53 8 LEA^U&f!—DIVISION 3. Name Goals Vlayed Won Ern Lost F'r Ag. Pts Sanderland 29 20 5 4 78 36 45 Everton 28 18 5 5 79 46 41 Aston Villa 28 17 3 8 78 39 37 Preston North End .29 14 5 10 57 44 33 Blackburn Rovers 30 11 10 9 59 44 32 Notts Forest.29 13 5 11 50 55 311 Sheffield United 29 13 4 12 52 56 30 Sheffield Wed'sday .29 12 6 12 48 45 29 Burnley 29 11 4 14 43 54 26 Bolton Wanderers .29 9 7 13 61 57 25 Small Heath 30 9 7 14 50 74 25 W'ton Wanderers .29 9 6 14 41 91 24 Derby County 30 7 9 14 46 68 23 Liverpool .29 7 8 14 49 65 22 Stoke 29 7 7 15 44 64 21 West Brom'h Albion 28 8 4 16 44 66 20 NEWTOWN V. WELLINGTON TOWN. The Leigue fixture between Newtown and Wellington Town was played on the ground of the former on Satur- day. The home team were all reserve men, and the visitors were not fully represented. A fairly good number of spectators were present, and soon after four o'clock the ball was set rolling and taken to the Newtown end, a corner being forced, but Hamer relieved with a strong kick, and the ball remained in the visitors' quarters for some time, after which they made a rush down the field, Alf. Edwards clearing with some difficulty, and, John Fredericks getting possession. His final shot was feeble and wide. The play was transferred to the other end and the ball was placed in the net, the point, however, being disallowed on the plea of off-side. A case of hands in front of the Newtown goal was got away, and from another foul against the homesters the ball was put behind. Hamer and Elwell were now playing a good game, and but for the grand defence the visitors would probably have got through. A rush was made on the home goal, a corner being conceded in saving, which was, however, got away, and Nock securing the ball passed nicely to Matthews who made a good run, but was stopped and the ball was returned, after which Mytton got possession, and in racing for goal was deliberately tripped by his opposing back. Next, the ball was taken to the Newtown end and passed along the the mouth of goal several times, the final shot being high over the bar. A corner was forced for New- town from which a short scrimmage occurred, but the ball ultimately went behind. It was next taken down the field, and soon returned, the offside rule being infringed, averting danger, and Mytton sent wide. Reese, Matthews, and Nock were next con- spicious in a good run, and from the pass John Frederick got possession, and shot wide. Give-and- take play followed, after which the Wellington goal was visited, a feeble shot by Mytton being easily got away. A free kick for Newtown near their opponents' goal was not put to advantage. Welling- ton were now pressing, but soon the ball was returned, a good run by Nock resulting in a corner being secured, from which nothing tangible resulted. Soon after this half-time was called, no goals being scored. After a welcome five minutes, rest, play was resumed, which was fast and exciting, and Wellington for some time were the I aggressors, but their shooting was very erratic. A visit was made to the \V ellington goal, but off-side again was the order, after which the ball went behind. After some mid-field play, a foul against Wellington brought the home team into a dangerous proximity, and after the ball had been kicked to and fro in mouth of goal for a minute or two it was got into the net, John Frederick doing the needful, who, by-the-bye, was playing a good game. After this, play became very lively, the ball being kept near the Newtown end for some time, but a rush was eventually made on the visitors' strong- hold, a goal nearly resulting. After, John Frederick had another near try. Wellington assumed the aggressive, and forced a fruitless corner, and the visitors' forwards kept up the pressure and poured shot after shot in the direction of the net, Elwell, Hamer, and Edwards clearing in grand style. After a few minute* even play Edwards was loudly cheered for a grand save when in a very awkward position. Next a wild rush was made to the Wellington end and ought to have resulted in a goal, John Frederick and Teddy Davies not putting much stinge in their shots. The Wellington forwards were putting in all they knew to equalize and on several occasions the globe missed the desired haven by a few inches only. Responding to a loud shout of play up Reserve," the home forwards got away and Mytton ended a grand run by shooting right under the bar, the goal keeper failing to get it away and thus the second point was registered. The homesters again pressed the vanguard, being clever in their continual raids, but nothing further resulted, and the game ended in favour of Newtown by 2 to 0, a most creditable feat. The referee was Mr. Roberts, Ellesmere. WELSH CUP FINAL. [BY KICK OFF.I j The big cup match at the Recreation Field, Welshpool, on Monday afforded a fair illustration and proof of the deep and widespread interest which is being taken in the growingly popular game of football, and what was seen and heard and felt on the Welshpool ground was only an index to the still greater interest which the game excites through- out Wales and the United Kingdom generally. There were fully 5,000 sightseers on the ground, all anxiously and minutely following each move- ment of the game, their sympathy divided between the rival teams—Newtown and Wrexham—and their countenances mirrowing its developments as the surface of a vast lake reflects the ever-changing cloudsabove. It was a moment of excitement, during which the monotony and the drudgery of the daily toiler were forgotten, and the animal soul in man was raised above its surroundings. Such supreme moments are fe™r and far betweeu in this tame and timid life of ours, and they help in making it worth living. What will compare with football ? It engenders feelings and emotions which are un- known at Newmarket or the Derby, and even the closing sensations of ci 'Varsity match pale in com- parison. Excitement of a kind exists at the National Eisteddfod when the conquering hero is escorted to the platform, ad chaired amid the flare of trumpets and the cheers of his admiring countrymen. But that little excitement only comes once a year, and is, moreover, of a brief duration. But in a game of football the human soul intensifies itself in its two eyes for more than an hour at a stretch, each fresh kick, and dash, and run, adding new pleasure and heightened interest. It can be compared to nothing except, indeed, to the working out of a plot, each combatant fulfilling his destiny, his every act suggested by each fresh move as the plot progresses. Herein lies the secret of the be- witching influence of a football match. Five thousand people ? Yes, they were mostly men— young, athletic, stalwart. Newtown had sent their hundreds; Wrexham, Oswestry, Llanidloes, Machyn- lleth, and Aberystwyth—not, of course, forgetting Welshpool itself-all were mixed up in that throng of shouts and cheers and counter cheers which swayed passively under the potent influences of the game, as a vast forest is agitated by repeated breaths of wind. Aud they behav >d like men. The 'National Eisteddfod, or even a big singing meeting, generally known as a Cymaul'a, certainly not a uoisy political meeting, could scarcely improve upon the good manners of those two myriads. But uoisy political meeting, could scarcely improve upon the good manners of those two myriads. But there are some who condemn football as a thing of sin, of demoralising, lowering, brutalising tenden- cies. Surely, they offend against human nature, at any rate against the human nature of the Celt. He loves excitement, and will have it. Demolish his sports and his pastimes, and bind him down in the prison-house 0; Puritanism for a hundred years. The old man—his ancient spii-it-is still as free and unfettered as of yore. He casts the anklets and wristiets of a stupid religiosity to the winds, and rushes to the football arena here at Welsh pool like a giant refreshed with wine. There is no smothering national instincts, no annihilating racial characteristics. The Welshman will have excitement, whatever his teachers and his leaders may say to the contrary. Then give him legiti- y I mate excitement, for, if not, he will discover ways and means of providing himself with what may be not. It was a Welsh Cup tie to-day, and the two elevens were as gallant a pair of crews as ever took the field, full of spirit and dash, and hope of victory. Their respective townsmen were proud of them, and bravely did they support the credit and honour of the towns in whose names they plaved. Considerable interest was manifested in to-day's engagement, and for fully an hour before the ad- vertised time of commencing half past three o'clock—crowds of enthusiasts were to be seen wending their way towards the scene of action. Special and excursion trains brought hundreds of visitors from Newtown and the western districts, while numbers poured into the field from Wrexham and the district to the east of Welshpool. Bright fine weather, which lizis been so conspicu- ous by its absence to within a week ago, favoured the fixture. The sun shone out with steady per- sistency, and every promise of a fine afternoon was vouchsafed, the circumstance in some measure tending to the record attendance. A slightlv high wind blew from the railway end of the field, but little attention was paid to this fact. The ground was rather hempv on top, but otherwise no fault could be found with its condition. < A tremendous cheer went forth when a-five and twenty minutes after three, Lea, the Wrexham captain, led his team on to the field, a like reception being accorded their opponents, who followed im- mediately afterwards. THE TEAMS. The teams faced each other as follows NEWTOWX. r "1 Goodwin. # jj. Harper. Tow:i3end, I y .5 I oq" > J Worthen. Chapman, Tucker. « 1 r = £ T. '3s » Parry, t W. E. Pryce-Jones, dq A. W. Pryce-Jones. E. Morgan. dq A. W. Pryce-Jones. E. Morgan. t- H. F. Mytton. J o r 1 H. Trainer. & I si Owen. Harrison. > rb B. Lewis. R. Davies. L « "j r « # I Beeston, Lea, Hayes. I, s" Samuels. Ellis, L Ball. j WREXHAM. I W. E. PRYCE-JONES, Captain of the Newtown Team. The Newtown team included six internationals— Townsend, Worthen, Chapman, Parry, W. E. and A. W. Pryce-Jones, whilst mention should also be made of the fact that H. F. Mytton was selected to phiv in the last international match against Scot- land, but was prevented from playing through injuries he received in a previous match. Wrexham included three internationals-Trainer, Lewis, and Lea. A X 0 T II E R A C C 0 U X T. [Br PtUSTicuK.] Welshpool.and her inhabitants owe a debt of gratitude to the Executive of the Town Football Club, who by their success in obtaining the selec- tion of the town as the locale of the final of the match procured for it a commercial benefit, which would be very widely felt, not to speak of the boon conferred upon football loving enthusiasts in the neighbourhood, in thus having brought to their own. doors, as it were, the decision of the "nlle Rib- bon "eveut of the Welsh football world. Early as was the hour when I arrived on the ground, 2 30, it was to find the" sixpenny" space almost full, while the grand stand was crowded. Mr. Bratton and his fellow workers are to be congratulated upon the complete arrangements they had provided. The ground seemed in capital condition and was well suited for the classic event which it to-day witnessed. < Both teams brought their full strength, and in all no less than mne international men were occupied in the gtme, six on behalf of Newtown, and three in the 4rexham eleven. It had been a matter of some anxiety to supporters of the Newtown team whether Mytton would be fit to play after the injuries he received in tlip Shrewsbury match, since which he had not appeared in the football arena. However it was tfiown last week that he would take part, and the barometer of Newtown's hopes rose accordingly. Both elevens had been in strict training at the seaside, Newtown men at Borth, on the Cardigan Bay, and the Wrexhamites at Rhyl. DETAILS. [BY OUP- OWN REPORTER.] Newtown won the toss, and elected to play to- wards the canal, wIth the sun in their faces, and the wind at their backs. Trainer kicked off, and Mytton secured, d Harper relieved with a huge kick. Mytton aggin got possession, but a foul was given fo. W rexhafll within 30 yards of their goal. Chapman took it, and landed well over. Newtown again got hold and W. E. Pryce-Jones took it right up td the goal post, but was robbed by Hayes. MyttPu secured, and passed to his confrere, but Ellis Securing, kicked out. New- town were pressillg .'lnd a free kick being given well in goal, Tucker took it, and was marvellously saved by Ball. Tinker being hard pressed kicked out. Play, hitheo, was seen in the Wrexham territory, but R., Navies raced away along the Wrexham lift- Chapman, with some smart play, ga(e his forward the game, Worthen next pass^° Parry, who kicked out and got a corner 'wlicth he placed very poorly. Worthen essayed a^ but Samuels kicked out, another corner bei#\ shortly obtained off Lea, which was immediacy followed by another, thanks to Mytton. wl-exiiini right obtained possession, but kicked out. A foltl was given against Parry, which Beeston took, and kicked right into the goal mouth. Townsend ftttnbled, and the ball was rushed through by right wing, amid deafening cheers. From the rC-úff Wrexham got possession but was kicked ou* mildly. Worthen held Owen and a free was rIVen, from which Trainer se- cured but was robb^ by Tucker. Hands were given against Challn"tl, he deliberately offending, the ball going behld from B. Lewis. On the re- sumption, Mytton f"0' possession, but Wrexham secured and follow with some dashing play, the Newtown goalkee r being called upon to save. Wrexham lgaI11 showed their super- iority, and a ;'rl1er ensued off Harper, which was well "It in, Chapman relieving. Brilliant play j'y Wrexham was again witnessed, and a 15 nging shot by R. Davies was well saved. The N town captain, by grand play, took the ball right P the touch line on his wing, and centred nicely? ^ut the ball was returned. Parry shortly afterwards essayed another shot which went wide, ^ot>d and continued cheering announced that Pryce-Jones had made matteis even from f centre by Parry. Excitement ran high, and NewPWtl got away, but a free was given against t'etn- This made matters look' serious, but Tucker *!1Ved at the expense of a corner. Mytton got away, aud the Newtown forwards were soon in the Wgressioii. A. W. Pryce-Jones, however, kicked ou" 11. Harper eventually reliev- ing. Mytton was in--Ill seen going away, but the ball "out-sped" hiil- Wrexham got into Newtown territory, Townsemf ydieving grandly, passed to E. Morgan, who trao^^sd to Parry. The ball, however, went oub and from the throw in the sphere" went bihitid. One of the "tVrexham rear division was C¡lutlOned for indiscreet play, and a foul was soon gin Wrexham for Chapman kick- ing Trainer. This 'fortunately for his side, cost a goal, which was cPne by Harper, the result of an accident. Wrexharf1 ext passed in grand form and hands was £ *ven against Mytton on the equatorial line, Ticker heading out. The game from the commencpent was a fast one, and Town- send, by the aid of head, sent to Worthen, who forwarded to Chafna.11, the latter kicking wildly out. From the thrlw-In Wrexham got the advan- tage, and Trevor Oven shot wide. This was fol- lowed by a cornel for Wrexham—the result of pressure on the N eJtown goal. Mytton afterwards raced away, passed to A. W., who shot in from a distance, the goalk»#F)er relieving at leisure. Keep- ing up the pressuv? on the Wrexham goal, New- town secured a cor £ r> which was abortive. Parry put the ball through but was first declared offside. I Desultory play folldved, Newtown had a slight ad- vantage. This was speeded by another foul against I Chapman in Wrerlam territory. Parry distin- guished himself by running the gauntlet through the Wrexham men.iie ball going out. Townsend punted over the W» J^y>3.jjoal line from mid-field. A. W. Pryce-Jones nuis, robbed, but no advantage accrued. Newtown stif kept up the pressure, but ground was lost by Nev^°wn through a foul, which was received with hcPting, a corner-kick fall- ing to Wrexham, w.ich went over the line. Tucker passed to W. E. Pryce-Jones, who failed to receive. Hands were Ovell against Mytton, but Newtown still pressed, the ball going behind. Worthen passed to FPrrY, Samuels returning. Townsend, by "gallery play," needlessly sent over the Wrexham line. PrycO. Jl)ueg centred beautifully but was declared offside. Mytton robbed Lea, and passed to A. W. Pryce-Jones, who was in a capital position, but shot over tijo bar. Lea raced away, but was capitally stoplicd by Tucker, Newtown again getting away. Gccdwni ran out and cleared. Wrexham raced dovrn the rIght, and Harper miss- ing his kick let in a Wrtf* ani man, and another forward tackled Goodwin who retaliated, the latter being sent off the round, which decision was received with loud and continued hooting. Townsend went into goal' and the ball was kicked off. Wrexham naturally pressed with this unusual advantage. Lea fell ovef the back of A. W. Pryce- Jones, and hurt hitnselfi being laid low for a few moments. The interval was then announced with the score standing: &ALF TDLE- Wrexham 2 goals Newtown 1 The sun was noWshin'n" with greater brilliancy and the-crowd of speet,tors had greatly increased in density, the spe^ato**3 "umbering at the least 6,000. Mytton rentarte with Pany at left half- back. Worthen kicked °i: an'^ immediately after- wards Parry h?ao-U o"t- Beeston deliberately kicked into the gi'^id stand. Harrison centred from the Wrexhatolefti °ffside was declared, Newtown were nov plaYlllg well. A. W. Pryce- Jones passed nicely to Cl'aPmau, who seemed well placed, the latter soot111g miserably wide of the mark. Trevor 'Own WHS ag-ain given offside and Newtown again got atv&y» • Pryce-Jones run- ing along the touch liue, but failing to centre, the ball went behind, ParrJ' now at left half back, was ubiquitous in ¡'bbing Lewis and centered the ball to Jones, who epa5sed to Mytton, a corner ensuing from which the ball was rushed through by the right forwa^s, from Parry's corner, tre- mendous cheering anoouncing matters even. Mytton raced atf^ in grand style, beating all his opponents, ,bvit stumbling passed, to A. W. Pryce-Jones, 'vho forced a corner, nothing however resulting- Ne'vvtov^n> n°twithstanding their deficiency, p1"^ sed hea\ lly, and the ball was constantly in WrexVm territory. Harper relieved an attack by R. Dahs, but the ball went over the touchline. A. W. &yce-Joties and Mytton raced away, beating at antagonists, and nothing short of a mavel saved a goal. New- town were now treating the spectators to a brilliant game, .rid looked like winning. Town- send running out, Hted the ball, and Harper after- wards clearing, envied Mytton and A. W. Pryce- Jones to get away ^ith such good effect that they gained a corner, w'iioh was immediately couverted into a goal by W. 1 Pry_ce-J°nes. The game was now twenty minute off time, and the excitement was intense. Traityr handled, and evidently ag- grieved sought the referee s assistance, but his complaint met no rslponse- The game was trans- ferred to Newtowi jqiiarteis, but the ball was thrown behind. lyjvtowti, by a succession of throws-in, took theb-ame to the equatorial line. Tucker almost et his opponents in, a corner having t( be conceded, which was, however, got away- Mytton put in one of his charactr stic runs, but Ellis handling the ball. nothing e'à ed. Newtown, still pressing, Mytton and Pryce-c jnes went away, but the usual "Derby Dog" inter*;?in £ considerably the players, and jjbbably Newtown a goal. Immediately afteriKrds a foul was given against; Chapman for hol^Cg. Ihe kick was taken by Samuels, who pla<*(ji nicely* but Lewis being, as usual, offside, th«% away the opportunity by being penalised. "orthen, m kicking off for goal, made a very feebl0.^ttewpt; which lot in Lewis, but Parry savedt the expense of a corner. Again off-side was^iven against Wrexham, R. Davies being no^T the offender, this was im- mediately followed py a similar decision against Lewis, who was in ;ceipt of a pretty pass from Lea. Newtown ags t got away with a rush, but Morgan kicked out, g did Harper soon afterwards. Beeston for kick*1. A- W. Pryce-Jones was cautioned, but the jjjuniary treatment meted out to Goodwin was cori.i-jjgiions by its absence. New- town gamely kept Vithe pressure, but a momen- tary lull in their Ilay let in Wrexham. Mytton got away again. Q1 e more Pryce-Jones got away • j r • but the globe was returned, and Harper kicked out. Mytton apparently having the goal at his mercy, after a dashing run—the run of the day, passed LO W. E. Pryce Jones, who, however, missed his opportunity, and let in the Wrexham left, and Harper again kicked into the next field. This brought the match to a conclusion, and the follow- ing was the FINAL SCORE. Newtown 3 Wrexham 2 At the conclusion of the game a move was made to the front of the grand stand where the cup had been placed on the reporters' table. For several moments no qne could make his voice heard. PRESENTATION OF THE CUP. At the conclusion of the game there was a scene of tremendous enthusiasm, and a large crowd gathered round the Press stand on which the covetei cup temporarily rested. There was a great crush, and when Major Clayton, President of the Welsh Association, stepped forward to present the cup he was received with hearty cheers. As president, he said it was a pleasure and an honour to present the winning team with the trophy, al- though it would be unbecoming of him to say any- thing as to the merits of the game. (A voice Ten men," and cheers.) Whatever the decisions of the referee had been he was pleased to know that each player loyally carried them cut (cheers). He congratulated the referee, the linesmen and all who had taken part in the day's match (loud cheers). The cup was then handed to Mr. W. E. Pryce- Jones, the popular captain of the Newtown team, and when the cheers subdued he returned thanks to Major Clayton. He thought everyone would admit that on the day's play and with ten men the better team had won (loud and prolonged cheers.) He thanked the Welshpool people for their hearty support and tor their welcome, and expressed a hope that was not the last time the Welsh final would be played at Welshpool (loud cheers.) The captain and the cup were taken off the field and the headquarters of the Newtown team—Mr. Bratton's—was soon crowded. The streets were lively for the rest of the evening. THE CHAMPIONS' RECEPTION AT NEW- TOWN. No plucky regiment from the field of battle could have been welcomed with greater enthusiasm than was the Newtown team on Monday evening when they returned home after their splendid achieve- ment at Welshpool. Peace hath her victories, no less renowned than war," and this was one of them. Indeed there is all the greater cause for rejoicing over a victory such as this than one in the achievement of which human life has to be sacri- ficed, and a nation humiliated and ruined. The welcome home at Newtown was the splendid tri- bute of a community to a set of men who had ably represented it in a great national football competi- tion, and the recipients were in every way worthy of it. They have not had their honours thrust upon them by a fortuitious piece of luck. They have been the result of a long time of patient and un- remitting practice, and they are heartily to be con- gratulated. not only by their own fellow citizens but by Montgomeryshire generally, on the lustre which they have shed upon local football by their great feat of last Monday. The team arrived home with the special train reaching Newtown about; eight o'clock. They were met at the station by the celebrated Silver Band, which headed an immense procession con- sisting mainly of an enthusiastic and highly; grateful people at the result of their represents-' tives' endeavours on the Welshpool ground. The esteemed capta.in of the team, together with his confreres, was carried shoulder high through the principal streets of the town, which were thronged with people, the band playing See the conquering with people, the band playing See the conquering heroes come." On the arrival of the procession at the head quarters of the Ciub, there were bud cries for the skipper, whereupon Mr. W. E. PRYCE-JONES appeared at one of the windows, and, when the enthusiasm had sub- sided he said We players are the proudest and happiest of players (cheers). I can honestly say that the whole of us have done our best to bring home the Welsh Football Association Cup (loud applause). We have fought to the bitter end since October last with the now well-known result, and I am sure we have fought on our merits (hear, hear). To those who were so unfortunate as not to witness the match I might say that we won the game with the assistance of only ten men during more than half of the time were occupied in the match. At half-time the game stood two to one in our opponents' favour, bitfc to make matters better in the final half we added two goals to our half-time score, whereas Wrexham were unable to improve on their two goals (applause). I thank you from the bottom of my heart, on behalf of my colleagues, as well as myself, for the most cordial reception you have accorded us, and I am sure we will all remember this to our dying day (hear, hear, and applause). I wish to thank the committee for the services they have rendered during the past season, and also Mr. Fred Lloyd and his assistants for the very excellent work they have performed. They have had a most difficult task to perform, which they have discharged with a great deal of credit (applause). We are also much indebted to Mr. Walter Evans for the interest he has manifested at the Association meetings at Wrexham. Our thanks are also due to Mr. A. Toby, whilst we owe a great debt of gratitude to Mr. Wm. Stokes. I ask you to believe me when I say that he has done all he possibly could for us, not only in Newtown but in Borth, and my only Lope is that he will again kiudly come forward, and do all he can for us in the future (hear, hear). The Cup is yours; it has been won by your children, and is now the property of the town, and we will try and retain it for years to come (cheers). If you are agreeable to the town retairing it we will do all we possibly can towards that end. Let it be understood that we are nevertheless ready to transfer it to our betters (applause). In conclusion, I sincerely hope that the corning generation will come forward and help to hold the Cup also (loud and continued cheering). The trainer (Mr. Stokes) and the hon. sec. (Mr. Fred Lloyd) were also called for, and both appeared at the window and bowed their acknowledgements, the former incidentally mentioning in reply that he had Gone his best, and he would try to do the same in the future (cheers). If Newtown made a mistake twelve months ag*o last New Year's *Dav they had made up for it now, which spoke volumes, far better than cant or the two-foot rule (laughter) The Cup was then filled and handed round, the enthusiasm in the streets being kept up until a late hour, and the 1895 tie for the Welsh Cup will long be remembered by the people of Newtown. -+-