COVID-19 causes problems for Haverfordwest as Flint ease to victory

Haverfordwest haven’t trained in almost two weeks due to the team self-isolating and it was clear to see as the Bluebirds suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat.

Haverfordwest have played well in recent games, with Danny Williams and Jack Wilson providing great creativity in advanced positions, along with Elliot Scotcher whose defensive style and composure in midfield has helped the team to be more confident on the ball.

However, on Saturday, the Bluebirds weren’t at the races as a lack of training caused sloppiness and a shortage of creativity across the field. Williams and Wilson only made the bench as that proved to be pivotal as the hosts only managed one shot on target throughout the match.

Haverfordwest started well with Flint struggling to get a hold of the ball. Scotcher was spreading the ball finely as the home side were looking comfortable. Unfortunately, their confidence had disappeared after only eight minutes. Connor Harwood’s darting run was abruptly ended by youngster Alaric Jones who received a yellow card although he was the last man, as it wasn’t a clear goalscoring opportunity according to referee Huw Jones.

Midway through the first half, Haverfordwest failed to clear their lines and were made to pay as Alex Jones calmly slotted home to score his second goal of the season and to give the visitors the lead.

The first half was becoming a feisty affair as Flint Town were given yellow cards for late tackles and descent while Scotcher was cautioned for a high and late challenge on a Flint counter-attack.

After only fifteen seconds into the second half, Harwood almost doubled Flint’s lead as a defensive error was almost disastrous for the hosts, but Leeds United loanee Matthew Turner did well to save.

Shortly after, Harwood’s fine display was rewarded as he doubled Flint’s lead with an incredible solo effort. The striker showed unreal composure as he beat multiple defenders to cooly finish past Turner.

Wilson’s overdue introduction would give the hosts some hope, but just a minute later, Alaric Jones was shown a red card after a second bookable offence.

Flint were in cruise control until Wes Baynes also received a red card after a second bookable offence. The resulting free-kick turned out to be the best chance of the match for Haverfordwest as Wilson’s goal-bound header was brilliantly saved by John Danby. A great save for a goalkeeper who’d had a quiet game up until that moment.

An ill-disciplined Haverfordwest were awarded their second red card of the game. Kieran Lewis flew into a challenge which left Flint’s bench furious but many eyebrows were raised as Lewis saw red.

Substitute Ben Steer put the icing on the cake just two minutes after coming on. Another defensive horror show allowed Steer to put the game to bed.

Despite a great win for the Silkmen they still remain in the relegation zone due to goal difference. All players played brilliantly, but credit to Connor Harwood who ran the hosts ragged with great skill, determination and his eye for goal.

Undoubtedly, Haverfordwest will be distraught after that loss but they will be looking to bounce back next time out against Caernarfon who haven’t won in their last four matches, losing three. Things are looking bleak for the Bluebirds after losing two players due to suspension today but they will return to training this week and will hope to see top scorer Danny Williams return after testing positive for COVID-19.

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