Haverfordwest beat Goodwick in Danny Evans Memorial Match

It was a game that burst into life after the break – and it was Haverfordwest County who beat Goodwick United 3-1 at the Bridge Meadow on a night where a popular supporter of both teams was remembered.

Danny Evans, a former chairman of South Wales Football Association, died in January 2018. He lived in Aberdare but would regularly watch both the Bluebirds and the Phoenix Boys whenever he had the chance.

His wife Carol was there in attendance and sponsored the occasion, with son Lee taking charge as referee.

So it was fitting that the night started with the sides being photographed together before a minute of applause prior to kick off.

And when things did get going the Pembrokeshire League side made it difficult for their hosts, matching them for work rate in a first half that ended goalless.

Wayne Jones’ side did press for much of the half but only fashioned two real chances, firstly when right back Miles John teed up striker Marcus Griffiths who put his angled shot was straight at James Gwilt, and then it was John himself who forced the Goodwick keeper into a smart stop at his near post.

But the Bluebirds came out a different side after the break, the introduction of Ben Fawcett in particular proving critical as they upped the intensity and struck three times in the opening 15 minutes.

Just 90 seconds after the restart it was the youngster’s run and shot that created the first goal, forcing Gwilt to parry into the path of Tyler Brock and although the keeper got back to his feet to block the follow up, Brock made no mistake second time round.

Wayne O’Sullivan’s side did respond as Mattie Delaney’s 25 yard free kick forced Kyle Stuart into a smart save, while at the other end Sam Rodon blasted over in a goalmouth scramble.

Moments later it was 2-0 though, and it was a now familiar sight for Haverfordwest supporters as Fawcett’s corner was met by Sean Pemberton - who crashed a header home off the underside of the bar.

The same combination struck again when another Fawcett cross found the captain unmarked six yards out and he made no mistake with his downward header.

Goodwick, who were beaten 7-1 by the Welsh League side last summer, didn’t cave in though and threatened themselves late on.

And the Phoenix Boys got the consolation goal they merited when Ben Vangucci met Rhys Dalling’s free kick with a glancing header that found the far corner.

Haverfordwest continue their pre-season preparations on Tuesday when they play Cardiff Under 23s at the Meadow, while Goodwick 2nds will play Fishguard 2nds on Monday in the opening game of the Luke Harding Memorial Tournament.