Llanymynech plot Welsh Cup upset as Caersws visit Station Road

The match represents a momentous occasion for the border club and marks the first Welsh Cup tie to be staged in the village in 163 years.

Manager Nathan Bartram hoped the community would turn out in droves to create an atmosphere at Station Road as the Reds bid to stage an upset.

"We're very much looking forward to what will hopefully be a real occasion for the community of Llanymynech," said Bartram

"There's been a real buzz about the game and we're expecting a few groundhoppers the wider football community to be our guests for the afternoon too."

Llanymynech sealed their progress with a shock 3-0 win at Montgomery Town earlier in the month.

Llanymynech manager Nathan Bartram. Picture by Gary Williams.

"There was a real sense of reward after we beat Montgomery Town," said Bartram. "The players were regularly checking their phones on the day of the draw to see who we came out of the hat with.

"Firstly we were delighted to be drawn at home, but also to welcome Caersws brings just about as big an opponent as we could have hoped for."

Bartram expects the Bluebirds to take no chances and arrive at Station Road with a full squad.

"It's testament to the fact they aren't taking us lightly, and we can certainly expect as big a test as we've had in recent years," added Bartram.

Action from Llanymynech's win at Montgomery Town. Picture by Gary Williams.

The club has been busy ensuring all Covid protocols are adhered off the pitch while also training hard on it to ensure they are prepared for the Bluebirds.

"Training sessions have been used to problem solve what Caersws will bring and counteract that with our own strengths.

"We've been getting the ground in perfect condition, and as humble as our Station Road home might be we're sure it will look a picture.

"We've also been getting programmes and raffle prizes together, even inviting mascots and getting mini Llanymynech kits made to make every detail just right."

Bartram insisted as much as the tie was a celebration for the community it also represented a chance for his players to cause another upset.

"As much as we want everyone to enjoy the occasion the players still have a huge job to do, and must turn their attentions to the tough task of competing against Caersws for the full 90 minutes, and who knows, maybe even get themselves into the next round.

"It's a cup tie whereby realistically there's no pressure on us to win, but we'll be doing all we can to try and find a way of doing just that.

"Whoever comes away with the spoils will have had to work hard for it and we can't wait to see everyone there."

Caersws manager Mark Griffiths insisted his players would not be underestimating the border side.

"It is a big day for them and a big day for us as we look to get playing again after so long," said Griffiths. "They had a great result in the last round and we will not be taking them lightly.

"We aim to get a positive result and hopefully take that into the Ardal North East League opener the following week."