LLANELLI TOWN: Board admits results ‘must improve quickly’ after eight games without a win

Llanelli Town AFC‘s board has acknowledged supporter frustration over recent performances, admitting results “must improve quickly” while asking fans to keep their criticism respectful.

The Reds are still without a league win, second from bottom of the Novira Cymru South with two points from their opening eight games, and have lost their last three without scoring.

Friday’s 3-0 defeat at Caerau Ely followed a 2-0 home loss to Treowen Stars and a 4-0 beating at Aberystwyth Town, leaving Llanelli with six goals scored and 23 conceded, a goal difference of minus 17, and only bottom club Llantwit Major below them.

In a statement released by the club, the board said everyone connected with the Reds shared the disappointment, from management and players to staff and volunteers.

“We understand the frustration surrounding recent performances. Everyone connected with Llanelli Town AFC, including the board, management team, players, staff and volunteers, shares that disappointment,” the statement said.

The club said it continued to receive strong financial and operational support, with considerable work going on behind the scenes each day, much of it by volunteers who care deeply about the club.

A squad rebuilt in a short window

The board pointed to the summer overhaul of the playing squad, which brought a long list of departures and arrivals at Stebonheath Park.

“Following significant changes during the summer, the management team had to rebuild the playing squad within a short period,” the statement said.

“We have a young group with considerable potential, but we recognise that performances and results must improve quickly.”

That rebuild followed relegation from the Cymru Premier in May, the Reds finishing bottom of the 12-team top flight after winning just three league games all season, twelve months after they had won the Cymru South title.

Terry Boyle, who took his first managerial role in 15 years when he replaced Lee John in the Stebonheath dugout in January, stayed on for the promotion push. The statement does not name him or any member of the management team.

The return to the second tier began with a 4-1 home defeat to Newport City on the opening night, and a 1-1 draw with Trethomas Bluebirds remains one of only two points on the board, alongside a 2-2 home draw with Carmarthen Town.

In between came a 4-2 defeat at Cardiff Draconians and a 3-0 loss at newly promoted Pure Swansea, who now top the division.

‘Supporters are entitled to express their views’

The statement went on to draw a line between criticism and personal abuse.

“Constructive criticism is part of football and supporters are entitled to express their views. We simply ask that comments remain respectful towards the individuals who give their time and effort to the club,” it said.

“This is a difficult period, but everyone involved is focused on responding positively, supporting the players and getting Llanelli Town AFC back on track.”

The board closed by thanking those who continue to support the club.

Llanelli travel to bottom club Llantwit Major on Saturday 26 September.