EXCLUSIVE

By Tivy-Side reporter

AMBITIOUS Newcastle Emlyn of the Costcutter League could be strutting their stuff at a higher level next season it can be revealed.

The Reds gained entry into the Welsh League Division Three prior to the start of season 2000-01 and in an emotional opener against Seven Sisters picked up all three points. The Teifisiders remained in senior football for 12 seasons before relegation and a return to the local league.

But now Emlyn are hopeful of regaining senior status with an application for membership of the Spar Mid Wales League Division Two.

Currently Powys club Kerry are top of the pile with north Ceredigion outfit Borth United in second, Newbridge-on-Wye close up in third, Churchstoke coming next and Dolgellau Athletic in fifth.

The league involves considerable travelling into mid Wales and Emlyn would be required to complete 24 league fixtures per season.

Emlyn, who can boast excellent facilities, including a grandstand and floodlights, will have to be champions or runners-up in the Costcutter to qualify for automatic elevation to the Spar Mid Wales but could still be accepted if finishing in third spot.

The Reds are joint second with Lampeter Town but the latter will inevitably lose three points for failing to fulfil a fixture against their rivals and that could be sufficient to give Emlyn the ticket.

Popular long-serving Emlyn secretary John Jones told the Tivy-Side: "I can confirm that we have applied for membership of the Spar Mid Wales League and everyone connected with the club is hopeful that we return to a higher

level of football."