Llanystumdwy ladies make major signing

Tash Matthews (back row – fourth from left) lines up with Llanystumdwy before their first friendly last year

CPD Llanystumdwy’s women’s team have received a massive boost.

The newly-formed side have signed highly-rated defender Tash Matthews for the 2021-22 season.

The 19-year-old is the partner of Sion Parry, the new player-manager of Llanystumdwy men.

Although Tash played for Llanystumdwy in their first-ever friendly last year, she had committed to CPDM Bangor 1876 for the forthcoming season.

However, family circumstances led to her joining Llanystumdwy as it is nearer to her and Sion’s Porthmadog home.

“Family circumstances meant I just couldn’t commit to the driving up to Bangor. Although Johnny (Batten) and the team had been so accommodating for me and my situation it just made a lot more sense,” she said.

“I’m really excited at the prospect of helping Llanystumdwy develop. We’ve a few exciting prospects in the team so I’m thrilled at the thought of seeing them progress throughout the season.”

Tash has played for Bangor City, Llandudno, had a brief spell at Dafen Welfare down south and Hartpury College in Gloucester

Here’s a rare photo. Tash Matthews (left) and Ceri Lois after winning the Grassroots North Wales Player of the Match Sweets and Chocolates for Bangor City Ladies back in 2018

The composed and skilful defender first came to light in senior football when playing for Bangor in 2017-18.

After moving away from the area to study, she made a brief comeback in 2018-19 for Llandudno.

Tash has also represented Dolgellau, Barmouth girls and North Wales Coast Development Centre, as well as Ysgol Uwchradd Tywyn, where her skills first really developed.

She once played in the Welsh Schools FA National Cup Final, representing Eryri.

The teenager also once had trials with West Bromwich Albion.