Aberystwyth Town 4 Bala Town 0
Welsh Cup holders Bala Town were knocked out of the third round as Aberystwyth produced a stunning performance at Park Avenue.
After Declan Walker curled in a free-kick to put Aberystwyth ahead, the Seasiders struck three goals in the space of 12 second half minutes to secure their passage into the next round.
Aberystwyth boss Nev Powell, a three-time Welsh Cup winner as manager of Bangor City, will have been delighted with his side’s application with Bala Town second best in every area.
In what was the only all-Welsh Premier League tie of the third round, Aberystwyth capitalised after Stuart Jones had fouled on the edge of area with Declan Walker’s free-kick beating Ashley Morris on 15 minutes.
Aberystwyth continued to threaten as Craig Hobson and fit-again John Owen went close.
The inforced introduction of new signing Hyuga Tanner, after Glenn Rule limped, saw Bala gain the ascendancy with Jordan Evans’ free-kick forcing Chris Mullock to save and Nathan Burke striking the crossbar.
Aberystwyth wrestled back control of the game after the restart and Malcolm Melvin’s low drive was well saved by Morris.
Aber’s perseverance was rewarded on 62 minutes when John Owen clinically fired the hosts into a two-goal lead. Ashley Young’s long throw was poorly cleared by the Lakesiders and Owen confidently finished past Morris.
The Seasiders should’ve made it three immediately from the restart but Hobson sent his effort past the wrong side of the post from close range.
With Aberystywth firmly in the driving seat, a third goal followed as Bala were punished once again for more uncharacteristic poor defending. Ashley Thompson’s backpass went astray for Joe Phillips to latch on and extend the hosts’ advantage.
Moments later the impressive Philips then turned provider as substitute Luke Borrelli made an immediate impact converting a low cross from point blank to put Aber four ahead.
Even with a four goal margin Aberystwyth continued to threaten.
Ryan Wade fired inches wide and Luke Borrelli found himself through on goal but his first touch let him down as Bala were spared of a further onslaught.
