For 18-year-old Carys Pugh-Jones, it’s been a whirlwind campaign in her breakout season for the Robinesses. She’s played every minute in Cheltenham’s run to the final, which included triumphs over Boldmere St Michaels, Wolves, Stockport County and Southampton U21s. In the latter match, Carys saved a 90th minute penalty to deny the Saints a chance of reaching extra time, as Tom Davies’ side were 1-0 winners at Kayte Lane.
Pugh-Jones was involved with the reserves last term, and since her successful Plate run she has started five consecutive league games, beating out her goalkeeping counterpart Mia Smith, who started the first half of the season.
On starting more consistently in goal, she said, “It’s been a really good first season with the first team, I’ve been gaining opportunities that I didn’t think would happen!
“It’s been great for my development and helping develop my confidence within the team, and on the pitch.”
The Plate final takes place on Sunday, April 13 at Oxford City’s MGroup Stadium, and the Hartpury College student was excited for the showpiece final where they will take on AFC Bournemouth. The Cherries will certainly be a formidable opponent for the Robins, as they are currently on a 42 match unbeaten run in the WNL Division One South-West.
“The Plate final is a good chance for us to win a national competition and get a trophy to recognise the performances we’ve had in the competition. It’s an exciting chance for me and the team to prove what we’re capable of.”
On Thursday, March 13, focus shifts to the Gloucestershire County Cup Semi-Finals, as Cheltenham welcome fifth tier side Forest Green Rovers to Kayte Lane. Pugh-Jones reiterated that FGR will be up for it, with a final against either Bristol Rovers or Bristol City U21s to come.
“Forest Green will be a tough game, they’ll want to give everything for a local derby! They have nothing to lose. It’ll be a good challenge for our team and a chance to bounce back after Sunday’s loss.” Pugh-Jones stated.
Cheltenham are without a win in the league since their 3-0 triumph over Billericay Town on Sunday, February 9. Narrow 2-1 defeats over Gwalia United and Watford and a 3-1 loss to league leaders Hashtag United last Sunday has left Cheltenham in 9th place. The Robinesses sit on 17 points, only one point clear of Plymouth Argyle, who occupy the final relegation spot.
Pugh-Jones shared her frustration after last Sunday’s defeat in Basildon, especially as Cheltenham had taken an early lead through Henna Butcher, who netted her fifth goal of the season, after being found in the box by Amelie Curtis.
A brace from Malika Apindia and a goal direct from a corner from Frankie Finlayson four minutes from time sealed the points for the Tags, who went six points clear at the top of the Southern Premier Division.
“It was a difficult defeat, especially in the first half as we challenged them well and had opportunities. It was a tough loss to take, we took it right to the end.” Pugh-Jones said.
Cheltenham have four league games remaining, with away trips to come against AFC Wimbledon, Exeter City and Ipswich Town, with one home game in-between, where they welcome Lewes to Kayte Lane on Sunday March 30. The Welsh youngster is confident that Cheltenham will steer clear of relegation.
“We as a team really want to push in the next few games to gain more points so that we can have safety within the league and truly show where we deserve to end up after some of our performances this year.” Pugh-Jones concluded.
