The management team at Tenby AFC have been reflecting on a successful season back, after reforming the first team and winning Division Five.

This season, with the new coaching setup of team manager Gareth Noot, assistant manager Dene Hurlow along with ex-player and former professional footballer Deryn Brace returning to the club as coach, they set a date for pre season training last July.

“After the disappointment of not having a senior team in Tenby last season, the Club was determined to raise a side again this season,” explained manager Gareth Noot.

“With such a thriving junior section coming through, it was felt that they should be kept at the club and integrated into senior football.”

Unsure of the interest they would have, details went on social media and word spread of the reforming of Tenby AFC’s first team.

“That first evening an encouraging eleven players trained, with numbers rising to fifteen the following week.

“This trend continued and training numbers peaked at twenty one players one week, with a strong turnout every week,” continued Gareth.

Knowing that players were keen, the only objective set by the management was to field a team each week and honour their fixtures in Division Five.

However, as the season progressed the squad grew in confidence, climbing to the top of the league, and winning games convincingly at times.

Both the players and management began to believe there was a chance of promotion at the first attempt.

This was achieved, with Tenby going one better and winning Division Five.

Finishing unbeaten, they won thirteen games, drew just one game against fellow promoted side Johnston 2nds, and scored a whopping 85 goals in their fourteen league games!

“The only disappointment this season was a surprise defeat in the Division Five Cup semi final at the hands of Newport Tigers, but hopefully the boys will use that defeat as a learning curve for their challenge in Division Four next season,” continued Gareth.

The 1st Team have used twenty two different players this season which shows the depth they now have at the club.

Experienced players have helped the younger players come through, with the club being lucky enough to have five of their Under 16s from last season play an important role in the squad this season.

With this season now over, the management are already looking forward to next season and the new challenge of Division Four football.

“The seniors will be working closely with the new crop of talented Under 16s, and will look to integrate them into the squad as the season progresses,” said Gareth.

“Things are looking good, and it’s great to see boys playing with a smile on their faces and enjoying playing for Tenby’s first team once again.

“Thanks must go to club sponsor Andrew Price for his continued support, along with first team sponsor Tenby Tourers,” he added.

Pre-season training will resume soon, with players old and new always welcome. Look out for dates announced both in the Observer and on the Tenby AFC Facebook page nearer the time.