A PLACE in the last-four of Wales’ oldest cup competition is at stake for Bala Town this weekend.
Team boss Colin Caton is busy preparing his Welsh Premier League side for the big Welsh Cup quarter-final clash at home to Welsh League Division One high-flyers Afan Lido on Saturday.
The importance of the tie is evident in the fact that Caton vowed to rest half-a-dozen regulars for last night’s (Wednesday’s) Welsh Premier League trip to defending champions Rhyl.
“It’s a massive test for us,” said the Bala manager.
“We have played lower league teams in the cup this year and they’ve all been difficult games.
“I have had them watched a couple of times and I know a bit about them and they’re no mugs. They have been a Welsh Premier club.”
Not only that, but Afan Lido also boast plenty of Welsh Premier League experience in their ranks.
Their latest acquisition is Robbie Walters, released by Haverfordwest County last month after scoring 10 goals for them this season.
Back in 2006-2007 Afan Lido reached the final of the Welsh Cup, where they were pipped 3-2 by Carmarthen Town.
Bala Town’s best run in the Welsh Cup came two seasons earlier when victories against Conwy United, Denbigh Town, Tom Pentre and Welshpool Town saw Caton’s charges reach the quarter-finals, where they lost to Rhyl.
“It would be fantastic if we got there (to the semi-finals) but it will be a hell of a test,” added Caton. “I don’t want extra time or anything, I want a win - but it’s going to be a hell of a job to get there.”
Caton has also called on the Welsh Premier League to ensure fair play for all clubs after the postponement of Sunday’s Bala-Llanelli match.
The Football Association of Wales contacted Bala on Sunday ordering the postponement of the game as five Llanelli players faced severe difficulties when attempting to drive from their homes.
“The league has a duty of care to its players and managers and decided to postpone the game having read the Travel Wales website,” said a league statement.
Caton added: “I think it might have been the right decision for them (Llanelli) not to travel, but they have opened up a can of worms now.
“I think if it’s as bad as that, they have got to show some leeway now.”
Caton says this winter has been the worst weather-wise in the time he’s been involved in senior football, and added that Bala have encountered some dangerous travelling conditions for away matches.