Croesyceiliog, slowly catching up on a fixture backlog in the Motaquote Insurance Welsh League, Third Division, could well force themselves into a fascinating promotion scrap.

They moved into eighth place yesterday with a 3-0 home win over Blaenrhondda and have games in hand over all clubs and they entertain fourth-place fellow league newcomers Penrhiwfer on Saturday.

And Croesyceiliog also have to play catch-up on home fixtures. Of their 12 league games played, eight have been away from home.

The experienced Chris Watkins gave Croesyceiliog a flying start, scoring in the opening five minutes. In the second-half Gareth Pattimore increased their lead and Watkins gained his second of the match.

Neil Gilmore, Croesyceiliog's joint manager, said: "Our second goal was vital. At 1-0 you are always vulnerable because sides are still in with a chance but our second gave us a real lift."

Croesyceiliog have 23 points, ten adrift of top team Caerau (Ely) who have played four more matches.

The Redman twins, defenders Rhys and Mark, former Risca players, made their debuts for Croesyceiliog.

And to play over the holiday period was a big success for them. Martyn Jones, secretary, said: "We took more gate money and ticket raffle than ever before. It was a real success - and we took three points."