By Jon Twigg
Jazz Richards’ move into the JD Cymru Premier is going to prove huge value to Haverfordwest County, according to manager Wayne Jones.
Former Wales defender Richards returned to the field on Tuesday night, 382 days since he last played for Cardiff City in a 2-0 loss at Stoke City.
Richards was unable to prevent his side from slipping to a last gasp 2-1 defeat at Aberystwyth Town but Jones is adamant his new signing can be transformational.
“I’m pleased to have him on board,” said Jones. “He’ll prove priceless come the end of season with his experience.”
Richards came on 11 minutes into the second half with his side trailing to a Jamie Reed volley, scored two minutes earlier.
Within a few minutes, teenager Jack Thorn made a crunching tackle on the former Swansea City player as a welcome call.
🔥 Once a goal scorer, always a goal scorer
Great to have Jamie Reed back at Park Avenue ⚽️ #Seasiders #AberAsOne https://t.co/U2GA7dv0v1
— Aberystwyth Town FC (@AberystwythTown) March 9, 2021
It was a heart in the mouth moment for Jones as his new signing took a few minutes to rise from the floor and continue.
Richards was unable to impose himself on an encounter which neither side took a grip on, the ball rarely held for long and offensive transition breaking down in the final third all to easily.
The 29-year-old’s recent lack of game time was evident, but to have such a pedigree recent full international and Championship player in the Cymru Premier is a real fillip for the league.
He will need to adjust quickly, though, as the top two sides in the league – The New Saints and league leaders Connah’s Quay Nomads – are the next opponents for County.
✍️ The Club are delighted to announce that Wales international, Jazz Richards has agreed to join the club.https://t.co/MJmTFKDmRF
— Haverfordwest County AFC (@HaverfordwestFC) March 6, 2021
Before his debut, Richards had said: “Hopefully, I’m fit and ready to go. Obviously, I’m not match fit but I’ve been trying to keep as fit as I can.
“But even if I’m at 60%, I’m sure I can give something. Wayne gave me the opportunity to come down here and play games and you know, in the end, this is what I wanted to do and more so for the enjoyment.”
That enjoyment will come as his match sharpness returns, with the 14-times capped international looking to overcome a succession of injuries that undermined his last two years at Cardiff.