HISTORY was made at Latham Park on Saturday when 15 year old Arnie Roberts took to the field as a late substitute to become the youngest top flight player in Welsh history.
Roberts, aged 15 years, six months and nine days, replaced Zeli Ismael against Caernarfon Town with a minute remaining with Newtown already 4-0 to the good thanks to an Aaron Williams hat-trick and Ryan Sears strike.
Roberts' introduction marked the latest chapter in his career which began as an 11 year old in the club academy.
OTHER NEWS:
- New air ambulance data shows axing Welshpool base 'would allow more call-outs'
- Male motorcyclist killed in Powys A470 crash
- Meet the Powys metal detectorist who found a 900-year-old gold ring on a farm
Proud father Dave said: "The whole family are chuffed to bits to see Arnie make this leap.
"We have supported his passion for the game from an early age, and ensured that he attends all weekday training and matches on a weekend.
"We’ve always known of his footballing talent and believed that he could realise his potential. We’re just over the moon that he has broken the Cymru Premier record for the youngest player."
Chairman Nick Evans was delighted the teenager had made history.
He said: "It was a proud moment. Football is about making stories and this is right up there. I can remember taking him on in our Newtown AFC academy at the age of 11.
"He was a raw talent and now he is in the history books and shown the pathway for others to follow."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here