Newport City and Llay Miners Welfare have won promotion to the JD Cymru Leagues following this weekend’s Ardal Leagues play-offs.
The JD Cymru South will welcome the Steelmen after they triumphed 2-1 over Cefn Cribwr in the Ardal South promotion play-off at the SDM Glass Stadium on Friday night.
Sam Houldsworth’s side made a dream start to the game as they led 2-0 after just 22 minutes thanks to goals from Kofi Rowe and Cole Jarvis.
Calum Bateman had the opportunity to add his name to the scoresheet but he missed from the penalty spot midway through the second half.
Ioan Clatworthy reduced the deficit for Cefn Cribwr with three minutes remaining, but Newport City held on to clinch promotion and conclude a memorable season after also winning the Dragon Signs Amateur Trophy.
Ardal South East champions Trethomas Bluebirds and Ardal South West champions Penrhiwceiber Rangers will also play in the JD Cymru South in 2024/25.
Meanwhile, Llay Miners Welfare complete next season’s JD Cymru North lineup after they defeated Llanuwchllyn on penalties in the Ardal North promotion play-off at Maes Tegid on Saturday.
It was goalless after 90 minutes in Bala, meaning that a shootout would decide the 44th and final club in the second tier next season.
Both teams scored their first five penalties each, before Llanuwchllyn defender Kyle Jones missed from 12 yards in sudden death to hand Llay Welfare a golden opportunity.
It was a chance that David MacIntyre took, as he converted his spot-kick to secure his side’s place in the JD Cymru North alongside Ardal North East champions Penrhyncoch and Ardal North West champions Flint Mountain.
