THE NORTH Wales Coast squad made history at the weekend by qualifying for the UEFA Regions Cup for the first time.
Chris Morrell’s side, which is made up of the top amateur players from across the region, will now take on Europe’s best in Macedonia after beating two-time winners Gwent County 2-0.
Morrell said that he was proud of his side, and hoped they could improve on Wales’ record at the competition in August.
“These lads have had a great season with their clubs and they’ve taken it to the next level now.
“The tournament has been arranged by Michel Platini specifically for grass roots players and it’s great for them to be representing Wales.
“Wales has never won a point and only scored a couple of goals, so that’s the initial goal and we’ll see where it takes us. We’re certainly not there for a holiday.”
Keeper Gary Higham kept Coast in the tie in the early stages as Gwent started the stronger, but Coast grew in confidence with Lee Beattie going closest with an overhead kick.
Darren Cassidy struck the opener three minutes into the second half, racing past the last man before lobbing Gwent keeper David Preece and Stephan Whiteley powered in a second four minutes later from Michael Jones’ corner.
Gwent pushed to get back into the tie, but tight defending from Chris Evans and skipper Danny Abbott ensured the Coast lifted the cup.