Robins prevail in friendly

LATHAM Park hosted a friendly with a difference on Sunday as Newtown under 14s boys hosted the Wales under 16s girls squad.

A well contested match saw both sides committed to passing football with the Robins prevailing 5-2 winners courtesy of four goals from Josh Griffiths and a George Ellis strike.

The Welsh under 16s girls side, coached by ex-Newtown player and current Wales women assistant manager Lauren Smith, included Newtown duo Carrie Jones and Libby Isaac along with Llanidloes youngster Maria Francis-Jones.

Newtown under 14s coach Paul Inns said: “The score line does not reflect how close the match was. Wales were very technically and tactically impressive.”

Newtown head of youth Gareth Watkins added: “To see both teams playing football based on the ‘Welsh Way’ was very pleasing and to the credit of coach Paul Inns.”

Smith was delighted with the fixture and hoped Latham Park could be used for similar international age grade games in the future.

“We conceded a few late goals which was disappointing but something we will learn from,” said Smith. “The girls did well overall and enjoyed playing such good opposition.”