A QUARTET of Mid Wales football players helped Wales to success on the international stage last week.

Newtown’s Carrie Jones captained Wales to qualification for the 2019 UEFA Women’s U17s Elite Round in Serbia this week and was joined by Llanidloes’ Maria Francis-Jones in celebrating in the Balkans.

Meanwhile Newtown’s Libby Isaac was joined by Malaysia based Lauren Purchase, who qualifies for Wales through her Llanfair Caereinion born parents, in helping Wales under 15s to victory over Scotland.

Senior team manager Jayne Ludlow led the under 17s to Serbia for the three match qualifying group.

Despite suffering a 3-0 defeat to the hosts and eventual unbeaten group winners the Welsh bounced back with a goalless draw against the Irish Republic.

Two late goals in a 2-0 win over Albania secured third place and qualification in their final game.

Ludlow said: “I’m really pleased. It’s’ fantastic for the whole group of players and staff. Playing in the Elite Round will be great for their development.”

Captain Jones said: “It was an honour to be chosen in the squad to go out to Serbia.

“The excitement builds every time.

“The girls gave 100 per cent for each other on the pitch to come away with the qualification.

“ Captaining my country against Albania and getting man of the match for that game topped it all off.”

Francis-Jones added: “Getting picked to go out to Serbia for the Euro qualifiers was a surreal moment, however qualifying felt even better.

“We had so much success because everyone hot on so well on and off the pitch and we would work really hard to get the results we wanted.”

Meanwhile Isaac and Purchase helped Wales to a goalless draw and 2-0 win over Scotland in a Dragon Park double header in Newport.

Isaac said: “I am extremely proud of bring part of the Wales squad who had a great experience at international camp.

“I am happy to get our first win in our first double header game with the new squad.

“Thanks to Matt, Pete and the rest of the coaching staff for their support.”