In the annals of Gwent Central League Division One history, few stories rival the meteoric ascent of Pontnewynydd AFC. Established in 2018, they were always a formidable presence but often hovered just below the summit, until the 2023/24 season when they etched their name into the league’s folklore as the undefeated champions.
This wasn’t merely a triumph of skill but a testament to resilience and teamwork. Pontnewynydd AFC embarked on the season with a squad predominantly comprised of homegrown talents, embodying the spirit of the club. Faced with the departure of key players, they embraced the challenge of rebuilding, promoting several reserves to the first team.
The season’s narrative began on a note of adversity, as they faced Mardy AFC’s battle-hardened reserve team on September 2nd, 2023. Despite conceding early, Pontnewynydd displayed their fighting spirit, orchestrating a stunning comeback to clinch a 5-3 victory. This set the tone for what would be a remarkable campaign.
Week after week, Pontnewynydd AFC’s victories piled up, each match a testament to their growing prowess:
9/9/2023: Pontnewynydd AFC 5-1 Race AFC
16/09/2023: Pilcs FC 0-3 Pontnewynydd AFC
07/10/2023: Tranch FC 0-2 Pontnewynydd AFC
17/10/2023: Pontnewynydd AFC 1-0 Fairfield United
28/10/2023: Pontnewynydd AFC 4-2 Forgeside
11/11/2023: Crickhowell FC Reserves 0-4 Pontnewynydd AFC
16/12/2023: Pontnewynydd AFC 5-0 Clydach Wasp Reserves
06/01/2024: Pontnewynydd AFC 3-1 Pilcs FC
13/01/2024: Pontnewynydd AFC 3-2 Tranch FC
20/01/2024: Pontnewynydd AFC 6-1 Mardy AFC Reserves
27/01/2024: New Inn FC Development 2-4 Pontnewynydd AFC
09/03/2024: Race AFC 0-3 Pontnewynydd AFC
23/03/2024: Pontnewynydd AFC 3-1 Crickhowell FC Reserves
30/03/2024: Fairfield United 2-2 Pontnewynydd AFC
09/04/2024: Clydach Wasps Reserves 0-3 Pontnewynydd AFC
13/04/2024: Forgeside FC 2-2 Pontnewynydd AFC
20/04/2024: New Inn FC Developmental 0-4 Pontnewynydd AFC
The defining moment arrived on April 9th, 2024, when a commanding 3-0 triumph over Clydach Wasps sealed their fate as champions. With games to spare, they not only secured the title but also set their sights on an undefeated season—a feat achieved by only a select few in the league’s history.
Their unbeaten run was a testament to their defensive solidity, conceding a mere 17 goals across the season. Offensively, they were a force to be reckoned with, averaging 2.56 goals per game, showcasing their attacking prowess and tactical acumen.
At the outset of the season, Pontnewynydd AFC defied the odds stacked against them. Listed at 8/1 by Dragonbet, they were considered outsiders in the title race, with favourites like.
Fairfield United (7/20),
Tranch FC (5/2),
and Race AFC (5/1)
commanding the attention of pundits and fans alike. However, Pontnewynydd AFC surpassed even the most optimistic forecasts to emerge as the undisputed champions of Gwent Central League Division One.
Their journey epitomizes the essence of sportsmanship, dedication, and perseverance. As they bask in the glory of their triumph, their story serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers and a testament to the power of teamwork and determination in the pursuit of greatness.
