Newtown 0 Porthmadog 1

Novira Cymru North

A STUNNING stoppage-time strike from substitute Rhys Alun Williams earned Porthmadog a memorable victory over promotion-fancied Newtown on Saturday and sent the travelling supporters home celebrating three hard-earned points.

In a closely contested encounter with chances at a premium, Port showed resilience throughout before Williams produced a moment of magic in the dying moments to settle the contest.

The visitors carved out the first opportunity after 15 minutes when Morgan Owen tried his luck from outside the area, his effort drifting narrowly wide of the left-hand post.

Newtown responded with Josh Astley breaking free down the right flank, but his angled shot flashed across goal and beyond the far post. Danny Andrews then threatened in a crowded penalty area, only for Port's defence to react quickly and clear for a corner.

Goalkeeper Robbie Williams was called into action after 35 minutes, producing an excellent save to tip a dangerous cross-cum-shot over the crossbar.

The hosts finished the first half strongly and twice came close before the break. Sam Thomas made a crucial defensive intervention to deny a goalbound effort before Steffan Jones headed just over from a promising position.

Newtown continued to press after the restart. On 52 minutes, Rian O'Riordan failed to make contact with a dangerous cross from the right and Port were able to clear their lines.

With 25 minutes remaining, Port freshened things up as Cai Griffith, Cai Jones and Gwion Dafydd made way for Luke Baum, Dylan Summers-Jones and Ryan Williams.

The changes helped shift momentum in the visitors' favour. Osian Ellis was inches away from breaking the deadlock on 70 minutes after a flowing move, but his effort drifted agonisingly wide.

Port grew in confidence as the game entered its closing stages. Darren Thomas was unable to connect with a Sam Reynolds pass before seeing another effort fly over the crossbar. Moments later, Thomas was replaced by Rhys Alun Williams.

Ellis remained a constant threat and saw a shot deflected behind for a corner on 86 minutes. From the resulting pressure, Gruff Ellis rose highest to meet a Williams delivery, but his header cleared the crossbar.

Just when a goalless draw appeared inevitable, Williams produced the decisive moment. In the 90th minute, the substitute found space 30 yards from goal and unleashed a magnificent strike that flew into the top corner, sparking wild celebrations among the Port players and supporters.

Newtown threw everything forward in response, with Scott Moncrieff going close, but Port stood firm through four minutes of added time.

When the final whistle arrived, it confirmed a superb away win built on defensive discipline, determination and one unforgettable finish.