Newtown AFC travel to the Recreation Ground on New Year’s Day to face Caersws FC in a highly anticipated Mid Wales derby.
It will be Newtown’s first visit to Caersws in 11 years, and the Robins will be keen to mark their return with a victory. The squad trained on grass on Tuesday morning and will head into the fixture in confident mood despite a mixed recent run of results.
After a year of highs and lows throughout 2025, the Reds have enjoyed a strong second half of the year. A new, young squad has begun to take shape, with several familiar faces still well integrated and playing key roles within the group.
Caersws recently saw the departure of their manager and Newtown legend Craig Williams, who has moved on to Aberystwyth Town. Since his exit, the Bluebirds have produced a solid run of results and will head into the derby full of confidence.
There are plenty of connections between the two sides. Caersws’ squad includes several players who have been involved with Newtown at first-team or development level, including Max Williams, Iwan Smout, Rhys Hesden, Thomas Edwards, Ashley Harries, Ashley Jones, Tyler Ratcliff, Jake Humphreys, Jake Jones, Sam Phillips and Tommy Rowlands. Newtown also have players with experience at both clubs, with Jamie Hyne, Jolyon Harries and Dave Jones all having represented Caersws during their careers.
The last meeting between the sides was a drama-filled contest, featuring early red cards for both teams. Newtown eventually ran out 2–1 winners thanks to a late goal from Fin Starkey-Jones, though the young midfielder’s availability for this fixture remains uncertain.
Newtown will be without Jolyon Harries, who begins a two-match suspension after picking up a red card in the previous game, a ban that will also rule him out of the upcoming home fixture against Llandudno FC. Manager Nathan Leonard heads into the match with a strong personal record of three wins and one draw.
For the hosts, Tommy Rowlands is one to watch. He comes into the game in excellent form after scoring a hat-trick against Ruthin Town and will be full of confidence.
Supporter information for travelling fans has been confirmed by Caersws. Admission prices are £7 for adults, £4 for over 65s and those aged 16 to 20, with under-16s admitted free. Card and cash will be accepted in all areas, with a temporary bar in place. Parking is available at the Recreation Ground and at Seasons Café, although cars must be moved from the café by the evening.
The Barmy Army are welcome to bring their drum but will be asked not to use seated areas. Space for flags will be designated below the away dugout.
Let’s get a big following down to Caersws for this huge Mid Wales derby and spur the lads on as we look to start 2026 in the best possible way 🔴
