Haverfordwest County wins its first Euro match on penalties, 3-2.
Haverfordwest County secured a historic European victory by defeating Shkendija on penalties in a thrilling match in Cardiff.
Lee Jenkins’ 89th-minute goal granted County a 1-0 win on the night, levelling the aggregate scores at 1-1. Despite extra time, neither team could find a goal, leading to a nail-biting penalty shootout.
Jazz Richards, Jack Wilson, and Kai Whitmore all converted their penalties, but it was goalkeeper Zac Jones who emerged as the hero. He made a crucial save to deny Florent Ramadani, igniting euphoria among the players, staff, and over 1,500 fans who had travelled from West Wales to support the team.
The tension escalated when Dan Hawkins missed the opening penalty wide, and Ben Fawcett also failed to secure victory by blasting his shot over the bar. However, Jones, who had already saved one penalty with his foot and witnessed another hit the post, displayed extraordinary skill and resilience.
Due to UEFA standards, the return leg was moved to Cardiff City Stadium since their home ground did not meet the requirements. Initially, the game did not live up to expectations, but it escalated into a thrilling battle of skill and determination.
Throughout the match, both teams displayed moments of brilliance. Fawcett’s early attempt went wide, and Tyrese Jordan-Owen and Martell Taylor-Crossdale had close-range efforts saved. Keeper Jones made an acrobatic save to keep County in the game when a late shot threatened their hopes of progressing in the qualifiers.
The turning point came in the 87th minute, when Rhys Abbruzzese’s driving run earned a crucial free-kick on the edge of the box. Although Jack Wilson’s initial effort was pushed wide by the goalkeeper, Jenkins seized the opportunity and scored a spectacular goal from 15 yards out with seconds to spare.
Despite facing a professional outfit with international players, Shkendija, who are European regulars, Haverfordwest County held their nerve during extra time and the nerve-wracking penalty shootout. Their reward is a spot in the second qualifying round, where they will face B36 Torshavn of the Faroe Islands, with the first leg scheduled for July 27th. The victory marked a historic moment for Haverfordwest County, and their resilience and determination were celebrated by their fans and supporters.
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