Loud cheers were heard on the Eisteddfod field when Wrecsam scored the first goal in the opening match of the new football season
Dedicated fans of the club were able to enjoy the Eisteddfod and watch the game on a big screen, after arrangements were made to broadcast the match live.
They were treated to a very special commentary, with the English audio lowered and Nic Parry and former international striker Malcolm Allen taking over.
Experienced commentators with quick wit and a unique way of expressing themselves, Nic and Malcolm were as enthusiastic as any Wrecsam supporter.
The excitement reached its peak after just 20 minutes when Kieffer Moore was tackled in the penalty box and the referee awarded Wrexham a penalty.
With Josh Windass successfully converting it, the applause was as loud as that for a winning Eisteddfod choir.
At half-time, the Eisteddfod’s senior steward and passionate Wrecsam supporter, Cledwyn Ashford, couldn’t hide his joy.
“It’s a good start and the atmosphere is fantastic here in the sunshine. Hopefully the lads can keep it up in the second half,” he said.
Rumours were rife during the Eisteddfod that the club’s owners – Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney – would visit the Maes at least once.
But Maxine Hughes, who played a key role in the documentary series Welcome to Wrexham, said last weekend that the pair were fully focused on the football season and unlikely to find time to visit.
In the second half, Wrecsam had chances to extend their lead and there were loud appeals for another penalty, but the referee waved them away.
Nervous fans feared Southampton might snatch a goal – and so it proved, with Ryan Manning scoring from a superb free kick.
There was still time to score again, and in added time Jack Stephens netted for Southampton to make the final score 2–1 to the home side.
Disappointed Wrecsam fans returned to the pavilion for the choir competitions or stayed by Llwyfan y Maes to enjoy the best of Welsh music.