BARRY Town United will mark the 20th anniversary of a landmark UEFA Cup match at Jenner Park this Saturday, though the club will be keen to return to winning ways before any celebrations can begin.

Last weekend saw the Town’s unbeaten start to Welsh League Division One come to sudden end at Cwmbran Celtic, with the Gwent side overturning a one-goal deficit to return to the top of the table.

Visitors Barry had led as soon as the opening minute, as defender Bobby Briers (now in his fifth season at the club) converted from 12 yards to delight the colourful travelling supporters.

However, Celtic’s Chris Ham would level from the spot himself after the interval, bringing the number of penalties awarded in the Town’s last four outings to an unlikely eight.

Ultimately, Cwmbran’s Rakesh Patel would have the final word, lifting the ball above Mike Lewis and into the Barry net.

It was the first time that Lewis had been beaten in open play since his arrival at the Jenner Park club and served as a death knell to the Town’s hopes of a positive result.

Hosts Celtic were deserving of their triumph, joining two other clubs on top with 13 points on an afternoon that underlined the competitive nature of the Welsh League Division One field.

Nevertheless, manager Gavin Chesterfield will be disappointed to see his team surrender their unbeaten record - and is now tasked with reviving their fortunes on home turf this weekend.

On Saturday, Caldicot Town make the trip to Jenner Park for Barry’s tenth match of the new campaign; a game that arrives 20 years to the day from a famous fixture with Aberdeen.

On September 24, 1996, saw a crowd of more than 6,000 cram into Jenner Park for an unforgettable midweek encounter, as Gary Barnett’s Dragons and Roy Aitken’s Dons contested a 3 - 3 thriller in the rain.

The club has experienced significant highs and lows in the 20 years since, but remain in contention on four fronts this season, while continuing to establish solid foundations, on and off the pitch.

With the fan-owned outfit steadily expanding to encompass more than 30 teams across its various sections, Saturday evening sees a full club race night at the Jenner Suite (7pm start), with any remaining tickets available from secretary David Cole on 07557 665 847.

Meanwhile, admission for the Welsh League match between Barry and Caldicot at Jenner Park earlier in the day is £5 at the turnstiles, with concessions for senior citizens, students and children.

Kick-off is at 2.30pm, with half-time youth football and the presentation of the inaugural Academy Player of the Month awards among the accompanying events.