The Linnets finally clinched their first-ever BGB League (Southern Premier Division) title to realise their dream of Conference football.

A momentous day was signed, sealed and delivered by Jack Defty's goal ten minutes into the second half – much to the delight of more than 500 travelling fans.

Keith Webb's appointment 16 months ago raised a few eyebrows in non-league circles, but the rookie boss has proved his critics wrong by winning the title which has eluded the club for four seasons.

A delighted Webb said: "To take the club into the Conference set up in my first full season is the biggest achievement of my footballing career.

"There's been a lot of heartache and hard work along the way, but days like this make it all worthwhile.

"The boys have done magnificently to play under this sort of pressure and I'm just so pleased for all of the fans and everyone connected with the club.

"A lot of credit goes to the board and the chairman. They have backed me and Lee (Glover) and given us the finances to bring players in."

Linnets chairman Ken Bobbins said: "It has been a fantastic effort from the coaching staff and all of the players.

"Keith has had his detractors over the course of the season but he has worked ever so hard and so have the players.

"We should all be incredibly proud of them."

The Linnets weren't at their best at Penydarren Park, but the performance was immaterial – it was the final result which mattered on an afternoon which will be remembered for many years to come.

To their credit, Merthyr Tydfil made sure that The Walks outfit didn't have it all their own way.