Happy birthday Bethan Thomas – plus news on CPD Y Rhyl 1879 women retained list

Happy birthday to CPD Y Rhyl 1879 goalkeeper Bethan Thomas – 23 today.

Rated as one of the best stoppers in North Wales, Bethan has just committed herself to the Lilywhites for the 2023-24 season.

Born on June 24, 2000, Bethan got into football at a very young age, her first team being Connah’s Quay Tigers Under 6’s.

Once a mascot for Manchester United in the Champions League, she went on to represent the North East Wales Regional Squad.

With Northop Hall, she became established as one of the finest keepers in North Wales, her shot-saving ability second to none.

Bethan was a key member of the Hall squad which landed the North Wales Women’s League title and NEWFA Cup double in 2017-18.

After many years with the Flintshire club, Bethan joined Rhyl last season, making nine first-team appearances while vying for the No 1 jersey with Loz Jones.

A keen Manchester United fan, Bethan’s idols are Red Devils goalkeepers David De Gea and Mary Earps.

As well as new signings Sade Benjamin, Alicia Duke and another former Northop Hall striker, Eleanor Thomas, Rhyl 1879 have announced a considerable number of retained players this week, as well as Bethan Thomas.

They are:

Lauren Jones (GK)
Llio Davies
Millie Canon-Twyford
Laura Williams
Sophie Haywood
Saskia Wynne-Thomas
Rachael Thomas
Becca Bannister
Hana Eagles
Chelsea Evans
Amy Woodbridge
Trisha Harley
Candice Nellist
Tegan Crockett
After the birth of her baby daughter, defender Rosie O’Brien has also announced she will return to the Lilywhites this season.