by Callum Ellis
WALES had a night to forget on their return to the Principality Stadium, but supporter Lloyd Jones made it an evening to remember for one homeless woman.
He travelled to the Welsh capital with a group of friends and took in the pre-match atmosphere, before one friend called to say they wouldn’t be able to attend the fixture.
With a ticket going spare and kick off fast approaching, he decided to treat a homeless person with a night of football under the Principality lights.
The 28-year-old was joined by Gareth Newell, Scott Challenger, Chris Lloyd and Michael Knight.
They came across Samantha on their way to the stadium and invited her along to take in the glamour-friendly. They also treated her to food, drinks and a night in a hostel.
“We had a spare ticket so I said to the boys we should offer it to a person in need,” said Lloyd.
“They all agreed. She [Samantha] was the first person we saw. We said we had a spare ticket and would take her with us to get some drinks and food.
“She was a little nervous but she came with us and enjoyed herself, after the game we went for some more food and then we paid for her accommodation for the night.
“She couldn’t thank us enough and was really appreciative.”
News of the generous act has spread across social media with more than 4,000 people sharing his initial Facebook post. It read: “we’re not heroes, we’re just Welsh”.
“We had no idea it would reach this many people and have this impact,” he said. “We didn’t expect it but it’s great if it can help her or others in any way.”
Wales were eventually undone by a classy Spain side as goals from Sergio Ramos, Marc Bartra and a Paco Alcacer brace inflicted a 4-1 defeat on Ryan Giggs’ men.
It was the first time they played at the stadium since a 2-0 defeat against England in a 2012 European Championship qualifier.
“Wales were poor. Defensively we looked a bit lost – no organisation,” said Lloyd.
“Spain were quality, a class above and way too good. There is a lot to work on but we came up against an outstanding outfit.
“Generally, I don’t think the crowd appreciated being back in the Millennium but selling 50,000 tickets is great. The atmosphere is better in the Cardiff City Stadium though.”
Lloyd said his phone hasn’t stopped buzzing since his kind act of generosity.
