Brecon’s Kiban Rai scored a late equaliser for Merthyr Town on Tuesday, February 4, in his home debut after recently completing a loan move to the club.

Rai has joined the Southern League Premier South leaders on loan from League Two side Newport County until the end of the season.

His late strike from just outside the 18-yard box nestled into the far bottom corner and gave Merthyr a 1-1 draw against Basingstoke Town.

This is Rai’s second stint at Merthyr as he spent some of his early years in Junior football at the club.

After coming through Newport’s academy, Rai made a name for himself with multiple substitute appearances for the first team. The highlight of his young career has been a memorable stoppage time equaliser for Newport against Premier League side Brentford in the EFL Cup, which was his first senior goal.

Born in Brecon, Rai also made headlines in 2023 after he became the first male player of Nepalese heritage to secure a professional contract in either the Premier League or English Football Leagues.

After only making six appearances for Newport this season, the loan move should give the 20-year-old valuable game time. Rai has started his first two games at Merthyr since joining the club.

Speaking on securing the loan signing of Rai, Merthyr Town manager Paul Michael said: “Kiban is a fantastic talent who has shown glimpses of that with Newport’s first team over the past couple of seasons. We are delighted to be the club that has the opportunity to give him more senior exposure to continue his development over the next few months.

“I believe the deal will suit both parties as I think Kiban can really help our group achieve its goals, whilst we can help him gain valuable experience and provide an environment to flourish.”