Johnston and Milford Athletic’s 2nd teams observed a minute's silence before their Division Five league match on the 25th of February, to commemorate one year since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Since the illegal invasion, millions of Ukrainians have been forced out of their homes with the people of Wales and the United Kingdom among those doing their bit to support those displaced by the war.

Maksym Heorhiieu is amongst those who have made a new life in Pembrokeshire, a Ukrainian refugee who joined Johnston Football Club last summer and has very much enjoyed his first season playing Pembrokeshire football.

He and his wife left the port city of Odessa and resettled in Newport, thanks to the generosity of hosts Wynn and Rhian Davies. Maksym’s life was changed overnight, with the firm he worked for as an agricultural salesman effectively disappearing after Russian soldiers took Ukrainian territory.

Since moving to Pembrokeshire, he has been overwhelmed with the support of the people and found a job at the local hotel Gallifwar in Fishguard as a day porter.

Maksym made his debut for the club away to New Hedges Saundersfoot at the beginning of the season, as Johnston prepare to face them again in their promotion push.

The Johnston management team decided it would be an appropriate gesture to mark a year since Russia’s invasion with a minute's silence and a team photo with Maksym holding the Ukrainian flag.

The moment comes a week after Maksym scored his first goal for the club away versus Pembroke Borough, in a game where he also got an assist after coming on to play in right midfield.

Maksym has made a big impression on his teammates who have enjoyed his versatility and quality on the field, as well as his sense of humour off it. We would like to wish Maksym and Johnston the best of luck with the rest of their season.