The new club Neath F.C. was founded in 2005, as Neath Athletic, after the old Neath F.C. and Skewen Athletic agreed to merge in an attempt to mount a better challenge to the Welsh Football League Division One title. Playing at the old ground of Neath F.C., Llandarcy Park, the new club proved a formidable force in the league, finishing second to Goytre United at their first attempt. Goytre United declined to step-up into the Welsh Premier League, meaning Neath Athletic could take their place. However, due to Llandarcy Park not meeting the required Welsh Premier League ground criteria, Neath was refused entry.