The club was formed in October 1868, when an ad appeared in the Pontypool Free Press on 31 October "The close of the cricketing season has led to the formation of a football club among the young men of Pontypool. A goodly number took part in the first match, which came off a few days since, and the sport was thoroughly enjoyed". Then on 12 November 1868, members of the Pontypool FC had a match against each other at the "Pound" Field, F. Hiron's side won 4–2 against R. Essex' side. Then on 9 January 1869, Pontypool played Panteg Rustics on the Pontymoil Cricket Ground, losing 4–1. Pontypool FC were one of the six teams that created the South Wales Cup competition for 1877/1878.