‘Captain, leader, hero’ – Isle of Wight football is mourning the loss of Darren ‘Daz’ Powell, Newport’s record appearance holder and much-loved Binstead & COB captain.
Darren was one of the Island’s most recognisable footballers, making 585 appearances and scoring 73 goals for Newport before continuing his playing career with Binstead & COB.
He joined Newport in 2006, when Port were competing in the Southern League, and remained with the club through their return to the Wessex League.
During his time at St George’s Park, Newport won the Russell Cotes Cup in 2011, reached the last 16 of the FA Vase in 2013 and enjoyed considerable success in the Isle of Wight Senior Cup.
Darren also played his part in Newport’s 2015–16 FA Vase campaign, scoring against Ashford United in a fourth-round tie that Port eventually lost after extra time.
Whether marshalling the defence or driving his side forward, Darren was renowned for his commitment to the Newport shirt. His remarkable longevity saw him become the club’s all-time appearance record holder, passing the 500-game milestone in December 2016.
In a retrospective published by Newport in 2025, supporter Paul Rushton placed Darren at the top of his personal list of the club’s greatest players, recalling his loyalty, work ethic and ability to inspire those around him.
Even after leaving Newport, Darren remained willing to help his former club, returning for a handful of appearances when Port found themselves short of players.
His footballing career continued at Binstead & COB, where he became captain and an important figure in the club’s fortunes – continuing the commitment to the club that his late father, Fred, demonstrated.
Darren’s experience and leadership proved invaluable at the Molehill, where he continued to play an important role in the side and helped Binstead to Junior A Cup success.
His final match came on Saturday 5th September 2026, when Binstead & COB faced Northwood St Johns at Binstead Recreation Ground.
Darren suffered a cardiac arrest during the fixture, which was abandoned as emergency services attended. The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance landed on the pitch before he was flown to Southampton General Hospital.
News of his condition prompted an outpouring of concern from across the Island football community, with former teammates, opponents, supporters and clubs united in their support.
Newport described their former player as a ‘true legend of Island football’, while Binstead & COB affectionately referred to their captain as ‘El Capitano’.
It has been announced this evening (Wednesday) that Darren passed away this afternoon, surrounded by his family.
Darren’s death leaves a huge gap at Binstead & COB – and in the wider football community – and brings to an end a footballing career spanning over 2 decades, during which he became one of Newport’s most celebrated players.
Away from football, Darren had a career working with many children over the years – including at Mayfield Middle School and Cheeky Chimps childcare.
Binstead & COB ask for respect at this time as everyone comes to terms with the heartbreaking loss.
Island Echo extends its condolences to Darren’s family and friends.
