It was always going to be a tough game 

With a squad containing numerous full internationals from several countries, there were no illusions as to the task that we faced ahead of the match. Although Ståle Solbakken said in his pre-match press conference that there would be changes – and there were – nevertheless you could hardly describe the FC Copenhagen starting XI as a weakened side.

However, although the result wasn’t what we wanted, nevertheless there were positives. The players battled well, they never gave up and they left the pitch with their heads held high. For those that watch The New Saints FC week in and week out, you will already know the work ethic that has been instilled into the squad by Scott Ruscoe and the staff.

 

Down but not out

Let’s be honest, if the first leg was hard then the return game in Copenhagen next week is obviously going to be an even tougher one. We are 2-0 down, away from home and up against the champions of Denmark.

It would be foolish to say publicly that we are going to win 3-0. However, one thing for sure is that the players will not be approaching the game just to make up the numbers.

However long the odds may be though, the situation is not impossible. Remember KF Shkëndija last season? Following a 5-0 defeat in Macedonia, we almost produced one of the biggest upsets in European football in the return leg. Sadly, we fell just short, but nevertheless a 4-0 win at Park Hall will surely rank up there in most people’s minds when they look back at impressive results.

 

The goals 

Even if you were at the game, it’s always good to look at highlights afterwards, especially if there is a decision that is open to opinion. The opening goal for the visitors, although people can comment on generals around it, was well-taken and there is no dispute as to its legitimacy.

However, the second goal, which came from the penalty spot after the referee penalised Keston Davies, is perhaps less black and white for many. In the post-match press conferences with both managers, they were divided down the middle as to whether they thought it was a spot-kick or not.

Watch the highlights and make your own mind up. Penalty or not. You decide.

 

Pre-match publicity

Regardless of the result, the big winner for The New Saints FC was the media attention and therefore the positive publicity that was generated. As well as the usual organisations, we had the likes of The Guardian producing a feature, as well as the visit of beIN Sports in the afternoon of the game itself.

With us in the previous round as well, the sports channel broadcast live from Park Hall, which included interviewing Scott Ruscoe. That’s the lead image above, as TNS FC went global once again.

 

Making our debut on BT Sports

Again, regarding the big picture of publicity for the club, it was great to have the broadcasting giant with us as they showed the game live on television.

As the club continues to grow its brand, these are big steps forward. We want to be on the biggest stage possible and both on and off the pitch, it is true to say that we are on the right track.