Back-to-back wins
Following the 6-2 victory against Airbus UK Broughton, we’ve used the term ‘turning the corner’ a few times this past week in interviews. It’s never been in an arrogant way though but always with a genuine sense of optimism and belief.
With another three points in the bag, courtesy of the 3-2 win against Penybont FC, we shall continue to use that no doubt ahead of the next game. The back-to-back JD Cymru Premier wins have ensured six vital points for the reigning champions in a currently highly competitive title race.
Greg Draper
Gifted an opportunity in the seventh minute, the current JD Cymru Premier Golden Boot said thank you very much, as he slotted the ball into an empty net. It shows the alert nature of Greg though as even though the chance wasn’t one that anyone – least of all Draper himself – expected, when it presented itself he made the most of it.
The goal is the 142nd league goal that the popular striker has scored for The New Saints, as he closes in on Mike Wilde’s record of 151.
Dean Ebbe
Another goal for the Irishman, in added time at the end of the first-half, ensured that the visitors went into the break 2-1 to the good. Having scored a number of key goals for The New Saints during his time with the club, this one proved to be another, as it restored the lead, following a Penybont equaliser.
Kurtis Byrne
With the hosts cancelling TNS’ lead on two occasions, the 86th minute strike from Kurtis Byrne proved to be the ultimate winner, as Scott Ruscoe’s side claimed all three points. It was a powerful effort from Kurtis that struck Dean Ebbe on the way in.
From our vantage point in the press box, our view wasn’t as clear as those closer to the action, and several behind the goal edged that it should have been Dean’s goal. However, the referee did mark it down as Byrne’s so barring an intervention from the FAW, that’s how it currently stands.
The most important thing is that it was a goal and it ensured three points. We discussed it on the team bus on the way back with the two and it isn’t even an issue to them. They were just happy to be on the winning side.
PS. After an official review, the goal has been awarded to Dean Ebbe.
Tight at the top
Connah’s Quay Nomads scored an extremely late winner (90+3) to go to the top of the table, while Barry Town United’s 1-1 draw keeps them in second. The New Saints remain in third, although there are just three points separating the trio of teams.
Cardiff Metropolitan University FC’s defeat against the Nomads was their first of the season. The latter, along with Barry, remain unbeaten so far in league action.
Lead image courtesy of Brian Jones.
