The turning point
With numerous players missing, it was always going to be a difficult afternoon for Cardiff Metropolitan University FC. However, as is always the case, Ryan Jenkins’ side were well-organised and for most of the first period their game plan worked.
The turning point came in the 29th minute, when ex-TNS forward, Lewis Rees, fouled Leo Smith in the penalty area. Not only did the referee, Rob Jenkins, point to the spot but the incident also saw the Archers reduced to ten, as Rees received a straight red.
Patience is a virtue
The kick was converted by Ryan Brobbel, who buried the ball beyond Alex Lang’s reach and into the back of the net.
With three further goals before the half-time whistle, it meant that in less than fifteen minutes the scoreline had gone from goalless to 4-0.
One of the visual observations from watching Craig Harrison’s side is that they patiently stick to the passing, probing football approach, in the knowledge that sooner or later it will invariably pay off.
A hat-trick for the birthday boy
On his 21st birthday, Brad Young rose to the occasion by scoring a hat-trick.
He has now scored fourteen goals in fifteen JD Cymru Premier appearances, with two hat-tricks to his name. The other one was against Barry Town United in October last year.
In addition, the striker has found the net twice on three occasions.
Not only his goals, but also his overall performance, earned him the Henstone Distillery POTM award against Cardiff Met.
One goal conceded in six games
With Brad Young’s hat-trick, Ryan Brobbel’s brace and goals from Adrian Cieslewicz, Rory Holden and Declan McManus there were plenty of contenders for the club’s post-match interviewee.
However, on this occasion, we chose Connor Roberts. With five clean sheets in the last six games, it’s important that we acknowledge the work that goes on at the other end of the pitch.
Certainly, as an ex-English Premier League defender himself, Craig Harrison places much emphasis on not conceding.
As far as credit is concerned for the defensive record, it’s not just Roberts or even the immediate players in front of him, but the whole team that deserves praise.
It’s not unusual for The New Saints to be defending a corner and there are eleven players in and around the penalty area.
The impressive run continues
The New Saints has now extended the unbeaten run to an incredible thirty games. Covering all competitions, that includes the league and three cups.
As far as wins on the bounce is concerned, that is now fifteen consecutive victories over ninety minutes.
The one statistic that really matters though is that we are fifteen points clear at the top of the table. With eleven games to go that puts The New Saints firmly in the driving seat, as far as the title race is concerned.
