Strength in depth

Craig Harrison made six changes from the side that beat Cardiff Metropolitan University FC last weekend at Park Hall.

However, looking at the names that took to the field at Clos Mytton, you certainly didn’t get the impression that it was a weakened team, because it wasn’t.

Not only with those inherited, but also the ones brought in, our head coach is assembling an extremely strong squad.

It was also good to see Ryley Oakley on the bench, a reminder that the strength in depth also applies to the Academy development at the club.

For followers of The New Saints who have been around a few years, in terms of depth, how do you feel the current group compares to those of the past?

 

The ability to adapt

Having already claimed the scalps of JD Cymru Premier big boys, Bala Town and Newtown AFC, on their way to the semi-final encounter with The New Saints, we knew that it was going to be a tough challenge against Guilsfield.

Nathan Leonard’s team played with confidence and they certainly weren’t there to simply make up the numbers. The focus of a passionate and well-organised opposition meant that TNS had to be switched on.

In addition, with the effects of the recent Storm Henk still evident all around us, the pitch was, in horse racing terms, heavy going.

Having navigated successfully both the human and natural challenges, full credit to the players for the ability to adapt.

 

A brace for Jordan Williams

We had to wait until the 40th minute before the deadlock was broken. In a crowded penalty area, and with his back to goal, Jordan Williams backheeled the ball into the net, as The New Saints took the lead.

The gap was finally extended with just fifteen minutes to go, and again, it was the number 17 who got the touch.

Once more it was a close-range effort, this time from a Chris Marriott corner. Beating ex-TNS keeper Robbie Williams, the ball dropped kindly to Jordan Williams, who didn’t move other than to raise his right foot and tap home.

 

Connor Roberts saves the day… again

We interviewed Connor Roberts following last week’s game against Cardiff Met FC but, with the help of  a crystal ball, we should have done it this time instead.

The scenario was the same, with another clean sheet – which is now just one goal conceded in seven matches – but on this occasion the ‘keeper pulled off a penalty save late in the game.

With seven minutes remaining, the referee pointed to the spot following a foul in the area and Iwan Matthews stepped up to take the kick.

Placing the ball to Roberts’ left, the goalkeeper’s judgment was correct as he dived and prevented a late lifeline for the hosts.

By the way, having faced four penalties in as many different competitions this season, he’s saved them all.

 

A quick turnaround

Certainly as far as The Nathaniel MG Cup is concerned, it’s a quick turnaround for The New Saints, with the final being played at Barry Town United’s Jenner Park on January 20.

The opponent on the day is Swansea City, who along with fellow south Walians, Cardiff City, entered this season’s competition.

It will be an interesting encounter and especially in the context of previous form and what to expect, it’s a step in the dark in some ways for both sides.

As far as The New Saints is concerned, it’s the first Welsh League Cup final appearance since the 2017/2018 season, when we beat Cardiff Met FC 1-0 at Park Avenue.

TNS fans, fancy our chances on January 20?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lead image courtesy of Brian Jones.