What a game, what a result, what a night

That’s exactly how we described the visit to Vilnius a week previously and, seven days later, there are no apologies for repetition.

The only thing you could add, is that this time round everything was on the next level.

Sometimes words alone are very limiting, and the best way to see how much it meant to everyone associated with the club is to watch the post-match videos on social media.

 

History made at Park Hall

The 0-0 final score against FK Panevėžys ensured that The New Saints won 3-0 on aggregate, and in the process became the first Welsh league side to progress beyond the qualifying rounds of a UEFA competition.

It’s good to read about history being made but for everyone at Park Hall yesterday, whether fans or players, you all went one better.

You were there. You witnessed it. You were part of it.

 

The man, the myth, the legend

Having reached an incredible milestone on the ongoing journey that The New Saints is travelling, credit must be given to club chairman, Mike Harris, who ultimately made everything possible.

Thank you, Mike.

Yesterday evening at Park Hall, he saw a personal dream finally come to reality, as the club made the league phase in the UEFA Conference League.

We interviewed our chairman following the final whistle and you can view that via social media.

 

The dynamic duo

Praise is most certainly due, as far as the players, staff and wider circle of involvement is concerned.

However, it’s only fitting that two individuals in particular are recognised.

Craig Harrison and Chris Seargeant both do an incredible job at the club – even a casual observer looking on from afar can see that.

However, what most don’t see is the dedication, commitment and hard work that goes on behind the scenes, which passes below the radar of the public gaze, but nevertheless is greatly valued, appreciated and a big part of what has been achieved so far.

 

Feet are very much firmly on the ground

Yes, of course, everyone at The New Saints is very excited and that’s only natural.

However, in with all the exhilaration is a grounded philosophy that runs through the club.

Although heads may have been  in the heights yesterday at Park Hall, nevertheless feet are still very much firmly on the ground.

The players sang ‘We’re all going on a European tour’ in the post-match dressing room celebrations after the game.

However, each and every one knows that the next game is always the biggest, and that’s why the focus now is on Aberystwyth Town this coming Tuesday.

 

Lead image courtesy of Andrew Donnison @F28online