The unbeaten run comes to an end
It’s been an excellent JD Cymru Premier season so far for The New Saints. However, the unbeaten run came to an end in the capital when Cardiff Metropolitan University FC came from 2-0 down to secure a 3-2 victory.
The last time The New Saints lost from a two-goal advantage position was on December 30, 2017 when Newtown AFC were the visitors to Park Hall.
The situation was very similar to yesterday’s game, when two early goals (Greg Draper 11, Jamie Mullan 15) put TNS in a commanding position.
However, on that occasion the Robins hit back to register a 4-2 win.
Giving credit to Cardiff Met
Did The New Saints lose the game? Or did Cardiff Met win it? Well, those questions formed one of the points that we put to Leo Smith in the post-match interview.
Or does the answer lie somewhere in the middle?
Looking on, everyone has their own opinions but there would probably be a consensus of views that it was a combination of both.
However you look at it though, you have to give credit to the opposition. They were well-organised and especially to come back in the manner that they did, although not what The New Saints wanted, didn’t the do the big picture of Welsh football any harm, especially as the game was being broadcast live by Sgorio.
Leo Smith, a goal and an assist
It was looking good in the opening minutes and with just seven on the clock, the visitors took the lead. A great pass from Adam Wilson, who was just in the Cardiff Met half found Leo Smith.
He beat Matthew Chubb in the area, then set himself up to put the ball beyond the reach of Alex Lange and in the net.
Just five minutes later, Smith turned provider as his low ball across the six-yard box found Adam Wilson who made it 2-0.
Adam Wilson, ditto
It was a superb long pass from Adam Wilson that found Leo Smith on the left that resulted in the opening goal.
The midfielder returned the compliment in the twelfth minute when he found an unmarked Wilson, who tapped in from close-range.
Always a threat when he gets the ball on the right, the ex-Newcastle United forward has played a big part in the league success so far this season.
It’s ok to lose a battle as long as you win the war
Naturally, there is disappointment for all connected with The New Saints. However, you always have to step back and see the big picture.
The club still leads the way at the top of the JD Cymru Premier and with just nine games to go, has a lead of fifteen points.
Craig Harrison’s side has scored significantly more goals than anyone else, conceded fewer and has a greater goal difference than all the other clubs who have a positive figure combined.
If the league title is secured at some point between now and the end of April, the Cardiff Met defeat will be a distant memory.
It’s ok to lose a battle as long as you win the war. That’s a life principle, never mind one relating to football.
Lead image courtesy of Football Association of Wales.
