Saints boss promises his side won’t take Met students lightly

YOU have to go back nine months and 15 games for the last time the JD Cymru Premier leaders The New Saints were beaten in the league, but they won’t be taking anything for granted today at Cardiff Met.

There may be a huge gulf in terms of points and places between the two sides in the table, but TNS manager Scott Ruscoe knows that his players will receive a very warm welcome on the pitch at Cyncoed.

“There are some places you go to play and you always find it tricky. Cardiff Met have been excellent ever since they’ve come into the league and they always have a team full of fit, strong and hungry players,” said Ruscoe.

“We beat them 2-0 in our first meeting at home this season, but it was a much closer game than the scoreline suggests. And it took a goal in the fifth minute of injury time from Keston Davies to earn a pint the last time we played there.

“Christian Edwards is a brilliant manager and he always seems to have something up his sleeve to use against us. They beat us at home 2-1 last season, so there will be no room for complacency in our ranks.”.

“There may be a big difference in terms of points between us in the table, but if they lose it is never by many. We’re expecting another tough game and we need to get back to keeping clean sheets.

“It is as good a start as we have had in six years and it is very promising. We’ve played a third of the season and if we continue on this path it will be a good season.”

Cardiff Met drew 1-1 against Aberystwyth in their last home game, beat Flint 2-1 before lockdown and were beaten by a late goal against Connah’s Quay Nomads before that.

Their recent record against TNS at home is pretty impressive with three draws and one win from the last four games. That’s why Ruscoe is taking nothing for granted.

Having beaten Barry Town United 2-1 at home last weekend, the leaders will be hoping to maintain their fivepoint lead at the top. Barry host Newtown at Jenner Park this afternoon, with Haverfordwest County welcoming struggling Flint Town United in the other game today.

Last night saw second-placed Bala Town head to Aberystwyth, while reigning champions Connah’s Quay hosted Cefn Druids. The game between Penybont and Caernarfon Town was postponed after a Penybont player was forced to self-isolate due to Covid-19.