The New Saints have little time to languish in the cup doldrums as they get back on the Welsh Premier League title trail in tonight’s tricky trip to Prestatyn.

Having seen their treble hopes dashed with last weekend’s 1-0 Welsh Cup semi-final exit to Llanelli, the defending champions now focus on the task of picking up league points.

And boss Mike Davies will be anxious to avoid a cup hangover as TNS look to consolidate their one point lead at the top after recently overtaking long-time pacesetters Bangor City.

“We were devastated to go out last weekend as it was a cup we really wanted to win,” said Davies.

“But it’s gone now and we’ve now got to prepare for another massive game tonight,” he said.

“It’s good to know that the title is in our own hands with four games go to.

“But Prestatyn is a difficult place to go, as hard as anywhere in the league as they don’t lose many at home, so we know we need to be at our best.

“Bangor have also got a tough game with Llanelli tomorrow, so it should an interesting weekend.”

Eleven-goal winger Richie Partridge, who missed last weekend’s cup exit at Aberystwyth with a knee problem, is set to return to the fold tonight.

With striker Alex Darlington still struggling with a thigh injury that has sidelined him in recent weeks, Davies admits the return of former Stockport County man Partridge is a welcome tonic.

“To have Richie back is a big boost – we certainly missed him last weekend,” he said.

“But we’ve still got our selection problems, which seems to have been the story of our season.

“Connall Rawlinson picked up a knock in training this week, keeper Paul Harrison has a bug while Chris Marriott and Darlo are still out.”

By JOHN BRIDGWATER