Praise for tough TNS

The Saints are seven points clear at the top of the Welsh Premier after overcoming Carmarthen Town 2-1 despite being reduced to 10 men in the fourth minute following Matty Williams' contentious dismissal.

Darlington hailed the character of the defending champions to prevail in a gruelling, rain-soaked affair against a committed Carmarthen side, which he believes augurs well for the rest of the season.

"To play much of the game with 10 players was a very difficult challenge, but the commitment, desire and effort from the whole team was outstanding," he said

"What was pleasing is that people sometimes say that TNS have a soft underbelly, but we showed we have a lot of character in the team against difficult opponents when the going gets tough.

Testing

"We dug in, defended well and looked to attack even with 10 men."

The Saints are now unbeaten in 12 league and cup games this season, but will face another testing assignment at Newtown who earned a 1-1 draw at Park Hall just a month ago.

The fact that a new 3G pitch has been installed at Newtown's Latham Park this summer should benefit the Saints, but Darlington believes the Robins are certain to provide stubborn opponents.

"Newtown have had a very good start, they did well when we played them at home and were worth a draw, " he said.

"It is different going there this time as we're now playing on a level playing field as they also have a 3G pitch. It will suit them, but it will also suit us.

"To be seven points clear at this stage of the season is fantastic. But we can't afford to be complacent and must keep looking to improve."