Shropshire Star

Unbeaten TNS target a Christmas cracker

The New Saints will hope to make merry over the festive season as they look to take a giant stride towards retaining the Welsh Premier crown.

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Already with a 12-point lead at the top, the Saints now face Cefn Druids at home on Boxing Day (2.30pm) and then visit the Wrexham side on New Year's Day as they set their sights on a maximum return against the league newcomers.

With a trip to struggling Prestatyn Town the following week, it could prove a crucial phase of the season as the defending champions chase a ninth crown, and fourth in a row.

"If we can win these games, then we would be in a really strong position for the second half of the season, but we certainly won't be taking anything for granted," said manager Craig Harrison.

"It's about setting ourselves targets. If we win on Boxing Day, then we've gone two years and two months without losing at home, while we're still undefeated in the league. If we can go the whole season unbeaten, it will be a fantastic achievement, but we can't look too far ahead."

Despite his side now being unbeaten in 23 games after their 1-0 home success over Bala Town, Harrison insists there is still plenty more work to be done and warned against complacency.

"We have had a great start to the season but there is always room for improvement," he said. "Myself and the coaching staff are not the type of people to sit back and think we have won anything, because at this stage we have not won anything."

Following the departure of coach Carl Darlington to Wrexham, the Saints' head of youth Scott Ruscoe will assist Harrison on a day-to-day basis.

Ruscoe, who has recently completed his UEFA A Licence, will take on the additional responsibility alongside his current role of developing young talent at the club."

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