The New Saints seek psychological edge ahead of final
Champions The New Saints tackle Connah’s Quay Nomads in their last Welsh Premier action of the season at Park Hall tonight.
Although an eighth consecutive championship has long since been secured, the Saints are looking to sign off in style against their chief rivals in a top versus second showdown.
Victory would take the league leaders 12 points clear, but would also be a timely boost for when the sides meet in the final of the Welsh Cup a week on Sunday.
“Considering we have spent much of the season in second or third, to win the league by 12 points would be a healthy gap,” said manager Scott Ruscoe.
“The lads have been excellent in the last three or four months. It has been a test of character, but they have shown what a great group of players they are.
“Connah’s Quay have pushed us all the way this season and will look to lay down a marker themselves, but we will want to show we are the best team in the league and put on a good performance.”
The Nomads will be looking to avenge a 2-0 loss in the reverse fixture earlier in phase two, but have not won at TNS since 1995.
Ruscoe will again want to hold the upper hand over over the Nomads on home surrounds, and has a near full strength squad at his disposal after making changes for last week’s 3-1 win against Caernarfon Town.
After receiving the league trophy, the Saints will now want to put the seal on their triumphant campaign by scoring the two goals needed to take their league tally to 100.
The Nomads will be out to defend the trophy they lifted last season, while TNS will hope to complete a domestic double by claiming the cup for a seventh time.
