Chaos reigns at Bala as TNS pull back two-goal deficit before floodlights fail
The New Saints retrieved a two-goal half-time deficit in their top-of-the-table clash in the JD Cymru Premier at Bala Town last night – before the match was abandoned after 87 minutes owing to floodlight failure.
Chris Venables gave Bala the lead before an own goal from Jon Routledge doubled the advantage. But Saints responded positively in the second half with a brilliant goal from Leo Smith cutting the deficit before Ryan Astles equalised in the 87th minute.
Some of the floodlights then went out as the match was unable to be completed.
Saints headed to Bala looking to extend their 100 per cent start to the season, which had seen them win their opening three league games. But the hosts struck twice inside the opening half-hour, with the opener coming in the 17th minute when an Anthony Stephens free kick was eventually scrambled home from close range by Venables.
Bala doubled their lead 12 minutes later as a low cross from the left by Will Evans was diverted into his own net by substitute Routledge, an early replacement for the injured Danny Redmond.
Smith gave Saints hope when he cut the deficit with a fine goal in the 63rd minute.
Saints pulled level in the 87th minute when defender Astles drilled home a powerful shot after a cross from the right.
Saints are at home to Flint Town United on Saturday (2.30pm).
