NEWTOWN are stretched to the limit for the New Year’s Day (2.30pm) derby at TNS.
The Robins expect a return to action on the Saints artificial surface, as all 12 clubs begin to clear their backlog before the mid-season split takes place on February 5.
The club have re-arranged much of their fixture backlog, with the Robins now facing a frantic schedule in January.
The Robins travel to Bala Town on Wednesday, January 5, and host Airbus UK Broughton on the weekend of January 22.
They then host Llanelli on Wednesday, January 26, before rivals TNS visit Latham Park on Saturday, February 5.
However, defender Shane Sutton is suspended, while loan stars John McKenna and Craig Whitfield are ineligible for the TNS trip.
“It’s a blow but there is nothing we can do about it,” said assistant manager Lee Williams. “John and Craig are on loan from TNS and as part of the deal they cannot play against their parent club.”
In a further blow to the Robins’ preparations transfer regulations have ruled out both new signings from being eligible.
Newtown had hoped to unleash Tom Rowlands and Robbie Millington upon their December arrival from Airbus UK Broughton and Ellesmere Rangers respectively.
However Williams confirmed the duo were ineligible, while also hitting out at current Welsh FA transfer regulations.
“The lads needed to be signed by 5pm the previous day, but of course the transfer window is not open for the Welsh Premier League clubs until January 1. It makes a difficult test even harder.”
Williams admitted the Robins will travel to Oswestry with a threadbare squad, but insists a shock result is possible.
“We need to play well because TNS will be up for this game,” said Williams. “We all know TNS play passing football and will look to get possession to their dangermen. For our part we must match them stride for stride and look to get something out of the game.”
TNS have a full squad for the match with the exception of defender Chris Marriott, who continues his three match ban.
The New Saints will hope to go into the derby on the back of a further three points gained against Llanelli, with the bitter rivals due to face each other on Wednesday night.
The South Walians face a massive backlog due to drainage problems at Stebonheath Park, with their midweek trip to Park Hall representing their first match since November.