TNS manager Scott Ruscoe has admitted he has one eye on Saturday’s crucial top of the table clash with Connah’s Quay Nomads.

The Oswestrians hosted Llandudno at the time the County Times went to press, bidding to close the eight point gap at the top of the table before welcoming Nomads to Park Hall on Saturday (7.30).

Ruscoe challenged his players to restore the club to the summit by the end of the weekend with six points.

The Saints manager insisted his side still set the standards and over the season the Deeside club would slip up.

“We obviously have one eye on Saturday,” admitted Ruscoe. “It will be a case of playing a team that wants to beat us but cannot always beat other teams.

“Beating TNS is everything for Nomads but beating a team like Llanelli, although they eventually did 2-0, is tough. At one point it looked like they were going to draw.

“Everyone wants to beat TNS and take our crown but in other games they are not consistent enough.

“That rankles but it is what happens when you are at the top and have been for so many years. You just put up with it and make sure you beat these teams on a consistent basis.”

Ruscoe remained upbeat, despite a less than convincing start to the campaign, and was happy the games were coming thick and fast.

“It is good to have two games in a week and not have all week training and waiting for Connah’s Quay.

“Being honest I would prefer to play midweek and Saturday every week because it puts you in good momentum when the players are playing and training well.

“The team tends to take care of itself but you might have the odd change. I would prefer to train as little as possible and play more so two games is not a problem.

“We’ll be favourites and we need to get back to the summit and remain there. That doesnot happen without hard work and focus.”