SCOTT Ruscoe is refusing to panic despite TNS’ vice grip on the JD Welsh Premier trophy loosening this season.

TNS head to Llandudno on Saturday knowing defeat would effectively end their title hopes.

The New Saints manager watched his side drop another two points at Bala Town on Friday to fall even further behind leaders Connahs Quay Nomads and second placed Barry Town United.

The Saints go into the festive period in the unfamiliar position of needing points to even secure a top six place ahead of the mid-season split.

However Ruscoe is not alarmed and insisted TNS remained the best side in the league.

The Saints boss even challenged their rivals to show their staying power and a belief only TNS would grow stronger as the season went on.

“Looking ahead over the next four games, it is 12 points needed – that’s the bottom line,” said Ruscoe. “I think we’re ok at the moment and there’s no panic button.

“There’s no concern from me as everyone’s has these spells and we can take it.”

Ruscoe has given his players a new target after their 18 point hit list before the split ended at Bala.

“Over the next four games or so we’ve told the lads where we think they need to be,” said Ruscoe. “There’s 45 points to play for.”

Despite some criticisms of the TNS squad the manager insisted each player had his faith.

“I’ve seen where the lads are at the minute as I look at them every day in training,” said Ruscoe.

“I know the players, I know what they’re good at and there’s only two or three in overall league that I would pick to come to my squad.

“I know we’ve got the best squad and the best club that goes with it. I’m 100 per cent happy with it all, hand on heart. These other teams, while they’re on a good enough run, I don’t think they will have enough to sustain it until the end of the season.

“We’ll go to Llandudno with the mentality of getting plenty of goals. They’re not in great form and we will be aiming for three points