TNS begin their JD Welsh Cup defence at home to Mold Alexandra on Saturday.

The Saints go into the tie with confidence soaring and as overwhelming favourites following a record equalling 12-0 humiliation of Airbus UK Broughton last week.

With Connahs Quay Nomads and Barry Town United dropping points the result ensured the title race is back in TNS’ hands going into a frantic festive period ahead of the split in New Year.

Manager Scott Ruscoe said: “It was really good from the moment we started the game.

“We started very quickly and played with a high tempo going forward.

Ruscoe backed his side to surpass the 98 goals of last season having already hit double figures twice this season.

“We had 98 goals last season and we’ve already got past half of that this season.”

Saints will face a different test on Saturday as they come up against Wrexhaam Premier Division side Mold Alexandra.

Ruscoe insisted players would produce another top drawer performance to secure the win while targeting the trophy once again.

“The Welsh Cup is something we won last season, so it’s our trophy to lose,” said Ruscoe. “I’ll be echoing those thoughts to the boys ahead of Saturday’s game.

“It’s a home tie against opposition from a few leagues below us, so we should be looking to get past them and have our eyes on the trophy again.”

Ruscoe revealed the club had done its homework on the visitors and despite facing lower league opposition the Saints would not be taking anything for granted.

Ruscoe said: “I know Mold are seventh in their league and had a good start to the season.

“They’ve dropped off recently, and I’m not being disrespectful, but I know if we play as well as we did against Airbus, we shouldn’t have any problems.”