TNS bid to close the gap at the top of the JD Cymru Premier at Barry Town United tonight (Friday).

The Saints make the trip knowing anything but maximum points would deliver a fatal blow to their title bid with Connahs Quay Nomads already four points clear and on target to end the Saints title monopoly.

However the Oswestrians make the trip with confidence having thrashed Newtown 6-1 in the Welsh Cup quarter-finals last week when Dean Ebbe struck four goals.

Ruscoe said: “Looking ahead to Barry, a team that have already beaten us this season at home, we have to make sure we are aware of their strengths.

“We know they look at set plays and we’ve conceded a few from those this season, so it’s something we’ve got to be very wary of.”

Ruscoe conceded it was vital his side won at Jenner Park.

“It’s vital that we bounce back in the league, and the cup result gives us a confidence boost and shows we’re not done and in good shape.”

With his side now sitting four points behind the top spot, Ruscoe believes his squad has what it takes to win their final seven league games.

“We have a big squad to choose from for the last seven league games, and we’re all going to fight together to win it,” said Ruscoe. “Recent weeks show we can bounce back from a couple of bad results with a great performance.

However Ruscoe admitted the club had failed to meet pre-season targets and lacked consistency.

“We set benchmarks through the season and at points we’ve fallen below those this season but the lads know how important this stage of the season is and know the task ahead.

“As long as we look after our own game we won’t go far wrong.”