Connahs Quay Nomads 0 TNS 1

TNS put one hand on the JD Welsh Premier trophy with a battling victory at Connahs Quay Nomads.

A solitary strike from Jon Routledge on the stroke of half-time proved the difference as the Saints cemented their 12 point advantage at the top of the table.

The Saints threatened early on with Dean Ebbe twice forcing Nomads goalkeeper Jon Danby into action.

The well contested affair saw TNS struggle to break down a well drilled home defence while the Nomads threatened through ex-TNS stalwart Mike Wilde who proved a menace in the air.

The deadlock was broken just before the break with Routledge slotting home from close range after the home defence was finally undone by a patient TNS passing move.

TNS survived a scare at the start of the second-half with Wilde’s goalbound header cleared off the line by Steve Saunders.

Nomads continues to press with Mike Bakare firing over before Paul Harrison produced a stunning diving save to deny Wilde after the TNS defence was found wanting from a long throw from Jake Phillips.

A frantic finale began with Jay Owen striking the bar as the Nomads piled on the pressure.

TNS ended the match with 10 men with goalkeeper and captain Harrison dismissed by referee Dean John for dissent.

The home side laid siege to the TNS goal in the final few minutes but the 10 men of Oswestry dug in to claim a hard fought three points and ensure victory in the dress rehearsal for this weekend’s JD Welsh Cup quarter final.

TNS: Harrison, Spender (Pryce), Marriott, Saunders (A Jones), Routledge, Brobbel, Hudson, Mullan, Ebbe (Draper), Holland, Edwards. Subs: Kauber, C Jones

Att - 222