Match Report: The New Saints (H)

Written by By Sab Muthusamy 

Llandudno produced a spirited and determined performance against unbeaten league leaders The New Saints but fell to a narrow 1–0 defeat at the Go Goodwins Stadium. Jordan Williams’ second-half strike proved the difference, with the Seasiders showing resilience and defensive discipline throughout.

Buoyed by their dramatic midweek cup victory over Bangor City 1876, Jordan Hadaway’s side faced arguably their toughest challenge of the season. TNS had scored 53 league goals and conceded just six coming into the encounter, but Llandudno had already shown they could compete with the champions in September’s narrow defeat at Park Hall.

TNS had the greater share of possession early on, but Llandudno were well organised and resolute in defence. The Seasiders put bodies on the line and made several last-ditch challenges to keep the scores level.

Space was at a premium in midfield. Marc Williams worked tirelessly to break up play and compete for every ball, while Harvey Bennett was involved in a physical battle with TNS defender Dynel Simeu.

Iwan Cartwright stood out at the back, and Shaun Pearson made several important saves as the Seasiders kept the league leaders at bay. The sides went into the break level at 0–0.

Llandudno showed more attacking intent after the restart, but TNS broke the deadlock six minutes into the second half. Eoin Farrell drove into the penalty area and his initial effort led to Jordan Williams collecting the loose ball. Williams’ first attempt was blocked, but the rebound fell back into his path and he converted at the second time of asking.

The Seasiders continued to look for a way back into the game. Liam Higgins and Kai Edwards impressed with their energy and commitment after Tuesday’s demanding cup tie, while the defence kept Llandudno within a goal.

Clear chances were hard to come by, but Llandudno pushed forward in the closing stages. The referee waved away late appeals for a penalty, and TNS goalkeeper Nathan Shepperd made a last-minute save to deny the Seasiders an equaliser.

The home support kept urging Llandudno forward on a chilly evening, but the visitors held on for a 1–0 win.

Speaking after the match, Hadaway said he was proud of the performance and felt his players deserved something for the effort they had put in. He also pointed to the positives the Seasiders could take into a demanding winter schedule.

The result was disappointing, but Llandudno had again shown they could compete with the league leaders. The challenge now is to turn performances like this into points in the weeks ahead.