Monday, May 21, 2012

Youth to the fore in Druids' win

TNS v NEWI Cefn Druids
Matthew Berkeley had an encouraging debut for TNS.
ONE encouraging aspect of Saturday's 4-1 win over NEWI Cefn Druids was that four of the starting eleven were 21 or under.
Craig Whitfield (19) and John McKenna (18), who are both products of the TNS scholarship scheme, continued their education as first-team squad members, while 21-year-old Rob Williams returned to the fray in the back four after his successful loan spell at Caersws.
The centre-back celebrated with the first goal and a steady performance in defence, but was probably just shaded for man-of-the-match honours by one of the "veterans", John Leah, who showed how much his midfield energy has been missed in recent weeks with a sterling performance and a memorable goal.
Debutant Matthew Berkeley, 21, also impressed with some neat touches, hitting a post and playing a part in two of the Saints' goals.
Management duo Andy Cale and Mike Davies now have a squad with an excellent blend of youth and experience and the addition of Wrexham's Conall Murtagh should replace the craft missing since Steven Beck's departure to Droylsden.
TNS always looked the likely winners after a 19th-minute header from Williams, but a double salvo from Leah and John Toner midway through the second half sealed the points, despite a late goal for Druids from Ricky Evans.
Michael Wilde restored the three-goal cushion in the last minute from a Craig Williams cross.

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