New Saints claim seventh consecutive title after Bala defeat to Nomads

The New Saints have been crowned champions of the JD Welsh Premier League for the seventh year running.

Bala’s inability to beat the Connah’s Quay Nomads on Friday evening meant that the title was heading to Oswestry. It is the second piece of silverware that The New Saints have won, following their Nathaniel MG Cup final victory over Cardiff Metropolitan University.

The Lakesiders suffered a 1-0 defeat to the Nomads, courtesy of a goal from striker Michael Wilde, who scored minutes after replacing Michael Bakare. Wilde had previously played for The New Saints where he won a JD Welsh Premier League title.

With a fifteen point gap over Bala Town and a game in hand over nearest placed Connah’s Quay Nomads who trail by thirteen points. It is now virtually impossible for any club to catch The New Saints.

It is the first title under the stewardship of Scott Ruscoe, following the departure of long-term manager Craig Harrison, who joined Hartlepool United in the summer of 2017. He later left his role as manager of the Vanarama National League side.

The New Saints will now be presented at the end of the game on Sunday in front of their home ground at Park Hall. The game against the Cefn Druids will be broadcast live on the Sgorio cameras.

Scott Ruscoe’s side have now won the league title a record 12 times. The last side to win the JD Welsh Premier League was Bangor City who claimed the title at the expensive of The New Saints back in the 2010/2011 season.

(Featured Image: Matthew Lofthouse)