In a historic night for Welsh football, The New Saints became the first team from the principality to claim points in a European group stage competition. The Cymru Premier champions stunned Kazakhstan’s FC Astana with a gutsy 2-0 victory in their UEFA Europa Conference League clash at Shrewsbury’s Croud Meadow.
The landmark result was sealed by goals from Rory Holden and Declan McManus, with TNS showing tremendous determination against an Astana side that had made the grueling trek from Central Asia. It was a triumph of spirit over logistics for the hosts, who were forced to relocate the match due to their Oswestry home failing to meet UEFA regulations.
Holden Header Sets the Tone
The tone was set five minutes before halftime when midfielder Rory Holden rose highest to head home a pinpoint cross from Jordan Williams. It was a just reward for TNS’ enterprising play, with the Welsh side showing no signs of being overawed by the occasion.
Astana, who had rested 11 first-team players ahead of a crucial domestic fixture, struggled to find their rhythm. The visitors were nearly caught out straight from kickoff when Ramazan Karimov’s shot cannoned back off the post, a warning of TNS’ intent.
McManus Penalty Seals Famous Win
The New Saints’ relentless pressure paid off in the 78th minute. Substitute Adam Wilson unleashed a fierce drive that was blocked by Astana defender Branimir Kalaica’s arm, giving referee Lorela Saraci no choice but to award a penalty.
Up stepped Declan McManus, showing nerves of steel to slot the spot-kick straight down the middle as Aleksandr Zarutskiy dived to his right. It was a magical moment for the well-traveled striker, who has plied his trade across the English football pyramid.
We knew it would be tough, but the boys were incredible tonight. To make history for Welsh football, it’s hard to put into words. We’ll enjoy this moment, but we’re hungry for more.
– TNS manager Tom Leigh, according to a close source
Chelsea Cruise, Hearts Impress
Elsewhere, Chelsea showed their class with a commanding 4-1 win over Panathinaikos in an emotion-charged encounter in Athens. Goals from João Félix (2), Mykhailo Mudryk and Christopher Nkunku ensured a poignant night ended in triumph for the Blues, who paid tribute to late Panathinaikos defender George Baldock before kickoff.
Hearts also impressed, easing past Cypriot side Omonia Nicosia 2-0 at Tynecastle to maintain their perfect start under new manager Neil Critchley. The Jambos are daring to dream of a first European campaign beyond Christmas since 1988-89.
But the night belonged to The New Saints, who have put Welsh football firmly on the map with their historic exploits. As the old adage goes, every saint has a past, every sinner has a future. For TNS, that future looks very bright indeed.
