Europa League: Bala Town, Connah's Quay and Llandudno set for qualifiers - BBC Sport BBC Sport Europa League: Bala Town, Connah's Quay and Llandudno set for qualifiers By Aled Williams Read more about sharing. Connah's Quay (red shirts) secured European football via the play-offs while Bala finished second Welsh football's focus has been on Wales' exploits at Euro 2016, with Chris Coleman's team facing Belgium in Friday's quarter-final. Away from the excitement in France, it has gone almost unnoticed that European football's domestic competitions begin this week, Welsh champions The New Saints face Tre Penne of San Marino in the Champions League. Bala, Connah's Quay and Llandudno represent Wales in the Europa League. The clubs will be hoping to to emulate the success of the national team as they prepare for this week's first leg games. Bala Town v AIK Solna Bala Town will be appearing in the Europa League for the third time in four seasons when they face Sweden's AIK Solna away in the first qualifying round first leg on Thursday.

Colin Caton's side won both their home legs in the previous two campaigns but narrowly missed out on progressing to the second qualifying round after away defeats to opponents from Estonia and Luxembourg. They face their toughest test to date this year, having been paired with the Stockholm-based club, who are seasoned European campaigners. "We haven't failed to score in any of the games we've played in European competition, which is a massive plus," manager Colin Caton told BBC Wales Sport. Bala Town players celebrate finishing second in the Welsh Premier League and securing a Europa League spot "We've got to tighten up at the back and shut up shop when we're away from home and give ourselves a fighting chance. "The odds are stacked against us but we won't be phased by anything." Caton's preparations for the game in Sweden have been aided by the Football Association of Wales' analysis team, who are currently with the national side at the Euros in France. "They've sent all the information over to us," Caton added.

"They've helped us out at a busy time and we'll analyse it once we get over there." Europa League first qualifying round, first leg: AIK Solna v Bala Town, Tele2 Arena, Stockholm, Thursday, 30 June, Kick Off: 17:30 BST Gap Connah's Quay v Stabaek When Andy Morrison took over at Gap Connah's Quay last November, the club were struggling at the wrong end of the Welsh Premier League table. But the former Manchester City player oversaw a revival which culminated in the Nomads finishing fifth, their highest ever place. And a 1-0 win over Airbus UK Broughton in the play-off final in May secured their place in Europe for the first time in their history. Wes Baynes' goal against Flintshire rivals Airbus UK secured Connah's Quay's place in Europe "It was a special day and will live long in the memory but that's gone now," said Morrison, in his first managerial role after a stint as Airbus UK assistant. "We need to give a good account of ourselves in Europe. We're not kidding ourselves as we know it's going to be a huge ask.

"I'm sure our goalkeeper is going to have to be on the top of his game." Stabaek will be Quay's first ever opponents in European and Morrison says the pressure will be on the Norwegian side. "Nobody will expect us to take anything from it," Morrison added. "There will be no glory for them in beating us. It will only be shame on them if they don't get the result against us so that will add massive pressure." Europa League first qualifying round, first leg: Gap Connah's Quay v Stabæk, Belle Vue, Rhyl, Thursday, 30 June, Kick Off: 17:15 BST MBi Llandudno v IFK Göteborg MBi Llandudno qualified for Europe for the first time in their history at the end of their first season in the Welsh Premier League. Alan Morgan's side finished third and qualified automatically for the Europa League after Airbus UK Broughton failed to beat TNS in the Welsh Cup final. The Seasiders have been handed a tough draw in the first qualifying round, facing Swedish giants IFK Göteborg over two legs.

Llandudno striker Marc Williams won the 2015-16 Welsh Premier League player of the season award But manager Morgan is undaunted by the prospect of playing the two-time Uefa Cup winners, with the first leg away from home. "I've said to the lads they've got to take it all in but we're there to try and go through to the next round," Morgan said. "I said in May that if we ever had a big team, IFK Göteborg were the team I would like to have. "They've got history and are a massive club but we're going to give a good account of ourselves and give it a good go." Although Llandudno will be making their debut, Morgan gained European experience during a spell as player at Rhyl and assistant at Bangor City.

Europa League first qualifying round, first leg: IFK Göteborg v MBi Llandudno, Gamla Ullevi Stadium, Gothenburg, Thursday, 30 June, Kick Off: 17:30 BST Share this page The Welsh Premier League 2012-13- Historical Football Kits Contact Me Welsh Premier League Cynghrair Bel Droid Cymru 2012 - 2013 Formed in 1992-93 as the League of Wales, the WPL is the national, semi-professional competition for Welsh clubs. The WPL is fed by two regional leagues, the Cymru Alliance in the north and the Welsh Football League Division One in the south. Promotion is not automatic: the regional champions must submit an application, have a stadium that meets WPL standards and a domestic licence granted by the FA of Wales. If the regional champions do not apply the second placed club(s) may do so instead. This season Gap Connah's Quay replace Neath, who were relegated after losing their FAW licence because of financial difficulties (the club has now been wound up).

Newtown were spared relegation despite finishing last because Haverfordwest County, the only Welsh League side to hold an FAW licence were pipped to the runners-up place on the last day of the season. Cymru Alliance team, Cefn Druids qualified for the Europa League as losing Welsh Cup finalists but were knocked out by MYPA in the first qualifying round. The WPL logo is the property of the Welsh Premier League. Crests are the property of the respective clubs. Aberystwyth Town Aberystwyth Designer: Surridge Sponsor: Thompson Electrical Contractors In 2011-12 The Seasiders secured a place in the top six play-offs but lost all their remaining games, finishing in sixth place with 11 points fewer than Airbus UK in seventh. The trim on the usual red home kit is updated and a new all-black away strip is introduced. The team also has a new shirt sponsor for 2012-13.

(Mark Jones, Vice-Chairman, Prestatyn Town FC) The New Saints y Sentiau Newydd Home Designer: Legea Sponsor: VCW Group TNS' full-time professional team won the WPL championship and Welsh Cup double in 2011-12 and qualified for the Champions League but were knocked out by Helsingborgs IF. Their strips are unchanged. The New Saints clinch title with accomplished display - BBC Sport BBC Sport The New Saints clinch title with accomplished display By Marc Lloyd Williams Welsh Premier League's all-time leading goalscorer 25 Apr 2012 Read more about sharing. In last week's column I predicted Bangor City would retain the Welsh Premier League title with a victory against The New Saints on Saturday. How wrong I was as The New Saints totally annihilated Bangor with an accomplished performance worthy of securing any league title and a place in next season's Champions League. We didn't get the finale we had all hoped for on Saturday, but credit must go to The New Saints' coaching team, Craig Harrison and Carl Darlington, as they played Bangor at their own game, which reaped its rewards.

The movement of Greg Draper, who helped himself to a hat-trick, was too much for Neville Powell's side in the 5-0 demolition, a score that flattered Bangor. The New Saints will aim to complete a League and Cup double when they take on Cefn Druids of the Huws Gray Cymru Alliance in the Welsh Cup final at Bangor's Nantporth stadium on May 5th. Cefn Druids are now, subject to attaining the Uefa Licence, assured of their place in the Europa League Second Qualifying Round for next season due to the The New Saints' title triumph on Saturday. Bangor have competed extremely well at the top of the league against two full time clubs in The New Saints and Neath, but Saturday's match was one step too far for them this season. If both The New Saints and Neath fail to gain their Domestic Licence then they will be relegated from the WPL Powell's men can now look forward to a fifth successive season of European football as they enter the Europa League, along with the play-off winners, at the First Qualifying Round stage.

Of the clubs contesting the Europa League play-offs, Llanelli are the form side going in with three successive victories and two draws in their last five games. As it stands they will entertain Bala at Stebonheath. The second semi-final will see Neath at home to the winners of Prestatyn's match against Airbus, who finished top of the Play-Off Conference. Prestatyn have gone 14 games without a victory and they did not pick up a single point in the Championship Conference, although Prestatyn's manager, Neil Gibson has been happy with his team's performances leading up to the play-offs. It wasn't a shock to me that Newtown and Carmarthen finished in the bottom two. Mark Aizlewood has done a tremendous job since taking over the reins from Tomi Morgan in January at Carmarthen. They were 13 minutes from safety on Saturday, but an Andy Jones own goal gave Aberystwyth a vital win against Newtown and catapulted them into eighth spot above Carmarthen, Afan Lido and Port Talbot.

The win for the Seasiders not only secured their Welsh Premier League status but also gives them a shout of gaining a place in the end of season Europa League play-offs. That all hinges on the outcome of Neath's appeal against the decision to deny them a Domestic Licence , to play in next season's WPL, and a Uefa Licence, allowing them to play in the Europa League should they qualify. Neath's appeal will be heard by an independent panel on Friday, along with The New Saints' appeal after they were also refused the Domestic Licence at the first time of asking. If both The New Saints and Neath fail to gain their Domestic Licence then they will be relegated from the WPL. Carmarthen and Newtown will have a stay of execution and survive to fight another day. Connah's Quay Nomads have already secured promotion to the WPL from the Cymru Alliance after clinching a second successive league title. Unlike last season they have now been awarded the Domestic Licence. Promotion from the MacWhirter League looks like going to down to the wire as, Haverfordwest need to finish as runners-up to gain promotion as league champions Cambrian & Clydach have not applied for promotion.

Haverfordwest are currently four points clear of third placed Taffs Well and they could seal promotion back into the WPL if Taffs Well either lose to AFC Porth on Saturday or to bottom of the league side Caerau (Ely) on Tuesday, 1 May in their final game. This means both Haverfordwest and Carmarthen will have an anxious few days ahead to see who plays in next season's WPL. Share this page TNSFC v B36 Torshavn FC - 7.7.15 by The New Saints - issuu * All photography for The New Saints FC info@harteywm.co.uk Freephone: 0808 168 5866 Welcome to Park Hall Stadium Last Wednesday evening must go down as one of the most memorable UEFA nights for the club as we clinched our first away victory in the UEFA Champions League. League and the FAW announcing that the UEFA Champions League final will be hosted in Cardiff in 2017...now there's a challenge!

Enjoy tonight's game Our performance in the Faroe Islands made all of our supporters who either travelled to the game, watched it at The Venue or listened to it on TNS Radio extremely proud. Ian Williams Chief Operating Officer When Michael Wilde's last minute strike went in, I must admit I did a Mourinho jig, not very well repeated though after the game when filmed by the Rev! Tonight's game brings a warm welcome back to European football to Park Hall, our visitors B36 Torshavn will no doubt be aiming to turn around the 2-1 deficit, however Craig, Scott, Evo and the team I'm sure will all be determined to finish the job tonight. May I take this opportunity to thank all of our corporate sponsors for attending tonight's game and everyone for their continued support.

Last week was one of the best for Welsh Domestic football in Europe with Newtown also getting a memorable victory at Latham Park in the UEFA Europa Proud Sponsor of The New Saints FC Welsh Premier League Champions 2014/15 Specialists in the distribution and marketing of IT security products and services Scan QR Code to visit our website Our Solutions Include: - Adaptive Multi-Factor Authentication - Managed Wi-Fi Services - Endpoint Security Management - Web Security - Unified Threat Management - Next Generation Firewalls Visit: | | Email: sales@vcwsecurity.com Craig Harrisonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Managerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Notes First of all welcome to Park Hall and welcome to the new season, which again promises to be a great one! We have again worked very hard in training since returning from the Faroe Islands and we believe we can achieve something very special in the UEFA Champions League this season.

We thoroughly deserved the win in the Faroe Islands, it was an open game - a bit too open for my liking sometimes as the away team - but we had another two or three opportunities to maybe score more goal, but to be fair, Paul Harrison after about 70 minutes has made a great save from a counter-attack. We'll be going into the home leg to win it; obviously B36 have got to come out and have got to score, but I'd back us to score at least a goal at home. We've got a lot of pace and quality in our team and we're very good on the counter-attack. Get behind the lads and enjoy the game! Craig Harrison Manager | 5 The New Saints FC Create History The New Saints of Oswestry Town ended the 2014/2015 domestic campaign by celebrating a famous domestic treble. A record ninth WPL title, a Word Cup triumph and the successful defence of their FAW Welsh Cup trophy ensured that the 2014/2015 season was a season to remember.

With the Welsh League Cup won in January after a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Bala Town, TNS then set about retaining the WPL title for a fourth consecutive season and managed to clinch it against their beaten League Cup opponents, Bala. The winning margin was once again 3-0 over the Lakesiders who ended up playing second fiddle to the marching Saints for the whole of the 2014/2015 season. Craig Harrison’s Super Saints also nearly managed to go throughout the Welsh Premier League unbeaten but unfortunately came unstuck against Airbus UK in the penultimate game of the season after they had already clinched the League title back in March. In The Saints’ final game of the season, TNS took on Newtown in the FAW Welsh Cup Final at Newtown’s Latham Park. A brilliant display resulted in a comfortable two nil victory over The Robins thanks to a Matty Williams brace. The result clinched a famous treble and a season to remember for all involved with TNS. 6 | The Saints, who have now won nine Welsh Premier titles, had completed a double but never scooped all three titles in the same season.

The achievement was one that Harrison admits that he set out at the start of the season, ‘We always set our sights high and at the start of the season we targeted all three trophies available to us. Everybody has worked so hard throughout the season to ensure that we met our targets and I am very proud of my team.’ The Oswestry based side are also unbeaten at their Park Hall home since the 24th of November, 2012 and managed to go a second consecutive season unbeaten at home. ‘I am once again delighted with our home performances’ added Harrison. ‘Since I joined the club we have made this place a fortress and to go two full seasons without tasting defeat is a real achievement by both the staff and players.’ The last league game of the season against Bala marked Scott Ruscoe’s 300th and final start for The Saints. The TNS midfield legend captained his side and announced his retirement from the game after the full time whistle. Scott has retired from professional football after a glittering 20 year career and will now turn his focus to coaching. The Saints will now turn their attention towards the UEFA Champions League with the draw scheduled for the 22nd of June.

Harrison, who was speaking at the TNS Annual Awards Night which was held at The Venue, Park Hall, highlighted that the focus is now to go as far as possible in the UEFA Champions League. ‘The European games are a great experience and we are always hoping to go as far as possible. I really believe that this year we will be better than ever.’ In February, the club received news of the sad loss of Club President, Michael ‘Spider’ Hughes. Affectionately known to all in football circles in Wales and throughout Europe as ‘Spider’, he brought a smile to many faces with his undoubted passion for his beloved club and the game in Wales. The New Saints President was a great ambassador for the club and enjoyed many memorable trips around Wales and further afield in Europe following the club he supported for many years. Gone but not forgotten, The New Saints would like to dedicate the treble to Spider! We always set our sights high and at the start of the season we targeted all three trophies available to us. Everybody has worked so hard throughout the season to ensure that we met our targets and I am very proud of my team.

Craig Harrison Manager Nationality: Faroese Age: 19 Joined: Product of youth Apps: 42 International apps: 0 Age: 22 Joined: You product Apps: 16 International apps: 0 Nationality: Faroese Age: 24 Joined: 2006 Apps: 150 International apps: 0 Nationality: Faroese Age: 29 Foot: Right. Joined: 2014 Apps: 112 International apps: 3 25. Trúgvi Askham Nationality: Faroese Age: 27 Joined: 2013 Apps: 3 International apps: 0 Nationality: Senegalese Age: 23 Joined: 2014 Apps: 23 International apps: 0 | 9 B36 Tórshavn (1st Leg) Match Report The New Saints moved a step closer to progressing in the UEFA Champions League in dramatic style after winning the first leg against B36 Torshavn 2-1 thanks to 90th minute winner from Mike Wilde.

Despite going a goal down inside six minutes, goals from Scott Quigley and Wilde gave Craig Harrison’s side the advantage in the tie. The Saints got off to the worst possible start when Hans Samuelsen curled the ball into the far corner to give B36 the lead after TNS had failed to clear a throwing. However, TNS levelled within five minutes thanks to Quigley who tapped in from close range after a deflected cross. With The Saints controlling the possession, Simon Spender found himself in space but managed to shoot inches wide with the Tordur Thomsen beaten. The second half began with a glorious chance for Wilde but the TNS number 18 was thwarted by the Faroese goalkeeper. The hosts began to throw more men forward but on the hour mark Quigley, who was impressive all night, fired a powerful shot from the edge of the box that flew inches over the bar. 10 | Samuelsen then hit a dangerous looking free kick over as the game became increasingly open. With only ten minutes remaining, Quigley was brought down in what appeared to be the box but the referee deemed the foul just outside the box.

With The Saints in the ascendancy, the hosts broke forward and TNS had to rely on their classy captain to keep them level. Paul Harrison produced an excellent save to deny Roaldur Jacobsen. And then with the match about to run into the 90th minute, Wilde scored a decisive winning goal. Chris Seargeant’s brilliant run got him into space and his beautiful chipped cross found the TNS number 18 in space at the back post. The former Chester man then powered his volley past Thomsen to give TNS a deserved lead in the tie.

THE NEW SAINTS FC - 2 B36 Tórshavn - 1 y a d h c t a M ty i l a t i p s o H Packages Level/ Package Name Cost Bronze £29 pp* - Matchday compere/host - Pre-match competitions to win club memorabilia - Two course hot & cold buffet - Matchday programme and gift - Plus much more included For further information on what is included in this package email: ian.williams@tnsfc.co.uk Silver (Group Bookings Only) Gold (Group Bookings Only) £79 pp* Same package as Bronze with additional extras; - 5 x drinks vouchers - Match sponsor, Logo in programme, photo and presentation along with Chairman Same package as Bronze with additional extras; - 8 x drinks vouchers (can be redeemed for wine, beer, spirits or soft drinks) - Match Ball sponsor, photo on pitch before the game with the Captains of both teams and officials, presentation after the match with signed match ball *All prices are exclusive of VAT. Children can be mascots, without the matchday hospitality package for only £25.

& g n i s i t r e Adv ip h s r o s n o Sp s e g a k c a P s ackage P m only start fro £300 +VAT Call us today to book your Matchday Hospitality Package or to ask for more information about our Advertising and Sponsorship opportunities. Please contact: Ian Williams Chief Operating Officer Email: ian.williams@tnsfc.co.uk Caernarfon Friendly Confirmed The New Saints will take on Caernarfon FC in a friendly on Friday the 31st of July. The friendly will take place at The Oval and will kick off at 19:30pm. The Saints visited The Oval last season and found themselves two nil down in the FAW Welsh Cup. However, a spirited performance ensured that TNS fought back and progressed beforeÂ clinching the Welsh Cup Final in May to complete a domestic treble. The New Saints FC Annual Awards 2014/15 Hours after The New Saints clinched a famous domestic treble at Latham Park, the players attended the TNS Annual Awards night which was held at The Venue.

Supporter’s Player of the Year Greg Draper There were five awards for the first team including Manager’s Player of the Year, Supporter’s player of the Year as well as Player’s Player of the Year. Here are all of the awards and winners below. Young Player of the Year Scott Quigley Player’s Player of the Year Chris Marriott Top Goalscorer Mike Wilde Manager’s Player of the Year Simon Spender 14 | Meet The New Saints FC Paul Harrison | 1 Affectionately known as ‘H’, the TNS Captain has been a model of consistency since joining The Saints in 2007. The Liverpool born shot stopper started of his career at Anfield before moving to clubs such as Leeds United, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chester City. Born on the 18th of December 1984, Harrison was once again a model of consistency last season and helped The Saints clinch a famous treble. Simon Spender | 2 Born in Mold on the 15th of November, 1985, the reliable right back joined TNS in 2011. Spender played over 100 games for Wrexham before moving to Barrow.

The Welshman also represented his country at Under 21 level. ‘Spends’ was part of the Barrow team that won the FA Trophy at Wembley stadium in 2010. Phil Baker | 4 Birkenhead born Baker, started his career at Tranmere Rovers before playing for Bangor City and Exeter City. Steve Evans | 5 Chris Marriott | 3 ‘Mazza’ joined The New Saints in 2009 and has become a regular at left back. The 23 year old previously played for Cefn Druids after graduating from Wrexham’s academy programme. Marriott was voted the Manager’s Player of the Year for the 2012/2013 and has been the first choice left back at the club for the past few seasons. Capped seven times by Wales, ‘Evo’ rejoined The Saints after a three year spell playing for Wrexham. During his time at The Racecourse Stadium, the strong defender became the first non-league player to represent Wales for 76 years when he appeared as a second-half substitute in Wales’ 2-1 defeat in Russia.

Wrexham born Evans has won the Welsh Premier League title, the Welsh Cup and the Welsh league Cup. He is also the Head Coach of the Scholarship programme and the manager of the Under 19 side that won the league last season. 18 | The solid centre back completed his move from The Grecians to The Saints in 2005 and famously scored the winning goal against Cliftonville in the Europa League first qualifying round. He has won the Welsh Premier League, the Welsh Cup and the Welsh League Cup during his time at Park Hall. The powerful defender has been an important part of The Saints’ defence during his time at the Oswestry based club. Kai Edwards | 6 Sam Finley | 8 Born in St Asaph on the 20th of January, 1991, Kai captained both the Welsh Under 21’s and the Welsh Under 23’s whilst at Wrexham. The tenacious young box to box midfielder was signed by Craig Harrison, in January 2012. Having spent time with Everton as a youngster, the Liverpudlian played for Southport and Warrington before switching to the Welsh Champions.

He was born on the 4th of August 1992 and was voted Welsh Premier League Young Player of the Year for the 2013/2014 season. The dynamic midfielder spent time on loan at Wrexham last season. The Welsh Premier League’s Young Player of the Year in 2011/2012 joined TNS following Neath’s liquidation. He also played for Prestatyn Town. Kai was voted TNS Young Player of the Year for the 2012/2013 season and has gone on to become a key player for the Welsh Champions. Greg Draper | 9 The New Zealand International made his debut for the All Whites in a 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Fiji. Ryan Fraughan | 11 Matty Williams | 10 Matty joined TNS in 2010 after impressing at Rhyl. The former Manchester United reserve joined Notts County after his stint at Old Trafford, where he played regularly for two seasons. The St Asaph born striker then moved on to play for both Tamworth and Burton Albion before returning to Wales.

His first season with The Saints saw him score an impressive 24 goals in 38 appearances. Williams will again wear the number ten shirt for The Saints during the 2015/2016 season. ‘Frawny’ began his career at Tranmere Rovers and progressed into the first team along with Dale Jennings and Ash Taylor. The tricky winger left The Superwhites in 2011 to join Stockport County. The 22 year old scored the opening goal in last seasons UEFA Champions League home fixture against Legia Warsaw. He spent time on loan at Gap Connah’s Quay last season. Draper also played in the Beijing Olympics against Brazil, Belgium and China. The Somerset born front man joined TNS in 2011 and was the top scorer in his debut season, with an impressive 23 League goals. Greg’s former clubs include Canterbury United, Wellington Phoneix and Melbourne Knights. Chris Seargeant | 7 Born in Liverpool on the 13th of September, 1986, ‘Sarge’ began his career with Everton FC.

During his stay at The Toffees, the TNS number seven scored the winning goal in the Semi Final of the Liverpool Senior Cup. Chris left Everton in 2006 and went on to play for Bangor City before joining the Welsh Premier League champions. Former Everton player, Steve Seargeant is his father. 19 The New Saints FC are representing Wales in the UEFA Champions League Jamie Mullan | 14 Jamie signed for TNS in January 2013. The speedy winger was born in Nottingham and played for Manchester United reserves. After leaving Old Trafford he joined Northwich Victoria where he helped save them from relegation and, by doing so, he won the Young Player of the Year award. Mullan then joined Fleetwood Town and was a member of the 2009/ 2010 promotion winning squad. The TNS number fourteen has also played for Alfreton Town and Stalybridge Celtic. Ryan Edwards | 17 Connell Rawlinson | 16 Wrexham born Connell, was previously with Chester City. The tall defender has also represented his country at Under 23 level. The TNS number sixteen spent time on loan at Newtown.

Since returning, he has helped The Saints successfully defend their Welsh Premier title for the past Four seasons. The Glan Conwy born centre midfielder joined The New Saints in January 2014. Edwards joined the club from Gap Connah’s Quay having broken into the side at the start of the 2012/13 Welsh Premier League season. The young midfielder spent time on loan at Cefn Druids last season. Jamie Reed | 19 Born in Chester, Reed made his debut for Wrexham in 2005 before successful spells at Rhyl and Bangor City. Reed then joined York City in 2011 and was a regular part of the team that won promotion to the Sky Bet League Two. During his time with The Minstermen, Reed also won the 2012 FA Trophy, before leaving to join Cambridge United. A spell at Chester City followed before his move Down Under where he played for South Melbourne. Whilst in Australia’s ‘Second City’ the striker scored an impressive 13 goals in 24 appearances. Alex Darlington | 20 ‘Darlo’ began his career with Wrexham and has represented Wales at Under 19 level.

The Wrexham born striker cruelly suffered two broken legs whilst at The Racecourse. The TNS number twenty has become a very important first team player for The Saints and is also the designated penalty taker. The prolific forward was born on December the 26th, 1988. Mike Wilde | 18 ‘Wildey’ rejoined The New Saints at the start of the 2013/2014 Welsh Premier League season and went on to win the Golden Boot with a wonderful haul of 25 goals. The Liverpool born forward started his career at TNS before leaving for Fleetwood Town. The big front man has also spent time at Halifax Town and Chester City. 22 | Adrian Cieslewicz | 21 Adrian Cieslewicz was born in Gorzów Wielkopolski on the 16th of November, 1990. Having spent time at Manchester City and Wrexham, the Pole joined the Welsh Premier League Champions, in the summer of 2014. Better known as ‘Ciss’, he is known for his electric pace. The winger will wear the number twenty one shirt for The Saints.

Scott Quigley | 22 Quigley has spent time on loan at fellow Welsh Premier league sides Carmarthen and Cefn Druids. He was an unused substitute during the UEFA Champions League away fixture with Legia Warsaw. Scott is a powerful winger who can score goals. The wide man also possesses a lot of pace and will once again wear the number twenty two shirt for The New Saints. Aeron Edwards | 23 Former Buckley Town midfielder ‘Azza’ is a key component of the TNS side. The energetic number 23 was born on the 16th of February and can speak fluent Welsh. The Under 23 Welsh international signed from Caersws in June 2009. Ryan Kershaw | 24 Chris Mullock | 25 Ryan Kershaw has progressed through the TNS Academy and is now a member of the first team squad. Chris joined The Saints two seasons ago and will again wear the number twenty five shirt. Known as ‘Kersh’, Ryan is a left footed central midfielder. He will again wear the number twenty four shirt for The Saints.

Born in Wrexham on the 16th of September, 1988, the big shot stopper famously kept a clean sheet for Cefn Druids against Finnish giants, MyPA in the Europa League first qualifying round. Mullock left The Ancients to join TNS, where he linked up with his former School friend Aeron Edwards. New foreason 2015/16 s Player 0 a r o s n o p S 10 for only £ Sponsor a Player is an affordable way in which businesses and individuals alike can contribute that little bit more to the club without breaking the bank. Sponsor a Player costs just £100 inc VAT and, in return for your support, you will receive a certificate of sponsorship giving details of your chosen player. Your name will feature under a photograph of the player on the Meet The Players page in every matchday programme as well as on the website. You can sponsor a player by yourself or you can get together with friends and fellow fans and sponsor a player as a group for the 2015/16 season. If you would like to sponsor a player contact sales@tnsfc.co.uk for more details.

TNS to take on Everton The New Saints are delighted to announce that a friendly with English Barclays Premier League side Everton has been arranged. The reigning Welsh Premier League Champions will take on Roberto Martinezâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Everton on Sunday the 2nd of August at Park Hall Stadium, Oswestry. The friendly against the Toffees will kick off at 15:00pm and ticketing information will be released shortly. Craig Harrisonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Saints will be in action prior to the Everton game, competing in the UEFA Champions League first qualifying round. Last season Everton finished in 11th position in the Barclays Premier League. Current TNS midfielder, Chris Seargeant was part of the Everton Academy as a youngster and is the son of former Everton left back Steve Seargeant. Making Airwaves With The Rev What a great way to kick off my programme column for the new season, as the new pitch at Park Hall is christened with Champions League football for its first competitive TNS senior side game. We’re expecting a good crowd tonight, and whether it’s your very first visit or you’re one of the seasoned faithful, enjoy the experience.

Of course, we want to give a specific acknowledgment to our visitors this evening. Therefore, to the players, officials and fans of B36 Torshavn, we extend a very warm welcome. We trust that your stay with us is one that will remain in your memory for years to come. Many thanks for the great hospitality that you showed us last week in the Faroe Islands. We have certainly made sincere and lasting friendships and we trust that you feel the same way. Of course though, the bottom line is that both teams will be doing their utmost to progress into the next round. So for 90 minutes we may be rivals, so to speak, but outside of the whistles we’re friends! TNS Radio will be broadcasting live tonight, as indeed we will be at all games this season, and 26 | you will be able to see us on the far side of the balcony. Why not come on air? You will be more than welcome, as we operate an ‘open-mic’ policy. Finally, did you see the Dancing Chairman, Mike Harris, on SKY Sports News recently? I think the word ‘legend’ is banded around far too often these days, but for Mike, the cap fits comfortably.

And a living legend at that! On a serious note though, when you’re behind the scenes at the club, you get to see just how passionate, dedicated and committed Mike is to The New Saints’ cause. We need to fully appreciate our chairman - he really is Mr TNS. Enjoy the game! The Rev TNS Radio It’s what’s beneath the surface that counts.... With so many companies offering communications services that seem to offer great pricing or great offers, how do you know who to trust? Simple, trust the company that always goes the extra mile to deliver great advice, great service and great support. Total Communication Solutions We Provide…….

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Welsh Premier League football every Sunday afternoon. s4c.co.uk Building homes and supporting local communities w w w.w rekin h o u s ingtrust.org.uk Dafabet become Headline Sponsors of WPL From the 2015/16 season the Welsh Premier League will be sponsored by international online gaming and betting company Dafabet. New headline sponsors Dafabet have agreed a deal starting from the 2015/16 season and the WPL are proud to announce that this deal is the biggest in the league’s history. The WPL has pushed new boundaries in recent season’s building a stronger brand presence, more engaging communications with fans and stakeholders via new and social media and an enhanced television broadcaster relationship with S4C. Following the news of Dafabet linking up with the WPL, League Secretary Gwyn Derfel commented, “I am very pleased that Dafabet have become headline sponsors for our National League in Wales. Dafabet’s increasing portfolio of partnerships with major players in the sporting world show the company’s faith in our ever improving product.

I thank Dafabet for their faith and investment and look forward to a productive future for the Dafabet Welsh Premier League.” Dafabet, founded in 2004, is a leading online gaming and betting website, offering customers with a unique and exciting gaming experience whilst providing a safe and fair environment they can trust and enjoy. Dafabet already have a strong presence in football after being main club sponsors of this year’s FA Cup finalists Aston Villa for the last two seasons, they continue to have a long term betting partnership with Everton – a partnership just extended for a further three seasons. They have also recently been announced as new main club sponsor of both Sunderland and Blackburn Rovers, 32 | as well as becoming International Partners of Celtic. The company also have a strong relationship with World Snooker having sponsored the Masters for the last two years, in a deal that has another two years to run – they also sponsored the 2014 World Snooker Championship.

John Cruces, Head of Sports Marketing and Sponsorship at Dafabet, said: “Having increased our presence in English football for the forthcoming season as well as forming our first partnership in Scottish football (with Celtic) just recently, it made sense for us to explore the opportunity to make an impact in Welsh Football when the league sponsorship option was presented to us. By sponsoring the WPL we’ll be seen across all the clubs in the league which will help us increase our brand presence in the UK. We look forward to working together.” Dafabet’s partnership with the WPL was assisted via the negotiation of Phil Canavan, Director of SEM Ltd (Sports Entertainment Marketing Ltd). SEM work closely with brands to connect & amplify marketing activity within the sports, entertainment, fashion & business sectors. They are a global marketing consultancy, understanding the business of brand marketing & experienced in establishing innovative commercial partnerships. Leading up to the new season there will be a WPL 2015/16 Season Launch previewing the new campaign; The Dafabet Welsh Premier League will kick-off on Saturday August 22nd 2015.

Cut your IT energy costs by up to 35% planethippo Cisco Energy Management, from Planet Hippo, provides organisations with an easy, cost effective way to measure and manage the energy use of IT networks and all connected devices. • Achieve 35% savings in energy costs • No need to deploy additional servers or software • See usage of every network device and the energy they consume • Identify energy-inefﬁcient devices and systems • Cloud-based solution scales as required • Fixed monthly pay-as-you-go cost Call us today on 0845 226 0555 or visit FREE limited-function 45-day license lets you try Cisco Energy Management before you purchase. Harrison Wins WPL Manager of the Year Craig Harrison won the Corbett Sports Welsh Premier League Manager of the Year for the 2014/2015 season after successfully retaining the WPL title. The former Middlesbrough and Crystal Palace defender also guided The Saints to another FAW Welsh Cup and finally got his hands on theWord Cup. Harrison has so far led TNS to four WPL titles, three FAW Welsh Cups and one League Cup during his four and a half years at Park Hall Stadium.

call us now on Celebrating 25 years in business 01691 655244 email us on info@hollis.gb.com Experts in Office Technology Our extensive product range and technical skills enable us to supply all the equipment and networking capability you need for a fully operational office environment WHO ARE WE? WHY DEAL WITH US? • Long established business provider of business support solutions such as As a service focused business it specialises in meeting the needs of customers and delivers the highest levels of support. WHAT DO WE DO? • Office Equipment • Multi-functional Printers & Photocopiers • Business IT • Servers, PCs, Laptops. • Anti-virus Systems • Data Security • Traditional Office Supplies FIND OUT MORE Visit for more information Hollis Office Solutions, Hollis House, Maesbury Road, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 8NR. The Hollis Office Supply Company Ltd trading as Hollis Office Solutions, Registered in Cardiff, Company No.

02516558 • Outstanding reputation • Business to business specialist • Customer focused sales process • Comprehensive after-sales support • Increased efﬁciency • Reduced costs The New Saints FC Academy Notes We would like to welcome players and parents old and new to The New Saints Football Club for the 2015/2016 season. This upcoming season promises to be the biggest and best yet, with our new coaching team applying changes throughout the academy. Fixtures for all age groups will include Elite academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s from throughout England during the season. Whist every player likes to win, the emphasis in the Academy will be on player development always. We are constantly looking at the bigger picture. We ask the Academy to support the first team, and we like our teams to emulate the playing style throughout. Thank you for becoming part of our TNS family. Enjoy the season! Scott Ruscoe Head of Youth Development n i S TN ark P e h t 5 1 0 2 th 1 1 y a d r u t Sa July 2015 m p 4 12pm Come and enjoy the day.

- Football Comps - Face Painting - Meet the Players - Lots of Games - Lots of Prizes! e a C n i Meet Park Glas Contact us on 01691 684840 or email niall.broe@tnsfc.co.uk for more information about TNS in the Park 2015.

y r t n E E FRE 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 14 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 The New Saints FC Welsh Premier round-up: Bala Town qualify for Europe - Daily Post Welsh Premier round-up: Bala Town qualify for Europe Lee Hunt's 200th league goal seals Lakesiders win at Connah's Quay Share Bala celebrate their automatic qualification for the Europa League (Photo: ARWEL JONES) Share Get daily updates directly to your inbox + Subscribe Could not subscribe, try again laterInvalid Email gap Connah's Quay 0 Bala Town 1 Manager Colin Caton savoured the prospect of another excursion into Europe this summer after Bala Town safely navigated a tense final day of the Welsh Premier season. Needing a point to make sure of their place in the Europa League qualifiers for the second consecutive year, and third time in four seasons, the Lakesiders finished the job with a slender victory at gap Connah's Quay.

Lee Hunt's 200th league goal from the penalty spot early the second half proved enough to clinch runners-up position, which in the end was made more comfortable with third placed MBI Llandudno losing 5-1 lat home to champions The New Saints to scupper their hopes. That left Bala five points clear in second spot, and a delighted Caton admitted he could not have asked any more from his players after another consistent campaign. READ: Bala Town given go ahead for 3G pitch "It's a fantastic achievement for everyone involved in the club, and to finish second behind TNS for the second season running again shows we are the best part-time club in Welsh football," said the long-serving Caton, who was reappointed manager just a few days before. "When we heard at half time that Llandudno had equalised against TNS, it got a bit tense for a time. But the lads showed great spirit - which they have done all season - to get the job done. "I couldn't have asked any more from the players who have given me everything despite being back in training since June, and it will be the same again this year.

"It's massive to be in Europe again, but it's not just enough being there, we want get to through to the second round this time and make the league and Welsh football proud of us." We will be better prepared than before, hopefully the draw will be kind to us and we'll get a bit of luck along the way which we've not always had." Nomads manager Andy Morrison also paid tribute to Bala's achievements, which he hopes his side will emulate in the future. "Bala have shown what you can do if you keep a team together over three or four seasons and create the continuity and spirit like they've got," he said. "It's a long, hard season, but Bala have been street savvy, which they have done the for a few years now, and they fully deserve what they have achieved." Needing a point to make sure of runners-up spot and their ticket for Europe in June, Bala were in composed mood against a Nomads side that were forced to make several changes due to injuries. READ: Meet the Management: Jay Catton (gap Connah's Quay) It proved a scrappy, tight affair, with the Lakesiders enjoying long spells of possession against their youthful hosts who included a couple of debutants.

Hunt, a handful throughout, had a couple of early chances, while Mike Hayes had the ball in the net on 15 minutes only to be thwarted by the offside flag and Mark Connolly had a free kick saved by Jon Rushton. However, the pressure was eased once Hunt smashed home his penalty four minutes into the second half after being brought down inside the right of box - and in the process chalked up his 200th league goal. READ: 500-up Bala Town boss Colin Caton picks his favourite 10 games at Lakesiders Sub Nathan Woolfe went close to a reply at the other end when curling his shot just wide, while the visitors themselves could have made the game safe following a scramble. The Nomads kept battling away, and almost grabbed an equaliser in a frantic melee that saw Ashley Ruane denied by a goal-line clearance and the foot of the post. Ruane also had an angled shot from the right saved by Ashley Morris, but Bala - who secured their 14th clean sheet in league this term - were by now dusting off their passports following news of Llandudno's demise at the hands of TNS.

MBi Llandudno 1 The New Saints 5 Although they finished a fantastic first campaign in the Welsh Premier on a low note, Llandudno can only look back with pride on what they have achieved overall. Alan Morgan's side are assured of third place and that will be enough to get them into Europe at the first attempt if TNS beat Airbus in next month's Welsh Cup Final. Even if the Wingmakers win the cup, Tudno could still make the Europa League via the play-offs. Any thoughts that the Saints may have taken their foot off the pedal at Maesdu Park on Saturday, with a fifth successive title in the bag, proved totally unfounded. Llandudno assistant-manager Sean Eardley said after the game: "We competed well for the first hour or 70 minutes, but any team that comes across TNS has to put in a shift for 90 minutes. READ: Airbus and The New Saints breeze into Welsh Cup Final "Credit to them, it's the level we all want to get to and they scored some decent goals.

"I thought we deserved our goal to make it 1-1 at half time; they regained the lead at 2-1 and maybe a few key decisions went against us at the time, but we're not blaming the referee. "Credit to TNS, they're champions and deserve to be champions and it's a level we want to strive for next season." Saints took the lead on 27 minutes when Adrian Cieslewicz's header from a Chris Seargeant free kick found the bottom right-hand corner. The visitors went close to a second on a few occasions, but on the brink of half time Lewis Buckley set up Liam Dawson to drive in the equaliser. After an end-to-end start to the second half, TNS edged ahead when a Seargeant shot glanced in off Aeron Edwards. READ: Your Greatest Welsh Premier League players Cieslewicz and substitute Robbie Parry added further goals to put the visitors out of sight. And there was still time for ex-Wrexham speed merchant Cieslewicz to complete his hat-trick with a cool finish.

Rhyl 1 Carmarthen Town 0 A paltry crowd of just 64 saw reprieved Rhyl end a difficult season on a high with a 1-0 victory over Carmarthen at the Corbett Sports Stadium. Despite being condemned to finishing in the bottom two, the Lilywhites knew before kick off they were safe from relegation provided they did not lose and basement side Haverfordwest won by a cricket score following Port Talbot's failure to secure a domestic licence on appeal. Carmarthen looked the more dangerous in attack in the first half, Kyle Bassett lashing over the bar before Mike Askew produced a good save to deny Liam Thomas. Dave Vincent headed wide from a great position for the travellers, then Askew performed marvels again to thwart Mark Jones. READ: Welsh Premier League: 10 Greatest Strikers It was against the run of play when the Lilies took the lead from close range, Luke Wandless netting his first goal for the club. After the break the visitors continued to pose the greater threat, but the hosts defended well for the most part, Greg Stones producing an excellent block to foil Danny Thomas.

Both sides had a player dismissed late on - Chay Dysart receiving his marching orders for Rhyl and Carmarthen's Luke Prosser also saw red. READ: Rhyl FC aim to follow Wrexham AFC's example by becoming community-owned club Aberystwyth Town 4 Bangor City 0 Before kick-off Bangor had a realistic chance of reaching the Europa League play-offs but by the final whistle their hopes had been well and truly shattered. To finish seventh, the Citizens had to win at Aberystwyth and hope Carmarthen Town lost or drew against Rhyl. The Lilywhites did their coastal rivals a favour by beating Town 1-0, but City failed miserably in their part of the mission. A crowd of 751 - which included a large Bangor contingent - saw a disappointing first half with the visitors going closest, speedy winger Christian Langos whipping the ball across the face of goal before Ashley Young was not far away from 25 yards. And the visitors started the second period well, Shaun Cavanagh forcing a double save from Mike Lewis.

This seemed to spark the Black and Greens into life and on 57 minutes Chris Venables broke clear on the counter to finish smartly and make it 1-0 to Aber. Four minutes later the lead was doubled with a calm finish into the corner from Venables. Town continued to press, and on 72 minutes Venables rounded the keeper to complete his hat-trick and bring up 20 goals for the season to secure himself another league Golden Boot award. Ross Stephens made it 4-0 before the end. Aber leapfrogged Bangor into eighth place and if Airbus beat TNS in the Welsh Cup Final that will be enough to land the Blacks and Greens a play-off spot. Airbus UK 2 Newtown 2 Airbus UK had to settle for a sixth place finish after failing to see off a resilient Newtown in their last outing of the league season. The Wingmakers, for whom Andy Jones made a welcome return as substitute following injury, had enough chances to have have wrapped up all three points, but failed to turn their superiority into goals. Despite their frustration, they could take plenty of positives from the display that will keep them in good heart ahead of next Monday's Welsh Cup showdown with The New Saints at Wrexham.

They had led through a Chris Budrys header, before goals from Shane Sutton and Matty Owen had the Robins in front by the break. Tony Gray's 18th goal of the season put Airbus level on 69 minutes, but the striker missed out on the Golden Boot after being pipped to the award by Aberystwyth Town's Chris Venables, who fired a hat-trick in the victory against Bangor City. The Wingmakers pushed for a winner but the mid-Wales visitors survived some sustained second half pressure to return with a hard-earned point. After a couple of chances, the home side had gone ahead n 12 minutes when Budrys headed in a James Murphy free kick, but Sutton earned parity midway through the half when converting a Matty Owen corner. Andy Preece's men continued to press, Murphy going close while Ian Kearney twice headed over, before Newtown took an interval lead through Owen's 20-yard volley after keeper James Coates had punched clear. Airbus were on the front foot in the second half, with Liam Blake and Gray denied by keeper Dave Jones, while Ian Kearney headed against the post.

Gray fired a free kick just wide before getting a leveller when producing a terrific finish after good work by Paulo Mendes. The hosts then had strong penalty claims turned down after Gray appeared to be brought down in the box. Like us on Facebook Preview: Barry Town v The New Saints — Sgorio Welsh Cup News Barry Town The New Saints This weekend 16 teams will fight for their place in the Welsh Cup Quarter Final and the Sgorio cameras will be live at Jenner Park as previous Welsh giants, Barry Town go head to head with the current Welsh Cup holders, The New Saints. Barry Town have a remarkable history as their full-time professional club dominated the Welsh Premier League for a decade before falling into the hands of the administrators and down to the lower leagues of the Welsh football pyramid. Barry were the team to beat from the mid 90’s up till 2003 as they won seven WPL titles in eight seasons! During that dominative period Barry won five Welsh Cups to add to their one previous cup win in 1955, when they beat Chester in the final.

But in 2003 the club went into serious financial difficulties and after years of swimming against the tide the force that was once Barry Town United had sunk to the depths of the southern leagues. Despite the struggles off the pitch, Barry managed to reach the 2012/13 Welsh Cup semi final but lost 1-2 to Prestatyn, who went on to lift the trophy. With only two games left at then end of the 2012/13 season, chairman Stuart Lovering left the club, with no money, and Barry were removed from the Welsh League. After a court case, Barry Town were put in the hands of the supporters’ trust who now run the club and Barry returned to the pyramid in Welsh League Division 3 for the 2013/14 season. But after two back-to-back promotions under Gavin Chesterfield, Barry are back in Division 1 with an artificial pitch that was placed down in October 2015 as they look to climb back to where they belong, at the top tier of Welsh football.

In Barry’s absence, another club took over to dominate the Welsh Premier League as The New Saints have now won a total of nine league titles since their first in 1999/00 and breaking Barry’s record of seven WPL titles. TNS have been crowned WPL champions for the last four season, also lifting the Welsh Cup three times in the last four years. They will, of course be favourites to win this tie, but as Barry’s striker, James Dixon has already proved this season, anything is possible in the Welsh Cup! James Dixon has netted five goals in each of Barry’s last two Welsh Cup ties – a tremendous achievement! Dixon scored five against Aberdare in the 2nd round, becoming the first Barry player to score five goals in a Welsh Cup tie since 1914! But just to show everyone that it wasn’t a fluke, Dixon repeated the feat in the third round, and scored another five goals against Denbigh Town, securing the ‘Player of the Round’ award for the second consecutive round.

The Important Stats History Contactthe club Club history WITH changes in the factory name the football team has followed suit, being known at various times as Vickers-Armstrong, de Havilands, Hawker Siddeley, British Aerospace, BAe Systems and Airbus UK. The club is now firmly established as Airbus UK Broughton and, until the end of the 2003/04 season, played its football in the Cymru Alliance, the second tier of the Welsh soccer pyramid. The club was formed in 1946 and has played in both Chester & District League and the Welsh National League (Wrexham Area). Their last move, into the Welsh pyramid system, saw them canter to the Welsh National League (Wrexham Area) Division Two title during the 1991/92 season winning it by a clear 19 points from Gresford Athletic Reserves. In that season they won 28 of their 34 matches and scored a remarkable 130 goals, an average of almost four goals per game. They also reached the NEWFA Challenge Cup final losing narrowly to Gresford Athletic.

They then spent four seasons in Division One, the first two seasons finishing sixth then, in the third season, two places better in fourth. Season 1995/96 saw a further promotion, finishing runners-up behind Wrexham Colts at the end of the campaign: enough to see them move into the Premier Division of the Welsh National League along with the divisional champions. Once again they spent four seasons at that level, the first two witnessing steady consolidation, finishing seventh and sixth respectively. In 1998/99, the side pushed hard for the championship but could only finish runners-up once again, a mere two points behind eventual champions Corwen Amateurs. At last, in 1999/2000, British Aerospace went one better and won the title with 21 victories from 30 matches, finishing their programme four points ahead of Ruthin Town and Penycae. This success meant promotion once again, into the Cymru Alliance league and to coincide with the promotion the club changed its name from British Aerospace to Airbus UK.

Their first season in the Cymru Alliance was something of a struggle, eventually finishing in a creditable 11th-place with 10 wins and 14 defeats. Unfortunately, the campaign was badly affected by the outbreak of foot and mouth disease which disrupted much of life in Wales. Continuing the pattern seen after previous promotions, the second term saw a steady improvement and in the 2001/02 Airbus UK finished in eighth spot with 16 wins. The club was clearly ambitious and again showed signs of progress in the 2002/03 season, achieving their highest ever finish of fifth spot in the Cymru Alliance and reaching the NEWFA Challenge Cup final, losing narrowly on penalties. 2003/04 was tremendously successful when Airbus UK took the Cymru Alliance title with considerable ease, winning it by 19 points from closest rivals Buckley Town, and thus gained promotion to the national league competition, the Welsh Premier. Ground improvements 'The Wingmakers' as they are known carried out steady improvements to their ground sited just inside the massive Airbus Works in Broughton, near Chester.

A new stand was built with a pavilion incorporating changing rooms being completed early in 2004 and two more stands were later added on the opposite touchline and at the Runway End, bringing seating capacity to more than 500. Floodlights were installed in time for the beginning of the 2004/05 season in the Welsh Premier League. The first two seasons in the Welsh Premier League were something of a struggle as Airbus UK came to terms with the higher standards. The club battled hard to avoid relegation and appointed the former Wrexham midfielder Gareth Owen as player-manager following two seasons at nearby Connah's Quay Nomads. Performances gradually improved and the Wingmakers finished 12th in 2006/07 earning a spot in the FAW Premier Cup for the first time. The following season brought 11 victories and 42 points to finish in 11th place. Gareth Owen moved to Rhyl during the 2008 close season and the former Middlesbrough player Craig Harrison assumed the managerial reins having previously been assistant to Owen at The Airfield.

However, after three and a half years, Harrison moved on to TNS and was replaced by Andy Preece as director of football with ex-Manchester City defender Andy Morrison as his assistant. There followed the most successful period in the club's history. Finishing a creditable seventh in the league and reaching the semi-finals of the Welsh Cup, the club embarked on its most successful Welsh Premier League campaign in 2012/13. After an exciting climax to the season, the Wingmakers clinched runners-up spot with a 2-0 home win over Bangor City to clinch a first-ever place in Europe. Three players - Lee Owens, Ian Kearney and Wayne Riley - were included in the WPL team of the season chosen by the 12 league managers. And Owens, along with Steve Tomassen and Preece, were nominated for the player of the season, young player of the season and manager of the season awards. The following campaign, 2013/14, was even better as the club again finished runners-up to TNS in the WPL, closing the gap by eight points on the previous season and remaining undefeated against the champions in four league meetings.

Airbus finished 11 points clear of the third-placed club Carmarthen Town, securing another Europa League appearance with three league games remaining. Ian Kearney and Lewis Short were included in the league's dream team with Tom Field shortlisted for the player of the season award and director of football Andy Preece again nominated for manager of the season. In May 2014, it was announced that the pitch at the Hollingsworth Group Stadium would be converted to synthetic 3G in the close season with the assistance of grants from the FAW and the Broughton Wings Sports & Social Club. A third European appearance came 12 months later when the Wingmakers finished third in the League and faced NK Lokomotive of Croatia, losing 5-3 on aggregate but doing well to draw the away leg 2-2 in Zagreb. The club was unable to repeat its league performance in 2015/16, finishing in sixth place, but again came close to European qualification, losing 1-0 to neighbours Connah's Quay in the play-off final.

Airbus also reached the Welsh Cup final for the first time in the club's history, losing 2-0 to TNS at Wrexham's Racecourse Ground. Youngster James Murphy was voted the Welsh Premier young player of the season at the end of the campaign, with striker Tony Gray nominated for the player of the season award. In August 2016, the club parted company with Andy Preece by mutual consent and his assistant for the previous 12 months, former player Andrew Thomas, was handed the managerial reins. Photo (top): How the Airfield looked in the club's final Cymru Alliance season, (middle) Ian Kearney leads out his side in the 2016 Welsh Cup final and (below) work starts on replacing the grass pitch with 3G. Europa League: Bala Town, Connah's Quay and Llandudno set for qualifiers - BBC Sport BBC Sport Europa League: Bala Town, Connah's Quay and Llandudno set for qualifiers By Aled Williams Read more about sharing.

Connah's Quay (red shirts) secured European football via the play-offs while Bala finished second Welsh football's focus has been on Wales' exploits at Euro 2016, with Chris Coleman's team facing Belgium in Friday's quarter-final. Away from the excitement in France, it has gone almost unnoticed that European football's domestic competitions begin this week, Welsh champions The New Saints face Tre Penne of San Marino in the Champions League. Bala, Connah's Quay and Llandudno represent Wales in the Europa League. The clubs will be hoping to to emulate the success of the national team as they prepare for this week's first leg games. Bala Town v AIK Solna Bala Town will be appearing in the Europa League for the third time in four seasons when they face Sweden's AIK Solna away in the first qualifying round first leg on Thursday. Colin Caton's side won both their home legs in the previous two campaigns but narrowly missed out on progressing to the second qualifying round after away defeats to opponents from Estonia and Luxembourg. They face their toughest test to date this year, having been paired with the Stockholm-based club, who are seasoned European campaigners.

"We haven't failed to score in any of the games we've played in European competition, which is a massive plus," manager Colin Caton told BBC Wales Sport. Bala Town players celebrate finishing second in the Welsh Premier League and securing a Europa League spot "We've got to tighten up at the back and shut up shop when we're away from home and give ourselves a fighting chance. "The odds are stacked against us but we won't be phased by anything." Caton's preparations for the game in Sweden have been aided by the Football Association of Wales' analysis team, who are currently with the national side at the Euros in France. "They've sent all the information over to us," Caton added. "They've helped us out at a busy time and we'll analyse it once we get over there." Europa League first qualifying round, first leg: AIK Solna v Bala Town, Tele2 Arena, Stockholm, Thursday, 30 June, Kick Off: 17:30 BST Gap Connah's Quay v Stabaek When Andy Morrison took over at Gap Connah's Quay last November, the club were struggling at the wrong end of the Welsh Premier League table.

But the former Manchester City player oversaw a revival which culminated in the Nomads finishing fifth, their highest ever place. And a 1-0 win over Airbus UK Broughton in the play-off final in May secured their place in Europe for the first time in their history. Wes Baynes' goal against Flintshire rivals Airbus UK secured Connah's Quay's place in Europe "It was a special day and will live long in the memory but that's gone now," said Morrison, in his first managerial role after a stint as Airbus UK assistant. "We need to give a good account of ourselves in Europe. We're not kidding ourselves as we know it's going to be a huge ask. "I'm sure our goalkeeper is going to have to be on the top of his game." Stabaek will be Quay's first ever opponents in European and Morrison says the pressure will be on the Norwegian side. "Nobody will expect us to take anything from it," Morrison added. "There will be no glory for them in beating us.

It will only be shame on them if they don't get the result against us so that will add massive pressure." Europa League first qualifying round, first leg: Gap Connah's Quay v Stabæk, Belle Vue, Rhyl, Thursday, 30 June, Kick Off: 17:15 BST MBi Llandudno v IFK Göteborg MBi Llandudno qualified for Europe for the first time in their history at the end of their first season in the Welsh Premier League. Alan Morgan's side finished third and qualified automatically for the Europa League after Airbus UK Broughton failed to beat TNS in the Welsh Cup final. The Seasiders have been handed a tough draw in the first qualifying round, facing Swedish giants IFK Göteborg over two legs. Llandudno striker Marc Williams won the 2015-16 Welsh Premier League player of the season award But manager Morgan is undaunted by the prospect of playing the two-time Uefa Cup winners, with the first leg away from home. "I've said to the lads they've got to take it all in but we're there to try and go through to the next round," Morgan said.

"I said in May that if we ever had a big team, IFK Göteborg were the team I would like to have. "They've got history and are a massive club but we're going to give a good account of ourselves and give it a good go." Although Llandudno will be making their debut, Morgan gained European experience during a spell as player at Rhyl and assistant at Bangor City. Europa League first qualifying round, first leg: IFK Göteborg v MBi Llandudno, Gamla Ullevi Stadium, Gothenburg, Thursday, 30 June, Kick Off: 17:30 BST Share this page

Question: At the end of the 2012-13 season, The New Saints and Airbus UK finished first and second in which football league?
Answer: Welsh Premier League