Connah’s Quay Nomads are a club that doesn’t do mid-table.
The Nomads are currently sitting comfortably in fourth place in the JD Cymru Premier League. With several games in hand over second-placed Penybont and third-placed Caernarfon, the Quay will be looking to leapfrog both teams.
Their goal of reaching the top six is becoming increasingly achievable, boasting an eight-point lead over seventh-placed Barry Town. However, they must remain vigilant and avoid complacency.
The Flintshire side have finished second in two of the last three seasons. Last season’s bottom half finish has been a key motivating factor for manager John Disney’s side this season. A new look Connah’s Quay have a structure and look like a force to be reckoned with this season, unlike last season when Billy Paynter’s side struggled to string wins together.
The Nomads’ away form last season was one of their biggest frustrations. You could say that they were ‘consistently inconsistent’. This campaign, however, has been quite the opposite. Their away form has been a revelation. Only one loss in eight games this season on the road has been a huge boost for the Connah’s Quay.
Furthermore, the Nomads have hit fine form of late and haven’t lost a competitive fixture since they fell to a 2-1 home defeat to Caernarfon eight games ago. Scoring at least three goals in their last seven matches has propelled them into a strong position with only a few games remaining in the regular season.
In their recent dismantling of second-placed Penybont, The Quay proved why they are in the fight for a top-three finish. A Penybont side, known to be tough to beat, were dominated throughout the match. Disney’s side was two to the good by half time and went on to win 4-0.
(Photo credit: Nik Mesney/FAW)
If the Nomads qualify for the top six, their full focus will be on a charge up the table to improve their chances of securing a European spot. First place is now TNS‘ to lose with a nine-point gap to second place, but second place is very much up for grabs. Securing second place comes with a bye straight to the European Play-off Final and a shot at glory. The winners of the Play-off Final are rewarded with a place in the Europa Conference League qualifying rounds.
Experience will be a huge boost for The Nomads. The likes of Kai Edwards, Noah Edwards and Chris Marriot all have 200+ Cymru Premier appearances. These players know how to navigate the decisive matches in the Championship round and have experience playing in Europe.
After missing out last season, the Nomads are even more determined to put themselves back on the European stage.
[Featured image courtesy of Craig Thomas/FAW]
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