It will be a case of deja vu for FC Nomads manager Tom Taylor this Saturday.
The club travel to Llangefni to replay their abandoned FAW Trophy quarter final, which was called off due poor visibility during half time of extra added time.
Both sides were drawing 1-1, but a leg break injury to an FC Nomads player caused a lengthy delay leading to poor light. Although their original tie was a battle, Tom Taylor expects both sides to be even more fired up for Saturday.
“Yes of course, last Saturday’s game was a very tough and even encounter. It was very difficult to play football due to the pitch and weather conditions. I expect the game to be very similar to previous game due to the conditions. Both teams know how much is at stake, and will be going all out to make it into the next round.
Taylor admits he was expecting a tough match at Llangefni due to a strong run in their league, the Welsh Alliance Division One.
“Of course they have been flying in the league since Xmas and comprehensively beat St Asaph in the previous round. Both teams have similar positions in their respective leagues, with games in hand on the leaders. They have some great players in Steven Kehoe and Corey Williams so we knew they were going to be a threat.”
Taylor admires what Chris Roberts has done at Llangefni and tips them to be in the Huws Gray Alliance. Although Llangefni sit sixth currently, they have a number of games in hand to try and climb further towards the top.
“Chris has built a very competitive side; the game against Caernarfon in another cup proves they are no pushovers. If not this season then next season, I’d fully expect them to be promotion candidates for the HGA. The facilities are in place for that standard and I’m positive Chris they are heading towards that direction with the squad he has.”
Since taking the Nomads’ hot seat in January, Taylor boasts a good record with four wins and one loss. Ahead of one his biggest games of the season, Taylor acknowledges the side are still a working progress as they chase the ultimate goal of promotion.
“As managers we always analysis every game and we never stop improving and looking to get better. There are areas where we know we need to improve on, also where our strengths are.
We know that next season we will need to add a few players to ensure we move up to the next level. This season is about trying to win every game and getting to know the players we have currently.”
The semi final draw has already been made with Saturday’s win awarding either Llangefni or Nomads a clash with Chirk AAA, but Taylor dismisses any talk of their chances in a semi final against a fellow Welsh National Premier Division side.
“We are only looking as far as Saturday! It doesn’t matter who we have in the next round we haven’t made it that far yet!”
On squad availability, Taylor will not have a full choice of selection due to some absences but accepts it as a reality of football at this level.
“We have a few missing for Saturday’s game which is disappointing due to numerous reasons. It is frustrating but this happens at this level of football. All we can do it make sure the lads coming in are well prepared and ready for the challenge ahead!”
FC Nomads travel to Llangefni Town again on Saturday 18 February for a 2:00pm kick off.
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