The New Saints edged to a narrow victory over Barry Town United on Friday evening but what were the key elements learnt?
Barry earn plaudits despite loss
It was always going to be tough going up against the defending Champions and Barry didn’t show themselves up whatsoever. In previous years, Barry have succumb to 4-0 and 5-2 losses to The New Saints but this game was a proper battle from start to finish.
Chesterfield set his side up hard to beat and they certainly were that and with more prowess in the final third, Barry could have easily gone home with a point to their name.
Mullen the difference in a tight encounter
Jamie Mullen made a right nuisance of himself for the Barry backline. His quickness and pace caused all sorts of problems for Barry and he assisted the only goal for the game as he cut the ball back for Wes Fletcher to prod home his third goal in two games.
The former Manchester United youth product put in a man of the match display at Jenner Park and made all the difference in what was a tight affair between two old enemies.
That’s why we’re champions…
Exactly. Not the prettiest of display’s from the visitors, however, when up against it at times the visitors dug deep and earned what could turn out to be a vital three points come the end of the season.
The New Saints will have better performances than this victory over Barry at Jenner Park, but you have to admire their professionalism in the 1-0 win.
That’s not to take anything away from Barry, though. They were excellent throughout, there is no getting away from that and if they play like that week in, week out, they will cause a lot of teams problems in the Welsh Premier League this season.
(Featured image: SameOldSmith)
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