Newtown will be hoping to put their European play-off disappointment behind them as they head into the new Cymru Premier season on Saturday, as they host Penybont at Latham Park.
The Robins lost out to Haverfordwest County on penalties in May, as Corey Shephard fired in the winning penalty to send the Bluebirds into the UEFA Europa Conference League qualifying rounds.
It would lead to a memorable night in Cardiff for Tony Pennock’s side, who came from behind in the First qualifying round to beat KF Shkëndija on penalties.
Newtown full-back Mathew Jones is hoping that the Robins can get back into Europe this season, having suffered the heartbreak of missing out on a European adventure.
“We would have liked to have finished last season in the automatic European spots,” he began.
“We were gutted. It was my first time in Europe the season before and once you get the taste for it it’s one of the best things playing in Europe.
“We had a longer break (this summer). I went to watch Penybont’s home game in Europe and the amount of people you get, the feel around the games. I was there supporting my mate but I was also gutted that it wasn’t us playing.
Jones also praised Haverfordwest, after the Bluebirds put on a brilliant showing in Europe.
“It looks very good for the league,” he stated.
“Haverfordwest have done so well in Europe.
“It is getting to that stage now where teams in Wales who are progressing into Europe are doing well.
“I’ve seen some things where people are slating it a little bit but I think we are improving.
Cymru Premier aim – “We will definitely push for Europe”
Newtown have already begun their competitive season, but it came with a cup exit as the Robins were beaten by Cymru North side Guilsfield in the Nathaniel MG Cup.
Jason Oswell put the Cymru Premier side ahead but that would be cancelled out by an Andrew Evans equaliser, which sent the game to penalties.
It would be the second-tier side who would go on to progress in the competition, meaning Newtown go into this weekend’s Cymru Premier opener on the back of a loss.
However, Jones does not think that will deter them and believes the result will only make them stronger.
“The good thing about football is that you go onto the next one,” he explained.
“The season starts for us on Saturday so we move onto that. It’s good preparation before the league. We were gutted that we lost but it makes us more hungry to do well.“
With Barry Town United and Colwyn Bay having both been promoted to the Cymru Premier last season, many believe the attendances in Wales’ top flight will be on the rise, which is something that Jones is looking forward to this season.
“I always enjoy playing Barry, especially down there where they get a good crowd.
“I’ve never played Colwyn Bay but I know they get a good crowd.
“I’m pretty sure Newtown have done something this season where it’s £5 a game now, so we’re trying to boost our attendances as well.
“I usually find Friday night games are the best for attendances. I do hope all round that attendances do improve.
Newtown open their Cymru Premier campaign against Penybont on Saturday.
Jones is expecting a difficult task when Penybont come to town.
“Difficult. Never liked playing against Penybont. They’re always difficult,” he explained.
“They’re strong, you know exactly what you’re going to get, they’re hard to stop.
“They’ve made a few changes, a few additions, looked good in Europe I thought and were unlucky to miss out, so it will be a good challenge.
“Everyone is going to be giving it a go. It’s important for us that we get off to a good start and go on a run. Our run last season didn’t come quick enough and I felt like we were always chasing.
“We will definitely push for Europe again this season and hopefully we can secure that.“
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