IT will go down in the history books as a convincing win for all-conquering JD Welsh Premier League champions The New Saints of Oswestry Town at Caernarfon Town, but it was anything but.

The Canaries were more than a match for the full-timers for the majority of the contest in front of a bumper crowd of more than 1,300, which was the tenth highest in the history of the league.

The fact that Sean Eardley’s side are competing so well against a top outfit like TNS so early in their top flight journey is a testament to the way the manager is embracing the challenge, and his ambition and desire to succeed is clearly rubbing off on the rest of his talented squad.

Harsh lessons have undoubtedly been learnt in their two defeats so far this season, with missed chances and slight lapses in concentration proving costly during what has other wise been a very positive start to life at the top of the Welsh football pyramid.

This league will punish mistakes far more than any side will in the Huws Gray Alliance, but it would be far more concerning for the Cofis’ boss if his side were not carving up openings, and on the evidence of what we have seen so far then it will not be long before a performance really clicks for the Canaries and they will be giving someone a hammering soon, of that there is little doubt.

You only had to listen to TNS manager Scott Ruscoe’s thoughts on the contest as evidence to how much of a game they were given at The Oval, and there already seems to be a belief within the group that they firmly belong within the division and can make a significant impact as the fixtures progress.

There was always going to be teething problems, which happens to 99 per cent of promoted clubs, and although the season is still in its infancy, there are plenty of positive signs that they are going to be a huge asset to a league that has lost Bangor City and Rhyl in recent seasons, both on and off the field.

The return of talisman Darren Thomas is another massive boost for the club as it looks to continue to re-establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with, and although they are sure to be tested throughout the season their togetherness, spirit and overall the talent within the group, together with the level of performance they have displayed so far, should ensure another very successful season providing they continue to believe, be brave and remain undaunted by the challenges that lie ahead.