The New Saints lose title row case against FAW

Nomads (red) on the attack in last season’s 1-0 victory over TNS. Picture: Nik Mesney, NCM Media

The New Saints have been unsuccessful in their High Court case against the Football Association of Wales relating to the outcome of last season’s Cymru Premier League title.

Saints took legal action after Connah’s Quay Nomads were named champions in May in a curtailed season.

Nomads won the title under an unweighted points-per-game method, also used to decide leagues throughout Wales.

TNS owner Mike Harris felt awarding Connah’s Quay the championship failed to give sporting merit its chance. Harris is now considering an appeal.

The FAW confirmed the end of its domestic leagues because of the coronavirus pandemic, which saw TNS miss out on a ninth successive title, having finished four points adrift of the Nomads when the season ended.

Nomads, who lifted the title for the first time, welcomed today’s decision which means they qualify for the Uefa Champions League.

A club statement said: “We can now look forward to hopefully resuming training this week as we plan ahead for an exciting time in the club’s history. We would like to place on record our thanks to the FAW and the Association’s Board of Directors for their diligence and professionalism throughout the case.”

First team manager Andy Morrison added: “Hopefully we, like Bala Town and Barry Town, can now get on with our European preparation – we have prided ourselves on our performances in Europe and our preparation has always been meticulous.

“Through no fault of our own, we are 2-3 weeks behind where we should be and only time will tell how that will effect us.”

The Football Association of Wales commented: “The FAW is pleased with today’s judgement and its recognition that the Association’s Board of Directors acted appropriately in these unprecedented times to look after the best interests of football in Wales.

“There were no easy solutions for the Board in these exceptional circumstances and their decisions were made in good faith and not based on the interests of any particular club, but the wider interests of the football community.

“Being the governing body of football in Wales during these extraordinary circumstances, the FAW has a responsibility towards everyone involved in the game and continues to be mindful of all Welsh Government Regulations, written statements and guidance as they evolve.

“The FAW now looks forward to continuing with its Return to Training and Play policies for the whole of Welsh football in order for the game to resume safely in the future.”