The New Saints 5 Airbus UK Broughton 0
Zack Clarke was pleased to add his name to the list of goalscorers as he helped The New Saints book a semi-final spot in the JD Welsh Cup after being handed his first start for the club, writes Stuart Dunn.
Clarke, the former Caernarfon Town striker who joined the club last month, completed the scoring as Saints beat Airbus UK Broughton 5-0 in Saturday’s last eight tie at Park Hall.
Airbus travelled to Oswestry as JD Cymru North leaders, but Saints produced a strong all round team performance to progress in the competition.
Ben Clark, Leo Smith and Sion Bradley joined Clarke on the scoresheet, while an own goal from Kieran Evans completed the home side’s tally.
Clarke said: “I obviously wanted to come in and make an impact and all the lads were brilliant.
“We’ve all put on a professional performance and got the win that we needed, so really happy.”
Saints, who remain on course for a potential domestic treble, had already gone close a number of times before the opening goal arrived in the 26th minute, midfielder Clark converting a cross from the left from Jordan Marshall.
Craig Harrison’s side doubled their advantage two minutes before the break as Smith rounded goalkeeper Keighan Jones to score.
Saints moved further clear early in the second half when Airbus defender Evans headed a long ball forward from Marshall into his own net.
Bradley made it 4-0 in the 58th minute with a fine finish after an excellent run.
Bradley then turned provider for the final goal of the afternoon as his free kick was headed home by Clarke, the striker’s first goal for the club.
Saints, nine points clear at the top of the JD Cymru Premier, resume their league campaign with a trip to Bala Town on Friday night.
TNS: Roberts, Davies, Bodenham, Pask, Marshall (Holden), Smith, D. Williams (Phillips), Clark (Oteh), Bradley, Clarke, J. Williams (Wilson). Sub not used: Brobbel.
