Match Report: Connah’s Quay Nomads v Cefn Druids

A tough night for Druids as The Nomads showed their quality and were clinical with the chances they created. Two goals in either half saw last season’s champions come out 4-0 winners at Deeside.

More rotation from last week’s match at Haverfordwest. With Niall Flint suspended, Max Davidson came into the backline along with Ben Wynne on the right-hand side. The ball was zipping about on the grass at Deeside, making for a quick, competitive match.

We kicked off, and both sides were battling straight away to try and get the ball under control. The Nomads did eventually enjoy a solid spell of possession, forcing Druids to sit back and play on the counter. A few early crosses were dealt with well by the Druids defence and Ryan Nield in goal.

Despite their early pressure, it was Druids who created the best opening chance of the match. Around 10 minutes in, Joe Faux won the ball in our half and countered on the Nomads. His through ball down the line found Agy through on goal with just a defender to beat. Ben Wynne was alone in the box and screaming for the cross to tap it in, however a last-ditch challenge by Nomad’s defender Danny Holmes blocked the cross to prevent Druids taking the lead. Encouraging signs as we were looking dangerous on the counter.

However, the home side continued to apply the pressure and got their reward just before the 20-minute mark. A simple corner to the back post wasn’t dealt with by Druids and Aeron Edwards headed in from point blank range. Again undone from a set piece. A frustrating blow for Druids. Seven minutes later, the home side doubled their lead through a series of good fortune. A shot from the edge of the box was deflected and bounced around our area, falling kindly for Edwards who poked it home for his second of the night.

Druids continued fighting and were trying to get a goal before halftime to get back into the game. Then on 39 minutes, our best chance of the match. Ben Wynne did excellently on the halfway line to turn his man and drive inside with the ball. Joe Faux made the forward run from the opposite wing, with Wynne playing a great ball for him through on goal. His shot on the angle was saved by the outstretched leg of keeper Ollie Byrne. Agonisingly close from Druids.

The referee blew for halftime shortly after where Druids could have had 2 goals.

The second half began, and it was the home side who put Druids to the sword. The back-to-back league champions showed their quality to keep possession and prevent Druids from countering up the pitch. On 60 minutes, some miscommunication at the back was pounced upon by The Nomads with Craig Curran stabbing it home to make it 3-0. Our opponents got one more before the full-time whistle to complete the 4-0 victory.

Druids were able to create meaningful chances first half, however, overall, the home side showed their quality and were clinical in front of goal.

We keep going and return to The Rock next Friday night as we welcome Newtown AFC.

More than just a football club.