The New Saints secure pre-season victory ahead of Champions League opener

The New Saints continued their pre-season campaign with a 2-1 victory over H&W Welders.

What happened?

The team, currently 1st in the Premier League with 80 points from 32 games, had a strong performance, with Rhys Hughes equalizing just before half-time and Lock scoring the decider in the second half.

The New Saints had been in action in Belfast three days earlier, drawing 1-1 against Glentoran. But against H&W Welders, they fell behind when Daniel Mhondiwa lifted a confident finish over the onrushing goalkeeper Nathan Shepperd after just five minutes.

Key players

Head coach Craig Harrison was pleased with the amount of opportunities created and by the early signs shown from his summer recruit Rhys Hughes. Hughes had also hit the post and had another chance whistle inches wide of the target.

Upcoming fixtures

The New Saints will kick-off their UEFA Champions League campaign with a two-legged tie against Azerbaijani outfit Sabah in the first qualifying round on Tuesday. They will travel to the Bank Respublika Arena next week, before welcoming Sabah to Park Hall on July 14.

The winner of that tie will face either FK Vardar of North Macedonia, or Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS) of Finland in the next round.

Current form

As of July 1, 2026, The New Saints are on a 5-game winning run, with their last result being a 1-0 win over Barry Town on April 18, 2026. Their current league standing is 1st in the Premier League, with 80 points from 32 games, and a 22-point lead over GAP Connah S Quay FC.