AIRBUS can’t afford to show The New Saints too much respect if they are to end their four-match winless run.

That’s the opinion of assistant manager Andrew Thomas, who felt his side “didn’t do themselves any favours” when slipping to a 6-2 defeat to the reigning champions in October.

“TNS are one of the best teams in the league for a reason,” said Thomas. “But we need to make sure we don’t show them as much respect as we did last time we played them. We have to show them some respect, but there is pressure on them to win the game because that’s expected of them, so we need to make it as difficult as possible.”

Airbus found themselves 4-0 down at the break at Park Hall before the two teams shared four goals after the interval, George Peers netting the visitors efforts.

“The positive from the last time we played them was that we didn’t lose the second-half,” continued Thomas. “But it’s no good playing when you are 4-0 down, so we need to be right from the very start.”

Saints boss Scott Ruscoe believes Airbus can’t be taken lightly even if they are hovering just above the relegation zone

The Wingmakers swept aside the competition to win the Cymru North last term, but have found life in the top-flight considerably tougher, winning just three of 15 outings.

“The Cymru Premier is a step up and they may have found it a little bit tough, but they’ve got some excellent players, some very good young players and some experienced boys,” said Ruscoe. “If we are not up to it I’m sure they will want to show us how good they are and take three points of us.”

Goalkeeper Dave Roberts and striker Andy Owens are both available for Airbus having missed the trip to Park Hall, while Jordan Evans is set to return after injury, but George Hughes serves the first game of a two-match ban and Ryan Edwards is doubtful.