HUW GRIFFITHS is “encouraged rather than hopeful” as Cefn Druids get ready for battle with The New Saints at Park Hall.

The Ancients were beaten 5-0 on Boxing Day by Scott Ruscoe’s Saints, who saw Greg Draper net a second-half hat-trick after first period efforts from Danny Redmond and Adrian Cieslewicz.

But with Newtown only drawing at home to Aberystwyth, Druids remain in sixth spot on goal difference, and Griffiths is relishing tonight’s trip to the table toppers.

“I wasn’t too disappointed in terms of performance,” said sporting director Griffiths with reference to Boxing Day’s beating.

“We’ve had the first two or three chances and when you get that against TNS you’ve got to score.

“We didn’t do that and they’ve punished us, which is where one or two of the boys have learned a cruel lesson.

“But I wasn’t bitterly disappointed with the performance in general terms, because it was the most chances we’ve created against TNS. The lads tried to carry out the game plan and that was really pleasing.”

Coming up against the league’s only completely full-time team twice in quick succession is no mean feat, but Griffiths is ready for battle.

“It’s an uphill challenge,” said Griffiths. “But we will regroup and go again because we’ve done okay and the lads’ effort was really pleasing.

“Why would TNS change their side after winning 5-0? But if they decide to give lads some game time we could catch them cold.”

Saints boss Ruscoe felt his side could have won by a bigger margin if they’d made the most of their dominance of the ball.

“The only thing that didn’t really please me too much was how much possession we got and the end product, but having said that we scored five goals, so we must have been doing something right,” said Ruscoe. “As a manager, or a coach, you are never 100 per cent pleased or happy because you are looking at the next game.”

On tonight’s clash at Park Hall, Ruscoe added: “The players will be well-aware we lost our previous home game.”

Joe Faux and Ramirez Howarth are doubts for Druids, who will welcome back Neil Ashton and Charley Edge after injury and illness respectively.

Druids’ top-six rivals, Newtown and Cardiff Met, head to Aberystwyth and host Barry Town United respectively.