STEVE O’SHAUGHNESSY believes Airbus have a “great chance” of avoiding an instant return to the Cymru North.

But the Wingmakers will only end the season out of the bottom two if they can replicate the energy and desire shown in a 3-2 defeat to Cefn Druids last weekend.

Despite having Steve Tomassen sent-off after 25 minutes, Airbus led through Joe Palmer’s effort, before pegging it back to 2-2 through Kristian Platt’s fine long range free-kick.

Unfortunately, Airbus conceded inside three minutes of scoring on both occasions and ended up slipping to the foot of the table after Carmarthen climbed off the bottom with a 2-1 win at fellow strugglers Penybont.

Airbus boss O’Shaughnessy is remaining positive, however, saying: “There are still nine games and 27 points to play for, which is a lot of points.

“If we show the same bit of heart as we did against Cefn Druids then we’ve got a great chance.

“There was nothing between the two teams, it’s just disappointing to concede the three goals the way we did and we need to find a way to cut those out going forward.”

Airbus are back in action on Friday night as they head to Aberystwyth, who have parted company with director of football Nev Powell.

Former Connah’s Quay and Bangor City boss Powell said: “I’d like to thank everyone at the club, including the volunteers, the directors and of course the players and supporters, who been magnificent in my time there.

“I hope I have left the club in a better position than when I started and hopefully can kick on from here.”

Third from bottom Carmarthen, out of the drop zone on goal difference, host Cardiff Met tomorrow with boss Kristian O’Leary relishing the relegation scrap.

“I said when I took over that as long as we were within touching distance with 10 games to go, they would be 10 cup finals,” said the former Swansea and Wrexham midfielder.

“I’ve been involved in these types of games before and they are fantastic.”