JAYSON STARKEY insists Cefn Druids will remain patient as they look to fine-tune their new style of play.

The Ancients picked up their first point of the season at the third attempt on Saturday as Bruno Lopes’ men drew 1-1 at home to Cardiff Met.

Conceding another goal from a set-piece highlighted the fact that there are still things to work on for Druids, but things are improving game-by-game.

“We are putting a new philosophy and new principles in place,” said Starkey ahead of tonight’s trip to Newtown.

“People would be deluded if they thought the changes we are trying to implement would click into place overnight.

“We’ve got an understanding board who have the patience to let us try and get it right as a coaching staff and players.”

One point from a possible nine has left Druids at the bottom of the table, but victory at Latham Park can move them up four places to eighth.

“The confidence is improving,” continued Starkey.

“We are now chasing that first three points of the season and if we get them we will move up four places in the table.

“There have been lots of draws this season, which is good for us, and we know that a win at Newtown will help us climb the table and improve the confidence throughout the squad further.”

Hosts Newtown are only one point better off than Druids having played a game more than Lopes’ men.

The Robins strengthened their squad in the summer with the likes of former Druids quartet Jordan Evans, James Davies, Jake Phillips and Tyrone Ofori arriving.

Despite their current form, Starkey knows Newtown remain a dangerous opponent, saying: “We are well aware of the threat they possess with a number of familiar faces in their squad. We played them in pre-season and they have principles that they stick to.

“They are similar to us in that things haven’t quite clicked in terms of results, but it takes time for players to settle at any level and ours is no different.

“We are aware of the talent that’s in their squad and we know we need to be at the top of our game.”

Newtown head into the contest on the back of a 1-1 draw at home to Aberystwyth Town on Friday.

Neil Mitchell struck late on to earn Newtown a point after Jamie Veale’s 35th minute opener for Aberystwyth.

Boss Chris Hughes was impressed by his side’s performance at the weekend, but wants improvements in-front of goal.

“When you look at the game, we are really pleased with the performance first and foremost,” said Hughes.

“It was more like us in terms of our intensity and our pressing.

“What we didn’t do was work their goalkeeper enough, but I thought in terms of build-up, possession and territory we were excellent, dominant really, really dominant.”

Druids hope to have international clearance for ex-Newtown midfielder Sam Phillips and Chris Azimall in time to face the Robins, while Joe Faux requires a late fitness test.

Cody Ruberto (cracked rib) is set to be sidelined for “a few weeks”, while Phil Mooney is working his way back to fitness.