The New Saints are set to play their home matches in the upcoming Conference League campaign at Shrewsbury’s Croud Meadow. This decision comes after the Cymru Premier champions qualified for a major European competition last month, making history as the first Welsh domestic league club to do so.
According to a statement released by the team on Monday, UEFA rules require clubs to play their home fixtures in a stadium within the association they represent. However, due to the unavailability of a suitable category four stadium to host all three of their league phase matches, The New Saints were granted dispensation by European football’s governing body.
With a ground sharing agreement now in place, TNS will be playing at Shrewsbury’s 9,875-capacity stadium for their matches against Astana on October 24, Djurgarden on November 28, and Panathinaikos on December 12. TNS chairman Mike Harris expressed gratitude towards Shrewsbury Town for allowing them to host these historic matches at Croud Meadow, emphasizing the importance of community support as they face some of the biggest clubs in Europe.
The proximity of the stadium to their Park Hall home means that supporters from Oswestry, Mid Wales, and North Wales will have the opportunity to travel easily and cheer on the team. In addition to these home matches, TNS will also be playing away against Fiorentina, Shamrock Rovers, and Celje in the league phase of the competition.
This development opens up exciting opportunities for fans to witness their favorite team compete on a larger stage, showcasing Welsh football talent to a wider audience. As The New Saints embark on this historic journey, the support and enthusiasm of the community will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their success.
