The New Saints aim to pass their Uni exam

After being held to a goalless deadlock at home to Bala Town last time out - the first time they have failed to score at Park Hall this term - the Saints have seen their lead trimmed to just one point.

And with second placed Connah's Quay Nomads in action this afternoon (sat), the defending champions may have lost pole position by the time they kick off in their game televised live by S4C.

Standing in the way of the Saints tomorrow will be a Cardiff Met side who have suffered a mixed start with nine points from their opening seven games.

But they gave themselves a timely boost in midweek with a 3-1 home success over Carmarthen Town to reach the last eight of the Nathaniel MG Cup.

Despite having never defeated the Saints, the Cardiff hosts have proved tricky opponents with just the odd goal often separating the sides in previous meetings.

"They've had an indifferent start, but it's always a tough game against them on a tight pitch," said TNS manager Scott Ruscoe who has a full squad at his disposal.

"They have changed a bit in terms of personnel, but are always a good side, well drilled and defensively well organised, and stick to a game plan."

The Saints chief will be backing his free-scoring side to find the net again after drawing a blank against the Lakesiders.

"We controlled the game, but just did not do quite enough to get that goal," he added. "It was not our night, but we can take positives as it was another clean sheet, and we are now unbeaten in five."