08.02.2024 15:01 h

Champions want clarity over world record winning run

Welsh champions The New Saints have called for a resolution after their bid for a world record winning streak was denied.

The Cymru Premier Division side believed they had matched their previous record for the most number of consecutive wins in men's domestic top-flight football when they beat Newtown 3-0 on Tuesday.

They thought it was their 27th successive victory after the Guinness World Records organisation told them a penalty shootout win against East Fife in the Scottish Challenge Cup in October counted as a win.

However, the official record-keepers subsequently admitted their mistake and ruled only victories after 90 minutes count.

Therefore, TNS's winning streak stands at 20 and they must win their next eight games to break the record they first set in 2016.

"We are naturally disappointed to learn that our 27-game winning streak apparently no longer qualifies as equalling the world record," a TNS statement said on Thursday.

"On February 6 Guinness World Records confirmed we had equalled the world record, and then on February 7 we were told there had apparently been a 'miscommunication' and that we have not now equalled the world record.

"As far as we are concerned a win is a win and so we have secured 27 wins back-to-back - a fabulous achievement by (manager) Craig (Harrison) and the team, and one deserving of recognition.

"We are in communication with Guinness World Records, and we are hopeful of a resolution that is a fair recognition of the club's remarkable achievement on the pitch."

TNS are 17 points clear at the top of the Cymru Premier Division and are aiming to break the record they set in 2015-16 when they surpassed the famous 1970s Ajax team.