United fan Roberts impresses as TNS frustrate Fiorentina
TNS in Europe
By Chris O'Brien
October 4 2024
Lifelong Manchester United supporter Connor Roberts impressed between the sticks - as his The New Saints side put on a valiant display in Florence, losing out 2-0 to Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League in their first ever group stage game.
United fan Roberts said ahead of the game that he hoped to compete against former Red Devil David De Gea, who joined Fiorentina over the summer. But the Spaniard was an unused substitute as the home side gave the nod to custodian Pietro Terracciano.
However, the Welsh 31-year-old shot stopper put on an impressive performance of his own as TNS kept the score with I Viola goalless for an impressive 65 minutes, before goals from Yacil Adli and substitute Moise Kean settled the contest.
TNS defended resolutely, and Roberts produced the sort of goalkeeping performance that would make his beloved United proud.
Adrian Cieslewicz - who entered the game as an 82nd minute substitute - is another United fan in the TNS ranks.
The Cymru Premier are the first Welsh domestic side to reach the group stages of a continental competition - and backed by 150 travelling supporters, proved worthy of that status as they frustrated their illustrious hosts for long periods - with Roberts' heroics between the sticks playing a big part.
There's even some talk in Welsh football supporter circles of Roberts getting a call-up to the senior Wales squad.
Roberts started his career with Everton, and has spent time with Fulham, Cheltenham Town, Chester City and Bangor City, in addition to a number of other clubs. He'll next get the chance to impress on the European stage on 24 October when Astana visit Shrewsbury, where TNS will play their Conference League home games.