Connahs Quay Nomads secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Queen of the South in an International Club Friendly at Palmerston Park on 27 June 2026. The Welsh Premier League side edged the contest with a disciplined defensive display and a clinical first-half finish, spoiling the home fans' evening in Dumfries.

Match Overview

The only goal of the game arrived in the 34th minute when Connahs Quay midfielder Jamie Mullan capitalised on a defensive mix-up in the Queen of the South backline. A long ball forward caused confusion between goalkeeper Charlie Cowie and his centre-back, allowing Mullan to nip in, round the keeper, and slot into an empty net from eight yards.

Queen of the South dominated possession after the interval but found the Nomads defence stubborn and well-organised. The Doonhamers pushed for an equaliser, with striker Gavin Reilly going close in the 61st minute, his header from a corner kick brilliantly saved by Connahs Quay goalkeeper Andy Firth.

Second Half Pressure

As the half wore on, Queen of the South's intensity grew. Manager Marvin Bartley introduced fresh legs in attack, including winger Kyle Doherty, who caused problems down the right flank. Doherty's cross in the 76th minute found substitute forward Lee Connelly, but his goal-bound shot was deflected wide by a desperate sliding challenge from Nomads captain Danny Holmes.

Connahs Quay, to their credit, managed the game well in the closing stages. They slowed the tempo, used possession wisely, and restricted the home side to half-chances. The defence, led by the experienced George Horan, cleared their lines effectively under pressure.

Pre-Season Context

This friendly represented an important step in Connahs Quay's preparations for the upcoming Cymru Premier season. Manager Neil Gibson will be pleased with his side's defensive organisation and their ability to grind out a result away from home against Scottish League One opposition. Queen of the South, still building match sharpness under Bartley, will take positives from their second-half dominance but will need to improve their final-third execution before the competitive season begins.

Key Moments

• 34' Goal: Jamie Mullan capitalises on a defensive error to score the winner.
• 61' Save: Andy Firth denies Gavin Reilly with a reflex stop from a header.
• 84' Substitution: Queen of the South throw on an extra forward in a late push for a leveller.

What It Means

For Connahs Quay, this result builds momentum ahead of their league campaign. For Queen of the South, it offers clear areas for improvement, particularly in converting possession into goals. Both sides will feel the exercise was worthwhile as they continue their pre-season schedules.