THE New Saints boss Scott Ruscoe has challenged talented winger Billy Whitehouse to keep his shirt after he starred in the thrashing of Aberystwyth Town on Bank Holiday Monday.

Whitehouse scored three and set up two more as the Seasiders paid the price of TNS’ defeat to Bala Town on Friday night, with Saints hitting 10 for the second time in three years.

Ruscoe believes Park Hall is home to the best wide man in the league but insists Whitehouse has it all to do to prove his place.

“Billy started a game last season but it’s his first start this season,” said Ruscoe.

“When we signed him, we made it clear it’s because he’s going to be one for the future. If you look at it, he’s come in and he’s in a fight with two or three of the best wide players – the best three – in Jamie Mullan, Adrian Cieslewicz and Ryan Brobbel.

“He’s a young lad who’s been at a good level and he can come in and show us what he can do and hopefully if it’s like what he did on Monday, then let’s hope we see more of it.

“He’s a bit frustrated that he’s not playing but he knows that he’s got the chance and it’s entirely in his hands.”

Ruscoe believes Saturday’s opponents, newcomers Penybont, will have had one eye on Monday but he expects a tough test regardless.

He added: “I think they will have come to frustrate us but still try to play as well.

“They’re a very good team run by Rhys Griffiths who is an excellent manager and was a very good player in our league too.

“I expect them to be well-drilled.

“I wouldn’t say I’m content because I would’ve liked nine points but you don’t win every game.

“Players have come with new challenges and we have to make our new players gel.

“Our season started on Monday because the opening two were not TNS standard.”