THE contrasting fortunes of Flintshire rivals Airbus and Connah’s Quay Nomads were laid bare yesterday.

While the Wingmakers were facing up to life back in the Cymru North, Nomads found out what Uefa have planned for 2020/21 European competition.

Top-flight champions Nomads, led by Andy Morrison, right, will enter the Champions League for the first time in their history on August 18/19 as they take place in a one-legged first qualifying round tie.

Uefa confirmed that all qualifying rounds of the Champions League and Europa League will be played over single legs, rather than two, with the draw to determine the home team.

Barry Town United enter the Europa League at the preliminary round stage, set for August 20, with Bala and The New Saints entering a week later in the first round.

And while those at the top of the food chain were plotting their European plans, Steve O’Shaughnessy’s Airbus were reflecting on relegation.

General manager Jonathan Williams said in a statement: “We are all very shocked and disappointed with the decision of the FAW. We will take our time to reflect on this surprising decision following what appeared to be a consensus from member clubs to increase the number of teams to 14 in the Cymru Premier.”

Kristian O’Leary’s Carmarthen Town joined Airbus in being relegated, Haverfordwest County replacing them in the top-flight.

A statement from the Old Gold read: “Whilst today’s news brings disappointment, especially with our confidence to survive, we move into tier-two of Welsh football with the determination to get straight back into the Cymru Premier League.”

Corwen won’t be coming up against Airbus after they were relegated from the Cymru North alongside Porthmadog and Llanfair United. But there is some good news for Nick Jones’ men after striker Owen Cordiner agreed a deal for the 2020/21 campaign.

Porthmadog issued a statement following their relegation, which said: “The news that Port will play at third tier next season brings to a close what has been a nightmare 2019/2020. It is a very disappointing way to lose the place in the Cymru North with six games and 18 points still to play for and also two games in hand over the club in the lowest position of safety.”