The New Saints find themselves in familiar territory as they bid to keep alive their hopes of progressing in the newly-formed Europa League.
A narrow 2-1 loss at Icelandic side Fram Reykjavik last night left them chasing the tie, a scenario so similar to several previous excursions in Europe.
But manager Andy Cale believes the Welsh Premier men – who have never progressed past the first hurdle in European competition – can roar back in Thursday’s return leg on the artificial surface at Oswestry’s Park Hall.
“Before the game I said I would have liked to have come away with a draw, or even a narrow win, but we’re still in the tie which was our intention going out there,” he said.
“On our own pitch, there’s certainly everything to play for.”
In far cooler conditions (16C) than they left in the UK, the Saints started last night’s tie with purpose as they enjoyed the early possession.
So they would be slightly disappointed at not returning home with more to show for their efforts after taking the lead through former Wales and Wrexham defender Steve Evans – the first time they have ever led away from home in Europe.
The Welsh Premier outfit had their moments, particularly in the first half, but a penalty from Sam Tillen and a defensive slip resulting in a goal for Heidar Juliussonsaw the Icelanders hit back to secure a narrow first leg advantage.
The overall winners of next week’s tie will meet Sigma of the Czech Republic in the next qualifying round.
By JOHN BRIDGWATER
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