The New Saints will look to make history tonight by progressing for the first time in Europe when they lock horns with FK Suduva at Newtown’s Latham Park (6.45pm).

Despite improvements over the years, the Welsh Premier men still have a dismal record of making summer exits at the first hurdle.

But they harbour hopes of bucking the trend in tonight’s return leg of their Uefa Cup qualifying round clash after narrowly losing 1-0 in the first leg in Lithuania two weeks ago.

The scoreline could have been so much better had they not conceded a late goal, but the Saints will still be hopeful of overturning the deficit.

Last year, also at Newtown, they notched a 3-2 Champions League victory over FK Ventspils, their first win in Europe, only to bow out on the away goals rule a week later.

The Saints can take heart from their timely 2-1 win at Wrexham in a behind closed doors friendly last weekend and coach Mike Davies is confident that his side are capable of progressing to the next round.

“It was a good work-out and an ideal match to have ahead of the Uefa Cup tie,” said Davies.

“They had a strong squad so to beat them was very pleasing from our point of view.

“Of course Suduva will be a completely different proposition to a friendly with Wrexham but it was a good run-out.

“We only need one goal and we are back in the tie and I certainly think we are capable.

“We have a lot of belief in the squad and we will go into the second leg with confidence.”

Midfielder John Leah is the main injury worry but should be fit after picking up a knock in the friendly win at Wrexham.

Front runner Alfie Carter, who scored in the Wrexham game after appearing as substitute, is certain to play some part in tonight’s proceedings.

The Saints now carry the only Welsh hopes in Europe following Llanelli’s exit in the Champions League last week, ironically against Ventspils, and Bangor City’s crushing 6-1 Uefa Cup first leg defeat against Danish side FC Midtjylland.

Tonight’s game at Latham Park kicks off at 6.45pm, with tickets priced at £10 for adults and £5 for concessions/children.