Our Airtricity League sides commenced their Europa League campaigns in the first legs of the first qualifying round on Thursday afternoon, with Shamrock Rovers first into action against Brann in Norway. The ‘Hoops’ twice came from behind to earn an excellent two all draw and they will hope to complete the job in Tallaght Stadium next Thursday evening.
Cork City went down to a disappointing two nil defeat by FC Progres Niederkorn of Luxembourg in Turner’s Cross while St Patrick’s Athletic also suffered a two nil defeat against IFK Norrkoping of Sweden in Richmond Park. The prospects of progression now look slim for both clubs with the away legs set for next Thursday.
Also in Europa League action this evening were Ballymena United who suffered a crushing seven nil defeat by Malmo in Sweden. Crusaders secured a two nil success against B36 Torshavn of the Faroe Islands while Cliftonville suffered a one nil home defeat by FK Haugesund of Norway.
Welsh representatives Connah’s Quay Nomads went down to a two one home defeat by Scottish qualifiers Kilmarnock while Aberdeen secured a two one home victory over RoPS Rovaniemi of Finland at Pittodrie.
The first legs in the first qualifying round of the Europa League commenced on Tuesday evening with Scottish side Glasgow Rangers securing a four nil victory over St Josephs in Gibraltar. The victors in that tie will face the winners of the Cork City/FC Progres contest in the second qualifying round.