AFTER LAST WEDNESDAY’S 1-0 defeat on their maiden Champions League voyage, Sligo Rovers have travelled to Molde for the return leg at Akar Stadium this evening (6pm Irish time).
Just short of 4,000 fans were rammed into the Showgrounds to see the momentous occasion for the Bit O’Red, who held their own against superior opposition for much of the 90 minutes but were undone moments before the half-time break.
A defensive mistake by Evan McMillan gifted Daniel Chima Chukwu possession and the Nigerian striker fired past Gary Rodgers for what was the only goal of the game.
While Molde seemed content to sit on their narrow advantage, Rovers pushed forward and, led by veteran Joseph Ndo, Lee Lynch and substitute Kieran Djilali, gave the visitors a couple of scares but were unable to find the back of the net – meaning they’re up against it tonight.
Rafael Cretaro and Danny North, who both missed the first leg through injury, made the trip as part of a 20-man squad and manager Ian Baraclough will have to decide whether either are fit enough to be considered for a starting berth.
If Sligo are to have any chance of progressing to the third qualifying round, where TNS of Wales or Polish side Legia Warsaw would await, finding goals will be a concern as they looked a little toothless last week with Orjan Haskjold only forced into a solitary save – from David McMillan in the first half.
Possible team: Gary Rogers, Alan Keane, Evan McMillan, Gavin Peers, Iarfhlaith Davoren, Kieran Djilali, Joseph Ndo, Seamus Conneely, Lee Lynch, Ross Gaynor; Anthony Elding.
