Match Preview: Sligo Rovers vs Vorskla Poltava

 Sligo Rovers go into Thursday evening's 2nd leg tie against Vorskla Poltava with a lot of confidence after their impressive 2nd half showing last week to bring back a 0-0 to The Showgrounds.

Photo from Glen Monaghan

Either team could be back here with the lead, Brendan Clarke pulling off a number of saves at one end while we simply failed to put away great chances at the other end.

Rovers once again have a fully fit side to choose from but its not known if yet if Paul Cook will play the same team that started against Poltava last week.

Its an exciting week for us supporters, and Jessica Farry is one of many who will be attending the match and has given her own thoughts both on last weeks match and this week's second leg tie: "The Showgrounds are looking fantastic; the team are in flying form, tickets are all sold out and boom - we’re ready for the second leg of our third round Europa League qualifier against Vorskla Poltava.

A huge mention goes out to those who have put in the time and effort to improve The Showgrounds, you’re all a credit to the club. And to the gang who travelled to the Ukraine, glad you all enjoyed yourselves and once again, fair play.

Rovers were brilliant in the first leg. Our defence along with Brendan Clarke really stepped up to the mark and played to the best of their ability. It was a huge game to give Conor Powell his first start and by god, he proved it was the right choice.

I’d say Vorskla were stunned by the lads’ performance on Thursday so they will definitely be going for it on Thursday. We have a huge chance of getting through this round now and it would be huge for the League of Ireland in general, never mind what it’ll do for Rovers.

Obviously, a draw is no use to us at all. Everyone is really looking forward to the game and I am fully confident that we can nab the win. It’s no easy task but looking at the performance on Thursday, there’s no reason to say we can’t get the result. We have a clean bill of health once again, Danny Ventre, John Dillon and John Russell all featured in the Dublin Super Cup. Even though it meant nothing, it was still good to see them get a bit of game time.

Anyways, before I get carried away, Thursday cannot come quick enough and we’re all in bits with nerves. Let’s all prepare to watch Rovers invade Europe."

This game is sold out and kick off is at 5.45, with the gates opening at 3.45 and the match will be live on Ocean FM.