Coleman seeking to break Sligo Euro jinx

John Coleman. Picture: Robertas Dackus/SPORTSFILE

Garry Doyle

SLIGO ROVERS manager John Coleman is cautiously optimistic on his side claiming their first win in Europe in 20 years when his side take on Lithuanian opponents FK Banga at the Showgrounds this evening.

Locked at 0-0 after the first leg of their Europa League first round tie with the Lithuanians, Bit o' Red want to see their side progress in the competition given their poor domestic form which resulted in the recent sacking of Ian Baraclough as boss.

"If we win the game we go through, it's as simple as that and that's what our objective is going to be," said Coleman.

"I know we're good enough but that doesn't always grant you the right to win.

"I'm pleased with the quality we've got, the work-rate and effort that the players have shown in the short space of time that I have been here but we're not going to take anything for granted.

"You just don't turn up on the pitch and expect it to happen. It is going to take a lot of hard work, possibly a little bit of luck as well.

"I'm really looking forward to it. Even just being around the town a bit, you can feel the buzz and you could feel the buzz from Sunday.

"Hopefully it'll be a special night in Rovers history and my own history."

Derry wary of Welsh

Derry City - who take a 4-0 lead into the second leg of their Europa League tie against the hapless Welsh team, Aberystwyth Town - insist there is no need to look for luck.

"We need to guard against complacency," said their manager, Peter Hutton. Should they do so then they should complete a hat-trick of Irish success stories in Europe.