Saints squad set for Euro clash

As Richmond Park gets itself ready for a European game this Thursday, St Pat’s are in the rather unusual position of carrying a lead into the home leg of a tie.

“It was a great result away from home. For any Irish side to go away from home is a great achievement,” said Damien Lynch of his side’s 1-0 victory in the first leg of their UEFA Cup qualifier in Riga last week.

However none of the St Pat’s squad are taking Thursday’s return leg against Latvian side JFK Olimps lightly.

“I think I had one basic save to make in the whole game,” said keeper Barry Ryan who enjoyed an uneventful ninety minutes in Riga, “but they’re quick and with eleven men they’re going to attack you more.”

“I don’t think Irish teams can be naive enough to feel we can dominate a whole game. It sounds like a cliché, but European teams are always technically good. Look at the Cyprus game (v Ireland), everyone had it down as a banker and it just didn’t happen,” said Lynch.

“They’re a physically strong side so we’re going to have to take the game to them I think,” added defender Jamie Harris, who played up front in the first leg. With Stephen McDonnell welcoming back Mark Quigley for the home leg, club captain Harris should be assured of a position in central defence.

Asked how he found playing centre forward, Harris answered “I didn’t enjoy it.”

“A lot more running, it’s a completely different game. Passing has to be excellent. Hopefully I can slot back in defence on Thursday,” he said.

St Pats play JFK Olimps at Richmond Park at 17:00 on Thursday, with tickets selling for €10. Patrons are asked to buy in advance as due to UEFA restrictions, Richmond Park capacity has been reduced and a sell out is expected.