Saints up against it after draw

AFTER admirable away draws for Bohemians and Derry City, St Patrick’s Athletic last night made it three one-ones on the trot for League of Ireland teams in Europe – but, with a precious away goal to take home with them, it was Valletta of Malta who were doing the celebrating at the end of this Uefa Europa League Second Qualifying Round first leg tie at Richmond Park.

Pat’s went into the match badly depleted by injury and suspension, with Jason Gavin, Mark Quigley, Mark Leech, Gary Dempsey, John Lester and Gints Freimanis all missing out but Declan O’Brien, on loan front Dundalk, was able to make what would prove to be a significant debut for the Saints.

Valletta had former Manchester United man and son of Johann, the now completely bald Jordi Cruyff, at the centre of their defence, with ex-Shamrock Rovers man Luke Dimech close at hand in a set-up which favoured attacking wingbacks. But, despite Valletta schemer Gilbert Agius attempting a Beckham-like effort from inside his own half – which Gary Rogers in the Pat’s goal comfortably fielded – it was the home side who shaded the often frantic but less than gripping opening exchanges, with first Bobby Ryan and then Stuart Byrne coming close with low drives from distance.