Dundalk must play like champions

For the second year running Dundalk are faced with the daunting challenge of having to overturn a one-goal BATE Borisov lead if they are to prolong their interest in the Champions League.

But, this evening, the Lilywhites must also set about doing so without the psychological benefit of an away goal and, as a consequence of Uefa regulations for the competition’s third qualifying round, in their home from home of Tallaght Stadium rather than in the familiar surroundings of Oriel Park.

Twelve months ago, Dundalk returned from Belarus with a 2-1 deficit that was the very least they deserved for a tremendous away performance against a team of serious Champions League pedigree. Unfortunately, they needed just one goal to progress, the task proving beyond the SSE Airtricity League champions back at Oriel Park as the visitors, newly respectful of their opponents after what had been for the Belarusian side a sobering first leg, thoroughly dominated a game which ended in a scoreless draw.