Bohs expect European success

Bohemians captain Kevin Hunt insists the pressure is on the players to progress against Levadia Tallinn tonight.

Bohs face their Estonian opponents in a UEFA Cup first qualifying round second leg tie in a strong position to progress after a goalless draw in the away leg.

Hunt believes much of the pressure, though, will come from within.

“We set the standard in Europe, starting when we beat Aberdeen (in 2000) and now we have got to continue it. We are now expected to reach the second round every season but we are confident of doing it.

“We should have won out there and had the chances, but they had a number of chances too so we are going to have to be on our guard.”

Bohemians manager Stephen Kenny is “confident, but not over-confident” of going through, and feels the tie is finely poised.

“Nil-nil away is not that good a result,” he said.

“A score draw is good but not scoreless. It means the tie is very evenly balanced. You could be leading 1-0 and playing very well and then concede a goal and go out on away goals. It means we will have to keep it tight at the back while also needing to score a goal against a team that know that if they can nick a goal, it is difficult for us.

“We are confident but not over-confident. This is going to be a very tough game.”

Kenny is wary of Levadia’s attacking threat – particularly given that one goal may be all the Estonians need.

“They play 4-4-2 and I don’t think either of their strikers will drop off. I can see them having a go at us though maybe not throwing everything at us to begin with. They are a big, strong, physical side and we will need to be at our best.”

With their physical strength in mind, Kenny could recall Colin Hawkins to the centre of defence while Bobby Ryan may also start having enjoyed a 90-minute run-out in their 8-0 victory over Ringmahon Rangers in the FAI Cup on Thursday. Stephen Ward, who smashed in a hat-trick in that match, may have to settle for a place on the bench.