Momentum is with Russell and Rovers ahead of key European opener in Wales

Rookie manager eager to see his side maintain their fine form in Oswestry as part-timers of Bala Town offer Bit O'Red possibility of progress in UEFA Europa Conference League

No looking back: Sligo Rovers manager John Russell and his side are hoping to be on the front foot in Wales. Pic: INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

SLIGO Rovers manager John Russell hopes that the team's recent form – five games unbeaten under his watch, including three wins – should boost the players' confidence ahead of their two-legged UEFA Europa Conference League first qualifying round against Bala Town.

Sligo go into the away fixture in Wales tonight on the back of last Saturday's 3-1 home defeat of Damien Duff's Shelbourne in the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division.