THE countdown to the kick off for The New Saints' European Cup campaign is almost over, with the team poised to derail Irish opponents, Bohemians.
The Saints are hoping to come away from tonight's Emerald Isle encounter with a good result to bring back for the return leg at Park Hall next Tuesday, but both teams fancy their chances of progressing to the next round and the Dalymount Park clash should prove to be an exciting first instalment for both sets of fans.
Confidence
TNS manager, Mike Davies, is relishing the prospect of taking on 'The Gypsies' after two positive friendly results over Glentoran and Lindfield in recent weeks.
The Saints beat Glentoran 2-0 and held Lindfield to a goalless draw, and the experience should serve to boost team confidence ahead of the all-important first leg.
"Opening with a Champions League game is a wonderful way to start the season," said Davies.
"There is always pressure in ties like this but we have been working really well in training, and we have to improve our match fitness because Bohemians are already half way through their season.
"This is a good opportunity for us but Bohemians are a good side with lots of experience in Europe and they will probably start as favourites. But we have experience in our squad too, and great belief," he added.
Last season's Irish League champions currently lie third, just two points off the top spot with a game in hand, and can count victories over Aberdeen and Kaiserslauten in recent years, as well as a 9-3 demolition of Rhyl in 2008, their only previous tie against Welsh Premier League opposition in Europe.
But Davies refuses to be fazed by the record of a team that has played well over 50 European games, and registered 12 wins, more than any other Irish side.
"We have quality and healthy competition all over the field, and a full squad to choose from, so I have some difficult decisions to make regarding team selection" said Davies.
"We play attractive football, and they are a great bunch of lads, honest and hard working. They know what is expected of them and although it will be difficult we have a real chance of progression," he added.