Bohemians will not underestimate TNS

Credit:

Bohemians will look forward to a tie with The New Saints of Wales in their upcoming Champions League second round qualifying fixture. The Gypsies host the Welsh side at Dalymount Park on July 13/14th; with the return tie coming a week later.

Brian Trench, Media Officer for Bohemian FC, spoke to extratime.ie today about their chances.

“It is an advantageous prospect for us, however we will not underestimate TNS. Having the home tie first, is always a plus and we hope to have a big crowd at the match.

“There are a few points of view on the draw. Logistically, it is good in terms of travel and cost. Yet, from a point of view of players gaining in European experience, it is lacking as the game can be seen as more of a local derby due to the proximity,” commented Media Officer Trench.

TNS will be in pre-season during the tie, while Bohemians are in mid-season, so this should add another dynamic to the close to home, European tie.

The League of Ireland side are carrying a number of injuries, and pressure will be on the medical team at Dalymount Park to ensure all are fighting fight in time to play in the tie.

While Bohs manager Pat Fenlon will be doing his homework on The New Saints, it goes without saying that there will be a strong Bohemians presence at the Glentoran pre-season friendly with the Welsh on June 26th.

“We know Glentoran, having played them recently in the Setanta Sports Cup so we will be able to see our competition first hand, which will be helpful going into the game.”

Extratime.ie learned that the Dublin side are concerned about their congested calendar, which would only become more cluttered should they progress to the third qualifying round.

“We will play a league game at the weekend, Champions League match mid-week, followed by a friendly – and this would be the same for two successive weeks. Then again, if we qualify we will have the league, Champions League and cup competitions.”

Busy times ahead for all at Bohemian FC, however that is the price of success. One can only wonder if the Irish side do progress, how much it will affect their already mid-table performances of 2010.