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Sligo Rovers' Europa League exit rules out a possible glamour tie with Steaua Bucharest, but Ian Baraclough's side still have plenty to play for this season

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By Ronan Murphy


Sligo Rovers have had a good season so far. They're four points clear at the top of the Airtricity Premier Division table, and have just drawn in the Europa League against the Slovakian runners-up. However, a first leg loss in Slovakia saw them exit the competition at the first hurdle. But with 13 league games remaining, as well as a a EA Sports Cup semi-final, Ian Baraclough's side have plenty to play for and shouldn't feel disheartened.

Over the two legs, Baraclough's players had plenty of chances to defeat Spartak Trnava but poor finishing cost them dearly. An over-reliance on striker Danny North was exposed when the 24-year-old missed a penalty chance in the first half of the second leg at the Showgrounds. North is the league's top scorer, and has 17 goals in all competitions, a whopping 11 more than Sligo's next highest goal-scorer, Mark Quigley.

Sligo's European exit could be a blessing in disguise, allowing North a much needed break and negating the need for Baraclough's squad rotation. The progress of St Patrick's Athletic has postponed this weekend's tie between the two sides, which will allow Rovers' weary players more time to recuperate.

The strongest squad in the Airtricity League was strengthened by the addition of young defenders Seamus Conneely and Jeff Henderson as well as Ireland under-19 midfielder Ryan Connolly. Resting players with an eye on Europe has allowed Pascal Millien a chance to shine in the first team, offering a creative spark going forward.

Baraclough's discplined Sligo side have been extremely impressive at the Showgrounds, and aside from an FAI Cup defeat to Monaghan United are undfeated at home so far this season. The former Scunthorpe United manager has Rovers playing neat, patient attacking football, with 3-0 wins coming over Dundalk, Shamrock Rovers, and Shelbourne in the league.

With Pat's still in Europe and Shamrock Rovers misfiring in the league, and Drogheda United performing above expectations in second place, this season will be crucial for Baraclough. A first league title since 1977 will see Sligo Rovers enter the Champions League for the first time ever, which could herald in a new era at the Showgrounds as they become the biggest club side in Ireland.