Sligo Rovers and St Patrick's Atheltic both 'up against it' in Europa Conference League third round

While Sligo Rovers and St Patrick's Athletic might not be happy with exiting the FAI Cup at the first hurdle, that was more of a footnote to a great week in the Europa Conference League for both teams.

In different circumstances both found a way against fancied opponents in Motherwell and NS Mura over two legs to reach the third qualifying round of the competition, guaranteeing more prize money in the process.

But as the League of Ireland sides go further in the Conference League, the more challenging the opposition becomes.

For Sligo, it's Viking FK of Norway standing in the way, while St Pat's face Bulgaria's CSKA Sofia with their first leg live on the RTÉ News Channel and RTÉ Player from 5.55pm on Thursday. Both clubs will play away first.

Speaking on this week's RTÉ Soccer Podcast, ex-Dundalk goalkeeper Gary Rogers said Sligo were "full value" for their second leg victory over Motherwell with a composed approach in not only defending their first-leg advantage but extending it against the Scottish Premiership side who are just starting their season.

Viking however are, like the Bit O'Red, well into the midst of the Norwegian league campaign, sitting fifth in the table after 17 games, so match sharpness will not be an issue.

Coupled with that, former St Pat's midfielder Conan Byrne also pointed to the Stavanger club's quality.

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"If a Sligo Rovers fan is looking at the Norwegian league and sees them sitting fifth, they might get their hopes up a little bit more than they should," said