General
- Tuesday July 14th, 2009 @ 16:54
Saints Prepare For Valletta Test
Ahead of Pat's Europa League showdown with Valletta of Malta a press briefing was held at Richmond Park today attended by Pat's players Dave Partridge and Stephen Maher.
Manager Jeff Kenna was also present to share his thoughts with the media on the following:
On Taking the Game to Valletta
It will be a break from the frustrations of the league and the opportunity to compete in the Europa League.
Teams build on the strength of their home form so it is important for us to get a good result on Thursday.
It has been frustrating in that in recent games we have been creating chances in the penalty area but not getting the results we should have.
We'll just have to be more clinical in front of goal. We'll be going out to score right from the start and we'll be taking the game to them.
On Selection Headaches
At the moment Jason Gavin, Darragh Ryan and Glen Fitz are being treated for injuries and John Lester is struggling with a calf strain.
Damien Lynch is suspended and of course Quigley, Dempsey, Leech and Freimanis are all injured.
Ideally you'd like Jamie Harris to be playing at the back but depending on Jason Gavin we might not have that option.
We have been speaking to Dundalk's Declan O'Brien, we will have to wait and see but if he does sign he will definitely be in my mind for selection.
On the Strengths of Valletta
We have watched them twice and they've played the same team and the same system.
They have pace down the flanks and Jordi Cruyff in midfield seems to pull all the strings.
The centre halves are competitive but they also like to play.
Overall they are a pretty good footballing team.
On a possible invitation to Real Madrid to attend the match
They would be more than welcome but we'd probably have to increase security on the night.
Tickets are only €15 so perhaps Ronaldo might treat everyone and bring them along!
On Getting the Home Crowd Behind the Team
Crowds are down overall in the league this year but it would be good for the crowd to be up for it on Thursday night.
It's important to get that feeling going between the crowd and the players – the reaction to the first crunching tackle and it would be great to see the place rocking on the night.
St Patrick's Athletic FC V Valletta kicks off at 7.45pm on Thursday and tickets are available from the club shop priced at €15 adult / €10 student / OAP and €5 child family.
