Stephen Kenny Counting on St Pat’s Late Magic Against Besiktas
Stephen Kenny would welcome late win over Besiktas as St Patrick’s Athletic gear up for their UEFA Conference League third-round qualifier tonight at Tallaght Stadium. The Saints are hoping their reputation for late goals will once again prove valuable as they host the Turkish side in the first leg. Kenny isn’t worried about scoring early, especially considering how his team has consistently delivered in the dying moments of recent European matches.
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Injury-Time Goals a Key Trait
So far in the competition, half of St Pat’s goals have come during injury time. In their previous tie against Kalju from Estonia, all three goals came after the 90th minute. Kenny sees this as proof of his squad’s resilience and their refusal to give up until the final whistle. He told RTÉ Sport that players like Aideen Keena, Chris Forrester, and Joe Redmond have stepped up when it mattered most. With goals coming in the 81st, 90th, 91st, and even the 93rd minute, the manager believes this kind of fighting spirit can carry them through another tough test.
A Tough Challenge Ahead
Besiktas, now managed by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, presents a significant step up in quality. With big names such as Tammy Abraham, Joao Mario, and Gabriel Paulista expected to feature, the Turkish giants bring a lot of experience and firepower to the tie. Although they’re still in pre-season and suffered a recent setback against Shakhtar Donetsk, Kenny isn’t expecting them to be underprepared. He acknowledges they’ve had time to regroup and have added new signings since their last outing.
Short Turnaround for the Saints
St Pat’s are coming into this fixture with little rest, having played 120 minutes last Thursday and then again on Sunday against Waterford. Despite the tight schedule, Kenny insists his players are ready for the challenge. He believes it will be tough over two legs but remains hopeful that his team can create chances and use their pace to threaten Besiktas. While the visitors boast a squad full of internationals, Kenny is confident in his young and hungry group of players who are eager to make their mark on the European stage.
