Own goal denies TNS draw at FC Petrocub

An own goal denied The New Saints a draw at Moldovan champions FC Petrocub in their Europa League third qualifying round tie first leg.

Donalio Douanla’s strike took a cruel deflection off visiting defender Danny Davies in the 20th minute to give the hosts a 1-0 victory.

However, Craig Harrison’s side will go into the second leg at Park Hall Stadium on Tuesday, 13 August with a big chance to progress.

Saints dropped down to the Europa League qualifiers after being knocked out of the Champions League 7-1 on aggregate by Hungarian champions Ferencvaros.

Even if they go on to lose to FC Petrocub, they will drop into the Europa Conference League play-offs and be just one tie away from reaching the group stages.

Petrocub had exited the Champions League following defeat by APOEL of Cyprus.