Athlones robbie bidding to cause europa league upset in luxembourg

Athlone native Robbie Benson is hoping to help UCD to a famous result in Europe this evening (Thursday).

The League of Ireland First Division side was given a place in the first qualifying round of the Europa League after winning a fair play award.

Expectations were low going into their first leg meeting with Luxembourg's F91 Dudelange, but the students battled manfully and emerged with a 1-0 win at Belfield.

Benson played a key part in the game's only goal, winning possession and then playing a fine through ball to Ryan Swan, who found the back of the net.

The second leg will get underway in Luxembourg at 5pm this evening.

Speaking to soccer reporter Paul Buttner in advance of the game, Benson said the first ten minutes would be hugely important.

“We have to get a feel of where we are in the game early on,' he said.

“What we don’t want is for them to come out and blitz us and then our heads drop.

“They can’t be too gung-ho,” added Benson. “If we score one they are going to have to score three.

“We’re going to be good enough to get a chance at some point in the game.

“I’m sure if we can get a goal over here it will really throw the cat among the pigeons.”

A former Athlone Town player, Benson has been a key member of the UCD team for several seasons.