Sligo Rovers will take a 2-1 first leg advantage into the home game of their Europa Conference League first qualifying round tie next week, following Thursday evening's 2-1 win over Bala Town of Wales at the Park Hall Stadium in Shropshire.
The game was played at Park Hall because Bala's home ground doesn't meet UEFA's current seating requirements.
Rovers fell behind early in this game to a well-taken goal from Lassana Mendes.
But they were back on level terms mdway through the first half when Aidan Keena lobbed the keeper delightfully to bring his side level.
Then, shortly after the restart, Max Mata finished very well from a tight angle to put Rovers in front.
The visitors controlled much of the second-half but there path to victory was complicated in the closing quarters when defender Nando Pijnaker was red-carded for a last ditch tackle on an opponent.
However, Rovers held on for victory and will be in a strong position going into the return leg next Thursday at the Showgrounds (7pm).
Rovers manager John Russell spoke to Austin O'Callaghan after the game:
