Owens sees red as Nomads crash out of Europe

CONNAH’S Quay Nomads crashed out of the UEFA Europa League following a 5-1 aggregate defeat to Shakhtyor Soligorsk in the first qualifying round.

Trailing 3-1 from the first leg, JD Welsh Cup winners Connah’s Quay needed to be at their best to stand any chance of progressing but Andy Owens saw red midway through the second half as they went down 2-0 at the Stroitel Stadium.

Connah’s Quay made a positive start with Michael Bakare a constant menace for the Soligorsk defence.

But their good work was undone on 24 minutes when Owens conceded a penalty, which allowed Elis Bakaj, who found the net in the first leg, to fire the Belarusian outfit ahead.

Andy Morrison handed Noah Edwards his competitive debut after the break. ut he was only on the pitch for a couple of minutes before they went down to 10 men following a straight red card to Owens.

That handed control back to Soligorsk with Maksim Bordachev wrapping up the victory with a late second.

Connah’s Quay’s exit means The New Saints are the only Welsh team left in European competition.

They take on Gibraltan champions Lincoln Red Imps on Thursday in the first leg of their Europa League second qualifying round tie after losing 5-4 on aggregate to KF Shkendija in Champions League qualifying despite winning the second leg 4-0.