“European football returns to Mourneview Park on Thursday evening when Glenavon play KR Reykjavik in the Europa League 1st qualifying round 2nd leg. Although not currently experiencing the best of seasons KR have been the top club in Iceland for many, many years, winning 26 league titles, 14 national cups and being regulars in European competitions.

“They come to Lurgan leading 2-1 on aggregate following last Thursday’s 1st leg in Reykjavik. On the night Gary’s men turned in a highly committed, battling display which was a credit to our club and to Irish League football. At one stage we would have been full value for a 2-0 lead. Well into the second half we seemed on course for at least a draw until a highly dubious penalty award – one of many puzzling decisions during the game – turned things in KR’s favour. However our aim in Iceland was to ensure the return leg at Lurgan would be meaningful and decisive and so it has turned out to be. It was therefore mission accomplished and our away goal is of course a welcome bonus.

“The feeling within the Glenavon camp is that this tie is winnable. Granted we need another stirring performance from our players and some good fortune which certainly did not favour us in Reykjavik. However you the supporters have a really vital part to play too. You were absolutely magnificent on Cup Final Day last May at the National Stadium. On Thursday night let’s see you turn up in massive numbers and create the same atmosphere, colour and noise and urge us to victory – hopefully with a score-line that will create history and see Glenavon progress to a second qualifying round for the first time through winning at home.

“If you are a Glenavon supporter Mourneview Park is the only place to be this Thursday evening!”

Admission on Thursday night will be adult £12 and Concession £8 (same as last year). Kick-off is 7.45pm. In the event of the game finishing 2-1 to Glenavon there will be 30 minutes extra time and penalty kicks if necessary to decide the tie.

Further information concerning arrangements for Thursday night’s big game will appear on this website within the next few days.