Joel Edwards hopeful of European upset with Cardiff Met side

Former Hereford FC captain Edwards played a key role in restricting Progres Niederkorn to a 1-0 home win in the first leg of their Europa League qualifier last week.

They welcome the Luxembourg side to Cardiff's International Athletics Stadium at Leckwith on Thursday night for the reverse fixture and Edwards is hopeful of an upset.

"Being at home we've got a chance if we can keep them to one goal that keeps us in the game," said Edwards.

"To start with we will have to keep them from scoring and as the game goes on become more attacking."

Despite the optimism in the Archers camp Edwards knows that they will face another tough task to keep their visitors from scoring, as they did in Luxenbourg last week.

"We set up to stop them scoring and did that for 75 minutes, said Edwards.

"Unfortunately they got the goal but we did a lot during the game to limit their chances.

"The level was good and they were tidy on the ball and kept possession well.

"We had to work hard out of possession and we did play well. The heat also had an effect on us as it was between 30 and 35 degrees celsius.

"They were good and kept it in front of us but didn't create many chances. It was a good atmosphere and a good pitch. It was an awesome experience.

"I would say they were slightly better than TNS who are the top team in the Welsh Premiership.

"TNS are the only full-time team in our league and the standard was similar to them but a bit better."

Despite playing the home leg of the tie on Thursday it will be the first time Edwards has played at Leckwith after Met's home ground, Cyncoed Campus Stadium, was deemed to have insufficient seating for the qualification game.

"We have never played there and it was due to rules about having a stand and seating," added Edwards.

"We trained there last night and fancy our chances."

The winners will play Cork City in the first qualifying round, with the victors of that tie possibly meeting Rangers.