Aberdeen travel to Riga to complete the first qualifying round of the Europa League on Thursday night where they take a five goal advantage over Latvian opponents Daugava Riga. As the tie does seem to be almost dead and buried this is a seemingly pointless 1500 mile trip, yet it does have its positives.
It will be a good experience for the younger members of the squad to taste playing football in a foreign climate all be it being for a single match. All the experience and different situations you can get under your belt as a young player the more likely you are to achieve bigger and better things.
Derek McInnes has decided to leave Peter Pawlett at home alongside new signing David Goodwillie. Pawlett picked up a knock in the first leg of this tie and the manager will not wanting to be risking Pawlett against such a physical side.
As the team take a 5-0 lead into the second leg, it appears as if we are already through to face Groningen FC of the Netherlands in the next round. However McInnes and the players have spoke of no such tie as yet against the Dutch side, and have their minds well and truly focused on this evening's encounter. They continually mentioned being professional and getting the job done and so they should. Manger McInnes has also told how he will in no way field a weaker team and the side that plays tonight will be very similar to the one that did last Thursday.
Daugava Riga looked inept at Pittodrie and caused the Aberdeen defence next to no problems and if Aberdeen don't even play well they should still expect to be leaving Riga with a good win under their belt. The main focus for the Aberdeen team will be to try and steer through the game avoiding any injuries. two Red Cards and nine yellow cards alone shows the aggressive nature the Latvian's adopted in Aberdeen and are expected to approach the game in the same manner tonight.
Remember the game kicks off at 17:30.
To all Dons fans who have made the trip: Hope you are haveing a swell time and let's hope you get a few goals tonight!
Daugava Riga v Aberdeen
Daugava Stadion
Thursday 10th July 2014
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