Malmo, a financial windfall and folklore in the Faroes.
Ballymena United couldn’t boast a bigger incentive heading into tonight’s Europa League showdown with NSI Runavik in Toftir.
The Braidmen have never progressed in Europe before.
In seven previous attempts dating back to a 6-0 defeat to Beveren in the 1978 Cup Winners Cup, United have failed to clear a Euro hurdle.
Add in an extra £210,000 windfall for reaching the next round where Swedish giants Malmo lie in wait and David Jeffrey’s men have a lot to target at the Svangaskard Stadium.
Captain Jim Ervin said: “It would be superb if we could advance in Europe for the first time ever.
“It would be a little bit of history and very special for the club, but David won’t let us get carried away or look too far ahead of ourselves.
“We know we still have a lot to do. It’ll be extremely difficult against NSI and we can’t read too much into the home leg. We know we have to be on our game again to have any chance of progressing.
“In recent years we have set ourselves high standards at Ballymena and it’s great to hit those standards, but it’s all about kicking on now in the return leg.”
Betting odds
NSI Runavik Evs
Ballymena Utd 9/4
Draw 12/5
Odds from McLean Bookmakers
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