TRE FIORI 3

BALA TOWN 0

COLIN Caton's target of grabbing an away goal didn't come to fruition for the Lakesiders.

Bala Town have been left with a mountain to climb if they are to make further progress in this season's UEFA Europa League after they opened their season with a heavy away day defeat.

San Marino outfit Tre Fiori benefited from a trio of first half goals to seal a 3-0 first leg win in their preliminary round clash.

Bala were much the better side for the majority of the encounter, but they just weren't clinical in front of goal when presented with an opportunity.

Although the Lakesiders dominated the early stages, it was Tre Fiori who claimed the lead inside six minutes via an Anthony Miley own goal.

Bala responded and they forced a good chance to level when a corner flashed across the face of the goal.

From another set piece, Stuart Jones headed just over the crossbar as Bala kept knocking on the door.

Kieran Smith had an attempt for Town from 25 yards that was saved, however Tre Fiori then took advantage of an error to double their lead in the 32nd minute.

A poor clearance arrived to Pracucci, who slotted home.

Three minutes later and it was 3-0.

Vassallo's superb strike left Bala number one Ashley Morris with no chance.

Bala made a bright start to the second half... until the floodlights went out!

Play came to a stop for a while, until light had been restored and the tie could continue.

Bala looked to cut their deficit and Ian Sheridan's attempt from distance looped over the bar, while the visitors also had shouts for hand ball turned aside.

Andrew Burns, Stuart Jones and Chris Venables all picked up yellow cards as the Lakesiders looked for a route back into the game.

The visitors hopes were improved when Pracucci was sent off for the home side and Andy Mangan had a shot blocked soon after for Bala.

Big penalty shouts came in injury time when Mike Hayes looked to be fouled in the box, but nothing was given and before the final whistle sounded, Bala hit the bar.

The final whistle confirmed a disappointing night for Bala, but they know the tie is only at half-time ahead of next week's return encounter in Rhyl.