WHILE they lost out in the opening contest, it's still all to play for as far as Bala Town are concerned in their quest to reach the next stage of the UEFA Europa Conference League.

The Lakesiders were narrowly beaten 2-1 at home to Sligo Rovers in the first leg of their first qualifying round tie.

The second leg takes place this Thursday, July 14.

A dream start was Bala's reward as they went in front after only five minutes.

Lassana Mendes smashed the ball home to give Colin Caton's charges an early lead.

However, League of Ireland side Sligo managed to equalise 20 minutes later.

Aidan Kenna lifted the ball over Alex Ramsay to make it one-apiece.

As the half progressed, Chris Venables looked to pull off the spectacular to regain Bala's lead when he attempted an acrobatic effort inside the area, but his superb shot was matched by a super save.

Following the interval, Max Mata had a great chance to give the visitors the lead when he ran through on goal surrounded by defenders, but his effort was tipped past the post by Ramsay.

From a following corner, Mata got the goal his side were searching for.

Bala failed to clear a ball in the box which led to the striker tapping in a cool finish from close range.

Chances came for Colin Caton's men to equalise with Venables leading the line.

Bala's hopes of a result from the first leg were boosted with ten minutes remaining when star man Nando Pijnaker received his marching orders from the referee.

The New Zealand international was shown a straight red card having taken down Dave Edwards as the last man.

However, although Kieran Smith had an effort cleared off the line, Bala couldn't find a leveller.