Primorje claim the advantage

A Goran Jolic goal just before half time secured Slovenian side NK Primorje a narrow UEFA Cup first qualifying round first-leg lead against Malta's Marsaxlokk FC.

Early running
Primorje took the initiative early on with Jolic dictating matters in the middle of the field. A minute after his free-kick had deflected off the Primorje wall, the midfield player met a terrific centre from Almir Tanjic, but his shot was off target. 

Crucial tackle
Marsaxlokk replied immediately, creating their first real opening of the match. Jamie Pace won the ball on the touchline, and found Etienne Barbara well placed in the Primorje penalty box, but his shot was well wide. Barbara was involved later in the half too when his astute pass put Daniel Bogdanovic clear before a last-ditch tackle from Igor Krstic prevented the Maltese striker getting a shot on goal.

Jolic goal
Just before half time, Jolic scored the goal that his imprressive performance warranted. With the ball bobbling on the edge of the box he struck a sweet half volley that left the Marsaxlokk goalkeeper stranded. Marsaxlokk rung the changes, but save for a 61-minute Bogdanovic shot that was comfortably saved, the Maltese side could make little impact, and Primorje will go in to the second-leg game on 29 July with a 1-0 lead.