Smith issues Gers backing
14 Feb 2008 - 07:17:35
Rangers boss Walter Smith is backing his side to reach the last 16 of the UEFA Cup, despite being held to a goalless draw at home by Panathinaikos.
The Gers face a tough trip to Greece next week, knowing that they will have to score to make it through to the next round, or face a possible penalty shootout.
Smith said after the Ibrox stalemate: "Panathinaikos played well and they had some nice possession of the ball.
"They didn't really threaten us until the latter stages, but they showed enough to suggest they will be dangerous at home.
"However, we have managed to score a few goals away from home in the Champions League and we can do so again in Athens. The game will be a finely balanced one.
"I said before the game that it would be a tight match. I felt we created the best of the opportunities and managed to miss the ones that came our way.
"I'm a little bit disappointed that we didn't manage to take those chances."