Penybont scramble for gear ahead of qualifier

Welsh football club Penybont has faced unexpected challenges in their preparations for the UEFA Conference League qualifier in Lithuania after losing crucial luggage during transit.

The missing baggage contained the team's essential equipment, including their football boots, forcing players to urgently purchase replacements from a sports store in Vilnius.

Travel Disruption Details

The Bridgend-based team, who earned their European spot by finishing second in last season's Cymru Premier, departed from London City Airport on Tuesday. Upon arrival in the Lithuanian capital, they discovered their luggage hadn't made the journey with them.

A club spokesperson confirmed: "We waited at the baggage carousel for about 30 minutes before realizing only six bags from the entire flight had arrived. For reasons unknown, the airline failed to load our luggage onto the plane."

Immediate Response

The club's press officer Ryan March expressed frustration: "We've been victims of a significant error here. While we've managed to break in the new boots, it's certainly not ideal preparation for such an important match."

Polish airline LOT has been contacted for comment regarding the incident.

Upcoming Fixtures

Penybont faces Kauno Žalgiris in Thursday's first qualifying round first leg. This marks their second appearance in the Conference League, following their 2023 debut.

Key match details:

• Second leg scheduled for 17 July at Cardiff International Sports Stadium
• SDM Glass Stadium doesn't meet UEFA requirements
• Winners will advance to face either Valur (Iceland) or Flora Tallinn (Estonia)

The club remains hopeful their original equipment will arrive before match day, allowing players to use their preferred gear for this crucial European encounter.