Glentoran manager Declan Devine expressed optimism following his team's 2-1 loss to RFS in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League qualifier at the Oval. Despite the defeat, Devine noted that his side will "take huge confidence" into the second leg scheduled for 16 July in Latvia.

The match featured a notable debut from Zeno Rossi, who scored the opening goal just seven minutes in, marking a promising start for the defender who had joined the club hours earlier. However, Martins Kigurs netted twice for the away side, leaving Glentoran with a one-goal deficit to overcome.

Devine praised his players' efforts, stating:

All in all, a positive night, nobody wants to lose, it's only half-time. I was super proud of the players and the effort that they've put in. We were solid, we needed to be solid.

He acknowledged the good fortune of RFS's goals but emphasized that his team executed their game plan effectively, particularly in counter-attacks. Devine highlighted Rossi's performance, noting that he was the only player in the squad with recent match fitness, having trained with the team only once before.

Looking ahead, Devine is confident in his team's ability to turn the tie around, stating, "We have a huge travelling support when we're going to Riga. Game on." With the second leg approaching, Glentoran aims to capitalize on their strengths and overturn the deficit.