Brann ended St Mirren’s hopes of qualifying for the Europa Conference League this term.
Stephen Robinson aimed for another opportunity in Europe following a swift double from Brann that extinguished St Mirren's aspirations in the Europa Conference League in Norway. A dramatic equaliser from Toyosi Olusanya during the first leg of their third qualifying round match in Paisley last week had instilled hope in the Buddies, who were participating in European football for the first time in 37 years, as they made their way to Brann Stadion.
On a rain-soaked pitch, home defender Joachim Soltvedt found the net within the first six minutes, but substitute Alex Iacovitti equalised for the resilient Saints in the 74th minute with a header from a corner kick. Nevertheless, in the 85th minute, Felix Myhre restored Brann's lead with a header, and substitute Aune Heggebo sealed the match with a goal in the 88th minute, resulting in a 4-2 aggreg
ate victory. Robinson expressed his desire to return to European competition during an interview with BBC Radio Scotland. The Northern Irish manager stated, "I am very proud, but we had them under pressure. "We executed a brilliantly designed corner. Fraser Taylor delivered excellently, and for a brief period, we had them unsettled. Toyosi slipped when he had a clear chance to score, which could have altered the game's outcome.
"The save from Oisin Smyth was remarkable; credit goes to their goalkeeper. "The goals we conceded are a significant disappointment. Each goal was preventable, stemming from individual errors that cost us this evening. "I am immensely proud of the team and the fans. We have experienced this level now, and we desire more." Brann had appeared formidable in Paisley last week, yet the Saints matched their intensity for extended periods in Norway, as Robinson emphasized the necessity of self-belief.
"I inscribed that very term on the board: belief," remarked the Buddies manager. "I conveyed that the only error we could make tonight was a lack of self-belief, as we are capable of achieving a positive result. They demonstrated that.
"The first goal resulted from a slip. Alex (Gogic) slipped, leading to their initial goal, but we remained focused on our objectives. I believed we were performing well. "We entered halftime with the conviction that we could remain competitive and generate opportunities, which we did."
"But levels wise – they are a very, very good side. I have to give credit to Brann, a very good side. Very good manager, a brilliant city as well.
"So everyone's very much enjoyed it bar the result. But as I say, we've had a taste of this, and we want more."
