Bohemians draw Rhyl in Intertoto

Bohemians will face Welsh Premier side Rhyl in the first round of the Intertoto Cup after the draw was made in Switzerland today.

Pat Fenlon's side, flying high in the eircom League following last night's 2-1 win in Drogheda, will play a team from Latvia or Iceland should they progress.

Bohemians, who can earn a place in the Uefa Cup should they negotiate the three rounds of the Intertoto competition, will enjoy home advantage in the first leg before travelling to north Wales a week later.

Rhyl manager John Hulse expressed his satisfaction that neither side will face lengthy away trips.

"It's a good draw for us," said. "It's the fifth consecutive year we've qualified for Europe and it's been unkind for us - it's nice to get a draw near home as we are a part-time team."

This season marks the final year of the Intertoto Cup, the planned revamp of Uefa competitions brining the event to an end after 13 years.

Cliftonville, likely to qualify from the Irish League, will face a side from the Finnish top flight.

© 2008 The Irish Times