Sheridan Predicts Motherwell Will Advance in Faroes

Cillian Sheridan has no interest in sitting on the fence. The former Motherwell striker is adamant his old club will complete the task and reach the third qualifying round of the Conference League after their composed first-leg win over HB.

Alfred Johansson could hardly have asked for a cleaner start to his tenure. His first competitive match in charge brought a 2-0 victory at Fir Park, with Martin Moormann and Lukas Fadinger striking to give Motherwell both a cushion and a sense of control in the tie.

The opposition are no minnows in their own league. HB Torshavn sit fifth in the Faroese top flight after 16 games, having finished second last season to earn their place in the Conference League. They know how to navigate domestic pressure, and they will not roll over in the return leg.

Sheridan, though, sees a clear gap in levels – and a clear responsibility on Motherwell to show it.

"I'm going to put my neck out and say I think they will go through," he told the BBC's Scottish Football Podcast, laying down his verdict without hesitation.

For him, the scenario is simple: a two-goal lead, a professional performance at home, and an opponent who qualified as runners-up rather than champions.

"You can't go away to the Faroe Islands and lose a two-goal lead. Plus this is the Conference League, it's not the champions of the Faroe Islands, it's their team that finished in the Conference League positions."

The message is as much a challenge as a prediction. Protect what you’ve earned. Impose your quality. Do not blink.

"I'm willing to have egg on my face at the end of this, but no, they're not going to give up this lead."

Motherwell travel knowing exactly what is expected of them. Sheridan has already called the outcome. Now it is up to Johansson’s players to make sure his neck isn’t left on the line.