When Hibernians will be facing Serbia’s Vojvodina Novi Sad this afternoon at Ta’ Qali national stadium (kick-off 6pm), they will only be aiming to get a positive result.

It is the second leg of their qualifying round tie and the Paolites have few chances, if any, to overcome the heavy 5-1 deficit carried forward from the first leg match played a fortnight ago in Novi Sad.

The only comfort Hibernians had in that first leg was the fact that they managed to score at least one goal and that came through Argentina’s Pablo Doffo, from a penalty.

Today, coach Robert Gatt will probably have to do without several members of his squad and these include youngsters Jonathan Pearson, Ben Camilleri, Julian Vella and Jonathan Caruana. They are all recovering from injuries and are unlikely to figure in Gatt’s squad.

One note of consolation for Gatt is that defender Kevin Cassar will be available this time after missing the first leg due to pressure of work.

Welsh referee Simon Lee Evans will be in control. His assistants are Edward King and Maldwyn Williams while the fourth official is Darren Adie.