Ellan Vannin are on course to qualify for the semi-finals of the ConIFA European Football Cup after picking up their first win of the tournament against Felvidek on Tuesday evening.

Manager Chris Bass Sr made five changes to his starting 11 from the narrow defeat against champions Padania the previous day but it didn’t take long for the Manx to settle and they created the first chance of the match when Bass Jr saw an effort saved by the Felvidek keeper.

As the half wore on the Hungarian side began to grow into the game and created several problems for the Ellan Vannin and arguably ended the half the stronger of the two teams.

However, the Manx side started the second period on the front foot and created a few half chances but found themselves up against some resolute defending and good goalkeeping.

That was until the 68th minute when Ellan Vannin’s high pressing game bore fruit when man of the match Bass Jr received the ball on the halfway line and surged upfield, leaving the Felvidek defenders in his wake before slotting past the advancing keeper to give the Manx side the lead.

With Felvidek forced to push forward in search of an equaliser, gaps started to open up which Bass Sr’s men looked to exploit. The introduction of Joey Morling provided pace which created more chances but these weren’t converted.

Felvidek began to trouble the Manx backline late in the game and on the stroke of full-time Ellan Vannin goalkeeper Andy Perry was forced to pull off a fantastic save to make sure of the all-important win.

Their first victory of the tournament means that a win against Szekely Land on Wednesday evening would ensure progression into the semi-finals.

Find out how Ellan Vannin got on at www.iomtoday.co.im/sport