Rui: Bolton Were Better Than Gers

Apr 6 2008 By Scott Mcdermott

SPORTING Lisbon keeper Rui Patricio believes Paulo Bento's side have one foot in the semifinal and insists Bolton were a tougher test than Rangers.

The Portuguese stopper couldn't believe how inactive he was at Ibrox in Thursday night's goalless first-leg clash at Ibrox.

Patricio was surprised at Gers' lack of attacking prowess and feels Sporting must now be favourites to make the last four.

Patricio said: "The result is positive for us. We know 0-0 is always dangerous for a return leg but I had a quiet game in Glasgow.

"I thought I'd have a lot of work to do but Rangers didn't attack too often.

"That was surprising but I'd have preferred to be busy and won the game.

"In defence Rangers are a big strong team but in attack they disappointed me.

"Sporting were the best team and I'm convinced we'll win the tie in Lisbon. We feel the UEFA Cup semi-final is so close now.

"Rangers are dangerous in the air but our defence coped with that in Glasgow. Bolton gave us far more problems in the last round and the key in Lisbon will be getting the first goal early."