Crusaders huffed and puffed to earn a 2-0 win over B36 Torshavn in the Europa League on Thursday.

Goals from Chris Hegarty and Philip Lowry finally saw Stephen Baxter's side ease to victory at Seaview in this first qualifying round, first leg tie.

It should have been more for the Crues, with Jordan Owens having a second-minute penalty saved.

B36 had their moments, notably when Ami Frederiksberg rattled Sean O'Neill's crossbar with a curling free-kick.

The Crues were awarded their penalty in the opening minute when Jordan Owens tumbled under the challenge of Neilson when challenging for Michael Ruddy's long throw.

Owens dusted himself down but his poor spot-kick was easily saved by Hans Jorgensen.

The home side dominated early proceedings, with Owens heading straight at Jorgensen from Clarke's deep cross in the 11th minute.

B36 almost punished the hosts when Frederiksberg hit the crossbar with a curling free-kick, with Alex Mellemgaard placing the rebound wide.

It was 1-0 in the 33rd minute when Hegarty headed home Burns' inch-perfect cross.

The home side had to wait until the 79th minute to double their lead, Lowry finishing off from David Cushley's flick, the midfielder's shot going in off the inside of the post.

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