So close.
Dundalk have missed out on a place in the group stages of the Champions League, but the Irish champions did themselves justice in their second-leg tie away to Legia Warsaw.
Trailing 2-0 from last week’s tie in Dublin, Stephen Kenny’s side needed to get off to a strong start in Poland to give themselves any chance of progression and Robbie Benson’s volley ensured just that.
The midfielder latched onto a cross that had been headed to the edge of Legia’s penalty area, hitting a thunderous strike into the top corner after 19 minutes.
Take a bow Robbie Benson! #Dundalk #UCLhttps://t.co/mjZ2iez2KT
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) August 23, 2016
The Irish side didn’t retreat and continued to push for the goal that would bring the tie to extra-time. Their cause was aided by Adam Hlousek’s dismissal after 67 minutes, the winger received his marching orders for two bookable offences.
Legia would have had to play almost an hour with 10 players had Dundalk been able to force extra-time. However, despite continuing to push for the goal that would level the tie, unfortunately Kenny’s side came up short and were hit with a sucker punch in stoppage time.
Michal Kucharczyk picked up a long pass, dribbled inside and let fly from the edge of the penalty area, past Gary Rogers to make it 1-1.
The Polish side will now play in the group stages of the Champions League, advancing 3-1 on aggregate. Dundalk will enter the Europa League.
Heartbreak for Dundalk, but a truly heroic performance.
If there is ever a lge of ireland player that deserves to be in ireland squad it's time for them to step forward #Dundalk
— stephen hunt (@stephenhunt1010) August 23, 2016
Dundalk been incredible over 2 legs. 👏👏 they will have a right chance in Europa League and can look forward to some big games
— Ger O'Brien (@gerramia) August 23, 2016
Ger Canning just texted Brian Kerr in the 85th minute.
'Dundalk have done themselves proud tonight'
— Karl Reilly (@HistoryLOI) August 23, 2016
That's a class goal. heartbreaker
— Rhys Ruddock All Stars Fan (@GifsRugbyNStuff) August 23, 2016
Dundalk have been an absolute credit to Irish soccer tonight. Amazing performance, regardless of the outcome.
— Robbie Butler (@Robbiembutler) August 23, 2016
https://twitter.com/FintanMusic/status/768185451287117824
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