League of Ireland in Europe 2015

[bennocelt]

Just a shame when you see some of the other 'lesser Countries' getting results. Maybe last year was just one of those high mark peformanes in Europe and what we see this year and 2013 is the norm.

And some were giving me a hard time about Vaduz, yet they won again tonight......
Much about a mindset than anything else though.
Fingers crossed for Dundalk next week

[MeathDrog]

West Ham score in last minute... of course.
The gap does appear to be narrowing between the 'lesser' clubs and the bigger nations in Europe. There's been far less hammerings this year. I wonder if it's down to an improvement in coaching and fitness in the smaller leagues?

[ger121]

Well if it's any comfort,we may not hear from Geysir tonight. Both Icelandic sides currently losing at home.

[TonyD]

The gap does appear to be narrowing between the 'lesser' clubs and the bigger nations in Europe. There's been far less hammerings this year. I wonder if it's down to an improvement in coaching and fitness in the smaller leagues?

Might also be due to the fact that the bigger leagues haven't started yet, and at this stage might not even be playing many first teamers. Would probably be a lot different in September/October with full sides out.

Congratulations to UCD again. I just came in for the last 5 minutes or so of the match but they seemed quite composed on the ball. They are doing themselves proud in Europe. (Now, which of their players should we commandeer ? ;)

[outspoken]

I know how important the coefficient is, but the manner of UCD's performance should raise a lot of spirits for any fan of Irish football in general. Their first inclination every time was to play the simple pass. It's so good to watch, yet it's not always the mo of many Irish teams (club or National) in the past.

They used the space effectively, and while they were obviously a bit toothless up top due to formation and a difference in class, midfield and defence were excellent in possession.

Really really good to see.

Through Dundalk into that category as well, I totally agree with you. This has to be the template for our sides. If Cork City and Shamrock Rovers actually tried to play a bit we might have more teams left in Europe

[Charlie Darwin]

Very disappointing night. Odds are a better team than us but hadn't a shot on target until the referee bought a ridiculous dive, which should have been a second yellow for the Odds player. We reacted badly to the goal and should have conceded another couple, looked miles better after Miele came on. He should have started instead of Brennan.

Hard luck on UCD, sounds like one hell of an effort from them and with a bit of luck they could have won the match.

[OldNassau]

It would be nice to see a comment from Martin O Neill on the excellent performance of Dundalk's last evening not to mind on UCD's performance. John Delaney should take notice also after his comments that the LOL was a problem child.

[Charlie Darwin]

It would be nice to see a comment from Martin O Neill on the excellent performance of Dundalk's last evening not to mind on UCD's performance. John Delaney should take notice also after his comments that the LOL was a problem child.
Don't think you're paying it much respect there either.

[D24Saint]

Morale victories aside its still been another poor year in Europe for the league two wins from eleven ties so far.

[Nesta99]

Agreed D24 but somehow there feels as if there is some progression made. Both Dundalk and UCD played some keep ball and didnt pack defence. Cork were too defensive and having not seen the Rovers game but would expect Nutsy to set up not to concede. Pats...? there just seems to be something amiss at the moment. BATE built on a series of winning leagues it seems so maybe the up and down nature of our league is not helping that much.

[Charlie Darwin]

I think we probably just had easier draws last year. Only Rovers had an easy draw this year - Dundalk, Cork and Pats all had the misfortune of getting strong teams in the middle of a summer season. This year was basically last year's second rounds brought forward.

[TheBoss]

Here are some more stats!

Dundalk
First ever appearance in the UEFA Champions League.
3 consecutive AWAY games in which the team has scored.
When playing the AWAY leg first, Dundalk have progressed 4 times (DOS [NED] 1968, Fram 1981, Grevenmacher [LUX] 2010, Jeunesse Esch [LUX] 2014) and eliminated 9 times. They have only progressed once after losing the first leg (HOME or AWAY) that was to Fram in 1981.
Dundalk have conceded at HOME in 12 consecutive European games (28 goals total) starting in 1981 against Tottenham Hotspur [ENG], before that they had conceded 3 goals in 8 matches including a run of 4 clean sheets (19-Sep-1979 -> 30-Sep-1981) in a row.
Its only the 2nd time that Dundalk have lost 2-1, the other time was also an away game against Fram in 1981. Its the 27th that Dundalk have conceded at least 2 goals, the 15th time AWAY.



LOI v Belarus
P
W
D
L
F
A


[I]Total
7
1
2
4
6
10


[I]Home
3
1
1
1
4
2



Shamrock Rovers
The last time that Shamrock Rovers won 2 consecutive European matches was June 2003 against Odra Wodzisław [POL] twice.
In their last 4 matches at HOME, they have failed to score on 3 occasions.
It is the 11th time that they have lost 2-0, the 6th time at HOME. Also the 36th time they conceded at least 2 goals in match, 16th time at HOME.
When playing the first at HOME, Shamrock Rovers have progressed 5 times (Spora Luxembourg [LUX] 1966, APOEL [CYP] 1978, Bnei Yehuda 2010, Flora [EST] 2011, Partizan [SRB] 2011) and eliminated 13 times. They have never progessed when losing the first leg (HOME or AWAY).



LOI v Norway
P
W
D
L
F
A


[I]Total
16
3
2
11
12
30


[I]Away
8
1
2
5
5
16



UCD
2nd time that UCD have lost 1-0, the other occasion was against Everton [ENG] in 1984, also an AWAY game.
Its the 1st time that UCD played an AWAY leg first, so no previous information on if they qualified for the next round. Also, the 1st time they lost the first leg.
I seem to be repeating this fact every week, but they still remain the best defence from an LOI side in Europe conceding on average 1.00 goals (7 goals in 7 games) per game. For comparsion, Finn Harps have the worst at 4.63 goals (37 goals in 8 games) per game.



LOI v Slovakia
P
W
D
L
F
A


Total
5
0
1
4
5
10


Home
2
0
1
1
4
5



Other
LOI sides have now lost 6 consecutive games in a single season, the last time that occurred was in 2013, also happen in 2011, 2003 and a good few other times before that.
LOI sides have never lost 7 consecutive games in a single season but the last time LOI sides lost 7 consecutive games in a row was between 1994/95 and 1995/96 seasons, which was a total run of 8 consecutive games. The overall record is 10 consecutive matches between 1972/73 -> 1974/75.

LOI last 19 matches




P
W
D
L
F
A


TOTAL
19
4
3
12
16
33


Home
9
2
1
6
6
16


Away
10
2
2
6
10
17

[Dunny]

I may have been a bit unfair in my smart a*sed comment. I could though have envisaged gang of lads quite beered crossing in to Belarus after the trip from Vilnius, cans of harp and flares in every pocket. Its a pity for Danny as one thing is for sure is that he is a passionate and dedicated Dundalk fan if maybe a bit naive at times. There are probably a few not so likable chaps who will be at the game with no bother at all. If they tore a page out of his passport its likely that he did have a visa and they took the page that was stamped. Either the passport was falling apart or it is that it is old enough he was about Ten in the photo and it wasnt accepted. Either way I probably shouldnt have been so presumptious!

Yeah.OK

[bennocelt]

I think we probably just had easier draws last year. Only Rovers had an easy draw this year - Dundalk, Cork and Pats all had the misfortune of getting strong teams in the middle of a summer season. This year was basically last year's second rounds brought forward.

I would argue that they didnt, Cork should have got through, and it looks like Pats couldnt be bothered.

The reality is, barring Dundalk, our league is pretty pish

[DannyInvincible]

If they tore a page out of his passport its likely that he did have a visa and they took the page that was stamped. Either the passport was falling apart or it is that it is old enough he was about Ten in the photo and it wasnt accepted.

In attaining his visa for travel into Belarus, the Belarusian embassy in London were more than happy to accept the same passport as perfectly valid, along with a nice €100.

[paul_oshea]

fenlon always sets up wrong for Europe and it always comes and a backfires on him. He needs to have more belief and confidence and it always seems his lack of belief filters through the team with a stupid mistake costing after a decent defensive display
If he set his teams up more like Kenny and oneill did he would have a lot better performances and probably a few better results. He is very frustrating.

[DannyInvincible]

Well if it's any comfort,we may not hear from Geysir tonight. Both Icelandic sides currently losing at home.

Ah, here now. Geysir is the sage of truth POS only wishes he could be. :)

[White Horse]

I would argue that they didnt, Cork should have got through, and it looks like Pats couldnt be bothered.

The reality is, barring Dundalk, our league is pretty pish

It doesn't need to be though.

Do Dundalk have much better players than Cork or Pats? I don't think so.

If Stephen O'Donnell can control the midfield against BATE Borisov, why can't Liam Miller do it against an Icelandic team?

If Dundalk can refuse to be intimidated and knocked off their game, why can't Pats show the same temperament.

In my opinion, the big weakness in this league is management/coaching and the willingness of fans to accept the poor football that it produces.

[DannyInvincible]

fenlon always sets up wrong for Europe and it always comes and a backfires on him. He needs to have more belief and confidence and it always seems his lack of belief filters through the team with a stupid mistake costing after a decent defensive display
If he set his teams up more like Kenny and oneill did he would have a lot better performances and probably a few better results. He is very frustrating.

He was, it should be remembered, the first manager to take an Irish club into the third qualifying round of the Champions League in 2004 - he managed Shels past KR Reykjavík and Hajduk Split before not being remotely over-run by Deportivo la Coruña - but I do think there is some truth in what you say, despite my above comment! :) Fenlon has never truly convinced me as a manager who can do it without reliance on significant financial backing. His time at Derry was very much forgettable and I feel exposed a weakness.

[Azrob Spooh]

What is the possibility of UCD needing to move the home tie away from Belfield? I reckon the interest from the LOI family will exceed the capacity.

[El-Pietro]

I would argue that they didnt, Cork should have got through, and it looks like Pats couldnt be bothered.

The reality is, barring Dundalk, our league is pretty pish
While we definitely threw away a great chance there can be no argument that KR aren't a better side than Cork City right now.

[seand]

Viedoton or TNS, away first. Great draw (for BATE)

[Couch Potato]

Huge incentive for Dundalk (if it wasn't before) great draw and I'd fancy them to beat either of those sides a case of first round draw being more difficult than second on paper anyway.

[paykanti]

It's basically a bye for one of BATE or Dundalk. Videoton are brutal.

[seand]

It's basically a bye for one of BATE or Dundalk. Videoton are brutal.

Yes, Irish clubs' record in Europe would certainly suggest that it's in the bag.

[D24Saint]

It's basically a bye for one of BATE or Dundalk. Videoton are brutal.

TNS only knocked Bohs out of europe a few seasons ago, Irish clubs cant approach any European tie with any amount of arrogance.

[pineapple stu]

Dont care in a way that we lost. That was one of the most fun games Ive ever been at. The lads absolutely themselves proud, and the game isnt even over yet. Probably is, but we still have a chance. This European stuff is great craic

Vittek silenced. Still in with a chance. A trip to Krasnodar up next. Bring it on

Now has anzone seen my voice_ Or the question mark button on this Slovak keyboard_

[paykanti]

Yes, Irish clubs' record in Europe would certainly suggest that it's in the bag.


TNS only knocked Bohs out of europe a few seasons ago, Irish clubs cant approach any European tie with any amount of arrogance.

This Dundalk side aren't just any old Irish side though, bit unfair to group them in with that lot. They're in a class of their own and they've backed it up with their European performances the past two seasons.

[El-Pietro]

Tough draws for UCD and Rovers should the progress. As mentioned above UCD would be off to Russia to face Krasnodar. Rovers meanwhile will face either Elfsborg of Sweden or Randers of Denmark if they can win by 3 clear goals in Norway next week. Elfsborg were the team I wanted City to avoid most in the first round, their recent record in Europe is incredible.

[Azrob Spooh]

Tough draws for UCD and Rovers should the progress. As mentioned above UCD would be off to Russia to face Krasnodar. Rovers meanwhile will face either Elfsborg of Sweden or Randers of Denmark if they can win by 3 clear goals in Norway next week. Elfsborg were the team I wanted City to avoid most in the first round, their recent record in Europe is incredible.

Rovers could always win 5 3 and get through to Round 3; or alternatively win 2 nil away after ET and go through in penalty shoot out...............just saying!!

[El-Pietro]

Rovers could always win 5 3 and get through to Round 3; or alternatively win 2 nil away after ET and go through in penalty shoot out...............just saying!!
They could, but all three scenarios are really remote unfortunately.

Still gutted we threw away sucha great opportunity, Rosenborg aren't what they used to be (won 1-0 with a penalty in Reykjavik last night) and the third round draw was kind - Skonto Riga v Debrecen.

[oriel]

This Dundalk side aren't just any old Irish side though, bit unfair to group them in with that lot. They're in a class of their own and they've backed it up with their European performances the past two seasons.

Maybe thats true, but if we don't win next Wed night, few will remember the outstanding display away to BATE, as we will be knocked out, so we need to back all of this up with a positive result, and that's going to be very difficult.

I think we are very capable of causing an upset, but keeping these guys scoreless is going to be a massive challenge.

[Charlie Darwin]

I would argue that they didnt, Cork should have got through, and it looks like Pats couldnt be bothered.

The reality is, barring Dundalk, our league is pretty pish
Well I meant teams more or less as good or better than them.


fenlon always sets up wrong for Europe and it always comes and a backfires on him. He needs to have more belief and confidence and it always seems his lack of belief filters through the team with a stupid mistake costing after a decent defensive display
If he set his teams up more like Kenny and oneill did he would have a lot better performances and probably a few better results. He is very frustrating.
Were you there? He set his team up almost identically to O'Neill's sides and for the most part they played the same way. Dundalk are a completely different side to either.

[paykanti]

What makes the need for a result most pressing is I don't see Towell staying on another year and replacing him isn't realistically going to happen. I fear this side's peaked so it really would be a shame for them to not do it on the big stage.

[Kingdom]

If Rovers go to Odd and qualify for the next round, you'd have to believe they wouldn't be too afraid of Randers or Elfsborg.

[D24Saint]

Scandinavian and Nordic sides apart from Iceland tend to be strong at this stage of the competition its always hard for LOI sides to get past them.

[White Horse]

What makes the need for a result most pressing is I don't see Towell staying on another year and replacing him isn't realistically going to happen. I fear this side's peaked so it really would be a shame for them to not do it on the big stage.

I didn't see Richie staying this season. I agree he is likely to move, if he gets the right offer.

Teams evolve though. My player of the season in 2014 was Pat Hoban. We're doing quite well without him.

[PartySaint]

They could, but all three scenarios are really remote unfortunately.

Still gutted we threw away sucha great opportunity, Rosenborg aren't what they used to be (won 1-0 with a penalty in Reykjavik last night) and the third round draw was kind - Skonto Riga v Debrecen.

In fairness, Rosenborg are 5 points clear in the Norwegian league after 16 games and beat the side that Beat Rovers 3-0 last Sunday and Odd were technically far superior to Rovers last night. I don't think Cork would have stood much of a chance

[El-Pietro]

In fairness, Rosenborg are 5 points clear in the Norwegian league after 16 games and beat the side that Beat Rovers 3-0 last Sunday and Odd were technically far superior to Rovers last night. I don't think Cork would have stood much of a chance

Not if we played like we did in Iceland anyway, but in my imagined universe we took the game to KR in the second half and are a much better team than in reality.

[dundalkfc10]

I didn't see Richie staying this season. I agree he is likely to move, if he gets the right offer.

Teams evolve though. My player of the season in 2014 was Pat Hoban. We're doing quite well without him.

IMO Stevie O Donnell since he has regained his starting XI spot this season has been our best player in the games we have played. Many people at the game the other night said he was by far Dundalk's best player.

He is like a new signing considering he has only started the last 3/4 games and all rest before that he came on for last 15/20 minutes.

Towell has a contract with Dundalk next season, I wonder how much we will get for him (look for him) if he leaves?

[Ezeikial]

If Rovers go to Odd and qualify for the next round, you'd have to believe they wouldn't be too afraid of Randers or Elfsborg.


Do you believe in miracles?

[mcgonigle]

IMO Stevie O Donnell since he has regained his starting XI spot this season has been our best player in the games we have played. Many people at the game the other night said he was by far Dundalk's best player.

He is like a new signing considering he has only started the last 3/4 games and all rest before that he came on for last 15/20 minutes.

Towell has a contract with Dundalk next season, I wonder how much we will get for him (look for him) if he leaves?

Agreed, O'Donnell is our best player and the best player in the league by some distance. He was immense against BATE, coolness personified. Keeping him fit is key

[jinxy lilywhite]

What makes the need for a result most pressing is I don't see Towell staying on another year and replacing him isn't realistically going to happen. I fear this side's peaked so it really would be a shame for them to not do it on the big stage.

I think you are being very premature with your assessment. Removing Rodger's and O'Donnell I think the average age of the side is around 24 or 25. There is still a lot more to come from this team.

We have a good chance against BATE and we are as good as them judging by Wednesday's nights performance but you must remember that they are CL regulars. I have no doubt they have been in this situation before and have dealt with it. I also have no doubt they will be alot more clued into how we play our moves and shapes and can exploit it.

The game is delicately balanced and we have add good a chance as they have of progressing but we can't underestimate the strength of this bate team.

I think we will win the 2nd leg but the tie is another story.

Tbh I have waited 20 odd years as a Dundalk supporter to see a team like this and just enjoying every minute of it because they are a special special team

[Spudulika]

Dundalk have a very, very realistic chance of making the next round and if it's Videoton they meet, then they'll go through that too. Great days.

Rovers still have an outside chance but I can' see them getting past the next round. UCD have a great draw with Krasnodar or "Chokenadar" as they're known here. One of the great playthings of Russian football they've done a really good job in becoming a decent club, but the owner is so mental that he's already looking past whoever wins the UCD/Slovan tie.

[Nesta99]

Dundalk if it's Videoton they meet, then they'll go through that too.

Bar last season their European results are not too shabby at all!

[White Horse]

In the first half of UEFA Champions League game versus Dundalk F.C. I was involved in an incident. I am really sorry about that. At the moment I understand wrongfulness of my behaviour and accept that there is no place for aggression in football. I would like to voice my sincere apologies to Dundalk player Dane Massey.
I accept wrongfulness of my behaviour and I am ready to take any punishment from UEFA Disciplinary Body and from my club.
http://www.fcbate.by/en/infocenter/club-news/id4347

Looks like the BATE striker Vital Radzivonau knows he is going to be banned.

[Spudulika]

Bar last season their European results are not too shabby at all!

I'm in full agreement with you, they are a good side. However Dundalk play the type of football that can undo them. Quite a few people watched our match last week here and it was amazing to hear the compliments. The best was that "you're not a British side, you can play football." And it was noticeable that our players could generally control the ball and not react violently. UCD were none too shabby either, I didn't see Rovers, but 2 from 3 is pretty good.

[Nesta99]

BATE have a Cup game today, though against a 2nd Division side. Wonder how many will play today that will also play Wednesday?

[Charlie Darwin]

BATE have a Cup game today, though against a 2nd Division side. Wonder how many will play today that will also play Wednesday?
If they go with Duncan Ferguson a maximum of 10.

[Nesta99]

Aliaksandr YERMAKOVICH (BATE Head Coach):
- A win is a win, but the margin is really small. This is not the best result before the second leg. A win is a win, but if we assess the game, Dundalk proved to be a very serious opponent as we had expected. I think the first half was not the best for us in spite of two goals. We lacked something both up front and in defence. Now we have more information about the opponent and have a week to analyse what we know now. Hopefully that will help us in Ireland.

The last couple of lines speak volumes abut their preparation and why the players resorted to the Odd Headbutt. A little worrying too that with a weeks preparation they would improve. Building up to the 1st leg I gained confidence that we could do well, getting closer to the 2nd leg it's the opposite...