Dundalk out of Europe after defeat in Israel

Dundalk took on Maccabi Tel Aviv In Israel. Credit: PA

Dundalk's magnificent European adventure has come to an end after they lost 2-1 against Maccabi Tel Aviv on Thursday night.

The Lilywhites went into their final Europa League Group D game still with a chance of making the final 32, but defeat dashed those hopes in the Netanya Stadium.

With AZ Alkmar also pressing for the runners-up spot, manager Stephen Kenny went into the crunch game knowing it was more or less a win or bust situation for Dundalk.

Opponents Maccabi Tel Aviv went into the game very much a team under pressure, having not won in 12 games.

They started the more confident and, after having a goal ruled out on seven minutes, they took the lead on 20 minutes from the penalty spot.

The award was given after Dundalk keeper Gary Rogers brought down Haris Medunjanin, and Tal Ben Haim drove the ball into the left corner of the net.

However, Dundalk hit back seven minutes later with a lovely worked goal - Chris Shields hit a low cross into the box and, with Daryl Horgan charging in, the ball hit off defender Dasa and over the line.

Dundalk celebrate their goal. Credit: PA

The home side regained the lead six minutes before the break.

Dor Micha connected with an angled drive that Rogers got a hand to, but he could not prevent the ball from ending up in the net.

Maccabi Tel Aviv celebrate after retaking the lead. Credit: PA

The home side had most of the possession in the second half, but missed a series of chances to extend their lead - including Micha slicing wide with the goal at his mercy.

Despite a constant wave of attacks, Dundalk defended well and, with only a goal between the sides, there was always the chance a quick counter attack would bring reward.

It almost came with a Ciaran Kilduff header which was saved by the keeper.

Then Robbie Benson and then Kilduff in added time just failed to snatch the goal that would have seen Dundalk sign off with a draw.

In the end, it was not to be and Maccabi Tel Aviv secured the win on the night, while AZ Alkmar’s win over Zenit St Petersburg saw the Dutch side through.

It has been a great run by Dundalk in the Europa League though, etching a new chapter in the club's history.