Updated at 15.00

IRELAND MANAGER MARTIN O’Neill was in attendance for the greatest night in the history of Dundalk Football Club.

With the Lilywhites claiming a 3-0 second leg win over BATE Borisov to progress to the Champions League play-off, the international boss paid a visit to the home dressing room after the final whistle to praise Stephen Kenny’s players.

“I just want to say that was phenomenal,” O’Neill said. “Absolutely phenomenal.

“It is one of the best results in Irish history and you were phenomenal from start to finish — heart, soul, brilliant.”

He even took the opportunity to crack a joke at the expense of midfielder Chris Shields, who had played a couple of stray passes on the night.

“You’re one of my favourites. You’ll soon be able to pass the ball properly and you’ll be brilliant.

“You’ve got a great heart, honestly.”

O’Neill also name-checked winger Daryl Horgan, goalscorer David McMillan and captain Stephen O’Donnell.

The Derryman said last week that he is hoping to attend Cork City’s meeting with Genk at Turner’s Cross tomorrow night as well.

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