THEY’VE ALREADY SURPASSED all expectations, but Dundalk can look upon qualification to the Europa League knockout stages as a realistic goal after tonight’s result.
A fabulous 1-0 win over Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv means the Lilywhites sit second in Group D with four points from their opening two matches.
Next up is double-header with Russian heavyweights Zenit St Petersburg, who have a 100% record so far, in a month’s time but the Louth club have more pressing matters to attend to first.
“We felt that if we won tonight we would be outright second in the group,” Kenny said. “That proved to be true so that was important for us.
“It’s only the second game and we actually have a minimum of five games before we play Zenit, and in that period they only have one.
“We’ve a tough schedule over the next few weeks but we will enjoy tonight. It was a great victory and I thought the players were terrific — very disciplined, very creative, their accuracy of passing and also very courageous.”
With an FAI Cup semi-final meeting with Derry City to come this Sunday before three Premier Division matches in the space of the week, Kenny is eager to look ahead as soon as possible as Dundalk balance their European voyage with the defence of last season’s league/cup double.
“My main concern is Sunday, we’ve a game in two days really because it’s an early game,” Kenny added. “There’s a place in the FAI Cup final on offer so it’s a big game for us.
“We’re delighted with tonight and it’s a great victory but that’s the nature of it. We have to move on quite quickly and that’s the reality of the whole thing at the moment.
That’s not to take away from tonight. I think everyone is improving all the time and the rate of improvement individually is there for all to see.
“You can see it with your own eyes and collectively we’re getting better. It’s a huge challenge this season with the league run the way it is — having five games before we play in two weeks’ time — and all the tough games coming up.
“It’s amazing and I do understand that you have to enjoy this but we want it to be an incredibly-special season so we have to remain driven over the next few weeks.”
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To think that she took up rugby 7 years ago and is now one of the most capable wingers in her sport. Incredibly talent. Good woman Ali
It’s catch and run. Not that difficult as she was already a top athlete
Catch and run? If that was the case, we would all be playing in the world cup.
It’s a lot more than catch and run, if you knew anything about rugby, you’d know that. Scarlett for ya buddy!
Ailbhe, don’t rise to the pathetic efforts of wind up merchants/trolls. People like him that don’t play or have never played rugby have no idea the level of skill and intelligence involved to be a top level player.
Ah Gary, I was just going to challenge him to a game. See if he can handle being dump tackled by a girl ;)
I repeat. Catch and run
Ok John, come to our training tonight. I’ll throw you the ball. You just simply catch and run….see how you fair. Up for the challenge? Or another keyboard warrior?
The best of luck to the Irish Ladies Rugby Team in their semi final against England. They have given a great lift to everyone with their achievements.
Stop running them down, they’re all lovely girls and they all have lovely bottoms.
Yours etc,
Niamh Horan
Played against her yrs back she tore us apart brilliant player, I’ve everything crossed for tomorrow I’m hoping for a Ireland/Canada final
I played against her too. When I tried to tackle her, I subluxed my shoulder. Out for nore than a month. I didn’t slow her down and I doubt I even altered her course. Ouch
Fantastic player Ali Miller is, best of luck tomorrow girls
She’s the type of athlete that can turn her hand to any type of sport.. Well done miller!!!
Ballet????
You are a muppet
Best of luck Ali