Shelbourne manager Pat Fenlon has hailed his heroes after they qualified for the second qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League last night.
Speaking to RTE radio’s Siobhan Madigan, Fenlon said: "I am proud of everyone in the club. This is a reward for all those people and the next round is a stepping stone to the big boys. We didn’t intend to sit back for the last 10 or 15 minutes but is happened that way. Our back four were unbelievable. Jason Byrne and Alan Moore worked their socks off. Everyone did well but Jason Byrne is a class act."
Shelbourne captain Owen Heary says that his side deserved to progress in the Champions League after last night’s 0-0 draw with KR Reykavic.
Heary said: "We deserved it. It’s nice to go through. It was great to keep a clean sheet. We had our lead on away goals and we defended it. I was thinking back to Hibs two years ago (Leading on away goals at the same stage two years ago, Shels conceded an injury time goal to Hibernians of Malta and were knocked out) but didn’t think that would happen. We could have scored. Jayo (Jason Byrne) had two shots, but it wasn’t to be though. But we’re through. It’s great for the fans and for the league. I saw jerseys from Cork and Bray and Rovers here tonight. Hopefully Cork can get something on Sunday and Longford and Bohs next week."
Shelbourne secretary Ollie Byrne added: "This win will restore pride and credibility to ourselves and our league. We will represent our league with pride and distinction in the next round. It’s great for the young fans who came here tonight and come here every week."
Filed by Mark O'Neill-Cummins
