For the first time since 2012, Bohemians have qualified for Europe, with their manager Keith Long keen to pay tribute to those both on and off the pitch.
On Friday evening, a 0-0 draw away to St Pat's was enough to ensure that Bohs will be playing in the Europa League, and with that the prospect of a hefty pay day to the tune of about €240,000.
Speaking to RTÉ Sport after the game at Richmond Park, Long underlined the magnitude of what the Gypsies have achieved.
"It's a great night for the club and it's just rewards for what this group has done over the season," he said.
"It hasn't just happened overnight, we've been building towards it and we were unlucky not to reach Europe on a few occasions.
"A lot of things have aligned in the background with the supporters and the work we are doing in the community. We are filling out Dalymount every week and are bringing a magnificent travelling support to grounds. All told, it's a reward for the people on the board at the club, the volunteers that give up all their time to make this special club great again.
"We are part-time, but year on year I have been supported by the board to try and make things better."
.@bfcdublin manager Keith Long on why "Europe is a great reward for the club" #rtesoccer pic.twitter.com/mieMQ2PVjk
— Soccer Republic (@SoccRepublic) October 18, 2019
Preparations are already in place regarding the make-up of the Gypsies squad for 2020, with the manager hopeful they can add strength to their ranks.
"We have to be wise now in what we try and do. We have to be prudent in terms of our approach, but at the same time strengthen our squad for next season.
"The group of players have been immense all year. You have to look at the amount of new players we brought into the club and how they have developed and adapted. I'm very proud of the players we have brought through at underage level.
"We have tried to do our business at little earlier this year and we have a number of players under contract, with more to be announced. We are hopeful with the carrot of Europe that we maybe able to attract a player or two to the club."
