Larne FC Set for European Showdown: Can They Repeat Last Season's Glory?
Larne FC is gearing up for another exciting European campaign, kicking off with a clash against FK Auda at Ballymena Showgrounds. Following their historic achievement of becoming the first Irish League team to reach the group stages of the UEFA Conference League last season, the team is brimming with confidence and eager to make their mark once again.
Lessons Learned from Last Season's European Adventure
Last year's journey was a valuable learning experience for Larne, as they faced formidable opponents such as Gent, St Gallen, Molde, and Shamrock Rovers. Matty Lusty emphasizes the importance of drawing confidence from that experience as they embark on this summer's continental campaign.
"We have to (take confidence from last season). There were maybe some games where we let ourselves down, like the Shamrock Rovers game, but apart from that I think we did really well in Europe, especially in the League Phase. We have to take confidence from that going into this tie," Lusty stated.
New Manager, Same Ambition
Under the guidance of new manager Nathan Rooney, who recently reinstalled as Inver Park boss, Larne aims to build on their previous success and create more memorable moments in Europe. Striker Tiarnan O’Connor is enthusiastic about playing under Rooney's leadership and believes the team can achieve great things.
Belief is Key
Lusty also highlighted the significance of self-belief in European competitions. "We know what we're up against and having played against a Latvian team last season in RFS we know they'll be good. It will be tough but the main thing about European games is probably belief in your own ability. If you go out scared you'll never get a result and that's what we did really well last year."
Inspiring Other Irish League Clubs
Larne's success in Europe serves as an inspiration to other Irish League clubs, demonstrating the potential within the league. Lusty hopes to see more teams emulate their achievement in the future, which would significantly contribute to the overall growth and recognition of the league.
"I think it should give other Irish League clubs confidence and it shows where the league is at the minute. We did so well in Europe and it would be great to see a couple of teams maybe get in some year...that would really help the league," Lusty concluded.