It is enough just to play in Europe to be fully motivated for the task. But throw in a potential tie with Scottish champions Celtic and the stakes suddenly rise to a dizzying height. Dundalk goalkeeper Gary Rogers knows all about producing big perfo
It is enough just to play in Europe to be fully motivated for the task. But throw in a potential tie with Scottish champions Celtic and the stakes suddenly rise to a dizzying height.
Dundalk goalkeeper Gary Rogers knows all about producing big performances in order to succeed in European combat and that is why he is fully focused on their game with Rosenborg on Wednesday.
The Lilywhites took the lead - through David McMillan - in the first leg at Oriel Park but had to settle for a 1-1 draw. Now, the challenge facing Stephen Kenny's side is going to Norway and toppling a strong team in order to set up a face-off with Celtic.
"It's a massive incentive for us. Most of the lads here would have been fans of Celtic growing up," said Rogers.
"So the opportunity to go and play them in a Champions League qualifier is a real incentive for us to go and try and beat Rosenborg.
"The lads would really love to play in Parkhead in a game of that magnitude. But having said that, there was a massive incentive to beat Rosenborg anyway."
After last year's heroics in Europe, few would back against Dundalk overcoming this latest obstacle and taking that next leap forward.
