Uefa Conference League: ‘A bit strange and surreal’ – Larne manager Lynch relishes Euro draw

Larne manager Tiernan Lynch says attending Friday’s UEFA Conference League draw made all the club’s hard work worthwhile.

Larne won 4–3 over Lincoln Red Imps to become the first Irish club to reach the group or league stages of a major European club competition.

Larne played against Dubliners Shamrock Rovers, Molde, Olimpija, Dinamo Minsk, Gent and St Gallen.

“It was a bit strange and surreal watching Larne play in the European group stage, but just being here makes it worth it,” Lynch said.

“I’m happy and excited. Even being named in the draw with teams like Chelsea – it’s an experience we have to enjoy and hopefully it’s not a one-off.”

A clash at Windsor Park with Irish champions Shamrock Rovers is the most important of Larne’s six matches.

“I don’t know much about the other teams but with Rovers’ play we know how good they are and how dominant they have been there in recent years. To get them to Windsor Park is a really good move.”

Lynch watched the draw alongside Larne owner Kenny Bruce, who heralded the club’s revival with a £5million investment in 2017.

“It was absolutely amazing. It was great to experience the game last night and see the draw with all the people involved in creating what is going to be an exciting few months,” said Bruce.

“I have received thousands of messages of congratulations, saying how proud people are of the club, the community and the city and how much we represent local football in Northern Ireland.”