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Tanks mate

Stranded Dundalk supporters invited onto team bus after breaking down on way to Europa League clash

Minibus carrying set of fans came to an abrupt halt on M1 motorway before manager Stephen Kenny invited to drop them off at the airport

IT has been quite a journey for Dundalk fans.

After narrowly missing out on the Champions League despite a valiant effort against Legia Warsaw in the play-offs, Dundalk qualified for the Europa League group stage for the first time in their history.

Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny invited the set of supporters on the team bus
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Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny invited the set of supporters on the team busCredit: Sportsfile
Whatts app message
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Dundalk councillor John McGahon posted this to his twitter accountCredit: Social Media

On Thursday, Ireland's best team will travel to Holland to take on AZ Alkmaar in their opening Europa League fixture.

The away day will be a special moment for supporters but for one set of fans, their trip across Europe will live long in the memory.

, a group of fans were left stranded on their way to the airport when their bus broke down on the side of the M1 motorway.

Dundalk players arrive in Amsterdam ahead of their Europa clash
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Dundalk players arrive in Amsterdam ahead of their Europa clashCredit: Sportsfile
Dundalk created history when they knocked out BATE Borisov in the Champions League third round qualifying
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Dundalk created history when they knocked out BATE Borisov in the Champions League third round qualifyingCredit: Sportsfile
Legia Warsaw was one step too far for the Irish minnow
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Legia Warsaw was one step too far for the Irish minnowsCredit: Getty Images

With their hopes of reaching Holland looking in tatters, a 52-seat coach pulled up alongside them before Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny pops out and quips "hop on lads."

The set of supporters got on the bus and were taken directly to the airport to catch their flight.

Following Dundalk's trip to AZ Alkmaar, their European tour will continue against Israeli side Maccabi Tel-Aviv and Zenit St Petersburg.

Elsewhere Southampton take on Sparta Prague whilst Manchester United are also in Holland to play Feyenoord.