Dundalk were unable to secure a home win from their Champions League qualifier first leg against Riga FC.
Vinny Perth's side do have the advantage of not only keeping a clean sheet but consequently avoiding concession of an away goal.
Latvian champions Riga had the potential to be awkward opponents for Dundalk. And so it proved as they held out for a scoreless draw.
UEFA Champions League First Qualifying Round First Leg, Oriel Park, Dundalk, Co. Louth 10/7/2019Dundalk vs Riga FC
Dundalk's Sean Gannon with Roger of Riga FC ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy
Tense
With plenty at stake in terms of prize money and ambition, it was always going to be a tense affair.
Dundalk had more of the ball in the opening exchanges with Riga a threat on the counter.
The home side fashioned a couple of chances through Sean Hoare just after the 20 minute mark.
First he headed wide at a corner, before firing just off-target two minutes later.
Patrick Hoban headed over just before half-time as both sides settled for a 0-0 at the interval.
In the second half, Jamie McGrath forced a save from the Riga goalkeeper, while Hoare also tested him.
But ultimately, it wasn't enough as Dundalk failed to find a crucial winner.
They will now head to Lativa in search of that valuable away goal that could make all the difference.
The second leg takes place on July 17th at Skonto Stadium in Riga.
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
