Rogers and Dundalk still in contention for Champions League progress

Gary Rogers and his Dundalk colleagues produced a battling performance in Belarus tonight where they were edged out by a second-half goal in the first leg of their Champions League qualifier against BATE.

That gives Dundalk everything to play for in the second leg next week at Tallaght Stadium.

Bohermeen man Rogers also had Bettystown man Georgie Poynton on the bench while Noel Walsh from Kentstown (kit man) completed the Meath line up

BATE were fortunate that Maksim Zharvnerchik escaped with a yellow card in the opening half following a challenge on Stephen O'Donnell as the sides went in 0-0 at the break.

BATE introduced former Arsenal man Alexande Hleb  in the second-half and they eventually made the breakthrough when another substitute Mikhail Gordeichuck fired to the net.

Next up is the second-leg at Tallaght Stadium next Tuesday night with tickets on general sale now.

It's a good opportunity for all the Meath fans of soccer to get behind the local men in Tallaght next Tuesday night.