Gary Haveron 'devastated' for Larne players after Europa League heartache in Georgia

The Inver Reds knew progression against FC Iberia 1999 would guarantee a potential shot at Rangers in the play-off round, but more importantly, it would also guarantee league phase football in the Conference League.

Following last week’s goalless draw in the first leg of the third qualifying round tie at Inver Park, the hosts took a 74th-minute lead through forward Vakho Bedoshvili, only for Larne to level two minutes later through James Simpson’s effort.

Nika Sikharulashvili struck the winner in the 102nd minute, meaning Haveron’s troops drop into the play-off round of the Conference League, where they will face either Lincoln Reds Imps (Gibraltar) or Omonoia (Cyprus).

The two teams meet on Thursday’s second-leg after the opening contest finished 1-1.

"I'm absolutely devastated for the boys in there,” Haveron told Larne’s social media platforms.

"The effort they put in there was absolutely huge.

"I'm just so proud of them...and just so unlucky we got done how we did.

"We defended so well, had a good shape, and we limited them to very few opportunities - apart from the goals that they got.

"There weren't a lot of shots, Rohan (Ferguson) hasn't had to make a lot of saves, so to lose and being close to penalties is bitterly disappointing.”

Simpson’s goal was his first in a Larne jersey and Haveron said it was a massive moment for the club after the teenager’s breakthrough from the academy set-up into the first-team squad.

Haveron added: "I'm absolutely delighted for James on this stage.

"We said beforehand about the opportunity for somebody to be a hero, so why not a local kid who has come through our Academy?

"I'm incredibly proud of James...he showed his levels and it was a real mature performance for a kid of his age and how he wanted to get on the ball and play.”

Larne made history in 2024 when they became the first Irish League side to reach group or league phase European football and either Lincoln Reds Imps or Omonoia FC stand in their way of replicating that feat.

"You are hoping that the draw gives you games you can be competitive in,” Haveron continued.

"I think we've shown again our level in Europe that we can come here and take a really good Georgian team all the way.

"We were asking all the questions at the end there and you're thinking 'should we have maybe gambled a little bit earlier'?

"As soon as the game opens up and the space develops, that’s when teams can catch you, so you’ve got to pick your moments.

"I was really pleased, I’m proud of their efforts and they deserved a hell of a lot more, so we’ve got to dust ourselves down.

"I probably felt in the back of my head that the Conference League play-off was the one we’ll have a chance in.”