Kilmarnock struck by FC Copenhagen late double as Europa Conference League take a hit

Callum Carson
·1-min read

Kilmarnock’s hopes of reaching the Europa Conference League league stage were dealt a double late blow in Denmark as they went down 2-0 to FC Copenhagen.

Despite a resolute defensive display, the visitors were undone by two late goals as Kevin Diks netted a 77th minute penalty before Rasmus Falk fired home with the last kick of the ball.

The second leg takes place at Rugby Park next week with the Ayrshire men having it all to do if they are to progress beyond the play-off round.

READ MORE:Kilmarnock fans make memories to last a lifetime during incredible Euro trips

READ MORE:How often should you wash your pyjamas and use 10p hack to banish sweaty smells

Killie were always going to be the heavy underdogs against a side who defeated Manchester United and drew with Bayern Munich on their way to a last-16 berth in the Champions League last season but limited FC Copenhagen to very little until the late collapse.

The breakthrough arrived when David Watson was ruled to have caught former Celtic man Mohamed Elyounoussi inside the box following a VAR intervention.

Diks slotted home the spot-kick despite Kieran O’Hara diving the right way.

A one-goal deficit would have kept Derek McInnes’ side firmly in the tie but they were unable to see out the remainder of the contest as Falk netted with the game’s final kick.

The 32-year-old fired home from 16 yards as Killie looked to defend a late corner to ensure the Danes have one foot in the league stages.

Read next:

Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter

Latest stories