'The dream came true' - LASK locals praise Liverpool fans after 'carnival atmosphere' on perfect trip

Liverpool fans have been hailed for helping 'the dream come true' in Linz after a memorable Europa League group stage encounter.

Reds travelled in their thousands expecting to have a jovial time in Austria as they were heavy favourites ahead of the game - and they were not disappointed with the result as their side defeated LASK 3-1 on Thursday.

Upon arrival in Linz, many Kopites headed out in in search of King Kenny's pub, which was renamed this week in honour of club legend Sir Kenny Dalglish.

Owner Kieran Bates, originally from Dublin, told the ECHO: “The buzz was amazing! There were Liverpool fans all day. It was a carnival atmosphere, especially once the LASK fans joined at around 3pm or 4pm."

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The Irish pub became a hub for Liverpool followers - with plenty trying a pint of King Kenny Red.

Kieran added: "Liverpool fans arrived early - obviously they disappeared for the game, but they were there to the early hours [of Friday], arriving here very quickly after the final whistle. The King Kenny was very popular, with many loving the logo on the taps.”

Reds fans did their club proud as they mixed with the locals and socialised during the day.

Kiernan said: “There was great banter throughout; fans were swapping hats from both sides, and a lot of Liverpool lads ended up going home with LASK hats. Great camaraderie.

“Many fans photographed the sign outside, and some offered to buy the sign to take it home with them!”

Toulouse should expect a similar atmosphere when the six-time European champions visit in November.

Kieran summed up the occasion this week as he said: “It was a