IT took 51 years to get back and just 35 days for the dream to die – but boy, they went down with one hell of a fight.

The record books will show no more than Burnley’s first European adventure in over half a century didn’t go beyond the qualifying play-off. They will tell only part of the story.

10 Olympiakos ace Daniel Podence opened the scoring for the visitors against Burnley Credit: Getty - Contributor

10 Matej Vydra put the Clarets back on level terms in the 86th minute at Turf Moor Credit: Reuters

For while they may be left to purely focus on a domestic campaign from now, if they play half as well as this on a regular basis, the Clarets will win far, far more than they lose.

On another night they could have had five. On another night they would be awaiting the group stage draw with eager anticipation.

And they certainly left Jose Mourinho, watching from the stands, with plenty to consider ahead of Sunday’s visit of Manchester United.

The Old Trafford gaffer, trying and failing to remain incognito with a hat and black coat amidst the United scouts, knows if his side aren’t up for a scrap, he is in for a torrid day.

10 Podence celebrates after breaking the deadlock against Sean Dyche's men Credit: Getty Images - Getty

10 Burnley striker Sam Vokes missed a great chance to break the deadlock against Olympiakos Credit: Getty - Contributor

10 Welsh international Vokes was guilty of squandering a key opportunity in the first half Credit: Reuters

Ultimately, of course, it all ended in tears for Burnley. A Europa League campaign done and dusted in little more than a month.

But Sean Dyche had every reason to be proud of his beaten warriors. Another day, another game, a kinder bounce of the ball here and there, and it would have been so different.

In the end, though, a goal from Matej Vydra was all they had to show for their barnstorming barrage – and by then the tie was effectively out of sight.

If only Sam Vokes’ point blank header, after a pinpoint delivery from magnificent rookie Dwight O’Neill, had been a foot to the right.

10 Clarets ace Jeff Hendrick tried his luck against the Greek giants during the Europa League play-off second leg Credit: EPA

10 Former Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon was looking to cause problems for the Lancashire outfit Credit: Reuters

If only his header from a corner off the hugely impressive O’Neill – what a future the teenager looks to have by the way – had been a foot lower.

If only Vokes’ first time curler from 20 yards two minutes after the break had been six inches to the left, rather than rattling an upright.

And if only, most glaringly of all, Vydra’s first goal in his first game had come before the 85th minute – instead of blazing an earlier first time rebound over an unguarded net.

In the end all those misses had to count. They did, seven minutes from time, when Daniel Podence made the most of Burnley’s pushing forward to end any doubts.

At least Vydra's goal made sure they didn't end as losers on the night. And they’ll sure as heck be determined to put it right against United on Sunday. Jose, you have been warned…

10 Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho was in attendance to watch Burnley take on Olympiakos Credit: Reuters

10 Defender Phil Bardsley looks dejected after Burnley's Europa League adventure came to an end Credit: PA:Press Association

10 Olympiakos players applaud their travelling fans after sealing their name in the group stage draw Credit: Reuters