EUROPA LEAGUE: Villarreal wins first major trophy in their history — SEE PHOTOS

Villarreal have won the first major honor in their history with an epic 11-10 penalty shootout win over Manchester United in the Europa League final following a 1-1 draw after extra-time.

The remarkable shootout saw both sides score their first 10 penalties using outfield players and it was Villarreal keeper Geronimo Rulli who turned out the hero.

David de Gea hadn’t saved a penalty in more than five years and 25 attempts, so we had every reason to fear for Manchester United’s chances when it went to a shoot-out in Gdansk. Come to think of it, he hadn’t scored one either but that didn’t seem important at the time.

One by one the spot-kicks flew in. A 100 per cent record from both teams through the regulation five each and deep into sudden-death.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer stood as far back as he could in his technical area, hiding nervously behind a phalanx of exhausted players. Amad Diallo sank to his knees and prayed. Others could barely look.