MADRID, Jul 24 (SW) – Villarreal, have made an early exit from European competition, just months after progressing to the semi final of the European Champions League.

Last season’s surprise packet was dealt a surprising 3-2 aggregate defeat at the hands of NK Maribor of Slovenia in the Intertoto Cup on Saturday.

The result left Villarreal coach Manuel Pellegrini fuming with his charges, with four Yellow Submarine players receiving red cards over the tie.

“We are out (of Europe) because we played with fewer players in both encounters and because our rivals were very motivated. They were deserved winners,” Pellegrini said.

“You cannot afford to have four players sent off in two games. I am really annoyed.”

Diego Forlan, Alessio Tacchinardi and Gonzalo Rodriguez received their marching orders in the second leg, whilst Josemi was sent off in the first encounter between the sides.