UCL: Irish side looks set to drop into Europa League
Shamrock Rovers 0-2 Sparta Prague (1st leg)
Shamrock Rovers' Champions League campaign seems to be coming to an end unless they can overturn a two-goal deficit in Prague next week.
The Hoops conceded two soft goals, particularly the first one, when they lost possession while trying to pass the ball out from the back.
Before Velkjo Birmancevic's 38th-minute goal, they looked comfortable against their strong opponents. But when Tomas Wiesner made it 2-0 in the 65th minute, the tie seemed almost over.
However, the Tallaght side will head to next week's second leg needing to score only one goal.
Josh Honohan came very close to scoring twice in injury time – the first was a header brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Peter Jensen, and the second, moments later, was a back-post effort that drifted inches wide.
How last season's Champions League was won.
Jensen could have cost his side a first-half goal when he rushed from his goal and sent the ball straight to the feet of Neil Farrugia. However, the Rovers wide man wasn't quick enough to get his shot off, and Mathias Ross made an outstanding block.
In front of almost 10,000 fans, Rovers pushed for a late goal, but to no avail. Unless there is a remarkable turnaround next week, the Irish champions will move into the Europa League.
Let's explore the best reaction to this Champions League match
Liam, a Manchester United fan, enjoyed the match as a neutral on a visit to Ireland. He said: "I am convinced that more memorable European nights are ahead for Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght Stadium. Ultimately, the gulf in class was simply too wide as Sparta Prague have probably already done enough to clinch a place in the next round."
Eoghan, a Shamrock fan, told us: "This was always to be a difficult match and we didn't disgrace ourselves. I am looking forward to next week's trip and eventually our campaign in the Europa League."
The video below showcases some of the atmosphere from the stadium.
