Shamrock Rovers toast Europa League success

Shamrock Rovers will be returning home today after becoming the first Irish side to reach the group stages of a European competition last night.

Stephen O'Donnell's extra-time penalty gave them a famous 3-2 aggregate win over Partizan Belgrade in the Europa League.

Rovers were up against it when Vladimir Volkov put the home side in front in the 35th minute but Patrick Sullivan fired home a 58th minute equaliser to set up the extra half hour of drama.

The Tallaght side are set to earn at least €1m in TV revenue for the upcoming ties. The draw to decide the groups takes place at noon today.

Football Association of Ireland CEO John Delaney extended his congratulations to Rovers, saying: “I would like to pay tribute to Shamrock Rovers on this historic night for Irish football.

“I am so pleased to send my congratulations to the players, managerial staff, supporters and directors of the club on a breakthrough moment for the professional game in Ireland.

“It was particularly pleasing to see the loyal supporters who had made the trip to Belgrade rewarded by being a part of history.”

Airtricity League director Fran Gavin was in the stadium to witness Michael O’Neill’s side stun their Serbian opponents and he believes it was a moment all fans of Irish club football could feel proud of.

“On a personal note, it was great to be here in Belgrade to witness history. Having played, managed and administrated in the league for over 30 years it’s my most memorable night,” he said.

“I am looking forward to seeing Shamrock Rovers continue this incredible adventure in the UEFA Europa League group stages.”

Airtricity League chairman Eamon Naughton also paid tribute to the work carried out by the Rovers board in achieving a moment that Irish football has waited for a very long time to achieve.

“This achievement is great for Shamrock Rovers as a football club but it is also great for the Airtricity League,” said Naughton.

“I’m sure all of our member clubs would be quick to lend their congratulations. They’ve done us proud with the progress they’ve made and it is all the more impressive considering the journey they made from winning the First Division in 2006. The people who pulled together to keep their club alive deserve to celebrate this memorable occasion.”