Pico Lopes: 'Starting the new year with a European game is uncharted territory but now it’s time for a break'

A first defeat in six matches of this part of the campaign left Rovers missing out on a top-eight direct ticket by goal difference.

TIME FOR A BREAK: Shamrock Rovers' Lopes applauds the fans after the game in Stamford Bridge. Picture: ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

Pico Lopes was entitled to puff out his cheeks, exhale and reflect on a 60-game year that included the African Cup of Nations and Conference league phase.

Stamford Bridge in south-west London represented his final stopover, an occasion for the Shamrock Rovers side he captains to cherish despite a heavy defeat.