DUBLIN (Interstat) — Shamrock Rovers opened its UEFA Europa Conference League campaign with a 3-1 victory over Hamrun Spartans at Tallaght Stadium on Thursday.

The match turned in the 26th minute when Hamrun’s Joseph Mbong was sent off with a red card. The visitors had taken a surprise lead through substitute Philippe Koffi in the 20th minute, but playing a man down proved costly. Danny Grant equalized for Rovers just before halftime in stoppage time.

Shamrock Rovers dominated the second half, with Graham Burke and John McGovern adding goals to secure the win. The result defied a pre-match projection that favored Hamrun Spartans. Five yellow cards were also issued in the physical contest.