Bradley: Hard to qualify if you give up soft goals
Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley admitted his side were "disappointed" to exit Europe without reaching the league phase but disputed the claim that they had been offered an 'easier' qualifying path in 2026.
Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley expressed disappointment at his team's elimination from European competition without reaching the league phase. The Hoops' exit came after conceding a soft goal with 16 minutes remaining in their final qualifier against KuPS. The goal, given away by Graham Burke, typified the type of mistakes Rovers have been making recently in European competition.
Bradley dismissed claims that they were offered an easier qualifying path in 2026, asserting that the difficulty remains the same. Rovers had started the second half strongly and were leading at half-time, but the poor goal swung the momentum in KuPS's favor. Bradley emphasized the team's need to review and address this issue, noting that it is not typical of their play this season.
Despite the setback, Bradley remains confident that Rovers will be ready for their upcoming league match at the Brandywell.
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