Episode 2 — Marathon days and missed chances

In the second episode of The Milltown Way Podcast, Ryan Brennan and Adam Casey unpack a hectic week for Shamrock Rovers, both on and off the pitch. From European disappointment to domestic drama, this episode dives into it all.

They start by looking back at the 2-0 defeat to NK Celje in the UEFA Conference League. Two early goals from Franko Kovačević left Rovers with a mountain to climb, and despite a stronger second-half showing, Stephen Bradley’s side couldn’t find a way back. Discussed are the key tactical takeaways, what went wrong against the Slovenian outfit, and how the result leaves Rovers’ League Phase hopes hanging in the balance — with four games still to play.

Then, attention turns to the 2-1 loss away to Derry City, a game that was anything but ordinary. On a day when Stephen Bradley and Glenn Cronin completed the Dublin Marathon before flying by helicopter to Derry for kick-off, Rovers fell short once again as a late Rory Gaffney strike wasn’t enough to prevent defeat. Ryan and Adam break down the key moments, including Lee Grace’s red card, Brandon Fleming’s superb strike, and the post-match talking points from another missed title-clinching opportunity.

They also discuss the fan situation at the Brandywell, where a coach of Shamrock Rovers supporters was denied entry by the PSNI — sparking widespread anger but also a rare moment of solidarity between both sets of fans as banners were raised together condemning British injustice.

Beyond the results, reflected is Stephen Bradley’s ongoing commitment to the club, from his charity run for Oscar’s Kids to his focus amid criticism from NK Celje’s Albert Riera. With the title all but sealed, Ryan and Adam talk about what Bradley’s leadership continues to mean to the club and its supporters.

Looking ahead, the hosts preview a crucial week at Tallaght Stadium, where Shamrock Rovers host Galway United on Wednesday night and Sligo Rovers on Saturday. With the title now only one point away.

It’s been a marathon week in every sense, full of frustration, emotion, and anticipation — but as ever, it all leads back to the same question: can Rovers finish the job in front of their own fans on Wednesday night?

All that and more — in Episode 2 of The Milltown Way Podcast.

Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.

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