Maltese side Ħamrun Spartans and Hibernians have played their first leg of the third qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League.
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Hibernians put out a solid display and managed to hold Latvian champions FK RFS at a 1-1 draw despite only playing with ten men for the majority of the game.
Hibernians started the game on top but doubts quickly rose when, in the 26th minute, Brazilian right back Thylon received his second yellow card of the game and had to be sent off. Despite the numerical disadvantage the Maltese champions managed to score a first thanks to Dunstan Vella.
The star man for Hibs however was keeper Ibrahim Kone who massively stepped up in the second half, saving a penalty and other chances. The hosts finally equalized in the 85th minute, meaning that the teams will enter their next game in Malta next week on equal terms.
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Things were a bit more unfortunate for Ħamrun Spartans as, after performing at a very high level against Bulgarian giants Levski Sofia, the Spartans conceded in the last minute to make the result a 1-0 win for Levski.
After a very rocky start wherein Levski Sofia fortunately missed a penalty in the 11th minute, Ħamrun found their stride and looked more comfortable.
They had numerous chances to open the scoresheet but they lacked the composure to finish off their chances. The goal Ħamrun conceded in the 94th minute was scored by Filip Krastev, who managed to find the ball in the box from a rebounded shot and calmly guided it in the goal.
Ħamrun were the only Maltese team out of the three still in European competition to play in Malta this week. This time around they played in Ta’ Qali after a request was sent to the MFA to change the venue to allow more fans to watch the all important game. The massive turnout of Ħamrun fans made sure their support was heard all throughout the ninety minutes as they tried to lead the Spartans players to a surprising goal.
Hibernians will be hoping for a similar reception to that of Ħamrun as they welcome FK RFS to Malta next week as they search to become the first ever Maltese team to make the playoff round. The Spartans will be eyeing a historic come back in Sofia to rewrite the history books and also make the playoff round.
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