UEFA Conference League – 1st Qualifying Round
Ħamrun Spartans……1 (2)
NSÍ Runavík…………..2 (3)
Ħamrun Spartans were eliminated from the UEFA Conference League after a dramatic 2-1 defeat to NSÍ Runavík at the Centenary Stadium, with the Faroese side progressing 3-2 on aggregate thanks to a controversial stoppage-time penalty.
The Maltese champions started positively and created the better early chances through Damir Ceter, but it was NSÍ who went ahead just before half-time when Michal Przybylski found the net from outside the area.
Stefano Sanderra’s side responded well after the break and restored parity in the 53rd minute through a superb volley from Ante Ćorić. Ħamrun continued to push forward and looked set to force extra time after creating further opportunities while Célio made important saves at the other end.
However, the tie took a dramatic turn in added time. After the officials ruled the ball had remained in play and had not gone for a goal kick, Emerson Marcelina was penalised for handball inside the area, despite replays appearing to show the ball had crossed the byline moments earlier.
Peter Knudsen converted the resulting penalty to send NSÍ into the next round.
The decision sparked furious protests from the Ħamrun players after the final whistle as their European campaign came to a heartbreaking end.
