UEFA Conference League – Matchday 5
Ħamrun Spartans….0
Shakhtar Donetsk….2
A brave first-half display from Ħamrun Spartans against Shakhtar Donetsk wasn’t enough to earn a result, as the Ukrainian giants struck twice in three minutes to beat the Maltese champions 2-0 on Matchday 5 of the UEFA Conference League.
In the 39th minute, the Spartans came close to an opener when, after a swift break, Mbong found Ćorić just inside the area, and the Croatian’s powerful shot was pushed away by Shakhtar goalkeeper Kiril Fesiun.
Shakhtar and Ħamrun were evenly matched at first, with few chances for either side. Shakhtar’s first real effort came after 25 minutes, but Bonello pushed the shot wide, and the Ukrainians finished the half on top without scoring.
The breakthrough arrived on the hour when Azarovi lifted a cross into the box and Meirelles headed in.
Just three minutes later, Shakhtar’s high press won the ball deep in the Ħamrun half, allowing Silva to score with a neat lob.
Shakhtar continued to look for a third, with Bonello twice stopping Eguinaldo, but the two quick goals were enough to seal a 2-0 win.
Ħamrun will now play their final match from this competition next Thursday as they travel to Dublin to face Shamrock Rovers.
