Bohemians
Bohemians 2-1 Ballkani: UEFA Europa Conference League 2nd Qualifying Round
Dalymount Park erupted in ecstasy as Ross Tierney’s 89th-minute winner completed a stirring Bohemians comeback against Ballkani in the UEFA Europa Conference League 2nd qualifying round, the Irish side overturning a first-half deficit to win 2-1.
Ballkani Strike First from the Spot
The Kosovan visitors stunned the home crowd on 29 minutes when Toni Domgjoni coolly converted a penalty, sending Paul Walters the wrong way after a handball decision went against the Gypsies. Ballkani’s physical approach saw them pick up three first-half yellow cards – Anel Sabanadzovic (36′), Diar Vokrri (61′) and Gentrit Halili (73′) all cautioned – as they sought to disrupt Bohemians’ rhythm.
Bohemians’ Tactical Changes Turn the Tide
Alan Reynolds’ double substitution on 59 minutes proved inspired. Off came Markuss Strods and Adam McDonnell, replaced by Harry Vaughan and the game-changing Dylan James-Taylor. Within 17 minutes, James-Taylor levelled with a clinical finish from Dawson Devoy’s through ball, setting up a grandstand finale.
Tierney Writes Himself Into Bohs Folklore
With Ballkani tiring after making five substitutions in eight frantic minutes, James-Taylor turned provider in the 89th minute. His perfectly weighted cross found Tierney, who powered home a header that sent the Dublin faithful into raptures. The noise reached deafening levels when Tierney was substituted in stoppage time, walking off to a hero’s ovation.
This victory gives Bohemians a crucial advantage heading into next week’s second leg in Kosovo, where they’ll seek to protect their slender lead and progress in European competition for the first time in over a decade. For Ballkani, it’s a bitter pill to swallow after controlling much of the game, leaving them with everything to do at home.
Key Moments
29′ ⚽ Ballkani — T. Domgjoni
76′ ⚽ Bohemians — D. James-Taylor (assist: D. Devoy)
89′ ⚽ Bohemians — R. Tierney (assist: D. James-Taylor)🔮 Before kick-off: our match preview & prediction.
