Following Ireland's timid 1-0 defeat in Turkey, Shamrock Rovers' trip to Waterford in the Airtricity League has been a far more tempestuous affair.
Trailing the hosts 2-1 at half-time, the Dublin club had reason to be unhappy early on.
Two yellow-cards in quick succession for Ally Gilchrist had them down to 10-men before 10 minutes had even elapsed.
The first yellow-card was admittedly clear. Yet, was their a hint of bad luck for Gilchrist in the second. On close inspection, he would appeared to have slipped on the wet surface.
Shams' Greg Bolger was keen to make that point clear to the referee.
Ally Gilchrist is sent off for two yellow cards for @shamrockrovers within the space of two minutes. The first was a definite yellow. The second one? Watch live on @Rte2 pic.twitter.com/Bm3oDO0MRg
— Soccer Republic (@SoccRepublic) March 23, 2018
Still looking comfortable despite being reduced to 10-men, Waterford did eventually take advantage through Courtney Duffus.
Courtney Duffus puts @Waterfordfcie ahead against 10-man @shamrockrovers. Watch live on @rte2 pic.twitter.com/DtDyg0IAaZ
— Soccer Republic (@SoccRepublic) March 23, 2018
Yet, this only served to prompt what may well be the goal of the night from Graham Burke.
Doing his best Arjen Robben impression, Burke feigns right, turns back onto his left, and hits a beautiful curling effort into the far corner. A wonderful strike, it wouldn't restore parity for as long as Shamrock Rovers would have hoped.
Graham Burke is top scorer in the @SSEairtricityleague. This is why. What a goal. It's 1-1. pic.twitter.com/ypuUiPLieL
— Soccer Republic (@SoccRepublic) March 23, 2018
A poor effort on their part to clear the ball, Waterford applied just the right amount of pressure; although the Shams' 'keeper will know he could have done a lot better here.
It's a thriller at the RSC. Courtney Duffus makes it 2-1 to the home side. pic.twitter.com/G2wiMqs5m1
— Soccer Republic (@SoccRepublic) March 23, 2018
2-1 ahead at the break, Waterford will be keen not to let this opportunity slip and continue their strong start to the new season.
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