Paul Corry: Home form gives Shamrock Rovers fighting chance in Europa Conference League

Paul Corry says Shamrock Rovers can challenge for a top-two finish in their Europa Conference League group if they maintain their impressive home form.

Rovers have won four successive European games at Tallaght Stadium this season, having beaten Ferencvaros on Thursday thanks to Andy Lyons' late winner.

The Premier Division champions will face Gent, Molde and Djurgardens in Group F of the Conference League and Corry says a full-strength Hoops side can compete for a place in the knockout stages.

The former Shamrock Rovers midfielder told 2FM's Game On: "What Shamrock Rovers have shown over the last number of weeks, and even in previous campaigns, is they’re very competitive, particularly at home.

"Getting points away from home in any of those three games is going to be quite difficult. Molde are top of their league and Djurgardens are third.

"They're difficult opposition but you’re hoping they can continue the form they showed on Thursday night and against Ludogorets when they played in Tallaght, and use that experience to navigate their way through the group.

"There’s every chance they could pick up points, particularly in Tallaght, and hopefully nice a point or two on the road.

"But pivotal to that - you saw what a difference Jack Byrne made when he came on. If they can get the likes of Graham Burke back fit, Ronan Finn was back in the side last night, you really do need your best players available for those ties.

"If they do have them available, they’re more than good enough to get results. But it’s definitely going to be a stiff test."

While Rovers have turned Tallaght into a fortress, journalist Fergal Brennan believes they must pick up points on the road if they are to become the first Irish team to qualify from their group.