Overview
- Defensive lapses and two goals from corner routines put Rovers in a deep hole, with Sparta 3-0 up by the 50th minute before adding a late fourth.
- Stephen Bradley rotated his lineup, noting the looming FAI Cup semi-final, and second-half introductions of Dylan Watts and Danny Mandroiu steadied play as Mandroiu scored a consolation.
- Sparta controlled territory and possession, heavily outshooting Rovers, who did not record an effort on target until Mandroiu’s 82nd-minute strike.
- Roughly 920 travelling supporters were in Prague for the opener, where a late concession further hurt goal difference that may matter in the league-phase standings.
- Rovers remain on course for a fifth league title in six seasons but must regroup quickly to chase progression, with Celje due at Tallaght on 23 October.