In this episode, we take a full look at Shamrock Rovers’ European campaign, dissecting their disappointing result against Breidablik and what it reveals about the team’s performance on the continental stage.

We break down the tactical issues, defensive struggles, and squad questions that emerged, while also highlighting the players who stood out and those who struggled. Beyond the result, we reflect on the campaign as a whole, including the home versus away form, moments of promise, consistency challenges, and what it reveals about the squad’s depth and European readiness.

Looking ahead, we preview the final European game against Hamrun Spartans, exploring the financial and psychological stakes, and discuss what lessons Rovers can take into the off-season and into 2026. This episode is a mix of honest assessment, tactical analysis, and forward-looking insight for fans and followers of the club’s European journey.

In Episode 10 of The Milltown Way podcast, we look ahead to Shamrock Rovers’ return to European action as they head to Breiðablik on Thursday evening. We break down the key tactical themes, the threats posed by the Icelandic champions, and the areas where Rovers must improve following the defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk.

We also assess a significant development in the squad: Conor Malley’s loan move has now been made permanent. We discuss what this means for Rovers heading into 2026, how Malley has adapted since arriving in the summer, and the role he can play as the team reshapes its midfield options.

Meanwhile, Conan Noonan has completed a transfer to Waterford FC following his impressive loan spell at the RSC. We analyse his departure, the reasons behind the move, the €50k fee reported by The Irish Independent, and what it says about both Rovers’ longer-term planning and Waterford’s ambition.

With a crucial European night ahead and key squad changes taking shape, this week’s episode dives into the state of the dressing room, the structural adjustments still required, and the significance of December’s fixtures for building momentum.

As always, thanks for listening and supporting The Milltown Way. Full coverage continues across all our platforms in the build-up to Thursday’s match

Episode 9 — Shakhtar, Stevens, Gaffney & the Byrne dilemma

Shamrock Rovers returned to European action on Thursday night, falling 2–1 to Shakhtar Donetsk in a game that raised as many talking points as it answered. In Episode 9 of The Milltown Way Podcast, we break down all the key moments, performances, and decisions from a frustrating but encouraging night in Tallaght.

We dive into:

• The Shakhtar performance — what Rovers did well, where the game slipped away, standout players, tactical shifts, and how the late rally changed the tone of the night.

• Jack Byrne’s situation — loan spell in Dubai, interest from elsewhere, and what his short- and long-term future realistically looks like.

• Rory Gaffney’s future — his form, importance to the squad, the growing expectation he’ll sign a new deal, and what keeping him would mean heading into 2026.

• Enda Stevens returning to Tallaght — confirmation of his move for 2026, what he brings on and off the pitch, and how he reshapes next season’s squad.

• Listener questions — your thoughts, opinions, and concerns after a dramatic European week.

With the season winding down and major decisions looming behind the scenes, this episode covers everything supporters are talking about right now: the European run, transfer noise, squad futures, and the shape of Stephen Bradley’s 2026 team.

Whether you’re still analysing the Shakhtar game or already thinking ahead to next year, this episode has a bit of everything.

Hosted by: Ryan Brennan & Adam Casey

Produced by: The Milltown Way