Full Report

A late own goal saw us secure our first three points of the UEFA Conference League league phase as we claimed a memorable 1-0 victory over Hajduk Split at the Europa Point Stadium.

The visitors enjoyed the majority of possession in the opening stages but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities to test Jaylan Hankins. We remained resilient and defensively organised throughout the first half, frustrating the Croatian side and limiting their attacking threat as we went into the break level at 0-0.

We grew stronger as the second half progressed and began to show more attacking intent. Graeme Torrilla threatened with a header before Kike found himself through on goal, but his attempt to round goalkeeper Toni Silić was thwarted by the Hajduk shot-stopper.

At the other end, Jaylan Hankins continued his impressive form on the European stage, producing a sensational reflex save to deny Marko Livaja from close range. His outstanding intervention kept us on level terms as the visitors looked to break the deadlock.

Our persistence was rewarded in the 89th minute when Nano delivered a dangerous free-kick into the penalty area. Christian Rutjens rose highest to meet the delivery, with his header striking the post before the rebound deflected off the leg of Dennis Hadžikadunić and into the back of the net, sparking wild celebrations among our players and supporters.

We remained disciplined in the closing stages, holding firm against the visitors' late pressure to secure a famous three points on another unforgettable European night at the Europa Point Stadium.

The victory also marked another historic milestone for the club as we recorded our first-ever clean sheet in a major UEFA club competition, adding another memorable achievement to our European journey.