Irish press applauds Shelbourne after Ajax escape with Dublin draw

Ajax advanced to the Conference League play-offs despite being held to a 2-2 draw by Shelbourne in Dublin on Thursday. The Amsterdam side encountered far more resistance than expected at a sold-out Tolka Park, with the Irish champions ending their European campaign on an encouraging note.

FCUpdate’s round-up highlighted the Irish Independent’s view that Shelbourne made Ajax work hard for their place in the next round. The newspaper said the visitors were uncomfortable in the tight surroundings and had to settle for a draw rather than signing off with a convincing victory.

The Irish Sun also focused on Shelbourne’s resilience. Although Ajax achieved their main objective by advancing, Seán Moore’s late equaliser ensured the home side finished with a memorable result. The outlet wrote that Shelbourne could leave the competition “with their heads held high” after pushing their more illustrious opponents throughout the contest.

Ajax appeared particularly vulnerable after the score became 1-1. According to the Irish coverage cited by FCUpdate, Shelbourne forced the visitors backwards as Ajax lost some of their discipline and composure. Moore’s late goal then gave the home crowd a final reason to celebrate, even though Ajax ultimately remained in the competition and moved into the play-off round.