Group 3: Holders show their class

Holders 1. FFC Frankfurt made an impressive start to their UEFA Women's Cup defence as they secured a quarter-final spot with first place in Group 3.

Early lead
Frankfurt were given their toughest game in their opener against Yugoslavian group hosts ZFK Mašinac-Classic Niš. The German representatives were ahead inside two minutes though Jennifer Meier, but could only manage one further goal just after the half-hour courtesy of Pia Wunderlich.

Rovers on top
Shamrock Rovers LFC of the Republic of Ireland were the early group leaders after beating Croatians ZNK Osijek 3-1. Olivia O'Toole's early opener was cancelled out before the break by Koljenik, but Rovers were back ahead early in the second period through Nicole O'Neill. Julie Kirwan secured the points on 65 minutes.

Prinz hat-trick
But Frankfurt then took control of the group as they cruised past Osijek 8-0. Meier kept up her form with two goals, but the highlight was a hat-trick for Birgit Prinz, who scored the clincher in last season's final. Meanwhile, Niš got off the mark with a 4-1 win against Rovers, but were left with only a very slim chance of pipping Frankfurt for the quarter-final place.

Holders cruise
And although the hosts ended their campaign by securing second place by beating Osijek 5-0, Frankfurt were never in danger against Rovers as they claimed seven goals, the only consolation for the Irish side being that they scored against the holders in a 7-1 loss. Frankfurt now meet HJK Helsinki over two legs for a place in the last four.