Shamrock Rovers scored early and frustrated an expectant Dundalk crowd with a crucial victory for the Hoops in Oriel Park. A Gary Shaw goal in the opening minutes of the half was all that divided the sides in what was a game to forget for Dundalk.
Shamrock Rovers scored early and frustrated an expectant Dundalk crowd with a crucial victory for the Hoops in Oriel Park.
A Gary Shaw goal in the opening minutes of the half was all that divided the sides in what was a game to forget for Dundalk.
The game could have been a lot different as after 34 seconds Dylan Connolly broke free of the Shamrock Rovers defence only for his low curling effort was tipped wide by Tomas Chencinski. The goal came moments later when the ball was sent into the edge of the area and Shaw turned Paddy Barrett and slotted it past Gary Rogers to give them the lead.
While no other goals were scored there was chances a plenty for Dundalk with Michael Duffy, Robbie Benson, Connolly all having chances to equalize for Dundalk only for the inspired Chencinski to deny them at every turn.
Rovers, to their credit, were industrious and dynamic in defending. Stephen Bradley has a team that will come good in time.
Dundalk opened the second half with some pressing play, Stephen O'Donnell was instrumental in ensuring that the Lilywhite drove forward. Duffy's well worked free-kick routine was just curled wide in what was the only real clear cut chance in the second half.
