Quick return to winning ways for the Hoops

SHAMROCK Rovers made a swift return to winning ways in Tallaght last night as they saw off Drogheda United 3-1 to reclaim top spot in the Premier Division, reports Mark Casserly.

Irish international, Jack Byrne was the star of the show, scoring a fantastic goal and providing the assist for Rovers’ opener, as the hosts bounced back from last Friday’s last-gasp defeat away to Derry City.

Stephen Bradley’s side took the lead with just over 20 minutes played as Byrne served up a sublime delivery on the turn through the Drogheda defence for Sean Gannon, who coolly slotted past the visiting goalkeeper, Colin McCabe.

Byrne dictated the play throughout the first half and, minutes before the break, he scored a superb goal to double the Hoops’ advantage.

Indeed he unloaded a fierce shot from some 25 yards out for what was his first goal for Rovers since returning to the club after his spell in Cyprus with APOEL Nicosia.

However, Drogheda never gave up, and just after the hour mark, Evan Weir pulled a goal back for his side by finishing from inside the box after a punched clearance from Rovers goalkeeper, Alan Mannus landed his way.

As Drogheda pushed hard for an equaliser, gaps were left in defence and Rovers duly exploited that space inside the final 10 minutes.

Ronan Finn played through fellow substitute Graham Burke, who demonstrated great composure to finish past the goalkeeper and seal victory for the hosts in front of more than 4000 supporters.