Bohemians 0 Shamrock Rovers 2: Game on and now gunning for Drogheda. Shamrock Rovers might have been second best for long spells of this absorbing contest, yet they ruthlessly exposed the few opportunities gifted to them by their hosts.
Bohemians had enough chances to win the tie, yet Rovers' early goal set a considerable task. And as it was, the Phibsboro club were unable to prevent their first home defeat of the season.
Rovers, though, could not have asked for a better start. Just five minutes in, Danny O'Connor volleyed home Andy Myler's flick-on after the defence failed to contend with Ger O'Brien's free.
That strike, from close range, inspired Rovers and they scrapped doggedly throughout. That said, they were forced to work overtime as Bohemians were relentless in their pursuit of an equaliser.
Home supporters were on their feet prepared to celebrate when Owen Heary planted John Paul Kelly's corner on target but goalkeeper Barry Murphy pulled off a truly remarkable save.
Chris Turner, pushed into a forward role, proved catalyst for the home side's most impressive work thereafter and the drive with which he played was impressive.
Having turned defender Dean Lawrence he set a low ball across the face of goal but the pace beat the on-rushing Ryan McCann.
Bohemians were then incensed when referee Alan Kelly refused penalty claims on the half hour.
Turner, again, skinned Lawrence but the defender hauled him to the ground. Kelly required his assistant's intervention and he deemed the infringement outside the box.
Bohemians, fuming at the decision, remained focused to their credit; Turner again going close with a powerful free from distance.
The locals were wondering just what their team had to do to breach a stubborn Rovers line. As it was, though, the visitors doubled their advantage nine minutes after the restart.
John Martin seized upon a stray Jason McGuinness pass. He skilfully wriggled through two challenges, played in O'Brien who drilled across the goal for Tadhg Purcell to bundle home at the back post.
Myler then could, and should, have made it three late on but Blayney stood tall when one-on-one with the striker.
Rovers might not have played like serious league contenders but they certainly showed the resolve of a team with the leaders now firmly in their sights.
Bohemians: Blayney; Heary, Burns, McGuinness, Byrne (Singh 70); McCann, Hunt, O'Donnell (Rice 74), Kelly; Turner, Crowe. Booked: Kelly (43), McGuinness (45).
Shamrock Rovers: Murphy (McGuinness half-time); O'Brien, Lawrence, Ferguson, Clarke; Martin (McGill 64), Shiels, O'Connor, Cassidy; Purcell, Myler (Amond 83). Booked: O'Brien (43), Purcell (71).
Referee: Alan Kelly (Cork)