Drogheda Utd ... 3 Shamrock Rovers ... 2: In one of the most entertaining games ever seen at O2 Park, Drogheda United emerged victorious in a five-goal thriller.
Two goals to the good just nine minutes into the second half, Drogheda were pegged back level by a gallant Rovers side.
However, the home side struck for the winner with just 12 minutes remaining to send the large home support into a frenzy.
Drogheda went ahead with an amazing goal after just three minutes. Robbie Horgan, the Rovers keeper, cleared a back pass to the wing. United's Brian Kelly met the clearance first time sending the ball back over Horgan into the net from 50 yards.
Drogheda made it 2-0 on 54 when, Brian Kelly hammered a 35-yard free to the bottom corner.
Rovers, however, were back in the game when Richie Byrne found the net from close range.
And, just beyond the hour mark, Noel Hunt grabbed the equaliser.
Drogheda went back in front with what proved to be the winning goal on 78 minutes.
Gary Cronin crossed from the left for Andy Myler to slide in and finish the ball to the net.
DROGHEDA UNITED: Rodgers, Dunne, Kelly (B), Lynch, Gollogley, Tierney, Quinless, Taylor, O'Brien, Myler, Gallagher. Subs: Cronin for Gallagher (24 mins); Delaney for Myler (90).
SHAMROCK ROVERS: Horgan, Deans, Byrne, Colwell, Palmer, Scully, Robinson, Hunt, Francis, Costello, Keddy. Subs: Grant for Robinson (half-time); Doyle for Costello (28); Kenny for Hunt (82).
