Airtricity League round-up:Danny North's late goal helped Sligo Rovers go three points clear at the top of the Premier Division as defending champions Shamrock Rovers came back from 2-0 down to earn a point against Bray Wanderers at the Carlisle Grounds.
North continued his fine start to the season when he capitalised on an error from Cork City’s Dan Murray to record a 1-0 victory at Turner’s Cross that moved the westerners on to 20 points after eight games.
Shamrock Rovers suffered a horror first 45 minutes as Bray took a 2-0 lead with a double from Kieran ‘Marty’ Waters. AS controversial penalty award after Gary Twigg was fouled by Pierce Sweeney.
The Scottish striker saw his penalty saved by Darren Quigley and Billy Dennehy’s follow-up goal was ruled out for encroachment.
Rovers’ revival took time, with Ronan Finn finishing well from Daryl Kavanagh’s pass in the 67th minute. Talisman Twigg then grabbed the equaliser with eight minutes to go, Kavanagh again impressing with his work in midfield before Twigg finished the move off.
Drogheda United drew level with Rovers on 17 points with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Shelbourne at Hunky Dorys Park.
Brian Gannon opened the scoring for the home side a minute before the half-time, with Ryan Brennan doubling their advantage eight minutes after the break.
Substitute Peter Hynes wrapped up the points after 74 minutes, with Shels scoring their consolation 10 minutes from time when Philly Hughes tucked home a penalty. The game ended on a sour note for the Dubliners after Stephen Paisley was sent off for a professional foul four minutes from time.
Goals from Christy Fagan and Greg Bolger in each half earned St Patrick’s Athletic a 2-0 home victory over UCD, while Monaghan United claimed their first league victory of the season with a 2-1 win over Bohemians at Dalymount Park.
The night started in terrible fashion for Roddy Collins on his return to his old club after Chris Bennion was red carded after just two minutes for a professional foul on Karl Moore.
Despite the setback, Monaghan went on to take the lead on 49 minutes through Stephen Maher. Ryan McEvoy equalised for the Gypsies just past the hour mark, but Monaghan substitute Jason Marks curled home the winner with just three minutes remaining to secure the three points.
Dundalk also completed a thrilling three-point raid as they beat Derry City 2-1 at the Brandywell. Michael Rafter opened the scoring for the visitors on 14 minutes and Shane O’Neill doubled the lead 12 minutes into the second half.
Ruaidhri Higgins scored for the Candystripes after 84 minutes but Dundalk held out for a fine victory.
