National League Premier Division/ St Patrick's Athletic 0 Cork City 1: Vying for inclusion in the international 'B' squad to be announced later today, Roy O'Donovan turned in a superb performance last night when generating full points for Cork in a game they worked hard for.

Owing to striker John O'Flynn's injury, winger O'Donovan has successfully been thrust up front of late. And although isolated at times here, he still delivered a quality performance which should secure his place in the squad to play Scotland next week.

Both sides were certainly enthusiastic in their approach but Cork were always more inventive going forward but the frantic manner in which the hosts chased them down ensured limited possession.

Cork, though, should have taken an early lead but the unmarked Joe Gamble headed O'Donovan's cross over from close range. Relieved, St Patrick's set about etching their own mark but purposeful breaks forward were spurned in the final third all too often.

Although Cork were harried and hassled throughout, they attacked with menace when afforded the opportunity. But it was a defensive mistake, after 26 minutes, which allowed the visitors edge ahead.

Dave Mulcahy's sloppy pass was intercepted by Colin O'Brien and the winger played in O'Donovan. Colm Foley edged in front of the Cork striker but confusion then reigned as goalkeeper Barry Ryan raced to the edge of the box.

Neither St Patrick's player cleared, allowing O'Donovan to tuck home his 10th goal of the season despite Foley's late challenge.

ST PATRICK'S ATHLETIC: Ryan; S Quigley, C Foley, Mulcahy, Frost; Rooney, M Foley, Murphy, Rutherford; Molloy, Keegan. Subs: M Quigley for Rutherford (57), Armstrong for Keegan (69), O'Connor for Rooney (81). Booked: C Foley (15).

CORK CITY: Devine; Horgan, Bennett, Murray, Murphy; O'Brien, O'Callaghan, Gamble, Woods; Fenn, O'Donovan. Subs: Lordan for Murphy (86), Behan for O'Donovan (90). Booked: Murray (22), Fenn (55).

Referee: D McKeon (Dublin)