Shamrock Rovers - 0 Longford Town - 1 Longford Town and new manager Alan Matthews recorded their first league win of the season at Tolka Park yesterday afternoon when they defeated Shamrock Rovers 1-0.
Matthews, who signed a two-season contract last week, has guided the midland team into third place in the Premier Division table surprising many who thought they would be prime candidates for the relegation battle.
There is a long way to go yet but they must be encouraged by this victory over Rovers who had themselves started their campaign wellwith an away victory over Derry City last weekend.
After a scoreless first half when both sides spurned chances, former Waterford United midfielder Alan Kirby got the all-important goal in the 71st minute.
This win puts them in the right frame of mind for their FAI Cup second round match against CIE Ranch next weekend.
Liam Buckley will not relished their cup-tie against Dundalk at Oriel Park on Thursday evening and will have to work hard to lift morale. Dundalk beat the Dubliners in the semi-final on their way to winning the cup last season.
