Republic of Ireland round-up: Shelbourne take their chance

Shelbourne FC extended their lead at the top of the Irish Premier Division to four points after a 2-0 win at Longford Town FC in a set of matches postponed due to the recent Special Olympics in Dublin.

Second-half goals
With second-placed Shamrock Rovers FC not playing due to their involvement in the UEFA Intertoto Cup, Pat Fenlon's side seized the opportunity to open up an advantage at the top of the table. Defender Dave Rodgers scored his first goal for Shelbourne on the hour mark to open the scoring. Longford had a goal disallowed for offside ten minutes later, and Shelbourne wrapped up the victory shortly after when Ollie Cahill doubled their lead.

Freeman makes his mark
Saint Patrick's Athletic FC moved up to third place, five points behind Shelbourne, with a 4-1 win against former top-three residents Waterford United FC. Welshman Tony Bird headed St Patrick's in front early on, and defender Colm Foley doubled the advantage in similar style on 42 minutes. Former Irish youth international David Freeman scored his first league goals for St Patrick’s sonce his move from Nottingham Forest FC in the second half, with two close-range efforts putting a convincing look on the scoreline. Daryl Murphy claimed a consolation for the visitors.

Bohemians held
Champions Bohemian FC are now eight points off the pace after another draw, this time against Cork City FC in a game which finished 1-1 at Dalymount Park. Irish international Glen Crowe put Bohemians in front after seven minutes, but three minutes later Cork's top scorer, John O'Flynn, equalised. Elsewhere, Drogheda United FC moved ahead of Derry City FC after a 1-0 courtesy of Danny O'Connor's goal on the stroke of half-time.