Republic of Ireland round-up: Shelbourne narrow gap

Shelbourne FC kept up the pressure on Irish Premier Division leaders Bohemian FC after a 1-0 victory against Dublin rivals Shamrock Rovers FC at Richmond Park.

Roberts on target
In a tight encounter, Shelbourne scored the only goal of the game eleven minutes into the second half when Irish Under-21 international Wesley Houlihan crossed for Scottish striker Mark Roberts, who converted from five metres. The goal came slightly against the run of play, as Shamrock Rovers had been the better side for the majority of the game. Shelbourne are now within seven points of Bohemians with five games remaining.

Delight for Derry
Derry City FC eased their relegation worries with a 2-0 win against struggling Saint Patrick's Athletic FC. Sean Hargan opened the scoring for Derry after 42 minutes, and the Northern-based team extended their advantage 18 minutes from time when Liam Coyle laid the ball off for Ciaran Martyn to finish clinically.

Vital points
On Friday evening, visitors Drogheda United FC took all three points in their vital relegation match against bottom side Bray Wanderers AFC, winning 2-0 at the Carlisle Grounds. Striker Andy Myler opened the scoring for Drogheda after six minutes, volleying in a cross from Robert Dunne, and Drogheda doubled their advantage on 71 minutes, when midfield player Mark Dempsey created the chance for Declan O'Brien, who duly converted to give Harry McCue's side a badly needed boost in their fight against the drop.

Postponed game
The other relegation encounter, between Longford Town FC and University College Dublin FC, was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. UCD and Bray are level at the bottom with 19 points, six behind Drogheda and St Patrick's.