The Premier Division witnessed an impressive comeback from Shamrock Rovers, executing a stunning 4-0 victory over Drogheda United at Tallaght Stadium, recording their biggest win this season. After an underwhelming draw against Galway United the week before, Rovers came back stronger, pushing Drogheda to their limit right from the start, backed by a notably energetic and tactical performance.
Late goals in the first half by Johnny Kenny and Aaron Greene were testament to the Rovers’ dominance. Darragh Burns and Josh Honohan followed up with two stellar goals post half-time, helping the champions ascend to the second position in the table, just two points shy of Shelbourne.
Rovers displayed a marked improvement with three changes in their lineup, showing discernible energy and precision in their approach. Momentous saves from Jethren Barr, Drogheda’s goalie, couldn’t stop the Rovers’ onslaught.
A remarkable header by Kenny on the brink of the first half, coupled with Greene sliding home his seventh goal of the season, left the Drogheda defense reeling. Greene continued his instrumental participation initiating a brilliant play in the second half, leaving Drogheda’s crossbar shaking.
Despite spectacular saves from Barr and resilient defense, Drogheda’s morale took a hit with a contentious red card displayed to Jack Keaney. Although replays showed no real contact with Kenny, the damage was done, sealing a memorable win for Rovers.
Honohan, a defender for Shamrock Rovers, scored the team’s fourth goal. The goal came from a corner kick taken by Conan Noonan, it was headed in by Honohan three minutes later. Regarding team specifics, Shamrock Rovers had Pohls; Cleary (substituted by J. O’Sullivan in the 75th minute), Lopes, Honohan; Watts (who was replaced by C. O’Sullivan at the 68th minute), Towell (substituted by Noonan at the 34th minute); Burns (who was replaced by Kovalevskis at the 68th minute), Nugent, Clarke (who was subbed by Barrett at 68 minutes into the match); Kenny and Greene. For Drogheda United, the team consisted of Barr; Heeney (replaced by Webster at 68 minutes), Keaney, Cann, Kane; Deegan, Gallagher (substituted by Cailloce 60 minutes into the game); McNally (who was replaced by Foley 54 minutes into the game), Markey, Davis (who was replaced by Bawa at the 54th-minute mark); Pierrot (replaced by Brennan 60 minutes into the game). The referee was Rob Hennessy who hails from Clare. The crowd consisted of 3,847 spectators.