Dundalk have fired themselves right into the thick of the title race tonight after they defeated league leaders Shamrock Rovers on a 2-1 scoreline at Oriel Park. It was a game that Rovers entered as the form side in the division, but the hosts would ultimately run out as winners.
It was also a special night for Pat Hoban, who became Dundalk's all-time leading scorer in the league. It was Hoban who opened the scoring in the game five minutes before the interval, producing a stunning diving header to give his side the lead.
WATCH:
Here's the goal that makes @PaHoban10 @DundalkFC's all time leading goalscorer in the league.
The hosts lead 1-0.
LIVE now on eir sport 1! #DUNSHA #LOI pic.twitter.com/KMBgoHNIN2— eir Sport (@eirSport) April 26, 2019
This was Hoban's 70th goal for Dundalk in the League of Ireland, which he has accumulated over two spells with the club.
Dundalk would double their lead on the hour mark. It was a wonderful team goal, with some magnificent attacking play being finished off smartly by Michael Duffy.
WATCH:
Brilliant move from @DundalkFC finished by Michael Duffy as the hosts go 2-0 up at Oriel.
LIVE now on eir sport 1! #LOI #DUNSHA pic.twitter.com/xVgB9nN6qe— eir Sport (@eirSport) April 26, 2019
Shamrock Rovers would pull one back with five minutes left on the clock, ensuring a nervy end to the game. It was Ohran Vojic who got the goal, taking advantage of a slip in the Dundalk defence.
WATCH:
Fine finish from Orhan Vojic to bring Shamrock Rovers back into the game at Oriel Park.
LIVE now on eir sport 1! #LLOI #DUNSHA pic.twitter.com/EVIlnolKH1— eir Sport (@eirSport) April 26, 2019
Despite this late siege, the home side would ultimately hang on for the win.
That result moves Dundalk to within four points of the Dublin side, having played a game less. While they have endured a mixed start to the season, this result shows that they will not give up their title without a fight.
