Sheppard strike sends Rovers top

TWO GOAL Karl Sheppard was the hero as Shamrock Rovers went back to the top of the Premier Division table, the in-form striker grabbing a dramatic 89th minute winner at windswept Carlisle Grounds yesterday.

The Hoops are now one point ahead of Sligo Rovers with a match in hand. Michael O’Neill’s team are also five points ahead of third placed Derry City and they meet at Talllaght Stadium on Thursday night.

Rovers had the perfect start from Sheppard after seven minutes. A cross from defender Pat Sullivan on the right allowed Chris Turner to get in a header that was parried onto the bar by ‘keeper Darren Quigley. From the rebound striker Sheppard twisted in mid-air to nod home from close range.