Eircom League: Rovers complete hard-fought victory

Monaghan United 2 Shamrock Rovers 3

Shamrock Rovers stretched their lead at the top of the table to three points, but had to fight all the way to win against rock-bottom Monaghan.

Rovers had the perfect start with the lead goal after six minutes.

Richie Byrne did well down the left to cross and Shane Robinson set up Stephen

Grant to score a simple goal.

Monaghan levelled on 32 minutes.

Rovers scorer Grant was guilty of a push and Trevor Vaughan, who earlier hit the bar, scored from the penalty.

Rovers regained the lead on 51 minutes.

Again Richie Byrne was involved as his cross was met by skipper Derek Tracey who dived low to head home.

Tommy Dunne sealed Rovers win on 65 minutes when his 30 free-kick sailed

over everyone to beat Gareth Downey and enter the net.

Brendan Place gave Monaghan hope when heading in Robbie Brunton's cross on 76 minutes but Rovers held out.