Dundalk recover two goals to snatch draw

Shamrock Rovers 2 Dundalk 2

Liam Burns scored a late equaliser as Dundalk came from 2-0 down to deservedly take a point from Tallaght.

Though an out-of-sorts Rovers stretched their unbeaten league run to 15 games before a crowd of some 5,000 as the new east stand was opened, it means champions Bohemians are now seven points clear at the top of the table.

Dundalk wasted the first real chance on 19 minutes when a mistake by defender Darragh Maguire let Alex Williams in on goal from Michael McGowan’s ball over the top, but the striker shot tamely at Alan Mannus.

Six minutes later Rovers were in front with their first shot on goal.

A dreadful touch by Dundalk left-back Kevin McKinley from Dessie Baker’s weak shot directed the ball to Stephen Rice and the Hoops midfielder slotted home.

It was 2-0 on 31 minutes when Baker’s ball over the top caught Dundalk square and Gary Twigg raced in to lob Chris Bennion for his 18th strike of the campaign.

Dundalk might have pulled a goal back on 42 minutes but for a terrific save from debutant keeper Mannus from Darren Mansaram’s stunning 25-yard drive.

But they did just that on 67 minutes when Williams flicked home Michael McGowan’s deep cross from the left.

Dundalk remained the better side throughout the second half and got their reward on 87 minutes when defender Burns headed home Paul McAreavey’s cross.