Byrne goal dents Rovers league challenge

Sligo Rovers 1 Bray Wanderers 1

An opportunist goal from Jason Byrne earned struggling Bray a point as league leaders Sligo had to settle for a frustrating draw at the Showgrounds this afternoon.

Sligo are now five points clear of second-placed St Patrick’s Athletic who visit Shamrock Rovers tomorrow.

Sligo shaded the first half with topscorer Danny North having a goal disallowed while Raffaele Cretaro ended a terrific run and turn to shoot off a post.

Bray had their moments with an early shout for a penalty while Gary Rogers made a good stop to deprive Byrne.

Veteran striker Byrne then put Bray in front four minutes into the second half, punishing a mistake by Iarfhlaith Davoren to shoot home off a post.

Right-back Alan Keane levelled for Sligo on 63 minutes, rifling to the net after a rampaging run down right

Bray had defender Adam Mitchell sent off in the 92nd minute for foul on North, his second yellow card.