Gaffney eventually provides fireworks as Shams move back in sight of summit

Sell-out crowd had to make their own entertainment in dour first half but Rovers striker lights up the second

Early energy: St Patrick's Athletic players take to the pitch before the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division match between Shamrock Rovers and St Patrick's Athletic at Tallaght Stadium. Photo: Ben McShane/Sportsfile

Shamrock Rovers 1 St Patrick’s Athletic 0 

Shamrock Rovers moved back within three points of league leaders Derry City as Rory Gaffney’s second-half header proved the difference at Tallaght Stadium.