Duff scotches nerve worries for Shels: 'They're no mugs, we’re top after 25 games'

Compared to Derry City, or five-in-row chasing Shamrock Rovers, whom he is sure aren’t out of the title race, Shels have a scarcity of league winners in their dressing-room.

FULL STEAM AHEAD: Shelbourne manager Damien Duff leaves the pitch after the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division match between Shelbourne and Derry City. Pic: Thomas Flinkow/Sportsfile

Damien Duff insists his Shelbourne side won’t lose their nerve as the surprise league leaders head into the final turn of the Premier Division campaign.

The Ireland centurion spoke of apprehension inhibiting their performance in Monday night’s scoreless draw against Derry City, a result which maintains their three-point cushion at the summit with a game in hand.