Women's Premier Division race developing into a shootout between Athlone and Shelbourne

The joint leaders remain nine points ahead following Saturday’s series.

UP FOR THE CHALLENGE: Cork City's Becky Cassin goes high with Shelbourne's Roma McLaughlin during the SSE Airtricity Women's Premier Division game at Turner's Cross. Picture: Eddie O'Hare

Shelbourne and Athlone Town continue to set the pace in the Women’s Premier Division, the joint leaders remaining nine points ahead following Saturday’s series.

The teams met in last year’s FAI Cup final with Athlone prevailing and the midlanders were ruthless in punishing an early red card for Sligo Rovers goalkeeper Bonnie McKiernan by racking up a 5-1 victory at home.