Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers couldn't be separated in the first meeting between the two old enemies at Dalymount Park in the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division.Both defences came out on top in an enthralling, energy sapping clash in front of a new League record attendance of 1,256.In typical Dublin derby fashion, both sides came flying out of the traps despite the scorching conditions at pitch level.Within the opening five minutes both sides had good chances to strike the first blow.
Alannah McEvoy’s inviting low cross was inches away from being turned home by Abbie Larkin, before Rachel Doyle almost caught Amanda Budden out with a powerful strike from distance.Since the 4-0 defeat to the visitors in the reverse fixture back in April, Bohs had been in stunning form unbeaten in five games - winning four and drawing one so confidence was high amongst Pat Trehy’s charges but were missing influential skipper Erica Burke up front.Niamh Prior stepped into the striker role but faced the unenviable task of going up against the Rolls-Royce-esque Jessica Hennessy.But the unbeaten visitors knew a win would put them top temporarily and ramp up on the pressure of their title rivals Shelbourne and Peamount who played later and began to push the hosts back.Larkin and McEvoy had efforts from distance and just after the half hour mark some of the travelling Hoops supporters thought they had taken the lead.
Lia O’Leary took on all comers before playing a through ball to Áine O’Gorman, who saw her low strike drag agonisingly wide of the foot of the post.Bohs responded will to the bout of pressure and on the stroke of half time, it was the raucous home fans' turn to think they had taken the lead when Mia Dodd hit a thunderous strike